Harry Dean Stanton
Harry Dean Stanton
#### Full Name and Common Aliases
Harry Dean Stanton was born Harold Dean Epps on July 14, 1926, in Irvine, Kentucky, USA. He is commonly known as Harry Dean Stanton.
#### Birth and Death Dates
July 14, 1926 – September 15, 2017
#### Nationality and Profession(s)
American actor, singer, musician, and writer
#### Early Life and Background
Growing up in a poor farming family in Kentucky, Stanton developed an interest in music at an early age. He began singing on the radio as a teenager and later served in the US Army Air Forces during World War II. After the war, he attended Los Angeles City College, where he studied drama and began to pursue an acting career.
#### Major Accomplishments
Stanton's breakthrough role came in 1971 with Paris, Texas, directed by Wim Wenders. His portrayal of Travis Henderson earned him numerous awards and nominations, including the Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival. Throughout his long career, Stanton appeared in over 60 films and television shows, collaborating with notable directors such as Martin Scorsese, Terrence Malick, and David Lynch.
#### Notable Works or Actions
Some of Stanton's most notable roles include:
Paris, Texas (1974)
Repo Man (1984)
Cool Hand Luke (1967)
The Godfather: Part II (1974)
* Alien (1979)
In addition to his acting career, Stanton was also a talented musician. He released several albums and appeared in various music films.
#### Impact and Legacy
Harry Dean Stanton's impact on the film industry is undeniable. His unique voice and enigmatic presence captivated audiences worldwide. Stanton's collaborations with independent filmmakers helped shape the landscape of American cinema in the 1970s and 1980s. His legacy extends beyond his screen appearances, as he inspired a new generation of actors, musicians, and artists.
#### Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Harry Dean Stanton is widely quoted and remembered for his distinctive voice, enigmatic presence, and contributions to American cinema. His collaborations with influential directors and iconic roles in groundbreaking films have cemented his place as an actor's actor.
Quotes by Harry Dean Stanton
I had to decide if I wanted to be a singer or an actor. I was always singing. I thought if I could be an actor, I could do all of it.
I know I've got the ability to bring a sense of menace to the screen. I have that specific competence, and it's generally kept me working.
It's just so frustrating when you're in a supporting role because you only get to express a part of yourself.
Study up on the Eastern religions. They're the only ones that are realistic. There's no answer, see.
Fame in itself is, you know... It involves a whole discussion on just that word, 'fame.' It's a power; it's another degree of power, to be famous. I think it's obvious: you have more influence the more well-known you are. And, hopefully, it's righteously used.
I sang barber shop harmony and sort of got into performing. And it just came naturally. Then, when I was in college after the war, I did a play, 'Pygmalion,' by George Bernard Shaw. And from then on, I knew that's what I wanted to do.