Gregory Peck

Date of Birth: April 5, 1916

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: June 12, 2003

Biography

Gregory Peck was an iconic American actor, renowned for his performances in classic films and his dignified presence both on and off the screen. Born Eldred Gregory Peck, he emerged as one of Hollywood’s most beloved leading men during the 1940s and continued his illustrious career for nearly six decades. Known for his deep voice, tall stature, and moral integrity, Peck starred in a variety of genres but is most remembered for his role as Atticus Finch in “To Kill a Mockingbird” (1962), a performance that earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor. Peck was born in La Jolla, California, and showed an early interest in acting while attending the University of California, Berkeley. After moving to New York to study at the Neighborhood Playhouse, he made his Broadway debut in 1942. Hollywood soon beckoned, and Peck quickly became a star with notable roles in films like “The Keys of the Kingdom” (1944), “Gentleman’s Agreement” (1947), and “Roman Holiday” (1953). Beyond his film career, Gregory Peck was an active humanitarian and served as president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. He was also a strong advocate for civil rights and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1969.

5 Interesting Facts about Gregory Peck

1. Gregory Peck was nominated for five Academy Awards and won Best Actor for his role in “To Kill a Mockingbird.”

2. He was a founding chairman of the American Film Institute.

3. Peck was ranked as the 12th greatest male star of Classic Hollywood Cinema by the American Film Institute.

4. He was a vocal opponent of the Hollywood blacklist and supported liberal political causes throughout his life.

5. Gregory Peck’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame is located at 6100 Hollywood Blvd.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Gregory Peck

1. “Tough times don’t last, tough people do.”

2. “I’m not a do-gooder. It embarrassed me to be classified as a humanitarian. I simply take part in activities that I believe in.”

3. “Faith is a force. You cannot see it, but you can feel it, and it is what gives life deep meaning and sustenance.”

4. “You made a decision to be in a profession that demands you to be creative, innovative, and to take risks. That means you have to have courage.”

5. “I never regarded my career as something so special that I had to put it ahead of my family.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Gregory Peck’s net worth was estimated to be around $40 million.

Children

Gregory Peck had five children: 1. Jonathan Peck (1944-1975) – his son, who tragically took his own life. 2. Stephen Peck – his son, who works as a film producer and Vietnam War veteran advocate. 3. Carey Paul Peck – his son, who pursued a career in politics and activism. 4. Cecilia Peck – his daughter, who is an actress and documentary filmmaker. 5. Anthony Peck – his son, who also pursued a career in acting.