Kirk Douglas was an American actor who is best known for his roles in “Spartacus,” “Paths of Glory,” and “Champion.” Born as Issur Danielovitch on December 9, 1916, in Amsterdam, New York, Douglas became one of Hollywood’s most recognized stars.
Personal and Family Life
Kirk Douglas was born to Jewish immigrant parents Herschel and Bryna Danielovitch. He married twice, first to Diana Douglas in 1943 and later to Anne Douglas in 1954, with whom he had two children. Kirk Douglas had a total of four sons, including famous actor Michael Douglas.
Career Highlights
Douglas began his acting journey with an interest in theater and won an acting scholarship to the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. After serving in the Navy during World War II, he launched a successful film career, earning multiple Oscar nominations for his roles in dramas and action films. He produced significant works, including “Spartacus,” which played a crucial role in ending the Hollywood blacklist.
Death and Legacy
Kirk Douglas passed away on February 5, 2020, in Beverly Hills, California, at the age of 103. He is remembered not only for his impressive film career but also for his humanitarian efforts, and he was awarded numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom. His influence on cinema and charitable causes left a lasting legacy.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea | 1954-12-23 | Ned Land |
| Out of the Past | 1947-11-25 | Whit Sterling |
| Paths of Glory | 1957-10-25 | Col. Dax |
| Spartacus | 1960-10-13 | Spartacus |
| The Bad and the Beautiful | 1952-12-25 | Jonathan Shields |
| Champion | 1949-04-09 | Midge Kelly |
| Gunfight at the O.K. Corral | 1957-05-30 | Doc Holliday |
| The Man from Snowy River | 1982-03-25 | Harrison |
| Seven Days in May | 1964-02-01 | Col. Martin “Jiggs” Casey |
| Tough Guys | 1986-10-03 | Archie Long |