John Wayne, the iconic actor known for epitomizing the American West, was born on May 26, 1907. He achieved star stature in American cinema by embodying cowboy values of decency, honesty, and integrity. Wayne had a successful career in Western films and won an Academy Award for Best Actor for 'True Grit' in 1969. He passed away on June 11, 1979, at age 72 from stomach cancer.
Key Points
Born Marion Robert Morrison on May 26, 1907, in Winterset, Iowa
Achieved star stature in American cinema through roles in Western films
Won an Academy Award for Best Actor for 'True Grit' in 1969
Pros
John Wayne's portrayal of cowboy values in American cinema
Successful career in Western films
Won an Academy Award for Best Actor for 'True Grit'
Cons
Mixed feedback for the pro-Vietnam War film 'The Green Berets'