Introduction
Richard Farnsworth was an American actor and stuntman who is best known for his iconic roles in movies like The Grey Fox, Comes a Horseman, and The Natural. However, before he became an acclaimed actor, he served in the United States Army during World War II. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the life and career of Richard Farnsworth.
Early Life and Military Service
Richard Farnsworth was born on September 1, 1920, in Los Angeles, California. He grew up on a ranch in Lincoln, New Mexico, where he learned to ride horses and work with cattle. At the age of 16, he left home and began working as a stuntman in Hollywood.
During World War II, Farnsworth served in the United States Army and fought in the Pacific Theater. He was wounded during the Battle of Guadalcanal and received a Purple Heart for his service. After the war, he returned to Hollywood and continued working as a stuntman and actor.
Acting Career
Richard Farnsworth began his acting career in the 1960s and appeared in numerous television shows and movies. He was known for his rugged, cowboy-like appearance and his ability to perform his own stunts. In 1978, he received his first Academy Award nomination for his supporting role in the movie Comes a Horseman.
In 1982, Farnsworth starred in the movie The Grey Fox, which is considered to be one of his best performances. He played the role of Bill Miner, a stagecoach robber who becomes a folk hero in Canada. The movie was a critical and commercial success, and Farnsworth received his second Academy Award nomination for his performance.
Personal Life and Later Career
Richard Farnsworth was married twice and had two children. His son, Robert Farnsworth, is also an actor. In the 1990s, Farnsworth continued to work in the movie industry and appeared in movies like Misery, The Straight Story, and The Natural.
Unfortunately, Farnsworth suffered from depression and physical ailments in his later years. In 2000, he was diagnosed with terminal cancer and decided to end his life by gunshot. He was 80 years old.
Conclusion
Richard Farnsworth was a talented actor and stuntman who made a significant impact on the movie industry. His performances in movies like The Grey Fox and Comes a Horseman are still remembered and celebrated today. Although his life was not without its challenges, he will always be remembered as a true Hollywood legend.
