Gene Hackman – Born in 1930, The French Connection
Looking at Gene Hackman’s long and successful career, it’s almost as if he’s lived multiple lifetimes. First, he served in the United States Marines, albeit under a falsified age—a brave move for a 16-year-old. Then he was introduced to the world as an actor, which is the only reason he made it onto this list.
Hackman received critical acclaim and an Academy Award for his role as ‘Jimmy Doyle’ in “The French Connection.” He also won Best Supporting actor for his performance in Clint Eastwood’s “Unforgiven.” Of course, he did a lot more on-screen before announcing his semi-retirement in 2004. Did we mention that he’s also a successful novelist?
