Academy Award-winning actor, director, and screenwriter, known for iconic roles in "Psycho" and "12 Angry Men".
Martin Balsam was a stalwart of American cinema, boasting a career that spanned over four decades and numerous iconic roles in film, theatre, and television. He is perhaps best known for his Academy Award-winning performance as Arthur Siegelelr in the 1965 comedy-drama A Thousand Clowns, as well as his memorable portrayals in 12 Angry Men, Psycho, and Breakfast at Tiffany's.
Born on November 4, 1919, in the Bronx, New York City, to Russian Jewish parents, Balsam was raised in a family of modest means. His parents, Lillian and Albert Balsam, instilled in him a love for the arts, which would eventually propel him towards a career in acting. He attended DeWitt Clinton High School, where he was an active member of the drama club, and later studied at the Dramatic Workshop of The New School in New York under the tutelage of German director Erwin Piscator.
Before pursuing a career in acting, Balsam served in the United States Army Air Forces from 1941 to 1945 during World War II, achieving the rank of Sergeant. Following his military service, he began his acting career on the New York stage, becoming an early member of the prestigious Actors Studio. His breakthrough role came in 1951, when he played the title character in the Broadway production of Macbeth.
Balsam's impressive body of work earned him numerous awards and nominations, including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for A Thousand Clowns, a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play for You Know I Can't Hear You When the Water's Running, and nominations for BAFTA, Golden Globe, and Emmy Awards.
In addition to his film career, Balsam had a successful television career, with recurring roles on Dr. Kildare (1963-1966) and Archie Bunker's Place (1979-1983).
Balsam was married to actress Joyce Van Patten, with whom he had a daughter, Talia Balsam, also an actress. He passed away on February 13, 1996, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most prolific and respected character actors of Hollywood's Golden Age.
Throughout his remarkable career, Martin Balsam brought to life a diverse range of characters, earning him a permanent place in the annals of American cinema. His contributions to the world of acting continue to inspire and influence generations of actors, filmmakers, and enthusiasts alike.
Born in 1924
A cultural icon who revolutionized acting with his intense, nuanced performances, earning him numerous accolades, including two Oscars. He's synonymous with iconic roles in "A Streetcar Named Desire" and "The Godfather".
85 Years Old
Iconic actor and director renowned for intense, gritty performances in films like "The Godfather" and "Scarface", leaving an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape.
85 Years Old
A legendary actor and singer, known for iconic roles in films like "The Godfather" and "Misconduct", as well as his charismatic on-screen presence.
94 Years Old
Academy Award-winning actor and director renowned for his iconic roles in films like "The Godfather" and "Apocalypse Now", bringing complex characters to life with his intense, nuanced performances.
79 Years Old
Academy Award-winning actress, director, and entrepreneur known for iconic roles in films like "Annie Hall" and "The Godfather" trilogy, as well as her eclectic style and wit.
79 Years Old
Adrian's supportive sister and Rocky's love interest, known for her iconic roles in the Rocky film series.
90 Years Old
A talented character actor who brought depth and nuance to iconic films like "The Godfather" and "Dog Day Afternoon" with his intense, brooding performances.
86 Years Old
Academy Award-winning filmmaker behind epic movies like The Godfather and Apocalypse Now, known for his groundbreaking storytelling and direction.
