10 Toughest Actors in Hollywood History, here goes my vote..

Summary

This video script delves into the lives of ten Hollywood legends renowned for their toughness and bravery, both on and off screen. From Audie Murphy, the most decorated American soldier of World War II, to Sir Christopher Lee, a war hero and prolific actor, each story highlights their extraordinary courage, resilience, and contributions to film and beyond. The script paints a vivid picture of these actors as not only cinematic icons but also as real-life heroes whose valor and determination continue to inspire.

Takeaways

• 📘 Peter Julian Ortiz was a multilingual Hollywood technical advisor and war hero, earning numerous military honors across multiple countries.
• 🎬 Sterling Hayden was a sailor at heart, who took on acting roles occasionally and was a decorated war veteran known for his bravery in covert missions.
• 💪 William Smith was a man of both physical and intellectual prowess, known for his strength feats, academic achievements, and service in the Korean War.
• 🎭 Kirk Douglas overcame a difficult childhood to become a versatile actor and a philanthropist, also surviving significant life-threatening events.
• 🔫 James Dewan, known for his role in Star Trek, was a WWII hero who demonstrated exceptional courage and resilience, both on and off the battlefield.
• 🏆 Charles Bronson's early life of hardship and his military service during WWII contributed to his on-screen tough-guy persona and his acting career.
• 🌟 James Stewart was a celebrated actor who also served as a USAF Reserve Brigadier General, showing bravery and dedication in both his military and acting careers.
• 🗡️ Sessue Hayakawa was a Japanese actor who defied stereotypes and became a Hollywood heartthrob, influencing future Asian actors with his success.
• 🦸‍♂️ Sir Christopher Lee was a highly decorated WWII veteran and a multilingual actor, known for his roles in numerous films and his real-life heroism.
• ⭐ Audie Murphy was the most decorated American combat soldier of WWII and transitioned to a Hollywood career, known for his extraordinary acts of bravery.

Q & A

What significant achievement did Peter Julian Ortiz accomplish at the age of 19?

At the age of 19, Peter Julian Ortiz joined the French Foreign Legion, serving for five years in North Africa and earning promotions and accolades including the quad duguerre and the Medallia military.

How did Sterling Hayden's life at sea influence his perspective on acting?

Sterling Hayden had a lifelong passion for the sea and considered himself a sailor at heart. He occasionally took acting roles when in need of money, but he consistently expressed disdain for acting, stating that he engaged in the profession only to finance his beloved ships and voyages.

What physical feat did William Smith achieve that showcased his incredible strength?

William Smith set the record for reverse curling his own body weight of 163 pounds, showcasing his incredible strength.

What military honor did Audie Murphy receive for his actions during the Kolbar Pocket battle in France?

Audie Murphy received the Medal of Honor for single-handedly holding off a company of German soldiers for an entire hour during the Kolbar Pocket battle in France, despite being wounded and running out of ammunition.

What was the significant role of Kirk Douglas in breaking the Hollywood Blacklist?

Kirk Douglas played a significant role in breaking the Hollywood Blacklist by prominently crediting the blacklisted screenwriter Dalton Trumbo under his real name in the film 'Spartacus', which he produced through his company Berna Productions.

How did James Stewart's military service during World War II differ from his service in the Vietnam War?

During World War II, James Stewart served as a pilot officer in the RAF and later as an intelligence officer, participating in combat missions. In the Vietnam War, he continued his military service, achieving the rank of a USAF Reserve Brigadier General.

What unique skill did Audie Murphy develop during his impoverished childhood that later served him well in the war?

Audie Murphy developed skills in stealth and tracking during his impoverished childhood, which he used to hunt rabbits and provide for his family. These self-taught skills later became invaluable as a sniper in the war.

What significant contribution did Sessue Hayakawa make to the representation of Asian actors in Hollywood?

Sessue Hayakawa defied stereotypes and portrayed a wide range of characters, becoming the Asian equivalent of Rudolph Valentino. His success reshaped Hollywood and paved the way for future Asian actors like Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan.

What was the remarkable military achievement of Sir Christopher Lee during World War II?

Sir Christopher Lee served as a pilot officer in the RAF and an intelligence officer during World War II. He operated behind enemy lines in North Africa, attached to both Popski's Private Army and the SAS, and also fought alongside the Gertruda Regiment during the battle of Oakmont Casino.

What was the outcome of the friendly fire incident involving James Doohan during World War II?

James Doohan was struck six times by friendly fire, with four bullets hitting his left leg, one piercing his chest, and another causing the middle finger of his right hand to explode. Despite his injuries, he managed to walk back to camp and later recovered, maintaining his sense of humor and dedication throughout his acting career.

What is the significance of the story about Audie Murphy shooting the pods off Aqua plants?

The story highlights Audie Murphy's exceptional shooting abilities and quick draw with a .45 caliber gun, showcasing his marksmanship skills that were also put to use during his military service.