Ernest Borgnine
back| Full Name | Ermes Effron Borgnino |
| Stage Name | Ernest Borgnine |
| Born | January 24, 1917 |
| Birthplace | Hamden, Connecticut, USA |
| Died | July 8, 2012 |
| Buried | Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Married to | Rhoda Kemins (1949–1958) - Katy Jurado (1959–1963) - Ethel Merman (1964; annulled after 32 days) - Donna Rancourt (1965–1972) - Tova Traesnaes (1973–2012, his death) |
| Children | Nancee Borgnine (daughter) - Sharon Borgnine (daughter) - Diana Borgnine (daughter) - Cris Borgnine (son) |
| Notable films | Marty (1955) - From Here to Eternity (1953) - The Dirty Dozen (1967) - The Wild Bunch (1969) |
Ernest Borgnine
Ernie, Hollywood’s Everyman
Ernest Borgnine (1917–2012) was an acclaimed American actor whose career spanned over six decades. Born in Hamden, Connecticut, to Italian immigrants, he served in the U.S. Navy before pursuing acting. Borgnine’s breakthrough came in From Here to Eternity (1953), but it was his Oscar-winning role as the tender-hearted butcher in Marty (1955) that cemented his fame.
Known for his versatility, he excelled in both comedic and dramatic roles, with highlights including The Dirty Dozen (1967), The Wild Bunch (1969), and McHale’s Navy (TV, 1962–1966). Later in life, he delighted younger audiences as Mermaid Man in SpongeBob SquarePants. Borgnine earned a SAG Lifetime Achievement Award in 2011 and remained beloved for his humility and warmth. He died in 2012 at 95 from kidney failure, leaving a legacy of iconic performances and enduring appeal.
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Ernest Borgnine (1917 – 2012)
Biography and Movie Career
Ernest Borgnine, born Ermes Effron Borgnino on January 24, 1917, in Hamden, Connecticut, was the son of Italian immigrants Anna Boselli and Camillo Borgnino. His mother was a countess by birth, and his father was a worker who sought better opportunities in America. Growing up in a working-class family, young Ernest experienced a modest upbringing. His family briefly returned to Italy during his childhood, but they ultimately settled back in Connecticut.
Borgnine's early life did not hint at his future in Hollywood. Athletic and robust, he graduated from James Hillhouse High School in New Haven, Connecticut, and enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1935, seeking a sense of purpose. He served for ten years, including during World War II, achieving the rank of Gunner’s Mate First Class. After leaving the Navy in 1945, Borgnine found himself at a crossroads.
Path Toward Success
At the urging of his mother, who recognized his vibrant personality and natural charisma, Borgnine pursued acting. He enrolled at the Randall School of Dramatic Art in Hartford, Connecticut, and began honing his craft. He joined the Barter Theatre in Virginia, gaining invaluable stage experience.
In 1951, Borgnine made his film debut with China Corsair. His big break, however, came in 1953 when he played the sadistic Sgt. "Fatso" Judson in From Here to Eternity. This performance showcased his ability to embody intense and villainous characters. Borgnine’s range became even more evident in 1955 when he starred in Marty. His portrayal of a lonely, kind-hearted butcher earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor, cementing his status as a Hollywood leading man.
Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Borgnine became a familiar face in both film and television. His notable films included The Dirty Dozen (1967), The Wild Bunch (1969), Ice Station Zebra (1968), and The Poseidon Adventure (1972). On television, he gained immense popularity as the lovable Lt. Commander Quinton McHale in the sitcom McHale’s Navy (1962–1966).
Personal Life and Marriages
Ernest Borgnine's personal life was as colorful as his career. He married five times:
1. Rhoda Kemins (1949–1958) – The couple had one daughter, Nancee Borgnine, before their divorce.
2. Katy Jurado (1959–1963) – Borgnine's second wife was a prominent Mexican actress, but cultural and personal differences led to their separation.
3. Ethel Merman (1964) – This brief, highly publicized union ended after just 32 days. Borgnine humorously referred to it as "the worst mistake of my life."
4. Donna Rancourt (1965–1972) – Borgnine had three children with Donna: Sharon, Diana, and Cris.
5. Tova Traesnaes (1973–2012) – His final marriage to beauty entrepreneur Tova Traesnaes lasted nearly 40 years, ending with his death.
