Introduction
Jason Robards was a legendary American actor who graced the stage and screen for over five decades. He was known for his exceptional talent, versatility, and range, which earned him numerous accolades and awards, including two Academy Awards, a Tony Award, and an Emmy Award. However, Robards was more than just an actor; he was a father, husband, and friend who left an indelible mark on the world. In this blog post, we will explore the life and legacy of Jason Robards, from his iconic filmography to his family and death.
Early Life and Career
Jason Robards was born on July 26, 1922, in Chicago, Illinois, to Jason Robards Sr., an actor, and Hope Maxine Glanville, a journalist. Robards Sr. was a prominent stage and screen actor, who inspired his son to pursue a career in acting. Robards Jr. attended Hollywood High School and Los Angeles City College before enlisting in the United States Navy during World War II. After the war, he studied acting at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City and made his Broadway debut in 1956 in The Iceman Cometh, which earned him critical acclaim and a Tony Award.
Robards’ early film career was marked by supporting roles in films such as The Journey (1959), Long Day’s Journey Into Night (1962), and A Thousand Clowns (1965). However, his breakthrough role came in 1966, when he played the iconic role of Ben Bradlee, the executive editor of The Washington Post, in the film All the President’s Men. The film, which chronicled the Watergate scandal, won four Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actor for Robards.
Iconic Filmography
Jason Robards’ filmography is a testament to his versatility and range as an actor. He appeared in over 80 films, including some of the most iconic films of the 20th century. Some of his most notable films include:
1. All the President’s Men (1976)
Robards’ portrayal of Ben Bradlee in this film is considered one of the greatest performances in American cinema. His performance earned him his first Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
2. Julia (1977)
In this film, Robards played the role of Dashiell Hammett, a writer and friend of Lillian Hellman, played by Jane Fonda. His performance earned him his second Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
3. Philadelphia (1993)
Robards played the role of Charles Wheeler, a senior partner at a law firm, in this film about a man with AIDS who sues his former employer for discrimination. His performance earned him critical acclaim and a Screen Actors Guild Award for Best Supporting Actor.
4. Magnolia (1999)
In this film, Robards played the role of Earl Partridge, a dying man who reflects on his life and relationships. His performance earned him a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
5. Once Upon a Time in the West (1968)
Robards played the role of Cheyenne, a notorious outlaw, in this classic Western film directed by Sergio Leone. His performance was praised for its humor and charisma.
Family and Death
Jason Robards was married four times and had six children. His first marriage was to Eleanor Pittman, with whom he had one child, a son named Jason Robards III. His second marriage was to Rachel Taylor, with whom he had two children, a son named Sam Robards and a daughter named Nina Robards. His third marriage was to Lois O’Connor, with whom he had one child, a daughter named Jennifer Robards. His fourth marriage was to Sibylle Szaggars, whom he married in 1976 and remained married to until his death.
Jason Robards died on December 26, 2000, at the age of 78, from lung cancer. His death was a great loss to the entertainment industry, but his legacy lives on through his iconic filmography and the memories of those who knew and loved him.
Conclusion
Jason Robards was one of the greatest actors of his generation, whose talent and range were unparalleled. He left an indelible mark on the world through his iconic filmography and the memories of those who knew and loved him. His legacy will continue to inspire and entertain generations to come.
