Curtis, Tony (1925-2010), was an American motion-picture actor who appeared in many kinds of films throughout his long career. Although he first became famous for his handsome looks, Curtis demonstrated his range as an actor, working in such diverse types of movies as light comedies, dramas, psychological thrillers, and adventure films. He also acted in theater and television. Curtis was nominated for an Academy Award as best actor in The Defiant Ones (1958).
Curtis was born on June 3, 1925, in New York City, of Hungarian immigrant parents. His real name was Bernard Schwartz. He served in the United States Navy during World War II (1939-1945). After his release from active duty, he studied acting at the Dramatic Workshop of the New School for Social Research (now the New School) in New York City.
Curtis made his film debut in Criss Cross (1948). He appeared in more than 100 motion pictures. His notable films include the dramas Houdini (1953) and Sweet Smell of Success (1957); the adventure movies The Vikings (1958) and Spartacus (1960); the comedies Some Like It Hot and Operation Petticoat (both 1959) and Goodbye Charlie (1964); the romantic comedy Sex and the Single Girl (1964); the comedy adventure The Great Race (1965); and the thriller The Boston Strangler (1968).
Curtis was also a painter and author. His paintings were exhibited at galleries and museums. He wrote the novel Kid Andrew Cody & Julie Sparrow (1977); Tony Curtis: The Autobiography (1993, with Barry Paris); and the memoir American Prince (2008, with Peter Golenbock).
Curtis was married to the American actress Janet Leigh from 1951 to 1962. Their daughter Jamie Lee Curtis became a successful actress. Tony Curtis died on Sept. 29, 2010.
