Charles Durning

Charles Edward Durning (February 28, 1923 – December 24, 2012) was a distinguished American actor who made appearances in over 200 movies, television shows, and plays. Some of Durning's best-known films include The Sting (1973), Dog Day Afternoon (1975), The Muppet Movie (1979), True Confessions (1981), Tootsie (1982), Dick Tracy (1990), and O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000). His impressive performances led to him being nominated for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for both The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas (1982) and To Be or Not to Be (1983). Prior to his acting career, Durning served in World War II and was revered for his valour in combat. His military service includes participating in the Battle of the Bulge in December 1944. He was highly decorated, receiving the Silver Star, Bronze Star, and three Purple Hearts, amongst many other awards. Durning dedicated himself to various functions to honor American veterans, and was the Chairman of the U.S. National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans. He began his acting career in 1951, starting with theatre performances and transitioning into television and movies. He made his film debut in Harvey Middleman, Fireman in 1965. Throughout his career, he earned nine Emmy Award nominations and received the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor nominations twice. His remarkable career earned him a Life Achievement Award at the 14th Annual Screen Actors Guild Award Ceremony.

Born in Highland Falls, New York, Durning was the son of Irish immigrants and was the ninth of ten children. Before his illustrious acting career, he served in the U.S. Army during World War II, landing in France as part of an artillery unit. He later participated in various veteran honoring functions, served as a professional ballroom dancer, and even taught at the Fred Astaire Dance Studio in New York City. His acting career spanned over six decades, where he worked with numerous reputable figures in the industry such as Al Pacino, Gregory Peck, Paul Newman, Robert Redford, and many others. During his life, Durning married twice and had three children. He passed away in December 2012 from natural causes and was buried at Arlington National Cemetery. In addition to his decorated military and acting career, Durning was also inducted into the Theater Hall of Fame on Broadway and has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.