Borgnine was known for his warm personality and sense of humor, which won him friends across Hollywood and made him a favorite among fans.
Passions and Legacy
Borgnine loved his craft, continuing to act well into his 90s. Beyond acting, he enjoyed driving buses and trucks, appreciating the connection to everyday people. In his later years, he became a beloved voice actor, notably voicing Mermaid Man in SpongeBob SquarePants. He also supported numerous charities and was a member of the Freemasons, emphasizing the value of community and service.
Borgnine’s autobiography, Ernie: The Autobiography, released in 2008, provides an intimate glimpse into his life and career, filled with humor and humility.
Death and Cause of Death
On July 8, 2012, Ernest Borgnine passed away at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, California. He died from kidney failure at the age of 95. His death marked the end of an era, as he was one of the last actors of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Borgnine was buried at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles, leaving behind a legacy of versatility and dedication to his craft.
Legacy
Ernest Borgnine remains celebrated for his ability to connect with audiences, whether playing a villain, a hero, or a comedic figure. His work endures as a testament to his talent, resilience, and love for the art of storytelling.
Ernest Borgnine on The Wild Bunch
Ernest Borgnine Measurements
• Height: 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm)
• Weight: Approximately 200–220 pounds (91–100 kg), depending on the stage of his career
• Build: Stocky and muscular, fitting for his roles as both an intimidating villain and a relatable everyman
• Hair Color: Dark brown (grayed in later years)
• Eye Color: Brown
Key Aspects of Borgnine's Acting Style
A Face That Told a Story
Borgnine's distinctive physical appearance—a broad, expressive face with a toothy grin and rugged features—made him a standout presence on screen. His looks were unconventional for a Hollywood leading man, but he turned this into a strength. His face conveyed a spectrum of emotions, from menacing cruelty to heartwarming kindness, often with minimal dialogue. Whether sneering as the brutal Sgt. "Fatso" Judson in From Here to Eternity or smiling warmly as the lonely butcher Marty in Marty, Borgnine’s expressions were powerful storytelling tools.
Naturalism and Relatability
Borgnine had a unique ability to embody "everyman" characters, making his roles relatable to audiences. His Oscar-winning performance in Marty epitomized this quality. As the shy, soft-spoken butcher yearning for love, he brought a quiet authenticity that resonated deeply with viewers. His performances were unpretentious, rooted in a naturalistic style that avoided exaggerated theatrics, making his characters feel real and grounded.
Command of Physicality
A robust and imposing figure, Borgnine understood how to use his physicality to enhance his performances. In action-packed roles, such as Dutch Engstrom in The Wild Bunch, he projected a raw, muscular energy that matched the gritty tone of the films. Conversely, he could soften his demeanor, using subtle body language to portray vulnerability, as seen in The Catered Affair. His physicality was never static; he adapted it to suit the emotional range of his characters.
Range and Versatility
What set Borgnine apart from many of his contemporaries was his range. He could shift effortlessly between playing warm-hearted, lovable characters and cold, calculating antagonists. For example:
• As Marty Piletti in Marty, he was tender, awkward, and kind—a man searching for connection.
• As Fatso Judson in From Here to Eternity, he was cruel and violent, exuding menace with every move.
• In lighter fare like McHale's Navy, he showed a knack for comedy, balancing his commanding presence with a sense of mischief and charm.
Emotional Accessibility
Borgnine’s performances were deeply empathetic, often exposing the emotional core of his characters. He had a knack for finding humanity even in morally complex roles. This ability allowed him to evoke sympathy for flawed characters or reveal the pain beneath a tough exterior. In Emperor of the North, his role as the brutal Shack, a railroad enforcer, was both fearsome and pitiable—a testament to his skill in blending nuance with larger-than-life personas.
Collaborative Energy
Borgnine was known for his generosity as a scene partner. He often elevated the performances of those around him by giving them space to shine, all while anchoring scenes with his magnetic presence. Directors and co-stars frequently praised his professionalism and enthusiasm for his craft, which translated into memorable ensemble work, as seen in films like The Dirty Dozen and The Poseidon Adventure.
Longevity and Adaptability
Borgnine’s career spanned over six decades, during which he adapted to changing trends in Hollywood. He embraced television, voice acting, and roles in independent films later in life, showcasing his commitment to his craft. His work in SpongeBob SquarePants as Mermaid Man demonstrated his ability to connect with new generations of audiences, using his distinctive voice and humor.
