Pandora Writer |
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James Stewart, often known as "Jimmy Stewart," was an American actor whose career spanned over five decades. Born on May 20, 1908, in Indiana, Pennsylvania, he became one of the most beloved and respected figures in Hollywood.
James Maitland Stewart was the son of Alexander Stewart, a hardware store owner, and Elizabeth Ruth, a homemaker and pianist. He had two sisters, Virginia and Mary.
Growing up in a close-knit family alongside his siblings, Stewart's childhood was marked by an affinity for music and a passion for aviation. His interest in acting developed during his time at Princeton University, where he participated in various stage productions as a musician and actor with the University Players.
After graduating from Princeton University with a Bachelor of Science degree in architecture, and during the Great Depression, Stewart anticipated a scarcity of job opportunities. He devoted the following summer to preparing a Broadway show with the Falmouth Players. As the production made its way to New York, he eagerly followed.
Immersed in the vibrant Broadway scene, he continued his journey with minor roles, progressed to more substantial parts, and eventually landed leading roles, catching the attention of Hollywood. Stewart signed a contract with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) and made his film debut in "The Murder Man" in 1935.
Although his early roles were often small and went unnoticed, it was his collaboration with director Frank Capra that marked the beginning of his rise to stardom. "You Can't Take It With You" in 1938 and "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" in 1939 showcased Stewart's ability to portray serious, relatable characters. The latter film earned him his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor, establishing him as a leading man with depth and sincerity.
Stewart's career was interrupted by the outbreak of World War II. He enlisted in the United States Army Air Corps in 1941, putting his acting career on hold. Upon departing for the war, he received a letter from his father, a keepsake that remained in his pocket throughout the entire duration of the war. Stewart was recognized for his patriotism and service to his country. Rising to the rank of colonel, he flew numerous combat missions, earning several honors for his bravery, including the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Croix de Guerre.
Following the war, Stewart's career soared as he collaborated with legendary directors such as Alfred Hitchcock, and he continued working with Frank Capra. The project "It's a Wonderful Life" in 1946 became a classic despite its initial lukewarm reception. Stewart's portrayal of George Bailey, a man contemplating suicide on Christmas Eve, is considered one of his most enduring performances.
Stewart's performances in films like "The Philadelphia Story" in 1940, alongside Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant, and "Harvey" in 1950, where he played a man with an imaginary 6-foot rabbit friend, showcased his comedic prowess. Stewart won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in "The Philadelphia Story."
Stewart's military service during World War II had a profound impact on him as an individual. The psychological toll of war lingered long after his return.
Despite the challenges, Stewart's career flourished. He seamlessly transitioned from the idealistic Jefferson Smith in "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" to the gritty, conflicted protagonist in "Vertigo" in 1958, directed by Alfred Hitchcock. "Vertigo" showcased Stewart's ability to delve into darker, complex characters, earning him critical acclaim.
Stewart starred in three other Hitchcock classics: "Rope" in 1948, "Rear Window" in 1954, and "The Man Who Knew Too Much" in 1956.
In "Rear Window," Stewart played a wheelchair-bound photographer who becomes convinced he has witnessed a murder. Hitchcock and Stewart's collaborations are often regarded as some of the finest examples of the suspense genre in Hollywood history.
As the 1960s unfolded, Stewart's career continued to evolve. He starred in the western "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance" in 1962 alongside John Wayne. As the industry underwent changes, Stewart's prominence in leading roles began to wane.
Stewart starred in the popular series "The Jimmy Stewart Show" from 1971-1972, which ran for two seasons.
Among all the movies he has created, he said that "It's a Wonderful Life" was his favorite.
He received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 1708 Vine St. on February 8, 1960.
In 1985, President Ronald Reagan presented him with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the United States.
Despite a gradual decrease in film appearances in the latter part of his career, Stewart remained active in the industry. In the family film "An American Tail: Fievel Goes West" in 1991, he lent his voice to the character Wylie Burp.
In the 1980s, he stood out as a leading opponent of the colorization of vintage films, going so far as to testify before a Congressional committee about what he termed the "denaturing" of "It's a Wonderful Life" in 1946.
In 1999, the American Film Institute ranked him as the third greatest male star of all time.
In contrast to the often tumultuous personal lives of many Hollywood stars, Stewart maintained a stable and private existence. In 1949, he married former model Gloria Hatrick McLean. They had twin daughters, Judy and Kelly. His wife also brought two sons to the marriage: Ronald and Michael, whom he adopted. Tragically, McLean passed away in 1994, and Stewart mourned her deeply.
Following the passing of his cherished wife of forty-five years, he made the decision to retire permanently from public life and spent most of his time at home.
James Stewart passed away on July 2, 1997. He died from a pulmonary embolism at the age of 89 at his home in Beverly Hills, California. "I'm going to be with Gloria now," were Jimmy Stewart's last words to his family in 1997, alluding to his wife, Gloria, who had passed away three years prior. He is interred at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale, California.
“It may sound corny, but what's wrong with wanting to fight for your country. Why are people reluctant to use the word patriotism?” ― Jimmy Stewart
