One of Hollywood’s leading stars of “Spartacus” stature has died. Kirk Douglas was 103. The acting legend suffered a stroke in 1996, but had been in good health since. He is survived by his wife Anne, as well as his sons, Peter, Joel, and Michael.
In a statement, Michael Douglas said, “It is with tremendous sadness that my brothers and I announce that Kirk Douglas left us today at the age of 103. To the world, he was a legend, an actor from the golden age of movies who lived well into his golden years, a humanitarian whose commitment to justice and the causes he believed in set a standard for all of us to aspire to.” He added, “But to me and my brothers Joel and Peter he was simply Dad, to Catherine, a wonderful father-in-law, to his grandchildren and great grandchild their loving grandfather, and to his wife Anne, a wonderful husband.”
Photo: Facebook/Michael Douglas
He further went on to state: “Kirk’s life was well lived, and he leaves a legacy in film that will endure for generations to come, and a history as a renowned philanthropist who worked to aid the public and bring peace to the planet. Let me end with the words I told him on his last birthday and which will always remain true. Dad- I love you so much and I am so proud to be your son.”
Photo: Facebook/Michael Douglas
Kirk Douglas won a scholarship to the Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York after attending St. Lawrence University on a wrestling scholarship. He made his Broadway debut in 1941 and served in World War II in the U.S. Navy. Following that, he went on to Hollywood at actress Lauren Bacall’s recommendation. After a handful of roles in relatively obscure films, the movie “Champion” saw him cast as a boxer who was ruthless in nature. This turned out to be his ticket to stardom as well as an Oscar nomination. And, as they say, the rest is history. Although many roles have been played by a variety of actors similar to those in which Douglas shone, his skill and depth were unsurpassed.