In Summary
Ernest Borgnine’s acting style was a masterclass in versatility and emotional truth. He could intimidate with a scowl, charm with a smile, and break hearts with a tear. His ability to transcend typecasting and infuse his roles with humanity, depth, and authenticity made him a beloved figure in Hollywood and a timeless presence on screen. His performances remain a testament to his talent, humility, and dedication to the art of acting.
Quotes by Ernest Borgnine
On Acting
• "I think my longevity has a lot to do with my respect for the profession. I believe in the power of acting, the joy it can bring, and the stories it can tell."
• "Spencer Tracy once told me, 'Know your lines and don't bump into the furniture.' I've lived by that advice my whole career."
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On His Career
• "I don't care whether the role is big or small. I just love working. When I hear someone say, 'There's no work out there,' I say, 'Get out and find it!'"
• "My career has been filled with ups and downs, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Each role taught me something new about life and about myself."
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On Winning the Oscar for Marty
• "When they called my name, I couldn't believe it. All I could think was, 'They chose me, this guy with a funny name and no leading-man looks.' But Marty was me—a regular guy. And people believed in that."
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On Life
• "I’ve been to all the places I dreamed of as a kid, I’ve met presidents and kings, but at the end of the day, I’m happiest sitting at home, being a regular guy."
• "To me, life is just a chance to live. Make mistakes, love deeply, work hard, and laugh even harder."
• "To me, life is just a chance to live. Make mistakes, love deeply, work hard, and laugh even harder."
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On Relationships
• "It’s not about how many times you fall in love; it’s about how deeply you can love when it happens."
• On his brief marriage to Ethel Merman: "We were married for 32 days... that's about as long as it took me to figure out it wasn’t going to work!"
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On Longevity in Hollywood
• "The secret to a long career? Just show up and love what you do. Audiences can tell when your heart is in it."
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On Retirement
• "Why retire? As long as there’s a camera rolling, I’ll keep acting. It’s not work for me—it’s my life."
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On His Legacy
• "I just want to be remembered as someone who gave his all. Someone who loved to entertain, who made people smile, and who wasn’t afraid to laugh at himself."
What Others said about Ernest Borgnine
• Frank Sinatra (From Here to Eternity co-star):
"Ernie was one of the good ones—tough on screen but a real sweetheart off it. He could make anyone feel at ease."
• Lee Marvin (The Dirty Dozen co-star):
"Borgnine had a way of stealing scenes without even trying. His presence was magnetic, and his laugh could fill a room."
• William Holden (The Wild Bunch co-star):
"Ernie had a humility that was rare in this business. He never thought of himself as better than anyone, and that’s why people loved working with him."
• Robert Aldrich (Director of The Dirty Dozen):
"Borgnine was the heart and soul of many of his films. He brought a unique honesty to every role, whether he was playing a villain or a hero."
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• Sidney Lumet (The Oscar director):
"Ernest Borgnine could do it all. Comedy, drama, action—you name it. He was a director's dream because he always brought something unexpected to the table."
• Nickelodeon producers (on his role as Mermaid Man in SpongeBob SquarePants):
"Even as he aged, Ernie never lost his sense of fun. His enthusiasm for voicing Mermaid Man was contagious, and the kids loved him as much as the adults."
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Ernest Borgnine House
Ernest Borgnine lived in a modest yet comfortable home in Beverly Hills, California, for much of his later life. His house reflected his down-to-earth personality, prioritizing warmth and function over ostentatious displays of wealth often associated with Hollywood celebrities. Here's what is known about his home and lifestyle:
Location
• The house was situated in Beverly Hills, a prestigious area known for its celebrity residents. Despite the exclusivity of the neighborhood, Borgnine's residence was not among the palatial estates typically associated with Hollywood's elite.
Design and Style
• Borgnine's home was described as welcoming and unpretentious, much like the man himself. It had a classic mid-century design with a focus on comfort.
• The interior reportedly included memorabilia from his extensive acting career, such as awards, photos, and keepsakes from his travels and work.
• His office or study was a particular highlight, serving as a testament to his long and accomplished career.
Lifestyle at Home
• Borgnine enjoyed a quiet and simple life at home, often spending time with his fifth wife, Tova Traesnaes, a successful entrepreneur. They entertained friends and family in a laid-back and inviting atmosphere.
