Kirk Douglas

Date of Birth: December 9, 1916

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Date of Death: February 5, 2020

Biography

Kirk Douglas, born Issur Danielovitch, was an iconic American actor, producer, director, and author. He was born on December 9, 1916, in Amsterdam, New York, to Jewish immigrants from Russia. Douglas is best remembered for his powerful performances in classic films such as “Spartacus,” “Paths of Glory,” and “Lust for Life.” Over the course of his illustrious career, which spanned more than six decades, Douglas appeared in over 90 films, earning himself a place among the greatest actors of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Douglas faced numerous challenges early in life, including poverty and anti-Semitism. Despite these obstacles, he excelled in academics and sports, eventually earning a scholarship to St. Lawrence University. After serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II, Douglas made his film debut in “The Strange Love of Martha Ivers” (1946). His rugged good looks and intense acting style quickly made him a star. One of Douglas’s most notable contributions to Hollywood was his role in ending the Hollywood blacklist by insisting that Dalton Trumbo, a blacklisted writer, receive credit for his work on “Spartacus” (1960). Douglas was also a prolific author, writing several books, including his autobiography “The Ragman’s Son.” Douglas received numerous accolades, including an honorary Academy Award in 1996 for his 50 years as a creative and moral force in the film community. He passed away on February 5, 2020, at the age of 103, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire.

5 Interesting Facts about Kirk Douglas

1. Kirk Douglas was born to Jewish immigrants from Russia and grew up speaking Yiddish at home.

2. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II before starting his acting career.

3. Douglas was instrumental in breaking the Hollywood blacklist by crediting blacklisted writer Dalton Trumbo for “Spartacus.”

4. He was nominated for three Academy Awards for Best Actor but never won, although he received an honorary Oscar in 1996.

5. Douglas authored several books, including his autobiography “The Ragman’s Son” and the novel “Dance with the Devil.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Kirk Douglas

1. “I’ve made a career of playing sons of bitches.”

2. “You know, you have to have some inner philosophy to deal with adversity.”

3. “When you become a star, you don’t change; everyone else does.”

4. “I was born Issur Danielovitch, but I changed my name to Kirk Douglas for show business.”

5. “I didn’t start out to be a star. I just wanted to work.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Kirk Douglas achieved a highest net worth of approximately $60 million.

Children

Kirk Douglas had four sons: Michael Douglas, Joel Douglas, Peter Douglas, and Eric Douglas. Michael Douglas followed in his father’s footsteps to become an acclaimed actor and producer, winning two Academy Awards and numerous other accolades. Joel Douglas worked as a film producer, while Peter Douglas also became a producer. Eric Douglas pursued acting and stand-up comedy but tragically passed away in 2004.