The Prominent Performer’s From Hollywood’s Golden Era
August 26th, 2009 by Wesley A Willis, under Music. No Comments
Back in 1999, The American Film Institute came out with the directory of the top 50 stars from the history of American Films. These stars are from the opening and the golden times of Hollywood. Many of today’s actors may have more talent and they may be better actors but these fine actors will always be remembered.
The initial player on the catalog is the renowned Humphrey Bogart. Nicknamed “Bogie”, he starred in 75 films from the 1930’s to the 1950’s. His most important character was in the 1941 film, “Casablanca”. Bogie was born on Christmas Day, December 25, 1899. He died from cancer of the esophagus on January 14, 1957.
Next to him on the list is Cary Grant, born Archibald Alexander Leach on January 18, 1904. Died November 29, 1986. Number 3 on the record is Jimmy Stewart, born James Maitland Stewart on May 20, 1908, passed away July 2, 1997. Jimmy Stewart acted in the much-loved Christmas timeless that is still dearly loved now, “It’s a Wonderful Life”.
Marlon Brando, Jr. is next at the number 4 spot. Marlon was born on April 3, 1924 and he died on July 1, 2004. The next spot goes to one of the most eminent dancers in history, Fred Astaire. He was born Frederick Austerlitz on May 10, 1899 and he passed away on June 27, 1987. His film career continued over seventy-six years, during which he made thirty-one musical motion pictures. He made 10 motion pictures with Ginger Rogers, another dancer with whom he is most often coupled.
Number six on the register is Henry Fonda, born on May 16, 1905 and passed away on August 12, 1982. The most profitable box office motion picture of all time starred the number 7 performer on the list. “Gone with the Wind” came out in 1937 and it starred Clark Gable in the lead role as Rhett Butler.
The position of the number 8 spot goes to James Cagney. He is followed at number 9 by Spencer Tracy. Spencer Tracy was part of one of the most lucrative movie pairings in history along with Katharine Hepburn, who just happens to hold the top spot on the register of actresses.
The top ten list is rounded out by the only actor from the silent film era. Charlie Chaplin began his career in 1916 before talking movies. He did not have his first true “talking” film until 1940 with “The Great Dictator”.
Beloved actors, actresses and films will for all time remain a personal estimate as everyone has his or her private judgment of what they prefer. However, these actors beyond doubt made their mark on motion picture history and their work is well acknowledged.