• He was known to enjoy gardening and spending time outdoors, and his home likely had a well-maintained yard or garden area.
• After his passing in 2012, Borgnine’s home, like much of his life, became a symbol of his humility and focus on family, career, and the joys of everyday living, rather than the extravagance of Hollywood.
• SAG Lifetime Achievement Award (2011):
The citation read: "Ernest Borgnine’s six-decade-long career is a testament to the power of dedication and resilience. He continues to inspire actors of all generations with his love of the craft and his unmatched versatility."
• Bruce Dern (actor):
"Ernie was one of those guys you just looked up to. He had this old-school work ethic—show up, do your best, and never complain."
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• Tova Borgnine (his wife):
"Ernie was my best friend, my rock, and my joy. He loved life and made everyone around him feel special. He wasn’t just an actor—he was a man of deep character."
• Anne Francis (actress):
"Ernie always had time for everyone. He was a star, but he never acted like it. He treated the crew with the same respect as the director."
• Tom Hanks (actor):
"Borgnine was a legend in every sense of the word. His performance in Marty is one of the finest pieces of acting in cinema history. He showed us all what true vulnerability looks like."
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Awards and Recognition
Ernest Borgnine received numerous awards and recognitions over his long and illustrious career, highlighting his versatility and impact as an actor.
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Academy Awards
• 1956: Best Actor in a Leading Role for Marty
Borgnine’s portrayal of the kind-hearted butcher Marty Piletti earned him the prestigious Academy Award. His performance was widely praised for its emotional depth and relatability, breaking the mold of traditional Hollywood leading men.
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Golden Globe Awards
• 1956: Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama for Marty
This win further solidified Borgnine's status as a dramatic heavyweight, recognizing his ability to bring humanity to his roles.
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Primetime Emmy Awards
• 1999: Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series nomination for ER
His guest role in ER as a widower struggling with the loss of his wife showcased his emotional range, earning him critical acclaim and a nomination.
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Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards
• 2011: Lifetime Achievement Award
Borgnine was honored by the SAG for his career-long contributions to film and television. This award celebrated his six-decade-long body of work and his influence on generations of actors.
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BAFTA Awards
• 1956: Nomination for Best Foreign Actor for Marty
While he did not win, the nomination highlighted the international acclaim for his performance.
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Golden Boot Awards
• 1984: Golden Boot Award
Borgnine was recognized for his contributions to the Western genre, a testament to his iconic roles in films like The Wild Bunch and Vera Cruz.
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Venice Film Festival
• 1955: Best Actor for Marty
His performance in Marty also garnered international acclaim, earning him this prestigious award from one of the world's most significant film festivals.
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National Board of Review
• 1955: Best Actor for Marty
Borgnine was celebrated by the National Board of Review for his nuanced and groundbreaking performance.
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Hollywood Walk of Fame
• 1960: Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
Located at 6324 Hollywood Boulevard, his star commemorates his outstanding contributions to the entertainment industry.
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Other Honors and Recognitions
• American Academy of Dramatic Arts:
Honored as a notable alumnus for his outstanding achievements in acting.
• Laurel Awards:
Borgnine was a frequent recipient of top-ten rankings in the annual Laurel Awards during the 1950s and 1960s, recognizing his popularity with audiences.
• Veterans Recognition:
Borgnine was celebrated for his military service and his contributions to films depicting military life, receiving numerous honorary awards from veterans’ organizations.
• Lifetime Achievement Awards from Film Festivals:
He received several honors from smaller film festivals celebrating his lifetime contributions to cinema.
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Posthumous Recognition
• US Navy Memorial Foundation:
Borgnine, a Navy veteran, was posthumously honored for his service and his continued support of veterans throughout his life.
• Legacy Tributes:
Following his death, many film institutions and organizations paid tribute to Borgnine’s legacy, underscoring his impact on the film and television industry.
Movies featuring Ernest Borgnine
1951
• China Corsair: Borgnine plays Hu Chang in this adventure film involving smuggling and high-seas intrigue.
• The Whistle at Eaton Falls: Portraying Bill Street, Borgnine is part of a drama about labor disputes in a small-town factory.
• The Mob: As Joe Castro, he contributes to this crime thriller about an undercover cop infiltrating organized crime.
