Charles Durning

Biography

Charles Durning (1923-2012) was an American actor celebrated for his prolific career across film, television, and theater. Known as "the King of Character Actors," Durning brought a distinctive blend of versatility, sincerity, and often a dancing charm to a wide array of roles, leaving an unforgettable impression on audiences.

Born on February 28, 1923, in Highland Falls, New York, Durning's early life included a period of service in the U.S. Army during World War II. He was drafted at age 20 and participated in intense combat. He was part of the first wave of soldiers to land in France after the D-Day invasion, was wounded by a German landmine, and later suffered bayonet wounds during hand-to-hand combat. 

He was also captured by the Germans during the Battle of the Bulge but was one of the few to survive the Malmedy massacre. For his service, he received three Purple Hearts, a Silver Star, and a Bronze Star, among other decorations. He was discharged in 1946 with the rank of private first class.

After the war, Durning embarked on his acting career in 1951, initially in minor roles on television shows. He spent years honing his craft in stock company productions and off-Broadway plays, including numerous appearances in the New York Shakespeare Festival. During this period, he also worked various jobs, including as a ballroom dancer and instructor.

His breakthrough came in the 1971 play "That Championship Season," which garnered him critical attention. This led to his breakout film role as a corrupt police officer in "The Sting" (1973), where he gained significant notice. From that point on, Durning became one of Hollywood's most dependable supporting actors, appearing in over 200 films and television shows.

Durning's filmography is extensive and diverse. He earned Academy Award nominations for Best Supporting Actor for his roles in "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas" (1982), where he showcased his dancing skills, and "To Be or Not to Be" (1983). Other memorable film appearances include "Dog Day Afternoon" (1975), "The Muppet Movie" (1979) as Doc Hopper, "Tootsie" (1982), "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" (2000), and "Home for the Holidays" (1995).

On television, Durning was a frequent presence, earning nine Emmy nominations. He won a Golden Globe Award for his supporting role in the miniseries "The Kennedys of Massachusetts" (1990). He also had recurring roles in popular shows like "Evening Shade," "Everybody Loves Raymond," and "Rescue Me."

His stage career remained robust, earning him a Tony Award for his performance as Big Daddy in the 1990 revival of "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof." He was inducted into the Theater Hall of Fame on Broadway in 1999.

Durning received a Life Achievement Award at the 14th Annual Screen Actors Guild Award ceremony in 2008 and was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame that same year. He passed away on December 24, 2012, at the age of 89, and was interred at Arlington National Cemetery. Charles Durning's legacy is that of a truly dedicated and versatile performer who enriched countless productions with his talent and presence.