Charlton Heston Biography

Fast Facts

• For his contributions to film, he was presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2003
• Inducted into the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum's Hall of Great Western Performers in 2010
• In high school, he enrolled in a drama program which gave him the opportunity to star in a silent film by future director David Bradley
• Quote: "The minute you feel you have given a faultless performance is the time to get out․"
• Widely known for his overwhelmingly commanding voice
• Often portrays characters that display heroics, such as his roles in "The Ten Commandments," "The Greatest Story Ever Told," etc
• Made ends meet while a struggling actor in New York by posing as a model at The Art Students League
• Turned down the role of Police Chief Brody in "Jaws․"
• Participated in the 1963 March on Washington alongside Rev․ Dr․ Martin Luther King Jr
• Appeared in the 2001 remake of "Planet of the Apes" in an uncredited role