Lou Nova was an American actor who is best known for his roles in “World for Ransom,” “Somewhere in the Night,” and “Blackbeard’s Ghost.” He was also a successful boxer, notable for his powerful “Cosmic” Punch.
Personal and Family Life
Lou Nova, born Jay Louis Nova, was born on March 16, 1913, in Los Angeles, California. He was married to Teresa Valenzuela starting in 1982. Not much is publicly known about his family life, but he was quite private regarding his personal affairs.
Boxing Career
Before his acting career, Lou Nova was a World Amateur Boxing Champion, remaining undefeated in his first 22 professional matches. He had a notable rivalry with former heavyweight champion Max Baer, knocking him out twice and seriously injuring him in their second fight. Nova’s boxing career also included a notable match against Joe Louis for the heavyweight title, although he was unable to defeat the legend.
Death and Legacy
Lou Nova passed away on September 29, 1991, in Las Vegas, Nevada. His legacy continues through both the boxing and film industries, where he is remembered for his remarkable “Cosmic” Punch and his roles in various films.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| World for Ransom | 1954-01-31 | Guzik |
| Somewhere in the Night | 1946-06-12 | Hubert |
| Where the Sidewalk Ends | 1950-07-07 | Ernie, Scalise Hood (uncredited) |
| Cowboy and the Prizefighter | 1949-12-14 | Bull Mason (the Prizefighter) |
| The Leather Saint | 1956-06-06 | Tiger |
| Swing Fever | 1943-11-01 | Kid Mandell |
| The Tall Target | 1951-08-17 | Zouave Sergeant (uncredited) |
| Blackbeard’s Ghost | 1968-02-08 | Leon |
| Joe Palooka, Champ | 1946-05-26 | Al Costa |
| Half Angel | 1951-05-05 | Fighter (scenes deleted) |
| Love and Learn | 1947-05-02 | Marty |
| Westward the Women | 1951-12-16 | Blacksmith (uncredited) |
| What a Way to Go! | 1964-07-31 | Trentino |
| The Red Badge of Courage | 1951-09-27 | Veteran (uncredited) |
| Terry and the Pirates | 1952-11-25 | |
| Columbo | 1971-09-15 | Detective (uncredited) |