James Whitmore: Life, Career, & Legacy Of The Iconic Actor
Did you know that one actor could convincingly portray both a hardened prison warden and a beloved U.S. President? It's true, and that actor was James Whitmore, a titan of the stage and screen whose talent knew no bounds.
James Whitmore, an American actor of considerable range and depth, left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment through his performances in theater, film, and television. While contemporary audiences might recognize him instantly as Brooks Hatlen, the gentle librarian in The Shawshank Redemption (1994), his career was far more extensive, encompassing roles in classics like The Last Mile (1932) and his tour-de-force portrayal of President Harry S. Truman in Give 'em Hell, Harry! (1975). Whitmore wasn't just an actor; he was a chameleon, disappearing into each role with a dedication that earned him critical acclaim and the adoration of audiences. His career stands as a testament to the power of versatility and the enduring appeal of authentic storytelling.
Born on October 1, 1921, in White Plains, New York, James Whitmore's journey to becoming a celebrated actor began on the Broadway stage. After serving in the Marines during World War II, he harnessed his discipline and drive to pursue his passion for acting. Early theatrical successes, including Command Decision (1947) and The Caine Mutiny Court-Martial (1954), showcased his talent and set the stage for his transition to film. Whitmore's cinematic debut came with The Next Voice You Hear... (1950), a film that subtly explored the anxieties of the Cold War era, and this marked the start of a prolific career that spanned over a hundred film and television appearances.
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| James Whitmore Bio Data | |
| Full Name | James Whitmore Jr. |
| Date of Birth | October 1, 1921 |
| Place of Birth | White Plains, New York, USA |
| Date of Death | February 6, 2009 |
| Place of Death | Malibu, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Actor (Stage, Screen, Television) |
| Years Active | 1947-2006 |
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| Career Information | |
| Broadway Debut | Command Decision (1947) |
| Film Debut | The Next Voice You Hear... (1950) |
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| Professional Information | |
| Known For | Character acting, portrayals of authority figures and historical personalities |
| Skills | Acting, singing, dancing |
| Genre | Drama, War, Biography, Comedy |
| External Links | |
| James Whitmore at IMDb |
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How rich is James Whitmore? Net Worth, Money Net Worth Roll
James Whitmore
James Whitmore
