George Kennedy
back| Full Name | George Harris Kennedy Jr. |
| Stage Name | George Kennedy |
| Born | February 18, 1925 |
| Birthplace | New York City, New York, USA |
| Died | February 28, 2016 |
| Buried | Idaho State Veterans Cemetery, Boise, Idaho, USA |
| Married to | Dorothy Gillooly (divorced) - Norma Wurman (married twice: 1959–1971, 1973–1978) - Joan McCarthy (married 1978–her death in 2015) |
| Children | Taylor Kennedy - Shaunna Kennedy - Betty Kennedy |
| Notable films | Cool Hand Luke (1967) - The Dirty Dozen (1967) - Airport (1970) - Earthquake (1974) - The Naked Gun Series (1988 - 1994) |
George Kennedy
Hollywood’s Towering Everyman
George Kennedy (1925–2016) was an American actor known for his commanding presence and versatility. Born in New York City, he served in the U.S. Army for 16 years before transitioning to Hollywood. His breakthrough came with Cool Hand Luke (1967), earning him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. He became a staple in action and disaster films like The Dirty Dozen (1967), Airport (1970), and Earthquake (1974). Later, he showcased his comedic talent in The Naked Gun series.
Kennedy was admired for his ability to play both villains and endearing everyman characters with equal conviction. Off-screen, he was a dedicated family man, military veteran, and author. He spent his later years in Idaho, passing away in 2016 at 91 from heart failure. His legacy remains as one of Hollywood’s most reliable and respected character actors.
Related
George Kennedy (1925 – 2016)
Biography and Movie Career
George Harris Kennedy Jr. was born on February 18, 1925, in New York City, New York. His father, George Harris Kennedy Sr., was a musician and orchestra leader, while his mother, Helen Kieselbach, was a ballet dancer. Tragically, his father died when George was only four years old, leaving his mother to raise him alone.
Kennedy showed an early interest in show business, making his radio debut at just two years old. However, his career ambitions were put on hold as he grew older, and instead of pursuing acting right away, he enlisted in the U.S. Army during World War II.
Kennedy served with distinction for 16 years, rising to the rank of captain in the Army's Signal Corps. However, his military career was cut short due to a back injury that required surgery. After being medically discharged, he faced an uncertain future but ultimately found his way back to entertainment—this time, behind the scenes.
Path to Success in Hollywood
After leaving the military, Kennedy started working as a technical advisor for the television series The Phil Silvers Show (1955–1959), which revolved around a scheming Army sergeant. This job led to minor acting roles, and soon, he transitioned into full-time acting. His imposing 6'4" frame, gravelly voice, and rugged features made him a natural fit for tough-guy roles, often as military men, law enforcement officers, or villains.
Kennedy spent much of the early 1960s playing bit parts in TV shows such as Gunsmoke, Bonanza, The Andy Griffith Show, and Rawhide. His big break, however, came in 1967 when he was cast as Dragline, a chain-gang prisoner in Cool Hand Luke, opposite Paul Newman. His portrayal of the rough but ultimately kind-hearted convict won him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. The role cemented his reputation as one of Hollywood’s most reliable character actors.
Following his Oscar win, Kennedy’s career soared. He starred in major films such as The Dirty Dozen (1967), Airport (1970), and its sequels, playing aviation expert Joe Patroni. He became a staple in action and disaster films of the 1970s, appearing in Earthquake (1974), The Eiger Sanction (1975), and Death on the Nile (1978).
In the 1980s, he shifted toward comedy, co-starring with Leslie Nielsen in The Naked Gun series (1988, 1991, 1994) as the dimwitted Captain Ed Hocken. His ability to switch between drama and comedy showcased his range and kept him relevant for decades.
Marriages and Family Life
Kennedy’s personal life was marked by several marriages and a strong devotion to family. He was first married to Dorothy Gillooly, but little is known about their relationship, which ended in divorce.
He later married Norma Wurman in 1959, and they had two children. The marriage ended in divorce in 1971, but they remarried in 1973 before divorcing again in 1978.
His third and final marriage was to Joan McCarthy, whom he wed in 1978. The couple remained together until her death in 2015. Kennedy and McCarthy adopted several children, including a granddaughter whom they raised as their own daughter. He was deeply devoted to his family, often speaking about the joys and challenges of fatherhood.
