Kirk Douglas: A Hollywood Legend
Hollywood legend Kirk Douglas passed away on February 5, at the remarkable age of 103, a fact announced by his son, Michael, via Instagram.
Douglas was among the last surviving members of Hollywood’s Golden Age, showcasing his talent in iconic films such as “Spartacus,” “War Wagon,” and “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.”
His son Michael Douglas shared heartwarming remarks on Instagram: “He leaves a legacy in film that will endure for generations to come, and a history as a renowned philanthropist who worked to aid the public and bring peace to the planet.”
Douglas, seen here in the 1950s, was born Issur Danielovitch to Russian immigrant parents in Amsterdam, New York, in 1916. He would eventually change his name to Kirk Douglas.
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Douglas escorts Irene Wrightsman McEvoy to the Academy Awards in March 1950. He was nominated that year for best actor for his breakout role in ‘Champion.’ He also received an honorary Academy Award in 1996.
Douglas is seen on location for the film ‘Ace in the Hole’ in 1951. He launched his screen career in 1946 after theater work and a stint in the Navy during World War II.
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Douglas kneels beside his sons Joel, left, and Michael in the mid-’50s. Both followed their father’s career into films.
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Douglas stars as Vincent van Gogh in director Vincente Minnelli’s film ‘Lust for Life’ (1956), celebrating the legacy of a legendary artist.
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Douglas enjoys a moment with his second wife, Anne Buydens. They shared a deep bond throughout their marriage.
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Douglas rehearses with Burt Lancaster for the ‘Night of 100 Stars’ event in 1958, showcasing their enduring friendship.
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Douglas pauses at the Rome airport en route to a safari in Kenya, demonstrating his adventurous spirit.
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Douglas on set with Michael during ‘Cast a Giant Shadow,’ showcasing their family legacy in film.
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Douglas, a prominent figure at the Cannes Film Festival, served as jury president in 1980, reflecting his influence in the industry.
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Actor Jack Nicholson greets Douglas at a ceremony honoring Michael Douglas, highlighting their camaraderie in Hollywood.
Douglas stars alongside Dan Aykroyd and Corbin Allred in ‘Diamonds’ (1999), showcasing his enduring talent.
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Kirk and Michael Douglas at a Simon Wiesenthal Center dinner, celebrating their contributions to humanitarian efforts.
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Douglas showcasing his memoir ‘My Stroke of Luck’ in 2002, reflecting on his remarkable life journey.
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Douglas with his family at a special screening of ‘It Runs in the Family,’ demonstrating the strong family ties in their acting legacy.
Douglas backstage with Catherine Zeta-Jones, celebrating the arts across generations.
Douglas participating in the presentation of an Academy Award, continuing his legacy in the film industry.
Douglas portrait taken shortly before his 98th birthday, a testament to his enduring spirit.
Douglas listening to Michael’s heartfelt speech at his 100th birthday celebration, surrounded by family.
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Three generations of Douglas actors celebrating Michael’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2018, marking a significant family legacy.
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