George Kennedy
Actor
About George Kennedy
George Harris Kennedy Jr. was an American actor whose imposing physical presence and distinctive voice made him one of Hollywood's most recognizable character actors. Born into a show business family, Kennedy began his career as a military advisor on television shows before transitioning to acting in the late 1950s. His breakthrough role came as the brutish prison guard Dragline in 'Cool Hand Luke' (1967), which earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Throughout the 1970s, he became a bankable star in action films and disaster movies, most notably as Joe Patroni in the 'Airport' film series. Kennedy's career spanned over five decades, during which he appeared in more than 200 films and television shows. He continued working steadily into his 80s, with his final film role in 'The Gambler' (2014). His ability to portray both intimidating villains and lovable curmudgeons made him a versatile and enduring presence in American cinema.
The Craft
On Screen
Kennedy was known for his commanding screen presence, deep voice, and ability to portray both menacing authority figures and sympathetic everymen. His large, muscular frame made him ideal for roles as police officers, military men, and tough characters, yet he possessed a remarkable ability to convey vulnerability and humor. Kennedy often played characters who were initially antagonistic but revealed underlying decency, creating complex, multi-dimensional performances.
Milestones
- Academy Award win for Cool Hand Luke (1967)
- Breakthrough role in Charade (1963)
- Star of the Airport film series (1970-1979)
- Co-star in the Naked Gun film series (1988-1994)
- Over 200 film and television appearances
- Hollywood Walk of Fame star (1985)
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor - Cool Hand Luke (1967)
- Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor - Cool Hand Luke (1967)
- New York Film Critics Circle Award for Best Supporting Actor - Cool Hand Luke (1967)
Nominated
- Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actor - Charade (1963)
- BAFTA nomination for Best Supporting Actor - Cool Hand Luke (1968)
Special Recognition
- Hollywood Walk of Fame Star (1985)
- Golden Boot Award (2005)
- Western Heritage Awards (1975) - The Outlaw Josey Wales
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
George Kennedy's portrayal of Dragline in 'Cool Hand Luke' created one of cinema's most memorable supporting characters, embodying the complex relationship between authority and rebellion in 1960s America. His role in the 'Airport' franchise helped establish the disaster film genre of the 1970s, while his work in 'The Naked Gun' series demonstrated his remarkable comedic timing and contributed to the parody film revolution. Kennedy's ability to transition seamlessly from dramatic to comedic roles influenced how Hollywood viewed character actors, proving that supporting players could carry major franchises and achieve mainstream stardom.
Lasting Legacy
Kennedy's legacy is defined by his versatility and longevity in an industry known for its fleeting fame. He represented the quintessential American character actor - reliable, professional, and consistently compelling. His Academy Award win for 'Cool Hand Luke' remains one of the most deserved supporting actor victories in Oscar history, showcasing his ability to elevate any material. Kennedy's work continues to be discovered by new generations through classic film screenings and streaming platforms, ensuring his place in cinema history as one of Hollywood's most dependable and beloved character actors.
Who They Inspired
Kennedy influenced generations of character actors by demonstrating that physical presence combined with emotional depth could create unforgettable performances. His success in both dramatic and comedic roles inspired actors to avoid typecasting and pursue diverse opportunities. Younger actors studying his work learn the importance of subtlety in playing authority figures and the power of underplaying emotional moments. Kennedy's professional approach and reliability on set became a model for character actors seeking long-term careers in Hollywood.
Off Screen
Kennedy was married four times throughout his life and had four children. His first marriage to Dorothy Gillooly ended in divorce after 12 years. He married Norma Wurman in 1959, with whom he had two children before their divorce in 1971. His third marriage to Joan McCarthy in 1973 lasted until her death in 2015. Kennedy was a devoted family man who often spoke about the importance of his children and grandchildren in his life. He was also a licensed pilot and enjoyed flying in his spare time.
Education
Attended Chaminade High School in Mineola, New York; studied at the Actors Studio in New York City
Family
- Dorothy Gillooly (1944-1956)
- Norma Wurman (1959-1971)
- Joan McCarthy (1973-2015)
- Betty Kennedy (2015-2016)
Did You Know?
- Served in the U.S. Army under General George S. Patton during World War II
- Began his entertainment career as a military technical advisor for the TV series 'The Phil Silvers Show'
- Was a professional radio announcer before becoming an actor
- Wrote several western novels under the pseudonym 'Mike Douglas'
- Was a licensed commercial pilot with multi-engine ratings
- His father was a musician and orchestra leader
- Lost his mother when he was only two years old
- Was a direct descendant of Robert E. Lee on his mother's side
- Appeared in all four films of the Airport franchise
- Was considered for the role of Jaws in 'The Spy Who Loved Me' before Richard Kiel was cast
In Their Own Words
What we've got here is failure to communicate. - as Dragline in Cool Hand Luke
I don't care if it rains or freezes, long as I have my plastic Jesus. - from Cool Hand Luke
Acting is not about being someone different. It's finding the similarity in what is apparently different, then finding myself in there. - interview quote
I've been very fortunate in this business. I've never been out of work. - 1998 interview
You don't have to be a star to be successful in this business. You just have to be reliable. - acting advice
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was George Kennedy?
George Kennedy was an American actor known for his imposing physical presence and distinctive voice. He won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Dragline in 'Cool Hand Luke' and appeared in over 200 films and television shows throughout his five-decade career.
What films is George Kennedy best known for?
Kennedy is best known for 'Cool Hand Luke' (1967), 'Charade' (1963), the 'Airport' film series (1970-1979), and 'The Naked Gun' trilogy (1988-1994). His role as Dragline in 'Cool Hand Luke' earned him an Academy Award.
When was George Kennedy born and when did he die?
George Kennedy was born on February 18, 1925, in New York City, and passed away on February 28, 2016, in Middleton, Idaho, at the age of 91.
What awards did George Kennedy win?
Kennedy won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for 'Cool Hand Luke' (1967), along with a Golden Globe and New York Film Critics Circle Award for the same role. He also received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1985.
What was George Kennedy's acting style?
Kennedy was known for his commanding screen presence, deep voice, and ability to portray both intimidating authority figures and sympathetic characters. He excelled at playing complex characters who initially appeared antagonistic but revealed underlying depth and humanity.
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Films
1 film
