Keir Dullea

Date of Birth: May 30, 1936

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Biography

Keir Dullea, born Keir Atwood Dullea, is an American actor known for his striking performances in both film and television. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Dullea grew up in a family with a strong academic background; his parents ran a bookstore and his father was a physician. Dullea’s early interest in acting led him to study at the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre in New York City. He made his film debut in “The Hoodlum Priest” (1961), but it was his role as astronaut Dr. David Bowman in Stanley Kubrick’s iconic film “2001: A Space Odyssey” (1968) that cemented his place in cinematic history. Dullea’s portrayal of Bowman, who embarks on a mission to Jupiter and comes into contact with the mysterious monolith, remains one of the most memorable performances in science fiction cinema. Aside from “2001: A Space Odyssey” and its sequel “2010: The Year We Make Contact” (1984), Dullea has appeared in numerous other films, including “David and Lisa” (1962), for which he won a Golden Globe Award for New Star of the Year. His television work includes roles in series such as “The Twilight Zone,” “Law & Order,” and “Castle Rock.” Throughout his career, Dullea also maintained a strong presence in theater, performing in Broadway productions like “Butterflies Are Free” and “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.” His dedication to his craft and his versatility as an actor have earned him respect and admiration in the entertainment industry.

5 Interesting Facts about Keir Dullea

1. Keir Dullea won a Golden Globe Award for New Star of the Year for his role in “David and Lisa” (1962).

2. He reprised his role as Dr. David Bowman in the sequel to “2001: A Space Odyssey,” titled “2010: The Year We Make Contact” (1984).

3. Dullea has been married four times; his current wife is actress Mia Dillon, whom he married in 1999.

4. He has a strong theater background and has performed in several Broadway productions, including “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.”

5. Dullea’s parents owned a bookstore in New York City, which exposed him to literature and arts from a young age.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Keir Dullea

1. “I think of myself as a character actor, not a movie star. I see myself as a good actor who is lucky to have a job.”

2. “Working with Stanley Kubrick was a dream come true. He was a genius, a true visionary.”

3. “Theater is my first love. There’s nothing like the immediacy and connection you feel with a live audience.”

4. “My role in ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’ opened so many doors for me, but it also typecast me in a way. Still, I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything.”

5. “Every role I take on is a new challenge, a chance to explore different facets of humanity.”