Top Ten Hollywood actors who are considered to be some of the most iconic and influential of all time

Top Ten Hollywood actors who are considered to be some of the most iconic and influential of all time:

 

Marlon Brando - Known for his method acting style and powerful performances in films like "The Godfather" and "A Streetcar Named Desire." Marlon Brando (1924-2004) was an American actor widely regarded as one of the most influential and iconic performers in the history of Hollywood. Brando was known for his distinctive voice, brooding presence, and intense method acting style, which emphasized a deep understanding of a character's psychology and emotions.

Brando got his start in theater and made his film debut in 1950 in the movie "The Men," for which he received critical acclaim for his portrayal of a paraplegic war veteran. He became a household name a year later with his iconic performance as Stanley Kowalski in the film adaptation of Tennessee Williams' play "A Streetcar Named Desire." He continued to earn critical and popular acclaim for his performances in films like "On the Waterfront," "The Wild One," "Julius Caesar," and "The Godfather."

Throughout his career, Brando was known for his rebellious streak and his willingness to challenge traditional Hollywood conventions. He often clashed with directors and studio executives, and was known for his disdain for the press and his desire for privacy. He was also an outspoken political activist and supporter of various causes, including civil rights and Native American rights.

Brando's influence on the acting profession and the film industry as a whole cannot be overstated. He helped to usher in a new era of naturalistic acting in Hollywood and inspired countless actors who came after him to push the boundaries of their craft. He won two Academy Awards for Best Actor, for his performances in "On the Waterfront" and "The Godfather," and was nominated for several others throughout his career.

 

Humphrey Bogart - An icon of film noir, known for his tough-guy roles in films like "Casablanca" and "The Maltese Falcon."Humphrey Bogart (1899-1957) was an American actor known for his iconic roles in film noir and other classic Hollywood films. Bogart was born in New York City and began his acting career on stage before transitioning to film in the 1930s. He quickly became known for his tough-guy persona and distinctive voice.

 

Bogart's breakthrough role came in 1941 with his performance as private detective Sam Spade in John Huston's "The Maltese Falcon," a role that would define his career and cement his status as a Hollywood icon. He went on to star in several other classic film noirs, including "Casablanca," "The Big Sleep," and "Key Largo," as well as other popular films like "The African Queen" and "Sabrina."

Bogart was known for his gruff exterior, but also had a natural charm and charisma that made him a favorite among audiences. He had a unique ability to convey depth and complexity in his performances, often portraying flawed, complicated characters who were nevertheless sympathetic and relatable.

Off-screen, Bogart was known for his love of sailing and his close friendship with fellow actor Spencer Tracy. He was married four times, most famously to actress Lauren Bacall, with whom he starred in several films and had two children.

Bogart's legacy as one of Hollywood's most enduring icons has only grown since his death in 1957. He is consistently ranked among the greatest actors of all time and his films continue to be celebrated and studied by film scholars and fans alike. He won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in "The African Queen" and was nominated for several others throughout his career.

 

James Dean - A cultural icon who starred in only three films before his untimely death at age 24, but left a lasting impression on the industry and popular culture.James Dean (1931-1955) was an American actor who became a cultural icon despite a short career of only three films. Born in Indiana, Dean moved to New York City to pursue acting after studying at UCLA. He quickly gained recognition for his talent and was cast in the lead role of the Broadway play "The Immoralist."

Dean's film career began in 1951 with a small role in the film "Fixed Bayonets!" He went on to star in only three films, all released in 1955: "East of Eden," "Rebel Without a Cause," and "Giant." Despite his limited filmography, Dean's performances in these films were groundbreaking and had a profound impact on Hollywood and popular culture.

Dean was known for his intense method acting style, which involved immersing himself in the character's emotions and psychology. He brought a raw, emotional intensity to his performances that was unlike anything seen in Hollywood at the time. He also had a distinctive look, with his tousled hair, leather jacket, and brooding demeanor, that became an enduring symbol of youth rebellion and angst.

Tragically, Dean's life was cut short when he died in a car crash in 1955 at the age of 24. However, his legacy as a cultural icon and one of Hollywood's most influential actors has only continued to grow in the decades since his death. He has been the subject of numerous books, films, and documentaries, and his influence on popular culture and the acting profession cannot be overstated. He was posthumously nominated for two Academy Awards, for his performances in "East of Eden" and "Giant."

 

 

 

Clark Gable - One of the biggest movie stars of the 1930s and 40s, known for his leading man roles in films like "Gone with the Wind" and "It Happened One Night."  Clark Gable (1901-1960) was an American actor known as the "King of Hollywood" and one of the most iconic leading men of the golden age of Hollywood. Born in Ohio, Gable began his career as a stage actor before transitioning to film in the 1920s. He quickly became known for his rugged good looks, charm, and natural charisma.

