Paul Newman was born in Shaker Heights, Ohio on January 26, 1925. He was the son of Arthur S. Newman, a grocery store owner, and Theresa F. (née O'Neil) Newman. Paul had two older brothers, Arthur and David, and a younger sister, Joyce. In other words, being an actor would come to him by a miracle or perhaps to be able to earn a living acting... more or less what we have all done in large families. Only Paul took it to the last consequences.
Newman attended Kenyon University where he majored in drama. After graduating from Kenyon in 1949, Newman joined the United States Marine Corps. He served two years in the Marine Corps and was discharged with the rank of Sergeant.
After leaving the Marine Corps, Newman moved to New York to pursue his dream acting career. He studied at the Actors Studio and quickly became a successful actor. His first major film was "The Silver Chalice" (1954). Newman went on to star in many more successful films, including "The Hustler" (1961), "Cool Hand Luke" (1967), "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" (1969), "The Sting" (1973), and "The Verdict” (1982).
Newman was also a successful director. Because once the secrets, tricks and resources are known in front of the cameras, it is usually easier to get behind them. He directed the films "Rachel, Rachel" (1968), "The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds" (1972), and "Absence of Malice" (1981).
Paul Newman was awarded in his two facets, as an actor and as a director. He won three Academy Awards, two Emmy Awards, a Tony Award, and a Grammy Award. He was also nominated for 10 Golden Globe Awards. In his consideration as a Hollywood legend, he is credited with that kind of altruism typical of winners in creative aspects, capable of the greatest empathy. So, if we look at that fame, it can be said that he was a man of great talent and generosity. What is clear is that his film legacy will endure.
Here are his three best films, or at least the ones that combine specialized criticism and popular taste to a greater extent:
- The hustler (1961)
Eddie Felson (Newman) is an arrogant and amoral young man who successfully frequents pool halls. Determined to be proclaimed the best, he seeks out the Fat Man from Minnesota (Gleason), a legendary billiards champion. When she finally manages to face him, his lack of confidence causes her to fail. The love of a lonely woman (Laurie) might help him abandon that kind of life, but Eddie will not rest until he defeats the champion no matter what price he has to pay for it.
- two men and one destiny (1969)
A group of young gunmen is dedicated to robbing the banks of the state of Wyoming and the Union Pacific mail train. The gang boss is the charismatic Butch Cassidy (Newman), and the Sundance Kid (Redford) is his inseparable companion. One day, after a robbery, the group disbands. It will be then when Butch, Sundance and a young teacher from Denver (Ross) form a trio of romantic outlaws who, fleeing from the law, reach Bolivia.
- El golpe (1973)
Chicago, thirties. Johnny Hooker (Redford) and Henry Gondorff (Newman) are two con men who decide to avenge the death of a dear old colleague, murdered on the orders of a powerful gangster named Doyle Lonnegan (Shaw). For this they will hatch an ingenious and complicated plan with the help of all their friends and acquaintances.
Curiosities about Paul Newman
- Newman was a great poker player. He won over $200,000 in poker tournaments during his lifetime.
- Newman was a racing driver. He drove in several sports car races, including the 24 1979 Hours of Le Mans.
- Newman was a philanthropist. He founded the Newman's Own charity, which has raised more than $300 million for charitable causes.
Newman died of lung cancer on September 26, 2008, at the age of 83. He was a great actor, director, and philanthropist who will be remembered for his talent, generosity, and legacy.
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