Date of Death: December 24, 2012 (89)
Birth Place: Highland Falls, NY, USA
Charles Durning was an American actor with a long and distinguished career in film, television, and theater. Born in Highland Falls, New York in 1923, Durning grew up in poverty and struggled with his weight throughout his life. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II, participating in the D-Day invasion and earning a Silver Star for his bravery.
After the war, Durning studied acting at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City, and began his career in regional theater. He made his Broadway debut in 1964 in the play "The Devils," and went on to appear in a number of other Broadway productions, including "Inherit the Wind," "That Championship Season," and "The Best Man."
Durning was known for his versatility as an actor, and was equally at home in comedic and dramatic roles. He appeared in over 200 films and television shows, including "The Sting," "Tootsie," "Dog Day Afternoon," and "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" He received two Academy Award nominations for Best Supporting Actor, for his roles in "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas" and "To Be or Not to Be."
In addition to his work in film and television, Durning continued to perform on stage throughout his career. He received a Tony Award nomination for his performance in the 1990 revival of "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof," and appeared in numerous other Broadway and off-Broadway productions.
Durning was also a talented singer, and released several albums of popular standards throughout his career. He performed with a number of big bands, including Benny Goodman's orchestra, and was a regular guest on "The Merv Griffin Show."
Durning was widely respected in the entertainment industry for his talent and his professionalism. He was known for his generosity and his sense of humor, and was beloved by his colleagues and fans alike.
Durning continued to work in film and television well into his eighties, and his last on-screen appearance was in the 2012 film "Scavenger Killers." He passed away on December 24, 2012, at the age of 89, leaving behind a legacy of outstanding performances and a reputation as one of the most talented and versatile actors of his generation.
Charles Durning, Third
Charles Durning , The Best Man
Charles Durning, The Gin Game
Charles Durning, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof
Charles Durning , Cat on a Hot Tin Roof
Charles DurningCat on a Hot Tin Roof
Charles During, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof
Charles Durning , Cat on a Hot Tin Roof
Charles Durning, That Championship Season
Charles Durning has appeared on Broadway in 13 shows.
Charles Durning has not appeared in the West End
Charles Durning has been nominated for several awards throughout his career. He was nominated for Outstanding Featured Actor in The Lortels for the play "Third". He also received a nomination for Outstanding Featured Actor in a Play from the Outer Critics Circle Awards for his performance in "The Best Man". Durning was recognized with the Distinguished Performance Award from the Drama League Awards for his role in "The Gin Game". Additionally, he received a nomination for Outstanding Featured Actor - Play from the Drama Desk Awards for his performance in "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof". Durning was nominated for Best Actor - Play by the Outer Critics Circle Awards for his role in "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof" as well. He also received a nomination for Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Play at the Tony Awards for his performance in "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof". Lastly, Durning was recognized with the Outstanding Performance award from the Drama Desk Awards for his role in "That Championship Season".
Charles Durning has won several awards throughout his career. He received the Outstanding Featured Actor award at The Lortels for his performance in "Third." He also received the Distinguished Performance Award at the Drama League Awards for his role in "The Gin Game." In addition, Durning won the Outstanding Featured Actor - Play award at the Drama Desk Awards for his performance in "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof." He was also honored with the Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Play at the Tony Awards for his role in "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof." Lastly, Durning received the Outstanding Performance award at the Drama Desk Awards for his performance in "That Championship Season."
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