Raul Julia

Raúl Rafael Carlos Juliá y Arcelay (March 9, 1940 - October 24, 1994) was a Puerto Rican actor and humanitarian known for his intense and varied performances on stage and screen. Juliá began his career in the Public Theater, transitioning to film later. His exceptional performance earned him numerous accolades including a Drama Desk Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, a Golden Globe Award, a Screen Actors Guild Award and nominations for four Tony Awards. However, despite his remarkable talent, he never received an Academy Award nomination. In his earlier days in Puerto Rico, Juliá was persuaded by actor Orson Bean to move to New York City. This decision paved the way for him to make significant contributions to Broadway and Off-Broadway plays, eventually capturing the attention of producer Joseph Papp. Juliá starred in numerous critically acclaimed films and garnered prominence for his role as Gomez Addams in two film adaptations of The Addams Family.

Born in San Juan, Juliá's interest in acting was prolific while he was in school, later turning it into a full-time career. Despite health detriments towards the end of his life, Juliá demonstrated his undeniable passion for acting by completing The Burning Season and playing M. Bison in Street Fighter. He also engaged in social and educational activities throughout his lifetime, often focusing on helping at-risk youth, advancing the Latin American community, and advocating for the arts. His remarkable contributions to society were acknowledged posthumously by receiving a Golden Globe Award, a Screen Actors Guild Award, a CableACE Award, and an Emmy Award.