1953
• Treasure of the Golden Condor: Borgnine has a minor role in this adventure film about a man's quest for his rightful inheritance.
• The Stranger Wore a Gun: He plays Bull Slager in this Western centered on a former spy seeking redemption.
• From Here to Eternity: In a standout role as Staff Sergeant James R. "Fatso" Judson, Borgnine portrays a brutal stockade sergeant in this World War II drama.
1954
• Johnny Guitar: Borgnine is Bart Lonergan in this Western about a saloon owner facing opposition from the local community.
• Demetrius and the Gladiators: He plays Strabo in this biblical epic sequel focusing on the struggles of early Christians.
• The Bounty Hunter: As Bill Rachin, Borgnine is part of a Western about a bounty hunter tracking down outlaws.
• Vera Cruz: He portrays Donnegan in this Western adventure involving mercenaries during the Mexican Revolution.
1955
• Bad Day at Black Rock: Borgnine plays Coley Trimble in this suspenseful drama about a stranger uncovering secrets in a small town.
• Violent Saturday: As Stadt, an Amish farmer, he becomes entangled in a bank robbery in this crime drama.
• Marty: In the titular role of Marty Piletti, a kind-hearted butcher, Borgnine delivers an Academy Award-winning performance in this romantic drama.
• Run for Cover: He plays Morgan in this Western about mistaken identity and redemption.
• The Square Jungle: As Bernie Browne, Borgnine is part of a sports drama focusing on the world of boxing.
1956
• Jubal: Borgnine portrays Shep Horgan, a ranch owner whose new hire becomes entangled in romantic and violent conflicts.
• The Catered Affair: As Tom Hurley, he plays a working-class father dealing with his daughter's impending wedding.
• The Best Things in Life Are Free: Borgnine takes on the role of Lew Brown in this musical biopic about a songwriting trio.
• Three Brave Men: He plays Bernard F. "Bernie" Goldsmith in this legal drama based on a true story of wrongful accusation.
1958
• The Vikings: As Ragnar, Borgnine is a fierce Viking chieftain in this historical epic.
• The Badlanders: He portrays John "Mac" McBain in this Western about two men seeking revenge and fortune.
• Torpedo Run: Borgnine plays Lt. Commander Archer "Archie" Sloan in this World War II submarine warfare film.
1959
• The Rabbit Trap: As Eddie Colt, he stars in this drama about a man torn between work obligations and family.
• Summer of the Seventeenth Doll: Borgnine plays Roo Webber in this Australian drama about aging sugarcane cutters facing life changes.
1960
• Man on a String: He portrays Boris Mitrov in this Cold War spy thriller based on a true story.
• Pay or Die: Borgnine plays Police Lieutenant Joseph Petrosino in this crime drama about fighting the Mafia in early 20th-century New York.
1961
• Go Naked in the World: As Pete Stratton, he is a wealthy construction magnate dealing with his daughter's controversial lifestyle.
• Barabbas: Borgnine plays Lucius in this biblical epic about the man pardoned instead of Jesus.
1964
• McHale's Navy: Reprising his TV role, Borgnine is Lt. Commander Quinton McHale in this comedy about a naval officer's misadventures.
1965
• The Flight of the Phoenix: He plays Trucker Cobb in this survival drama about men stranded in the desert after a plane crash.
1966
• The Oscar: Borgnine portrays Barney Yale in this drama about the dark side of Hollywood ambition.
1967
• Chuka: As Sergeant Otto Hansbach, he is part of a Western involving a gunfighter and a besieged fort.
• The Dirty Dozen: Borgnine plays Major General Sam Worden in this war film about a group of convicts on a suicide mission during World War II.
1968
• Ice Station Zebra: He portrays Boris Vaslov in this Cold War thriller about a submarine mission to the Arctic.
1969
• The Wild Bunch: Borgnine plays Dutch Engstrom in this Western about aging outlaws planning a final heist.
• The Adventurers: He portrays Fat Cat, a powerful figure in a South American country, in this drama about political and personal intrigue.
1970
• Suppose They Gave a War and Nobody Came?
Borgnine plays Sheriff Harve, a small-town lawman caught in the middle of a conflict between the military and local citizens in this anti-war comedy.
• Barquero
Borgnine stars as Travis, a ferry operator who stands against a gang of outlaws attempting to cross the river to raid a town.