Gable's breakthrough role came in 1931 with his performance in "A Free Soul," which earned him critical acclaim and established him as a leading man. He went on to star in several iconic films, including "Gone with the Wind," "Mutiny on the Bounty," and "It Happened One Night," for which he won the Academy Award for Best Actor.

Gable was known for his effortless on-screen presence and his ability to convey a wide range of emotions and characters, from the tough-talking, hard-drinking Rhett Butler in "Gone with the Wind" to the suave, sophisticated reporter Peter Warne in "It Happened One Night." He was equally adept at drama and comedy, and his performances are still celebrated for their naturalism and realism.

Off-screen, Gable was known for his personal charm and his love of hunting and fishing. He was married five times, including to actress Carole Lombard, with whom he had a close and loving relationship until her untimely death in a plane crash in 1942.

Gable's legacy as one of Hollywood's greatest stars has only grown since his death in 1960. He is consistently ranked among the greatest actors of all time and his films continue to be celebrated and studied by film scholars and fans alike. He was nominated for three Academy Awards and won one for his performance in "It Happened One Night."

 

Cary Grant - A suave and sophisticated actor who starred in classic films like "North by Northwest" and "An Affair to Remember."Cary Grant (1904-1986) was an English-American actor known for his suave, sophisticated persona and his ability to play a wide range of characters, from romantic leading men to charming con artists. Born in Bristol, England, Grant began his career in Hollywood in the 1930s and quickly became one of the most popular and respected actors of his generation.

Grant's breakthrough role came in 1937 with his performance in "The Awful Truth," which established him as a leading man and showcased his natural comedic timing and charm. He went on to star in several other iconic films, including "His Girl Friday," "Notorious," and "North by Northwest," for which he is perhaps best known.

Grant was known for his effortless on-screen presence and his impeccable style, with his trademark suits, ties, and fedoras becoming an enduring symbol of male fashion. He had a natural charisma and charm that made him a favorite among audiences and critics alike, and his performances were praised for their wit, humor, and sophistication.

Off-screen, Grant was known for his glamorous personal life and his relationships with several high-profile actresses, including Katharine Hepburn and Grace Kelly. He was married five times and had one daughter.

Grant's legacy as one of Hollywood's greatest stars has only grown since his death in 1986. He is consistently ranked among the greatest actors of all time and his films continue to be celebrated and studied by film scholars and fans alike. He was nominated for two Academy Awards but never won, although he did receive an honorary Oscar in 1970 for his lifetime of work in the film industry.

 

Sidney Poitier - A trailblazer in Hollywood, Poitier was the first African American to win an Academy Award for Best Actor and starred in groundbreaking films like "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner" and "To Sir, with Love." Sidney Poitier (born February 20, 1927) is a Bahamian-American actor, director, and diplomat. He was born in Miami, Florida but grew up in the Bahamas. Poitier's career in Hollywood began in the 1950s, at a time when opportunities for black actors were limited. Despite this, he became one of the most successful and respected actors of his generation, breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations of black actors.

Poitier's breakthrough role came in 1955 with his performance in "Blackboard Jungle." He went on to star in several iconic films, including "The Defiant Ones," "Lilies of the Field," and "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner," for which he won the Academy Award for Best Actor.

Poitier was known for his naturalistic acting style and his ability to convey a wide range of emotions and characters, from the tough-talking, rebellious teenager in "Blackboard Jungle" to the dignified and charismatic handyman in "Lilies of the Field." He was a trailblazer for black actors in Hollywood, and his performances helped to change perceptions of black people on screen.

Off-screen, Poitier was a passionate advocate for civil rights and social justice. He was also the first black person to win the Academy Award for Best Actor and was later awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States.

Poitier's legacy as one of Hollywood's greatest actors and a champion of civil rights has only grown over the years. He continues to be a role model and inspiration for generations of actors and activists alike. He was nominated for two Academy Awards and won one for his performance in "Lilies of the Field."

 

Paul Newman - Known for his blue eyes and rugged good looks, Newman starred in classic films like "Cool Hand Luke" and "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid." Paul Newman (1925-2008) was an American actor, film director, and philanthropist known for his magnetic presence on screen and his rugged good looks. Born in Ohio, Newman began his career in theater before transitioning to film in the 1950s. He quickly became one of Hollywood's most beloved and iconic leading men.

Newman's breakthrough role came in 1958 with his performance in "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof," which earned him critical acclaim and established him as a major star. He went on to star in several other iconic films, including "The Hustler," "Cool Hand Luke," and "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid."

Newman was known for his charismatic presence on screen and his ability to convey a wide range of emotions and characters, from the brooding, intense pool player in "The Hustler" to the irreverent and charming bank robber in "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid." He was equally adept at drama and comedy, and his performances are still celebrated for their naturalism and depth.

