37 Facts About William Holden

Early Life and Career Beginnings

William Holden, a name synonymous with classic Hollywood, had a fascinating journey from his early days to becoming a legendary actor.

1. 01Born on April 17, 1918, in O'Fallon, Illinois, Holden's birth name was William Franklin Beedle Jr.
2. 02His father, a chemist, and his mother, a schoolteacher, moved the family to South Pasadena, California, when Holden was just three years old.
3. 03Holden attended South Pasadena High School, where he developed an interest in acting and participated in school plays.
4. 04He studied chemistry at Pasadena Junior College before being discovered by a talent scout from Paramount Pictures in 1937.

Rise to Stardom

Holden's career took off quickly, and he soon became one of Hollywood's most sought-after leading men.

5. 05His first major role was in the 1939 film "Golden Boy," where he played a violinist turned boxer.
6. 06Holden's performance in "Golden Boy" earned him critical acclaim and established him as a rising star in Hollywood.
7. 07During World War II, Holden served as a second lieutenant in the United States Army Air Forces.
8. 08After the war, he returned to Hollywood and starred in several successful films, including "Sunset Boulevard" in 1950, which earned him his first Academy Award nomination.

Major Achievements

Holden's talent and charisma led to numerous accolades and memorable roles throughout his career.

9. 09In 1953, Holden won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in "Stalag 17," a film about American prisoners of war in Germany.
10. 10He starred in the 1954 film "Sabrina" alongside Audrey Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart, further cementing his status as a leading man.
11. 11Holden received his third Academy Award nomination for his role in the 1976 film "Network," where he played a television executive.
12. 12He was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960, recognizing his contributions to the film industry.

Personal Life

Holden's personal life was as intriguing as his on-screen roles, filled with romance, adventure, and a passion for wildlife conservation.

13. 13Holden married actress Brenda Marshall in 1941, and the couple had two sons, Peter and Scott.
14. 14He had a well-known affair with actress Audrey Hepburn during the filming of "Sabrina," though their relationship ended when Holden revealed he could not have more children.
15. 15Holden was an avid traveler and developed a deep love for Africa, where he became involved in wildlife conservation efforts.
16. 16In 1966, he co-founded the Mount Kenya Game Ranch, a wildlife sanctuary in Kenya dedicated to preserving endangered species.

Later Years and Legacy

Even in his later years, Holden continued to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impact on the film industry.

17. 17Holden's final film role was in the 1981 movie "S.O.B.," a satirical comedy about the film industry.
18. 18He struggled with alcoholism throughout his life, which affected both his career and personal relationships.
19. 19On November 12, 1981, Holden tragically passed away at the age of 63 after a fall in his apartment in Santa Monica, California.
20. 20His death was ruled an accident, and he was cremated, with his ashes scattered in the Pacific Ocean.
21. 21Holden's legacy lives on through his memorable performances and contributions to wildlife conservation.

Fun Facts

Holden's life was filled with interesting tidbits that showcase his unique personality and interests.

22. 22He was an accomplished horseman and often performed his own stunts in films.
23. 23Holden was a close friend of actor Ronald Reagan, who later became the 40th President of the United States.
24. 24He was known for his generosity and often helped struggling actors and crew members financially.
25. 25Holden's favorite hobby was deep-sea fishing, and he owned a boat named "The Golden Boy" after his breakout film.
26. 26He was a licensed pilot and enjoyed flying his own plane.

Impact on Pop Culture

Holden's influence extended beyond his films, leaving a mark on pop culture and inspiring future generations of actors.

27. 27His role in "Sunset Boulevard" is often cited as one of the greatest performances in film history.
28. 28Holden's line "If they move, kill 'em" from the 1969 film "The Wild Bunch" became iconic and is frequently quoted in popular culture.
29. 29He was referenced in the 1980s hit song "Bette Davis Eyes" by Kim Carnes, which highlighted his classic Hollywood charm.
30. 30Holden's films continue to be studied in film schools and appreciated by cinephiles around the world.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Holden received numerous awards and honors that celebrated his talent and contributions to the film industry.

31. 31In addition to his Academy Award, Holden won a Primetime Emmy Award for his performance in the 1974 television film "The Blue Knight."
32. 32He was posthumously awarded the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award in 1982 for his work in wildlife conservation.
33. 33Holden was inducted into the Western Performers Hall of Fame at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in 1989.
34. 34The William Holden Wildlife Foundation was established in his honor to continue his conservation efforts in Africa.

Memorable Quotes

Holden was known for his wit and wisdom, often sharing memorable quotes that reflected his views on life and acting.

35. 35"Aging is an inevitable process. I surely wouldn't want to grow younger. The older you become, the more you know; your bank account of knowledge is much richer."
36. 36"Take any picture you can. One out of four will be good, one out of ten will be very good, and one out of fifteen will be great. If you don't take them, you won't know which ones are the great ones."
37. 37"Movie acting may not have a certain kind of glory as true art, but it is damn hard work."

Holden's words and work continue to inspire and entertain, ensuring his place in the annals of Hollywood history.

William Holden's Lasting Legacy

William Holden's impact on Hollywood is undeniable. From his early days in "Golden Boy" to his unforgettable role in "Sunset Boulevard," Holden's talent and charisma left a mark on the film industry. He wasn't just a pretty face; his dedication to his craft earned him an Academy Award and the respect of peers and fans alike. Beyond the screen, Holden's passion for wildlife conservation showed his commitment to making the world a better place. His work with the Mount Kenya Game Ranch and his efforts to protect endangered species highlight a legacy that goes beyond acting. Though he passed away in 1981, Holden's contributions to cinema and conservation continue to inspire. His life reminds us that true greatness comes from talent, hard work, and a desire to make a difference.