Next person biography:
Harry Dean Stanton was born in West Irvine, Kentucky, to Ersel Moberly, a cook, and Sheridan Harry Stanton, a barber and tobacco farmer. He spent his early years in Lexington, Kentucky, graduating from Lafayette Senior High School with the class of 1944. After being drafted into the Navy, Stanton served as a cook during World War II, where he was stationed on an LST during the Battle of Okinawa.
Following his military service, Stanton returned to the University of Kentucky to appear in a production of "Pygmalion", before relocating to California to hone his craft at the prestigious Pasadena Playhouse. He then embarked on a touring career with a male choir, worked in children's theater, and eventually returned to California.
Stanton's early film career began with a minor role in the 1957 movie Tomahawk Trail, but he quickly gained recognition for his laid-back style in roles such as cowboys and soldiers throughout the late 1950s and early 1960s. His breakthrough came with his performances in films like Cool Hand Luke, Kelly's Heroes, Dillinger, The Godfather Part II, and Alien.
In the 1980s, Stanton's career reached new heights with roles in Paris, Texas and Repo Man, which solidified his status as a cult figure in cinema. He continued to appear in a wide range of films, including Pretty in Pink, Wild at Heart, and Escape from New York, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Aside from his acting career, Stanton was also an accomplished musician, leading "The Harry Dean Stanton Band" in their unique spin on mariachi music for over a decade. They toured internationally, and Stanton's music became a staple of his cult following. The iconic Debbie Harry even sang about him in her 1990s hit "I Want That Man".
Stanton remained active in the film industry until his passing, appearing in films like Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, The Green Mile, and The Man Who Cried.