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1971
• Rain for a Dusty Summer
Borgnine appears as Colonel Calleja in this historical drama set during the Mexican Revolution, focusing on a priest's resistance to oppression.
• The Trackers (TV Movie)
Borgnine plays Sam Paxton, a determined rancher searching for his kidnapped daughter in this Western adventure.
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1972
• The Poseidon Adventure
In one of his most iconic roles, Borgnine plays Mike Rogo, a tough New York police officer, as a group of survivors navigate a capsized luxury liner.
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1973
• The Neptune Factor
Borgnine stars as Chief Diver Don MacKay, part of a team searching for a lost underwater research station in this sci-fi adventure.
• Emperor of the North
Borgnine plays Shack, a sadistic train conductor determined to stop a legendary hobo from riding his train during the Great Depression.
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1974
• Burt Lancaster's The Midnight Man
Borgnine appears as Captain Casey, aiding in an investigation of a murder on a college campus in this crime thriller.
• The Greatest Gift (TV Movie)
Borgnine stars as a compassionate doctor helping an isolated community.
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1975
• Hustle
Borgnine portrays Lt. Santini in this crime drama about a disillusioned detective investigating a young woman's death.
• St. Ives
In this neo-noir, Borgnine plays Charles Blunt, a shady character caught up in a scheme involving stolen documents.
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1976
• The Devil's Rain
Borgnine stars as Corbis, the leader of a satanic cult in this horror film about a family cursed for betraying the devil.
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1977
• Ravagers
Borgnine plays Sergeant, a survivor in a post-apocalyptic world fighting off scavengers.
• The Prince and the Pauper
Borgnine has a supporting role in this adaptation of Mark Twain's classic tale about switched identities in Tudor England.
• Fire! (TV Movie)
Borgnine plays a fire chief battling a deadly blaze in this disaster film.
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1978
• Convoy
Borgnine stars as Sheriff Lyle Wallace, a ruthless lawman pursuing a group of rebellious truckers in this action-packed road movie inspired by the popular song.
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1979
• The Black Hole
Borgnine plays journalist Harry Booth, part of a space crew encountering a mysterious black hole and a deranged scientist.
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1980
• When Time Ran Out...
Borgnine plays Francis Fendly, a businessman caught in the chaos of a volcanic eruption threatening a tropical resort.
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1981
• Escape from New York
Borgnine stars as Cabbie, a quirky, resourceful taxi driver who helps Snake Plissken navigate a dystopian Manhattan turned maximum-security prison.
• High Risk
Borgnine plays Clint, part of an adventure-comedy about four men planning a daring robbery in South America.
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1982
• Deadly Blessing
Borgnine plays Isaiah Schmidt, the leader of a strict religious cult in this horror-thriller involving supernatural occurrences.
• Zorro, The Gay Blade
Borgnine portrays Paco, a comedic and loyal servant aiding Zorro's flamboyant twin brother in this parody of classic Zorro stories.
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1983
• Young Warriors
Borgnine plays Sgt. Bradley, a veteran police officer in this action drama about college students seeking vigilante justice.
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1984
• Super Fuzz
Borgnine plays Sergeant Willy Dunlop, the partner of a cop with superhuman abilities in this comedic action film.
• The Ice Pirates
Borgnine stars as the patriarchal role of Zeno in this sci-fi comedy about a ragtag group searching for water in space.
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1985
• The Dirty Dozen: Next Mission (TV Movie)
Reprising his role as Major General Sam Worden, Borgnine leads another team of convicts in this sequel to the classic war film.
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1986
• The Last Days of Patton (TV Movie)
Borgnine portrays General Omar N. Bradley, a close associate of General George S. Patton, in this historical drama.
• Convicted (TV Movie)
Borgnine stars as a prison warden dealing with a hostage situation in this drama.
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1987
• Skeleton Coast
Borgnine plays Colonel Smith, leading a mercenary team in a mission to rescue a CIA operative in this action-adventure.
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1988
• The Opponent
Borgnine plays Victor, a tough boxing trainer helping a woman rise in the male-dominated sport.
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1989
• The Rainbow Warrior Conspiracy (TV Movie)
Borgnine plays Colonel Howard in this dramatization of the controversial sinking of Greenpeace's ship, Rainbow Warrior.
• Spike of Bensonhurst
Borgnine portrays Baldo Cacetti, a Mafia boss in this coming-of-age comedy-drama set in Brooklyn.
