Cesar Romero
Actor
About Cesar Romero
Cesar Julio Romero Jr. was a distinguished Cuban-American actor whose career spanned over six decades in Hollywood's Golden Age. Beginning as a Broadway dancer in the 1920s, he transitioned to films in 1933 and quickly became typecast as the suave 'Latin Lover' in numerous romantic comedies and dramas. Romero's career evolved from leading man roles to memorable character parts, showcasing his versatility and enduring appeal. He became a household name in the 1960s for his iconic portrayal of The Joker in the Batman television series, a role that required him to maintain his signature mustache under white clown makeup. Throughout his career, Romero appeared in over 100 films and countless television shows, working with Hollywood's biggest stars and directors. His sophisticated charm, distinctive voice, and comedic timing made him a beloved character actor well into his later years. Romero remained active in entertainment until his death in 1994, leaving behind a legacy as one of Hollywood's most recognizable and enduring character actors.
The Craft
On Screen
Romero was known for his sophisticated, suave demeanor and distinctive Latin charm, often playing charismatic villains or romantic leads. His acting style combined elegant physical grace with sharp comedic timing, making him equally effective in dramatic and comic roles. He possessed a rich, resonant voice and a natural flair for the theatrical, which served him well in both his early leading man roles and later character parts. Romero's approach to acting was rooted in his dance background, giving him exceptional physical presence and movement on screen.
Milestones
- Breakthrough role in 'The Thin Man' (1934)
- Leading man status at MGM in the 1930s
- Iconic portrayal of The Joker in Batman TV series (1966-1968)
- Memorable role in 'Ocean's Eleven' (1960)
- Over 100 film appearances spanning six decades
- Successful transition from silent films to talkies
- Extensive television work in the 1960s-1980s
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Golden Boot Award (1985)
- Hollywood Walk of Fame Star (1960)
Nominated
- Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actor (1963)
Special Recognition
- Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame at 6615 Hollywood Boulevard
- Inducted into the Western Performers Hall of Fame
- Golden Boot Award for contributions to Western films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Cesar Romero's portrayal of The Joker in the 1960s Batman series created the template for how comic book villains would be portrayed on screen for decades. His performance balanced menace with camp humor, influencing subsequent actors who played comic book antagonists. Romero broke barriers as one of the first prominent Latin American actors to achieve leading man status in Hollywood, paving the way for future Hispanic performers. His refusal to shave his mustache for The Joker role became an iconic part of Batman lore, demonstrating how personal identity could coexist with character transformation. Romero's career longevity also demonstrated the evolving nature of Hollywood stardom, from leading man to beloved character actor.
Lasting Legacy
Romero's legacy endures through his definitive portrayal of The Joker, which remains one of the most recognizable interpretations of the character. He represents the Golden Age of Hollywood's transition from silent films to television, adapting his talents across multiple media. Romero's career serves as a testament to the power of versatility and reinvention in show business. His work helped establish the archetype of the charming villain that continues to influence casting and performance styles today. Romero also left an indelible mark on LGBTQ+ film history as one of the few openly gay actors of his era who maintained a successful mainstream career.
Who They Inspired
Romero influenced generations of character actors, particularly those playing comic book villains. His blend of sophistication and menace in The Joker role directly influenced Jack Nicholson's and Heath Ledger's interpretations. Romero's success as a Latin American leading man helped open doors for future Hispanic actors in Hollywood. His ability to transition from romantic leads to character parts provided a model for career longevity in an industry known for discarding aging stars. Romero's work in television also helped legitimize the medium for serious film actors.
Off Screen
Cesar Romero was famously known as Hollywood's eternal bachelor, never marrying despite numerous high-profile relationships. He was openly gay within Hollywood circles, though this was never publicly acknowledged during his lifetime due to the era's social constraints. Romero maintained close friendships with many Hollywood stars, including Tyrone Power and Lana Turner. He was known for his impeccable style, love of fine dining, and dedication to his craft. Romero lived in Beverly Hills for much of his life and remained active in social circles until his death.
Education
Attended Collegiate School and Riverdale Country School in New York, later studied at the Ascham School in England where he developed his love for theater and dance.
Did You Know?
- Refused to shave his mustache for The Joker role, so white makeup was applied over it
- Was a talented dancer who began his career on Broadway
- Spoke fluent Spanish and often served as translator on film sets
- Was a direct descendant of Cuban patriot José Martí
- Stood 6'2" tall, unusually tall for leading men of his era
- Was a licensed pilot who owned several aircraft
- Appeared in every episode of the Batman TV series as The Joker
- Was a close friend of fellow Cuban-American actor Desi Arnaz
- Never married and was openly gay within Hollywood circles
- Was a gourmet cook who often entertained celebrity friends at home
In Their Own Words
I'm not a villain. I'm an actor playing a villain.
The secret to my longevity? I never took myself too seriously.
Hollywood is a place where they'll pay you a thousand dollars for a kiss and fifty cents for your soul.
Playing The Joker was the most fun I ever had in my career. It was pure, unadulterated joy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Cesar Romero?
Cesar Romero was a Cuban-American actor with a career spanning six decades, best known for his sophisticated charm and iconic portrayal of The Joker in the 1960s Batman television series. He began as a leading man in the 1930s and successfully transitioned to character roles, appearing in over 100 films and numerous TV shows.
What films is Cesar Romero best known for?
Romero is most famous for playing The Joker in Batman (1966-1968), but also starred in The Little Princess (1939), Ocean's Eleven (1960), The Thin Man (1934), Captain from Castile (1947), and numerous other classic Hollywood films throughout his extensive career.
When was Cesar Romero born and when did he die?
Cesar Romero was born on February 15, 1907, in New York City and died on January 1, 1994, in Santa Monica, California, at the age of 86, ending a remarkable 61-year career in entertainment.
What awards did Cesar Romero win?
While Romero never won major acting awards like an Oscar, he received a Golden Boot Award in 1985 for his contributions to Western films and earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960. He was also nominated for a Golden Globe in 1963 for Best Supporting Actor.
What was Cesar Romero's acting style?
Romero was known for his sophisticated, suave demeanor and distinctive Latin charm, often playing charismatic villains or romantic leads. His style combined elegant physical grace with sharp comedic timing, rooted in his dance background, making him equally effective in dramatic and comic roles.
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Films
1 film
