Date of Birth: November 4, 1913
Zodiac Sign: Scorpio
Date of Death: October 19, 1978
Biography
Gig Young was an American actor known for his versatility and charismatic screen presence. Born Byron Elsworth Barr on November 4, 1913, in St. Cloud, Minnesota, he adopted the stage name Gig Young after a character he played in the 1942 film “The Gay Sisters.” Young’s career spanned over three decades, during which he appeared in a variety of film genres, from comedies to dramas. He received critical acclaim and numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in “They Shoot Horses, Don’t They?” (1969). Young’s career began in the late 1930s with minor roles, but he quickly rose to prominence with his charming demeanor and solid acting skills. He became a well-known face in Hollywood, starring in films like “Teacher’s Pet” (1958), “Kid Galahad” (1962), and “The Shuttered Room” (1967). Despite his professional success, Young’s personal life was tumultuous, marked by multiple marriages and struggles with alcoholism. Tragically, Gig Young’s life ended in an apparent murder-suicide on October 19, 1978, when he and his fifth wife, Kim Schmidt, were found dead in their New York City apartment. Young’s legacy, however, continues to be remembered through his memorable performances and contributions to the film industry.
5 Interesting Facts about Gig Young
1. Gig Young won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in “They Shoot Horses, Don’t They?” in 1969.
2. His stage name “Gig Young” was taken from a character he played in the 1942 film “The Gay Sisters.”
3. Young struggled with alcoholism throughout much of his life, which affected his career and personal relationships.
4. He was married five times, with his last marriage ending tragically in an apparent murder-suicide.
5. Despite his personal struggles, Gig Young had a successful career, appearing in over 60 films and numerous television shows.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Gig Young
1. “I was a star in Hollywood and then I was on the skids. I know what it is to be up and then down.”
2. “I suppose I wanted to act in order to have a place in the sun.”
3. “I’ve always been a sucker for a good part, no matter how small.”
4. “The trouble with me is that I belong to a vanishing race. I’m one of the last of the real romantics.”
5. “When you play a role, you inhabit it. You live it.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Gig Young’s net worth was estimated to be around $3 million.
Children
Gig Young had one daughter, Jennifer Young, from his marriage to actress Elaine Williams.
Relevant Links
1. [Gig Young – IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0949835/
2. [Gig Young – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gig_Young
3. [Gig Young – Turner Classic Movies](https://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/person/211189%7C60560/Gig-Young/
4. [Gig Young’s Biography – AllMovie](https://www.allmovie.com/artist/gig-young-p78394
5. [Gig Young’s Oscar Win – Oscars.org](https://www.oscars.org/oscars/ceremonies/1970
