José Rizaldy Zshornack, a renowned Filipino actor, was born in Manila on December 30, 1940. He completed his high school education at Manila Central University and later married actress and beauty queen Shirley Gorospe, who would become his leading lady in many of his films.
Zshornack's acting career began with his appearance in the 1951 film "Sisa," directed by Gerardo de Leon for Premiere Productions, starring Anita Linda. The film was based on the novel "Noli me tangere" by Jose Rizal, which tells the story of a woman who goes mad while searching for her two children.
He then appeared in "Ukelele Boy" (1957) for Larry Santiago Productions (LSP),followed by his first leading role in "Barumbado" (1957). However, it was his role in LSP's "Lo Waist Gang" (1958) alongside Fernando Poe Jr. that brought him recognition and established him as an appealing action star.
Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Zshornack starred in numerous films, including "Kamay ni Cain" (1957),"Bakya mo Neneng" (1957),"Pusakal" (1957),"Tokyo 1960" (1957),"Batang piyer" (1958),"Anak ng lasengga" (1958),"Wanted: Husband" (1958),"Asintado" (1958),"Viuda de Oro" (1960),and "Falcon" (1962).
Zshornack's versatility as an actor allowed him to excel in various genres, including Westerns, musicals, and dramas. He was particularly known for his romantic roles, often paired with his real-life partner Shirley Gorospe. Their on-screen romance led to a series of musicals and dramas, such as "Sweethearts" (1957),"Shirley, My Darling" (1958),"You're My Everything" (1958),and "Hong Kong Honeymoon" (1960).
When his contract with Premiere Productions expired, Zshornack established his own production company, ZZ Productions, which produced "Zaldong Bangketa" (1966). He also freelanced with various movie studios, appearing in films such as "Apatna agila" (1964),"Nueva Vizcaya" (1973),"Rio Tigre" (1974),"Sacramento" (1974),and "Kutong Lupa" (1976).
Zshornack's performances earned him several awards and nominations, including Best Actor at the Second Quezon City Film Festival for "De la Cruz" (1971) and two FAMAS nominations for "Hindi na Sisikat ang Araw" (1973) and "Batingaw" (1974). He was also nominated for Best Supporting Actor by the FAP for his portrayal of a police captain in "Kaaway ng Batas" (1990).