Passions Beyond Acting
Outside of Hollywood, Kennedy had a deep love for aviation, a passion that likely stemmed from his Airport films. He was also a prolific author, writing books such as Trust Me (a murder mystery novel) and Murder on Location.
Additionally, he was known for his humility and kindness, often describing himself as "just a lucky guy" despite his long and successful career. Unlike many Hollywood stars, he avoided the spotlight when not working and enjoyed a quiet life in Idaho.
Final Years and Death
In his later years, Kennedy’s health declined, and he suffered from heart disease. After the death of his beloved wife, Joan, in 2015, his condition worsened. He passed away on February 28, 2016, at the age of 91, in Middleton, Idaho. The cause of death was heart failure.
He was buried at the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery, a fitting resting place for a man who had dedicated a large part of his life to serving his country before becoming a Hollywood icon.
Legacy
George Kennedy’s legacy in Hollywood is one of versatility, reliability, and quiet excellence. He successfully transitioned from being a behind-the-scenes military consultant to an Academy Award-winning actor, leaving behind an impressive body of work spanning over five decades.
From tough war movies to high-stakes disaster films and even slapstick comedies, Kennedy’s ability to adapt ensured his place in Hollywood history. Despite his fame, he remained down-to-earth, often crediting luck and hard work for his success.
Even after his passing, his performances continue to entertain audiences, ensuring that George Kennedy’s name will be remembered for generations to come.
George Kennedy’s Height and Physical Features
• Height: 6 feet 4 inches (1.93 meters)
• Weight: Approximately 220–250 lbs (100–113 kg) during his prime
• Build: Large, broad-shouldered, and muscular
• Hair Color: Light brown (later graying and white)
• Eye Color: Blue
Distinctive Features:
• Deep, authoritative voice
• Rugged facial features with a strong jawline
• Towering and imposing presence
• Commanding yet approachable demeanor
George Kennedy Winning the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor in 1968
George Kennedy: An Analysis of His Acting Style
George Kennedy was a towering presence on screen, not just in stature but in the way he commanded a scene. With his rugged features, deep, authoritative voice, and natural gravitas, he had a rare ability to shift seamlessly between playing menacing villains, stoic authority figures, and warm-hearted, endearing characters. His acting style was defined by subtlety, authenticity, and an ability to elevate any role, whether he was in a dramatic war film, an action-packed thriller, or a slapstick comedy.
Strength in Simplicity
Kennedy’s performances were never over-the-top. He mastered the art of restraint, knowing when to let a glance, a pause, or a shift in tone do more than excessive dialogue ever could. His characters often exuded quiet strength, and when he did raise his voice or show emotion, it was always meaningful. Whether playing a hardened criminal in Cool Hand Luke or the reliable Joe Patroni in the Airport series, his delivery was grounded and realistic, making his characters feel authentic and lived-in.
Versatility: From Villains to Everyman Heroes
One of Kennedy’s greatest strengths was his range. Early in his career, he was often cast as the gruff antagonist, playing heavies, enforcers, and corrupt officials in films and TV shows. His sheer physicality—standing 6'4" with a muscular build—made him a natural fit for these roles. But what set him apart from typical “tough guys” was the complexity he brought to them.
Take his role in Cool Hand Luke (1967). As Dragline, he starts as a brutish, dominant inmate but gradually transforms into a loyal and even tender friend to Paul Newman's character. Kennedy brought layers to Dragline, showing not just toughness but also vulnerability, humor, and deep admiration for Luke. This performance won him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, and rightfully so—it showcased his ability to bring depth and humanity to what could have been a one-dimensional role.
By the 1970s, he had transitioned into more heroic roles, particularly in disaster films like Airport (1970), Earthquake (1974), and The Eiger Sanction (1975). As Joe Patroni in the Airport franchise, Kennedy embodied competence and resilience, playing the aviation expert who always found a way to keep the planes flying. His no-nonsense approach made him instantly likable, and audiences knew that if Patroni was on the job, there was hope.
