Date of Birth: December 18, 1904
Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius
Date of Death: March 8, 1975
Biography
George Cooper Stevens (December 18, 1904 – March 8, 1975) was an American film director, producer, screenwriter, and cinematographer. Born in Oakland, California, Stevens began his career in the film industry as a cameraman for the Hal Roach studio, working on Laurel and Hardy comedies. He transitioned into directing in the 1930s and went on to become one of the most esteemed directors in Hollywood. Known for his versatility, Stevens directed a range of genres, from comedies and musicals to dramas and epics. Some of his most notable films include “Swing Time” (1936), “Gunga Din” (1939), “A Place in the Sun” (1951), “Shane” (1953), and “Giant” (1956). Stevens won two Academy Awards for Best Director for “A Place in the Sun” and “Giant”. His meticulous approach to filmmaking and his ability to draw out compelling performances from actors earned him a lasting legacy in Hollywood.
5 Interesting Facts about George Stevens
1. George Stevens served in World War II and documented the war in Europe, capturing crucial events like the D-Day landings and the liberation of Paris.
2. He was the head of the U.S. Army Signal Corps Special Motion Picture Unit during World War II.
3. Stevens’ film “Shane” is considered one of the greatest Westerns ever made and was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry.
4. He was known for his lengthy and detailed production processes, often taking years to complete a film.
5. Stevens was posthumously awarded the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 1953.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from George Stevens
1. “The more one knows, the more one simplifies.”
2. “I think it’s important not to do what everyone else is doing.”
3. “A director makes only one movie in his life. Then he breaks it into pieces and makes it again.”
4. “You have to be a little stubborn to be a filmmaker.”
5. “The most important thing is to tell a good story.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, George Stevens’ net worth was estimated to be approximately $10 million.
Children
George Stevens had one son, George Stevens Jr., who is also a film director, producer, screenwriter, and founder of the American Film Institute.
Relevant Links
1. [George Stevens – IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0828288/
2. [George Stevens – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Stevens
5. [George Stevens – The New York Times Archive](https://www.nytimes.com/topic/person/george-stevens
