Jack Warden

Birth Name:

John H. Lebzelter

Birth Place:

Newark, New Jersey, United States

Profession

Actor, Soundtrack

His role as Chicago Bears coach George Halas in "Brian's Song" garnered him an Emmy Award for Acting in a Supporting Role in a Drama
Was a member of the Actors Branch of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
After receiving a play from a fellow soldier, he decided that after the war he would start an acting career
Studied acting on the G․I․ Bill of rights while joining the Dallas Alley Theater, performing on stage for five years until making his TV debut in "The Philco Television Playhouse․"
Worked as a professional boxer, a nightclub bouncer, a tugboat deckhand and a lifeguard, then joined the armed forces, which resulted in him shattering his leg and reading a Clifford Odets play during his recovery that inspired him to act
As a career character actor, he played many soldiers, cops, sports coaches, friends of leading men and similar roles
Frequently played New Yorkers who were tough-talkers
Befriended and mentored actors Robert Hooks and Jeff Rubinstein and actress Penny Peyser
Lived with his grandparents in Louisville, Kentucky in his youth
Was not required to fight on D-Day due to a leg injury, but recovered enough to fight in the Battle of the Bulge

1972Primetime Emmy - Outstanding Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in Drama:Winner
1976Oscar - Best Actor in a Supporting Role:Nominated
1976BAFTA Film Award - Best Supporting Actor:Nominated
1979Oscar - Best Actor in a Supporting Role:Nominated
1985Primetime Emmy - Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series:Nominated
1986Primetime Emmy - Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series:Nominated
1994ACCA - Best Cast Ensemble:Nominated

Fast Facts