David Carradine

Born:December 8, 1936

Place of Birth:Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, USA

Died:June 3, 2009

Known For:Acting

Biography

David Carradine, born John Arthur Carradine Jr., was a versatile American actor who left a lasting impact on the film industry. While he is most recognized for his iconic roles in martial arts films and television series, such as the legendary Kwai Chang Caine in "Kung Fu" and the enigmatic titular character in "Kill Bill," Carradine's career spanned a wide range of genres and styles.

Hailing from the esteemed Carradine acting dynasty, David Carradine followed in the footsteps of his father, John Carradine, to carve out his own path in Hollywood. With over six decades in the industry, Carradine appeared in more than 100 feature films, showcasing his talent and versatility as an actor. His performances garnered critical acclaim, earning him nominations for prestigious awards such as the Golden Globe and Emmy.

Beyond his acting prowess, Carradine was a multifaceted artist, delving into directing and music alongside his acting career. His passion for martial arts, ignited by his role in "Kung Fu," led him to study various disciplines, further enriching his performances on screen. In recognition of his contributions to the entertainment industry, Carradine was honored with a star on the renowned Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1997.

Despite his professional successes, Carradine faced personal struggles throughout his life, grappling with substance abuse and encountering legal troubles. His turbulent journey off-screen added layers to his complex persona, reflecting the highs and lows of a life lived in the spotlight. Even after his untimely passing in 2009, Carradine's legacy endured through the release of posthumous projects that showcased his enduring talent and cinematic legacy.

From action-packed thrillers to poignant dramas, Carradine's filmography spanned a diverse array of genres, captivating audiences with his magnetic presence and undeniable charisma. His collaborations with acclaimed filmmakers like Martin Scorsese and Quentin Tarantino underscored his ability to bring depth and authenticity to each character he portrayed, leaving an indelible mark on cinema history.

David Carradine's contributions to the entertainment world transcended the silver screen, resonating with fans and fellow artists alike. His enigmatic portrayal of complex characters and dedication to his craft set him apart as a true luminary in the realm of acting. As we reflect on his enduring legacy, we remember David Carradine not only as a talented performer but also as a trailblazer who pushed boundaries and redefined the art of storytelling through his work.

Images

David Carradine
David Carradine
David Carradine
David Carradine
David Carradine

Filmography

Acting

icon
icon

Kill Bill: Vol. 2

Bill 'Snake Charmer'

2004

icon
icon

Death Race

Frankenstein (voice)

2008

icon
icon

Crank: High Voltage

Poon Dong

2009

icon
icon

Big Stan

The Master

2007

icon
icon

Epic Movie

Museum Curator

2007

icon
icon

Kill Bill: The Whole Bloody Affair

Bill (Snake Charmer)

2011

icon
icon

Mean Streets

Drunk

1973

icon
icon

Lone Wolf McQuade

Rawley Wilkes

1983

icon
icon

Bird on a Wire

Eugene Sorensen

1990

icon
icon

The Long Goodbye

Dave aka Socrates (uncredited)

1973

icon
icon

Death Race 2000

Frankenstein

1975

icon
icon

Q

Shepard

1982

icon
icon

An American Tail: The Treasure of Manhattan Island

Chief Wulisso (voice)

1998

icon
icon

Hell Ride

The Deuce

2008

icon
icon

Gray Lady Down

Captain Gates

1978

icon
icon

Bound for Glory

Woody Guthrie

1976

icon
icon

My Suicide

Vargas

2009

Production