Glenn Ford

Date of Birth: May 1, 1916

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: August 30, 2006

Biography

Gwyllyn Samuel Newton “Glenn” Ford was a Canadian-American actor whose career spanned more than 50 years. Born on May 1, 1916, in Sainte-Christine-d’Auvergne, Quebec, Canada, Ford’s family moved to Santa Monica, California, when he was eight years old. He began his career in Hollywood in 1939 and quickly established himself as a versatile actor capable of performing in various genres, including westerns, dramas, and comedies. Ford’s breakout role came in 1946 when he starred in the film noir classic “Gilda” alongside Rita Hayworth. Over the ensuing decades, Ford became one of Hollywood’s most reliable leading men, appearing in a string of successful films such as “The Big Heat” (1953), “Blackboard Jungle” (1955), and “3:10 to Yuma” (1957). His performances were characterized by a blend of toughness and sensitivity, making him a favorite among both audiences and directors. In addition to his film career, Ford served in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II and later in the U.S. Naval Reserve, attaining the rank of captain. He was awarded the French Legion of Honor in 1992 for his service during the war. Ford’s career experienced a decline in the 1970s and 1980s, but he remained a respected figure in the entertainment industry until his death on August 30, 2006, in Beverly Hills, California.

5 Interesting Facts about Glenn Ford

1. Glenn Ford was an accomplished horseman and performed many of his own stunts in his western films.

2. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II and later in the U.S. Naval Reserve, eventually retiring as a captain.

3. Ford was awarded the French Legion of Honor in 1992 for his contributions during World War II.

4. He was considered for the role of James Bond in the early 1960s.

5. Ford was married four times and had a tumultuous personal life, which included a high-profile divorce from actress Eleanor Powell.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Glenn Ford

1. “I never felt comfortable doing comedy, but it was fun.”

2. “I think the toughest thing about being an actor in Hollywood is keeping your sense of self.”

3. “An actor should never be larger than the film he’s in.”

4. “I always tried to play every role as if it were my last.”

5. “Acting is an empty profession unless you can fill your work with your own character, your own heart.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Glenn Ford’s net worth was estimated to be around $12 million.

Children

Glenn Ford had one son, Peter Ford, born on February 5, 1945, with his first wife, dancer and actress Eleanor Powell. Peter Ford followed in his father’s footsteps and worked in the entertainment industry as an actor, singer, and producer.