Born Bernard Schwartz in East Harlem to Hungarian immigrants, Tony Curtis evolved from a childhood defined by orphanage stays and local street gangs into an actor appearing in over 100 films. His career spanned six decades, shifting from early uncredited roles in the late 1940s to securing a permanent place in the landscape of American cinema by the 1950s.
Early Life and Military Service
Before his film career, the man who became Tony Curtis navigated a difficult upbringing. He spoke only Hungarian until age six and later endured the death of his brother Julius. After finding direction in a Boy Scout camp, he enlisted in the United States Navy during the Second World War. Serving on the submarine tender USS Proteus, he was present in Tokyo Bay to witness the Japanese surrender in 1945. Following his service, he attended City College of New York and trained at The New School under Erwin Piscator.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Breakthrough in Hollywood
Arriving in Hollywood in 1948, he signed with Universal Pictures and transitioned from Bernard Schwartz to Anthony Curtis. His early work included uncredited appearances in Criss Cross and minor roles in features like The Lady Gambles. After receiving significant fan mail, he achieved lead status with the 1951 film The Prince Who Was a Thief. His subsequent filmography included roles in Houdini, The Black Shield of Falworth, and the financial success Trapeze.
Peak Stardom and Critical Acclaim
Curtis transitioned to dramatic roles in the late 1950s, notably appearing in Sweet Smell of Success alongside Burt Lancaster. His performance in The Defiant Ones earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. He showcased versatility through the 1959 comedy Some Like It Hot and the 1960 historical epic Spartacus. Later in his career, he starred in the 1968 drama The Boston Strangler and played Danny Wilde in the television series The Persuaders!.
Fast facts
- Born: 1925, Flower Hospital
- Died: 2010, Henderson
- Birth name: Bernard Schwartz
- Military service: United States Navy
- Education: Seward Park High School, City College of New York, The New School
- Awards: Henrietta Award (1958, 1961), Bambi Award (1958, 1973)
- Burial site: Palm Memorial Park Cemetery
Questions readers ask
What was his name before he was an actor?
He was born Bernard Schwartz.
Did he serve in the military?
Yes, he served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Proteus during the Second World War.
Achievements
- Golden Globe Awards
- Worked as film actor, writer and painter
.jpg)