Cecil B. DeMille

Date of Birth: August 12, 1881

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: January 21, 1959

Biography

Cecil B. DeMille was an iconic American film director and producer, often regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of cinema. Born on August 12, 1881, in Ashfield, Massachusetts, DeMille’s career spanned over five decades, during which he helped shape the film industry with his grandiose storytelling and penchant for epic productions. He is best known for his work on films such as “The Ten Commandments” (1956), “Cleopatra” (1934), and “The Greatest Show on Earth” (1952), the latter of which won the Academy Award for Best Picture. DeMille began his career in the theater before transitioning to the burgeoning film industry. His directorial debut came with the silent film “The Squaw Man” (1914), which was also one of Hollywood’s first feature-length films. Throughout his career, he directed and produced over 70 films, many of which became benchmarks in cinematic history. His mastery of film techniques and innovative use of technology, such as the introduction of Technicolor, set new standards in the industry. DeMille’s films were known for their epic scale, elaborate sets, and large casts. He often explored themes of morality, faith, and human struggle, making his films resonate with audiences worldwide. His influence extends beyond his filmography; he played a key role in the establishment of Paramount Pictures and was a founding member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Cecil B. DeMille passed away on January 21, 1959, in Hollywood, California, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike.

5 Interesting Facts about Cecil B. DeMille

1. Cecil B. DeMille was one of the first directors to shoot a film in Hollywood, California.

2. He was known for his meticulous attention to detail and often involved himself in the design of sets and costumes.

3. DeMille was awarded the first-ever Golden Globe Cecil B. DeMille Award in 1952, an honor named in his recognition.

4. He was deeply religious and often incorporated biblical themes and stories into his films.

5. DeMille’s film “The Ten Commandments” (1956) remains one of the highest-grossing films of all time when adjusted for inflation.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Cecil B. DeMille

1. “The greatest art in the world is the art of storytelling.”

2. “Give me any two pages of the Bible and I’ll give you a picture.”

3. “Creativity is a drug I cannot live without.”

4. “The public is always right.”

5. “It is impossible for us to break the law. We can only break ourselves against the law.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At his peak, Cecil B. DeMille’s net worth was estimated to be around $10 million, which would be equivalent to approximately $100 million today when adjusted for inflation.

Children

Cecil B. DeMille had four children: 1. Cecilia DeMille Harper (1908-1984) 2. Katherine DeMille (1911-1995, adopted) 3. John Blount DeMille (1913-1989) 4. Richard de Mille (1922-2009, adopted)