A Natural Fit for Comedy
Though primarily known for serious roles, Kennedy also had a surprising talent for comedy, which became evident in The Naked Gun series. As Captain Ed Hocken, he played the perfect straight man to Leslie Nielsen’s absurd, bumbling Detective Frank Drebin. Kennedy’s success in these films came from his ability to deliver ridiculous lines with deadpan seriousness, never breaking character despite the absurdity around him. His comedic timing was impeccable, proving that he could thrive in both drama and satire.
The Everyman Quality
Despite his tough-guy roles, Kennedy had an undeniable warmth that made him stand out. There was something genuine and relatable about his performances, even when he played men in positions of power. He had a fatherly presence, a blue-collar authenticity that resonated with audiences. Whether he was portraying a police officer, a soldier, a pilot, or a prisoner, he always brought a level of credibility and relatability to his characters. He was not just acting—he was embodying real men, with real emotions and struggles.
Commanding Physical Presence
Kennedy’s physicality was a major aspect of his screen presence. He carried himself with confidence, and even when his characters were at their most vulnerable, there was an undeniable strength in the way he moved, stood, or even sat silently in a scene. His size made him intimidating when necessary, but he knew how to use it to convey warmth as well. His body language was as much a part of his acting as his dialogue, making every movement feel intentional and meaningful.
Conclusion: A Subtle Powerhouse
George Kennedy was never the flashiest actor, nor did he rely on dramatic outbursts or showy performances. Instead, he was a subtle powerhouse, using nuance, expression, and sheer presence to leave a lasting impression. He was the kind of actor who made every film he was in better, no matter the size of his role.
His ability to shift between genres, from hard-hitting dramas to high-stakes thrillers to broad comedies, is a testament to his versatility and talent. Whether he was playing a ruthless antagonist, a blue-collar hero, or a straight-faced comic foil, Kennedy always delivered with honesty and conviction. It’s this authenticity, this everyman charm combined with commanding presence, that has ensured his legacy endures long after his passing.
Quotes from George Kennedy
From "Cool Hand Luke" (1967):
• "Nobody can eat 50 eggs."
• "We got rules here. In order to learn them, you gotta do more work with your ears than with your mouth."
From "Thunderbolt and Lightfoot" (1974):
• "Hey, buddy, slow down. That's a long road."
Personal Reflections:
• "When you think of a movie, most people imagine a two-hour finished, polished product. But to get to that two-hour product, it can take hundreds or thousands of people many months of full-time work."
• "I have been so fortunate, and I really am appreciative of the success I've had."
• "Of course, I also attribute some of my hearing loss to being in the infantry in World War II. It's probably a combination of heredity and noise exposure."
What Others said about George Kennedy
• Bill O'Reilly, host of Fox News Channel, described Kennedy as "a hero," highlighting his admirable personal qualities beyond his on-screen roles.
• Michael Cimino, director of "Thunderbolt and Lightfoot," appreciated Kennedy's ability to balance menace with charm in his portrayal of Red Leary, noting his skill in creating complex characters.
Awards and Recognition
Academy Awards:
• 1968: Best Supporting Actor for his role as Dragline in "Cool Hand Luke" (Winner)
Golden Globe Awards:
• 1968: Best Supporting Actor – Motion Picture for "Cool Hand Luke" (Nominee)
• 1971: Best Supporting Actor – Motion Picture for his portrayal of Joe Patroni in "Airport" (Nominee)
Laurel Awards:
• 1968: Golden Laurel for Male Supporting Performance for "Cool Hand Luke" (Winner)
Photoplay Awards:
• 1968: Nominee for "Cool Hand Luke"
Hollywood Walk of Fame:
Honored with a star at 6352 Hollywood Boulevard, recognizing his contributions to motion pictures.
George Kennedy Movies
1960s
• 1961: "The Little Shepherd of Kingdom Come"
Kennedy portrays Nathan Dillon in this Civil War drama about an orphaned boy striving to find his place in a divided America.
• 1962: "Lonely Are the Brave"
As Deputy Sheriff Gutierrez, Kennedy supports the story of a cowboy (Kirk Douglas) resisting the encroachment of modern society.
• 1963: "Charade"
In this romantic thriller, Kennedy plays Herman Scobie, one of several men pursuing a widow (Audrey Hepburn) for a fortune her late husband allegedly stole.
