One of the most famous and celebrated actors in Hollywood, Paul Newman is best known for such films as Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, The Hustler, Cool Hand Luke and Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.
Born 95 years ago this month, on January 26, 1925, in Shaker Heights, Ohio, Newman trained at the Actors' Studio in New York, finding success on Broadway as theater actor. Soon after, he began receiving film offers from Hollywood. Known for his bright blue eyes as well as the complex, offbeat characters he portrayed, Newman went on to enjoy a long and successful acting career. He received numerous awards, including two Academy Awards (one honorary), four Golden Globes and one Emmy.
Newman died September 26, 2008, in Westport, Conn., leaving behind a legacy of philanthropy with his Newman's Own Foundation, in addition to an acting career spanning five decades.
In celebration of his life, here are a few top picks for Paul Newman.
The Hustler: In arguably one of his most memorable roles, Newman portrays "Fast" Eddie Felson as a self-destructive pool shark obsessed with being the best at the game.
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid: Based loosely on real-life events, this film starring Newman as a wild west outlaw opposite Robert Redford was added to the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress in 2003 for its cultural and historical significance.
The Color of Money: Newman received an Academy Award for reprising his role as "Fast" Eddie Felson, an aging hustler attempting to mentor Tom Cruise's Vincent Lauria in the art of the hustle.
Road to Perdition: Set in the Chicago area and based on a graphic novel of the same name, the film features Newman as an Irish mob boss. It was his last major film appearance.
Want to learn more about this Hollywood legend? Pick up the book Paul Newman for an entertaining look at his life, from his long-lasting marriage to actress Joanne Woodward to his love for racing.
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