James Cagney

Born:July 17, 1899

Place of Birth:New York City, New York, USA

Died:March 30, 1986

Known For:Acting

Biography

James Cagney, born on July 17, 1899, was an iconic American film actor known for his dynamic performances that often portrayed tough characters. Despite his versatility in a range of roles, he became synonymous with playing "tough guys" on screen. His impact on the film industry was so significant that in 1999, the American Film Institute ranked him as the eighth Greatest Male Star of All Time.

Cagney's journey into the world of entertainment began in vaudeville, where he honed his skills as a hoofer and comedian. His breakthrough came in 1925 when he landed his first major acting role, setting the stage for a remarkable career. One of his most memorable performances was in the 1929 play "Penny Arcade," which garnered him critical acclaim and caught the attention of Warner Bros. Studios. This led to a seven-year contract with Warners, solidifying Cagney's status as a rising star in Hollywood.

One of Cagney's most iconic roles was in the 1931 film "The Public Enemy," where he delivered a standout performance that propelled him to stardom. The infamous grapefruit scene from the movie remains etched in cinematic history as a defining moment in Cagney's career. His talent and charisma on screen continued to captivate audiences, earning him his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor in 1938 for "Angels with Dirty Faces."

In 1942, Cagney clinched the coveted Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of George M. Cohan in "Yankee Doodle Dandy," showcasing his remarkable range as an actor. Throughout his career, Cagney demonstrated a fierce independence, often standing up to studios and fighting for better terms and conditions. His resilience and determination earned him the nickname "The Professional Againster," a testament to his unwavering commitment to his craft.

Beyond his acting prowess, Cagney also devoted himself to supporting the troops during World War II, undertaking morale-boosting tours and serving as President of the Screen Actors Guild for two years. His dedication to his country and his craft endeared him to audiences and solidified his legacy as a Hollywood legend. Even after a 20-year hiatus from acting, Cagney made a triumphant return in the film "Ragtime," showcasing his enduring talent and resilience in the face of adversity.

James Cagney's impact on the film industry transcends generations, leaving an indelible mark on cinema history. His legacy as a versatile actor, a trailblazer, and a true professional continues to inspire aspiring actors and film enthusiasts worldwide.

Images

Filmography

Acting

White Heat

Arthur 'Cody' Jarrett

1949

A psychopathic criminal with a mother complex makes a daring break from prison and then leads his old gang in a chemical plant payroll heist. After the heist, events take a crazy turn.

Ragtime

New York Police Commissioner Rhinelander Waldo

1981

A young black pianist becomes embroiled in the lives of an upper-class white family set among the racial tensions, infidelity, violence, and other nostalgic events in early 1900s New York City.

One, Two, Three

C.R. MacNamara

1961

C.R. MacNamara is a managing director for Coca Cola in West Berlin during the Cold War, just before the Wall is put up. When Scarlett, the rebellious daughter of his boss, comes to West Berlin, MacNamara has to look after her, but this turns out to be a difficult task when she reveals to be married to a communist.

Dead Men Don't Wear Plaid

(in "White Heat") (archive footage)

1982

Juliet Forrest is convinced that the reported death of her father in a mountain car crash was no accident. Her father was a prominent cheese scientist working on a secret recipe. To prove it was murder, she enlists the services of private eye Rigby Reardon. He finds a slip of paper containing a list of people who are 'The Friends and Enemies of Carlotta'.

Mutiny on the Bounty

(uncredited)

1935

Fletcher Christian successfully leads a revolt against the ruthless Captain Bligh on the HMS Bounty. However, Bligh returns one year later, hell bent on revenge.

The Public Enemy

Tom Powers

1931

Two young Chicago hoodlums, Tom Powers and Matt Doyle, rise up from their poverty-stricken slum life to become petty thieves, bootleggers and cold-blooded killers. But with street notoriety and newfound wealth, the duo feels the heat from the cops and rival gangsters both. Despite his ruthless criminal reputation, Tom tries to remain connected to his family, however, gang warfare and the need for revenge eventually pull him away.

Los Angeles Plays Itself

Tom Powers in The Public Enemy (archive footage)

2004

From its distinctive neighborhoods to its architectural homes, Los Angeles has been the backdrop to countless movies. In this dazzling work, Andersen takes viewers on a whirlwind tour through the metropolis' real and cinematic history, investigating the myriad stories and legends that have come to define it, and meticulously, judiciously revealing the real city that lives beneath.