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Sterling Hayden

What's After the Movie

Sterling Hayden

Sterling Walter Hayden, born Sterling Relyea Walter, was an American actor, author, sailor, model and Marine. Born on March 26, 1916, in Upper Montclair, New Jersey, Hayden went on to be a leading man for most of his career, specializing in Westerns and film noir throughout the 1950s. Notably, he starred in films such as John Huston's The Asphalt Jungle, Nicholas Ray's Johnny Guitar, and Stanley Kubrick's The Killing. He found further success in the New Hollywood era, with notable roles in Francis Ford Coppola's The Godfather, and Stanley Kubrick's Dr. Strangelove. Standing at an impressive 6 ft 5 in, Sterling had a commanding screen presence.

Beyond his acting career, Hayden was also an adventurer in his personal life, using his film earnings to finance his voyages as a sailor. He served as a decorated Marine Corps officer during World War II and an agent for the Office of Strategic Services. Early in his life, Hayden took a job at the age of 16 as mate on a schooner. His voyages ranged from sailing to Newport Beach, California, to skippering a trading schooner in the Caribbean after earning his master's license. Hayden was also a writer, living in Sausalito, California, while authoring his autobiography 'Wanderer', first published in 1963.

61 movies
1 nomination

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Biography, Career & Filmography

Learn more about Sterling Hayden, including a detailed biography, career timeline, personal life insights, and complete filmography. Discover how Sterling Hayden rose to fame, their major roles, industry impact, and personal milestones in the world of film.


Given Name: Sterling Relyea Walter

Born: Upper Montclair, New Jersey, U.S.

Citizenship: United States

Birthday: March 26, 1916

Occupations: Actor, author, sailor, model, Marine, OSS agent

Years Active: 1941-1982

Children: 6

Spouses: Madeleine Carroll, Betty de Noon, Catherine Devine McConnell

Awards and Nominations Received by Sterling Hayden

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18th British Academy Film Awards 1965

Career Timeline

Track the complete movie timeline of Sterling Hayden, including all film releases, career breakthroughs, and notable roles. Follow their journey from early performances to recent blockbusters and upcoming projects.


1977

1900

1900


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