• Ocean (TV Movie)
Borgnine has a supporting role in this drama about a luxury cruise ship facing environmental disasters.
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1990
• Any Man’s Death
Borgnine plays Ernest Hobday, a writer investigating Nazi war crimes in Africa, uncovering dark secrets along the way.
• Laser Mission
Borgnine portrays Professor Braun, a scientist who becomes a key figure in a race to prevent the misuse of a powerful laser weapon.
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1991
• The Legend of the Lone Ranger
Borgnine appears as George Reid, supporting the tale of the Lone Ranger's origin and his fight for justice in the Old West.
• Mountain Magic
Borgnine plays a lead role in this drama centered on Appalachian traditions and personal redemption.
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1992
• Mistress
Borgnine plays Jack Roth, a Hollywood veteran in this comedy-drama about a struggling screenwriter trying to bring his dream project to life amidst studio politics.
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1993
• Ghost Writer
Borgnine plays Ernest McQueen, a mentor to a struggling writer who becomes embroiled in a dangerous mystery.
• Wild West
Borgnine appears as a sheriff in this action-comedy blending modern life with cowboy culture.
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1994
• Bionic Ever After? (TV Movie)
Borgnine reprises his role as Commander Quinton McHale in this reunion of the Six Million Dollar Man and The Bionic Woman.
• The Last Prostitute (TV Movie)
Borgnine plays Melvin, a widower rekindling a relationship with a childhood friend in this poignant drama.
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1995
• Gattaca (Uncredited Cameo)
Borgnine appears briefly as Caesar, a janitor, in this futuristic drama about genetic discrimination.
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1996
• The Long Ride Home
Borgnine stars as a former outlaw who returns to his family after many years, seeking redemption and reconciliation.
• All Dogs Go to Heaven 2 (Voice)
Borgnine voices Carface Carruthers, a shady dog caught between good and evil in this animated sequel.
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1997
• McHale’s Navy
Borgnine makes a cameo as Rear Admiral Quinton McHale, Jr. in this comedy reboot of his beloved TV series.
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1998
• BASEketball
Borgnine plays Ted Denslow, a wealthy businessman who backs an unconventional sports league in this satirical comedy.
• The Wacky Adventures of Ronald McDonald: Scared Silly (Video)
Borgnine provides the voice for the villain in this animated children’s adventure.
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1999
• The Last Great Ride
Borgnine plays Pops, a kindly grandfather who helps his grandson navigate life and adventures in this family-friendly film.
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2000
• The Lost Treasure of Sawtooth Island
Borgnine plays Grandpa Pappas, a wise elder guiding his grandson on a thrilling treasure hunt filled with adventure and life lessons.
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2001
• 13th Child
Borgnine stars as Riley, a man involved in the investigation of mysterious murders attributed to the legendary Jersey Devil.
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2002
• Barn Red
Borgnine portrays Michael Bolini, a farmer fighting to preserve his land and heritage in the face of development pressures.
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2003
• The Blue Lizard
Borgnine appears as Roscoe, an aging man with a mysterious past, in this drama about redemption and connection.
• Autumn Sun
Borgnine plays the lead role in this story about love and resilience in later life.
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2004
• Aces 'N' Eights
Borgnine plays an old gambler caught in a dangerous card game that leads to betrayal and intrigue.
• Another Harvest Moon
In this poignant drama, Borgnine plays Frank, a nursing home resident reflecting on his life and preparing to make a difficult decision.
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2006
• The Genesis Code
Borgnine stars as an elderly mentor in this faith-based drama about reconciling science and religion.
• The Trail to Hope Rose
Borgnine plays Samuel "Pop" Logan, an aging cowboy helping a young man redeem himself in a small Western town.
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2007
• Frozen Stupid
Borgnine plays Grandpa Benson, a comedic role in a story about a father and son bonding on an ice-fishing trip gone hilariously wrong.
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2008
• Wishing Well
Borgnine appears as a mystical figure helping characters discover the power of hope and second chances.
• The Man Who Shook the Hand of Vicente Fernandez
Borgnine plays Rex Page, an elderly man finding unexpected fame among the Latino community, in this heartwarming drama exploring cultural connection and personal redemption.
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2009
• Snatched
Borgnine has a supporting role in this comedy about a botched kidnapping and the unlikely characters it involves.