Off-screen, Newman was a committed philanthropist and activist, founding the Newman's Own line of food products and donating the proceeds to various charities. He was also a racing enthusiast and a successful race car driver, competing in several high-profile races.

Newman's legacy as one of Hollywood's greatest stars has only grown since his death in 2008. He is consistently ranked among the greatest actors of all time and his films continue to be celebrated and studied by film scholars and fans alike. He was nominated for nine Academy Awards and won one for his performance in "The Color of Money."

 

Tom Hanks - One of the most beloved actors of his generation, Hanks has starred in numerous iconic films, including "Forrest Gump," "Saving Private Ryan," and "Cast Away."Tom Hanks (born July 9, 1956) is an American actor, producer, writer, and director known for his versatility and range as an actor. He began his career in the late 1970s, but it wasn't until the mid-1980s that he became a household name with his performance in the TV show "Family Ties" and the film "Splash."

Hanks has since become one of Hollywood's most beloved and respected actors, with a career spanning over four decades and multiple award-winning performances. He has won two Academy Awards for Best Actor, first for his performance in "Philadelphia" (1993) and then for "Forrest Gump" (1994).

Hanks is known for his ability to play a wide range of characters, from the lovable and innocent Forrest Gump to the conflicted and tormented Andrew Beckett in "Philadelphia." He has also starred in several other iconic films, including "Saving Private Ryan," "Cast Away," and "The Da Vinci Code."

Off-screen, Hanks is also a writer, producer, and director, and has received critical acclaim for his work behind the camera. He is also known for his philanthropic efforts and has been involved in several charitable organizations and causes.

Hanks' legacy as one of Hollywood's greatest actors and one of its most likable and genuine personalities has only grown over the years. He continues to be a force in the industry, with several upcoming projects in the works. He has been nominated for a total of six Academy Awards and has won two.

 

Denzel Washington - A two-time Academy Award winner, Washington has starred in numerous critically acclaimed films, including "Malcolm X," "Training Day," and "Fences." Denzel Washington (born December 28, 1954) is an American actor, director, and producer known for his powerful performances and commanding presence on screen. He began his acting career in the 1970s, but it wasn't until the 1980s that he began to make a name for himself with roles in "A Soldier's Story" (1984) and "Cry Freedom" (1987).

Washington's breakthrough role came in 1989 with his performance as Private Silas Trip in the film "Glory," for which he received critical acclaim and his first Academy Award nomination. He went on to star in several other iconic films, including "Malcolm X," "The Hurricane," and "Training Day," for which he won the Academy Award for Best Actor.

Washington is known for his ability to convey complex emotions and characters with ease, from the charismatic and enigmatic Malcolm X to the corrupt and dangerous Detective Alonzo Harris in "Training Day." He has also become known for his work behind the camera, directing several acclaimed films including "Antwone Fisher" and "The Great Debaters."

Off-screen, Washington is also a philanthropist and has been involved in several charitable organizations and causes. He is a strong advocate for education and has donated millions of dollars to support educational programs and scholarships.

Washington's legacy as one of Hollywood's greatest actors and directors continues to grow. He is consistently ranked among the greatest actors of all time and his performances are still celebrated for their depth and nuance. He has been nominated for nine Academy Awards and has won two, for "Glory" and "Training Day.

 

Meryl Streep - Widely considered to be one of the greatest actresses of all time, Streep has been nominated for more Academy Awards than any other actor and has starred in classic films like "Kramer vs. Kramer," "Sophie's Choice," and "The Devil Wears Prada." Meryl Streep (born June 22, 1949) is an American actress known for her versatility and range, as well as her ability to embody a wide range of characters. She began her career in the early 1970s, but it wasn't until the late 1970s that she became a household name with her performances in "The Deer Hunter" and "Kramer vs. Kramer."

Streep is known for her ability to master a wide range of accents and dialects, as well as her emotional depth and subtlety. She has won three Academy Awards for Best Actress, for her performances in "Sophie's Choice," "The Iron Lady," and "Kramer vs. Kramer." She has also been nominated for a record-breaking 21 Academy Awards, the most of any actor or actress.

Streep is also known for her work in theater, having received numerous accolades and awards for her stage performances. She has also become a prominent voice in Hollywood for women's rights and representation, advocating for gender parity in the industry and using her platform to speak out on social issues.

Off-screen, Streep is known for her philanthropic work and support of various charities and causes. She has been involved in several environmental, humanitarian, and arts organizations, and has used her fame and influence to raise awareness and funds for important causes.

Streep's legacy as one of Hollywood's greatest actresses has only grown over the years. She continues to be a force in the industry, with several upcoming projects in the works. She has been nominated for and won numerous awards throughout her career, cementing her place in film history as one of the most talented and respected actresses of all time.