Marion Robert Morrison
- Born:
- May 26, 1907, Winterset, Iowa, USA
- Died:
- June 11, 1979, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Actor, Director, Producer
Early Life and Education
- Born Marion Robert Morrison; later changed to Marion Mitchell Morrison.
- Grew up in Iowa and Southern California.
- Attended the University of Southern California (USC) on a football scholarship.
- Lost his football scholarship due to a bodysurfing accident.
Career and Major Achievements
- Began his film career in the late 1920s with small roles.
- Gained prominence in the 1930s, particularly through Westerns directed by John Ford.
- Emerged as a major Hollywood star in the 1940s and remained a leading actor for decades.
- Starred in over 140 films, becoming a symbol of American masculinity.
- Directed and produced several films.
- Won the Academy Award for Best Actor for True Grit (1969).
Notable Works
Filmography (Selection)
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1939 | Stagecoach | Ringo Kid |
| 1949 | She Wore a Yellow Ribbon | Captain Nathan Brittles |
| 1956 | The Searchers | Ethan Edwards |
| 1962 | The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance | Tom Doniphon |
| 1969 | True Grit | Rooster Cogburn |
| 1976 | The Shootist | J.B. Books |
Legacy and Impact
John Wayne, an actor whose life and legend are intertwined with the history of American cinema, left an indelible mark as an iconic figure, particularly within the Western genre. His portrayals of rugged individualism and patriotism resonated with audiences worldwide, establishing him as one of Hollywood's most enduring stars.