Contents
Burt Lancaster
Starring in From Here to Eternity, Elmer Gantry and The Leopard.
From Here to Eternity · Elmer Gantry
- Born
- 2 November 1913
- Birthplace
- New York City, United States
- Died
- 20 October 1994
More people
Burt Lancaster
Burt Lancaster was an American actor who moved from athletic adventure roles to complex dramatic characters. He also helped produce films independently, gaining influence over the projects he chose.
Early life
East Harlem
Grew up in a working-class family and excelled at gymnastics.
Circus training
Performed as an acrobat with childhood friend Nick Cravat before entering films.
Career
- 1943–1945
Army service
Entertained troops during World War II.
- 1945
Broadway
Appeared in The Sound of Hunting and attracted Hollywood attention.
- 1946
Film breakthrough
Made his screen debut in The Killers.
- 1961
Academy Award
Won best actor for Elmer Gantry.
Selected work
From Here to Eternity
Played Sergeant Warden in the military drama.
Elmer Gantry
Portrayed a charismatic, manipulative preacher.
The Leopard
Played an ageing Sicilian prince confronting social change.
Beyond work
Civil rights
Took part in the 1963 March on Washington.
Family
Had five children, including screenwriter Bill Lancaster.
Sources & photo credit
Life, career and references ↗Turner Classic Movies biography ↗Photo: Hal Wallis Productions. Public domain · Original image. Cropped and displayed in monochrome.
