Raúl Juliá

Raúl Juliá

Born:March 9, 1940

Place of Birth:San Juan, Puerto Rico

Died:October 24, 1994

Known For:Acting

Biography

Raúl Rafael Juliá y Arcelay, a legendary Puerto Rican actor, captivated audiences with his charisma and talent. Born in San Juan on March 9, 1940, Juliá's passion for acting blossomed during his formative years. His journey into the world of entertainment began when he decided to pursue a career in acting after completing his studies, a decision that would shape his remarkable legacy.

Embracing his bilingual abilities from a young age, Juliá's talents shone on both stage and screen. His move to New York City, encouraged by the esteemed Orson Bean, marked the beginning of a flourishing career in Broadway and "Off Broadway" plays. Notably, his performances with the Puerto Rican Traveling Theatre showcased his versatility and magnetism, setting the stage for his future success.

Joseph Papp's recognition of Juliá's immense talent led to pivotal opportunities with the New York Shakespeare Festival, propelling him into the spotlight. From his early roles in television series like Love of Life and Sesame Street to his Tony Award-nominated performance in Two Gentlemen of Verona, Juliá's star continued to rise, garnering critical acclaim and accolades along the way.

Throughout the 1980s, Juliá's presence graced the silver screen, earning him prestigious nominations for the Golden Globe Awards for his unforgettable portrayals in films such as Tempest and Kiss of the Spider Woman. His magnetic performances resonated with audiences, showcasing his range and depth as an actor, culminating in a well-deserved National Board of Review Award for Best Actor.

In a career-defining moment, Juliá immortalized the iconic character "Gomez Addams" in the beloved film adaptations of The Addams Family in 1991 and 1993, leaving an indelible mark on pop culture. His versatility was further showcased in projects like The Burning Season and the film adaptation of Street Fighter, highlighting his unparalleled talent and dedication to his craft.

Tragically, in 1994, Juliá faced health challenges that ultimately led to his untimely passing after suffering a stroke. His legacy, however, endures through his groundbreaking work, inspiring generations of actors and fans alike. The outpouring of love and respect at his funeral in Puerto Rico attested to the profound impact he had on the world of entertainment.

In a poignant tribute, Juliá posthumously received a Golden Globe and an Emmy Award for his exceptional performance in The Burning Season, a testament to his enduring talent and the lasting impression he left on the industry. Raúl Juliá's legacy as a consummate actor and beloved cultural icon continues to resonate, ensuring that his contributions to film and theater will be cherished for years to come.

Images

Raúl Juliá
Raúl Juliá
Raúl Juliá

Filmography

Acting

The Addams Family

The Addams Family

Gomez Addams

1991

When a man claiming to be long-lost Uncle Fester reappears after 25 years lost, the family plans a celebration to wake the dead. But the kids barely have time to warm up the electric chair before Morticia begins to suspect Fester is fraud when he can't recall any of the details of Fester's life.
Addams Family Values

Addams Family Values

Gomez Addams

1993

Siblings Wednesday and Pugsley Addams will stop at nothing to get rid of Pubert, the new baby boy adored by parents Gomez and Morticia. Things go from bad to worse when the new "black widow" nanny, Debbie Jellinsky, launches her plan to add Fester to her collection of dead husbands.
Presumed Innocent

Presumed Innocent

Sandy Stern

1990

Rusty Sabich is a deputy prosecutor engaged in an obsessive affair with a coworker who is murdered. Soon after, he's accused of the crime. And his fight to clear his name becomes a whirlpool of lies and hidden passions.
The Rookie

The Rookie

Strom

1990

Veteran cop Nick Pulovski is used to playing musical partners; many of the partners he's had in the past have died on the job, and often as a result of Nick's risky tactics. But the rookie who's been assigned to help Nick bust a carjacking ring is almost as hotheaded as he is … and when Nick gets kidnapped, his newbie partner is his only hope.
The Panic in Needle Park

The Panic in Needle Park

Marco

1971

A stark portrayal of life among a group of heroin addicts who hang out in Needle Park in New York City. Played against this setting is a low-key love story between Bobby, a young addict and small-time hustler, and Helen, a homeless girl who finds in her relationship with Bobby the stability she craves.
Tequila Sunrise

Tequila Sunrise

Commandante Xavier Escalante

1988

In a seaside California town, best friends Mac and Nick are on opposite sides of the law. Mac is a former drug dealer trying to clean up his act, while Nick is a high-profile detective trying to take down a Mexican drug lord named Carlos. Soon Nick's loyalties are put to the test when he begins an affair with restaurateur Jo Ann -- a love interest of Mac's -- unwittingly leading his friend into a police-orchestrated trap.
Disclosure

Disclosure

Valentin Arregui (archive footage)

2020

An investigation of how Hollywood's fabled stories have deeply influenced how Americans feel about transgender people, and how transgender people have been taught to feel about themselves.
Eyes of Laura Mars

Eyes of Laura Mars

Michael Reisler

1978

A famous fashion photographer develops a disturbing ability to see through the eyes of a serial killer.
One from the Heart

One from the Heart

Ray

1981

The five-year romance of a window dresser and her boyfriend breaks up, as each of them finds a more interesting partner.
Kiss of the Spider Woman

Kiss of the Spider Woman

Valentin Arregui

1985

The story of two radically different men thrown together in a Latin American prison cell. One is Valentin, a journalist being tortured for his political beliefs. The other is Molina, a gay window-dresser who fills their lonely nights by spinning romantic fantasies drawn from memories of old movies.

Production