Tony Curtis, born Bernard Schwartz, was an American actor and later painter whose career spanned more than six decades. Rising to prominence during Hollywood’s Golden Age, he became widely recognized for his charm, comedic timing, and dramatic range. From historical epics to classic comedies, Tony Curtis worked alongside many of the era’s biggest stars and left a lasting mark on American cinema.

Early Life and Background

Tony Curtis was born on June 3, 1925, in New York City to Helen Schwartz and Emanuel Schwartz, Hungarian Jewish immigrants. His father had been an actor in Budapest before emigrating to the United States, where he supported the family as a tailor.

Growing up in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, Curtis attended Seward Park High School. Among his classmates was future actor Walter Matthau, who would also go on to achieve Hollywood success.

Military Service and Entry into Film

In 1943, Tony Curtis enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He served aboard the submarine tender USS Proteus. After the war, he studied drama and soon attracted the attention of Universal Pictures.

Like many actors of the era, he adopted a stage name—transforming Bernard Schwartz into Tony Curtis—and moved to California to pursue his film career.

Rise to Stardom

His film debut came in 1949 with Criss Cross. He quickly followed with roles in City Across the River, Francis the Talking Mule, Flesh and Fury, and No Room for the Groom.

In 1953, he starred opposite Janet Leigh in Houdini, portraying the legendary magician Harry Houdini. His growing fame continued with Trapeze (1956), where he shared the screen with Burt Lancaster and Gina Lollobrigida in a drama centered on circus life.

One of his most iconic roles came in 1959 with Some Like It Hot, directed by Billy Wilder. Starring alongside Marilyn Monroe and Jack Lemmon, Curtis delivered one of cinema’s most beloved comedic performances. The film remains one of Hollywood’s most celebrated comedies.

In 1960, he appeared in Spartacus, directed by Stanley Kubrick and starring Kırk Douglas, portraying the character Antoninus.

Dramatic Range and Later Career

In 1968, Tony Curtis took on a darker role in The Boston Strangler, portraying serial killer Albert DeSalvo. The performance demonstrated his dramatic capabilities beyond romantic and comedic roles.

Over the decades, he appeared in numerous films across genres. His final screen appearance came in 2008 with David & Fatima.

Personal Life and Relationships

Tony Curtis was known for his high-profile relationships and multiple marriages. His first marriage was to actress Janet Leigh (1951–1962). The couple had two daughters, Kelly Curtis and actress Jamie Lee Curtis.

He later married Austrian actress Christine Kaufmann (1963–1967), with whom he had two daughters, Alexandra and Allegra. Subsequent marriages included model Leslie Allen (1968–1982), actress Andrea Savio (1984–1992), attorney Lisa Deutsch (1993–1994), and finally Jill Vandenberg, to whom he was married until his death.

Curtis publicly spoke about a romantic relationship with Marilyn Monroe during the filming of Some Like It Hot, further fueling media fascination with his personal life.

Painting and Artistic Pursuits

Beyond acting, Tony Curtis developed a serious interest in painting. Over time, visual art became a second career. His works were exhibited internationally and sold for substantial sums in galleries, demonstrating a sustained creative drive beyond film.

Death

Tony Curtis died on September 29, 2010, at the age of 85. His legacy remains tied to some of the most enduring films of mid-20th-century Hollywood, and his contributions to both cinema and visual art continue to be recognized.

Source: Biyografiler.com