Introduction
Lee J. Cobb was an American actor who had a career that spanned over five decades. He was born on December 8, 1911, in New York City, to Jewish immigrant parents. Cobb’s career started in theater, where he gained critical acclaim for his performances. He then transitioned to movies and television, where he became a household name. In this blog post, we will explore the life and career of Lee J. Cobb, from his Jewish roots to his iconic roles in movies and TV shows.
Early Life and Career
Lee J. Cobb was born in the Bronx, New York, to Jewish immigrant parents. His father was a tailor, and his mother was a homemaker. Cobb attended New York University, where he studied drama. After graduation, he joined the Group Theatre, where he gained critical acclaim for his performances. Cobb’s breakthrough role was in the play “Golden Boy,” where he played the role of Joe Bonaparte, a talented violinist who becomes a boxer. The play was a critical and commercial success, and it launched Cobb’s career.
Theater Career
Cobb’s theater career spanned over two decades, and he appeared in numerous plays, including “Death of a Salesman,” “King Lear,” and “The Iceman Cometh.” He was known for his intense and powerful performances, and he was considered one of the greatest stage actors of his time. Cobb received numerous awards and nominations for his theater work, including a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play for his performance in “Death of a Salesman.”
Movie Career
Cobb’s movie career started in the 1940s, and he appeared in numerous movies, including “On the Waterfront,” “12 Angry Men,” and “The Exorcist.” He was known for his tough-guy roles, and he often played characters who were on the wrong side of the law. Cobb received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in “On the Waterfront.” He also appeared in several westerns, including “The Big Country” and “The Magnificent Seven.”
Personal Life and Legacy
Cobb was married twice and had four children. He was a lifelong Democrat and was active in politics. Cobb passed away on February 11, 1976, at the age of 64. He left behind a legacy as one of the greatest actors of his generation. His performances in movies and on stage continue to inspire and entertain audiences today.
Net Worth and Height
Lee J. Cobb’s net worth at the time of his death was estimated to be around $2 million. He was 5 feet 10 inches tall.
The Virginian
Cobb also appeared in the TV series “The Virginian,” where he played the role of Judge Henry Garth. The show was a hit and ran for nine seasons.
In conclusion, Lee J. Cobb was a talented actor who had a career that spanned over five decades. He was known for his powerful performances on stage and screen, and he left behind a legacy as one of the greatest actors of his generation.