• 1964: "Hush... Hush, Sweet Charlotte"
Kennedy appears as the foreman in this Southern Gothic tale of a woman (Bette Davis) haunted by her past and accused of murder.
• 1965: "The Flight of the Phoenix"
Portraying Mike Bellamy, Kennedy is part of a group of survivors of a plane crash in the Sahara Desert attempting to build a new aircraft from the wreckage.
• 1967: "Cool Hand Luke"
Kennedy's Oscar-winning role as Dragline, the leader of a chain gang who comes to respect a rebellious new prisoner (Paul Newman).
• 1967: "The Dirty Dozen"
Kennedy plays Major Max Armbruster in this war film about a group of convicts recruited for a dangerous mission during World War II.
• 1968: "Bandolero!"
As Sheriff July Johnson, Kennedy chases outlaws who have kidnapped a woman (Raquel Welch) in this Western adventure.
• 1968: "The Boston Strangler"
Kennedy portrays Detective Phil DiNatale in this crime drama based on the true story of a serial killer terrorizing Boston.
1970s
• 1970: "Airport"
Kennedy introduces Joe Patroni, a resourceful mechanic who helps avert disaster when a bomb explodes on a passenger jet.
• 1973: "Cahill U.S. Marshal"
In this Western, Kennedy plays Abe Fraser, an outlaw opposing a determined U.S. Marshal (John Wayne).
• 1974: "Earthquake"
Kennedy stars as Sergeant Lew Slade, a police officer who becomes a hero during a catastrophic earthquake in Los Angeles.
• 1974: "Airport 1975"
Reprising his role as Joe Patroni, Kennedy assists in rescuing a damaged aircraft after a mid-air collision.
• 1975: "The Eiger Sanction"
Kennedy plays Ben Bowman, a mountain climber aiding an art professor (Clint Eastwood) on a dangerous assassination mission.
• 1977: "Airport '77"
As Joe Patroni, Kennedy deals with a hijacked plane that crashes into the ocean, working to save passengers trapped underwater.
• 1978: "Death on the Nile"
Kennedy portrays Andrew Pennington in this adaptation of Agatha Christie's novel, involving a murder mystery aboard a river steamer in Egypt.
• 1979: "The Concorde ... Airport '79"
In the final installment of the "Airport" series, Kennedy's Joe Patroni is now a pilot, facing challenges aboard the supersonic Concorde.
1980s
• 1980: "Death Ship"
Kennedy stars as Captain Ashland, whose ship collides with a mysterious vessel, leading to supernatural occurrences.
• 1984: "Bolero"
Kennedy appears as Cotton, a mentor to a young woman (Bo Derek) exploring her sexuality in this romantic drama.
• 1986: "The Delta Force"
Kennedy plays Father O'Malley, a priest among passengers taken hostage by terrorists, with a rescue mission led by Chuck Norris.
• 1988: "The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!"
Kennedy portrays Captain Ed Hocken, the straight-laced superior to bumbling detective Frank Drebin (Leslie Nielsen) in this slapstick comedy.
• 1989: "The Terror Within"
In a post-apocalyptic world, Kennedy plays Hal, a leader of survivors battling mutant creatures.
1990s
• 1991: "The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear"
Kennedy returns as Captain Ed Hocken, assisting Frank Drebin in thwarting a plot against a renewable energy advocate.
• 1994: "Naked Gun 33⅓: The Final Insult"
In the trilogy's conclusion, Kennedy's character comes out of retirement to help stop a terrorist attack at the Academy Awards.
• 1998: "Small Soldiers"
Kennedy provides the voice for Brick Bazooka, a commando action figure that comes to life and wreaks havoc.
• 1998: "Dennis the Menace Strikes Again"
Kennedy plays Grandpa Johnson, joining his mischievous grandson in various adventures.
2000s
• 2005: "Don't Come Knocking"
Kennedy makes a cameo as a film director in this drama about an aging actor confronting his past.
2010s
• 2014: "The Gambler"
In his final film role, Kennedy portrays Ed, the grandfather of a literature professor (Mark Wahlberg) with a gambling addiction.