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Burt Lancaster: An American Life

Anthony Burgess

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Burt Lancaster In A Publicity Still From The Film 'From Here To Eternity' Burt Lancaster: An American Life

Burt Lancaster: An American Life

by Kate Buford

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	464 pages

Early Life and Career

Burt Lancaster was born on November 2, 1913, in New York City. His parents were immigrants from Italy, and he grew up in a working-class neighborhood. Lancaster dropped out of school at the age of 16 and began working as a circus acrobat. He later joined the Civilian Conservation Corps, where he worked on a variety of projects, including building roads and planting trees.

In 1941, Lancaster made his Broadway debut in the play "The Hasty Heart." He quickly gained a reputation as a talented actor, and he soon began landing roles in films. His first major film role was in the 1946 film "The Killers," in which he played a hitman. Lancaster's performance in the film was highly praised, and he quickly became one of Hollywood's most popular leading men.

Major Roles

Over the course of his career, Lancaster starred in a wide variety of films, including westerns, war films, dramas, and comedies. Some of his most notable roles include:

* The Sundowners (1950) * From Here to Eternity (1953) * Gunfight at the O.K. Corral (1957) * Elmer Gantry (1960) * Birdman of Alcatraz (1962) * Seven Days in May (1964) * The Professionals (1966) * Airport (1970) * Executive Decision (1996)

Lancaster was known for his powerful acting style and his ability to create memorable characters. He was also a committed social activist, and he often used his platform to speak out against injustice.

Personal Life

Lancaster was married three times. His first marriage was to actress June Allyson, with whom he had four children. His second marriage was to actress Norma Anderson, with whom he had two children. His third marriage was to actress Susan Martin, with whom he had one child.

Lancaster died on October 20, 1994, at the age of 80. He is buried in Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery in Los Angeles, California.

Legacy

Burt Lancaster is considered one of the greatest actors of all time. He was a versatile performer who could play a wide range of roles with equal skill. He was also a committed social activist who used his platform to speak out against injustice. Lancaster's legacy continues to inspire actors and audiences alike.

Burt Lancaster: An American Life

by Kate Buford

4.3 out of 5