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Before acting, he survived family tragedy and D-Day
LOS ANGELES — Charles Durning grew up in poverty, lost five of his nine siblings to disease, barely lived through D-Day and was taken prisoner at the Battle of the Bulge.
His hard life and wartime trauma provided the basis for a prolific 50-year career as a consummate Oscar-nominated character actor, playing everyone from a Nazi colonel to the pope to Dustin Hoffman's would-be suitor in "Tootsie."
Mr. Durning, who died Monday at age 89 in his Manhattan home, got his start as an usher at a burlesque theater in Buffalo, N.Y. When one of the comedians showed up too drunk to go on, Mr. Durning took his place. He would recall years later that he was hooked as soon as heard the audience laughing.
He said in 2008 that he had no plans to stop working. "They're going to carry me out, if I go," he said.
Mr. Durning's longtime agent and friend, Judith Moss, said he died of natural causes in his home in the borough of Manhattan.
Although he portrayed everyone from blustery public officials to comic foils to put-upon everymen, Mr. Durning may be best remembered by movie audiences for his Oscar-nominated, over-the-top role as a comically corrupt governor in 1982's "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas."
Many critics marveled that such a heavyset man could be so nimble in the film's show-stopping song-and-dance number, not realizing Mr. Durning had been a dance instructor early in his career. Indeed, he had met his first wife, Carol, when both worked at a dance studio.
The year after "Best Little Whorehouse," Mr. Durning received another Oscar nomination, for his portrayal of a bumbling Nazi officer in Mel Brooks' "To Be or Not to Be." He was also nominated for a Golden Globe as the harried police lieutenant in 1975's "Dog Day Afternoon."
He won a Golden Globe as best supporting TV actor in 1991 for his portrayal of John "Honey Fitz" Fitzgerald in the TV film "The Kennedys of Massachusetts" and a Tony in 1990 as Big Daddy in the Broadway revival of "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof."
Breakout role in 1972
Mr. Durning began his career on stage, getting his first big break when theatrical producer Joseph Papp hired him for the New York Shakespeare Festival.
He went on to work regularly, if fairly anonymously, through the 1960s until his breakout role as a small town mayor in the Pulitzer- and Tony Award-winning play "That Championship Season" in 1972.
He quickly made an impression on movie audiences the following year as the crooked cop stalking con men Paul Newman and Robert Redford in the Oscar-winning comedy "The Sting."
Dozens of notable portrayals followed. He was the would-be suitor of Dustin Hoffman, posing as a female soap opera star in "Tootsie"; the infamous seller of frog legs in "The Muppet Movie"; and Chief Brandon in Warren Beatty's "Dick Tracy."
He played Santa Claus in four different movies made for television and was the pope in the TV film "I Would Be Called John: Pope John XXIII."
"I never turned down anything and never argued with any producer or director," Mr. Durning said in 2008, when he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Other films included "The Front Page," "The Hindenburg," "Breakheart Pass," "North Dallas Forty," "Starting Over," "Tough Guys," "Home for the Holidays," "Spy Hard" and "O Brother, Where Art Thou?"
Mr. Durning did well in television as a featured performer as well as a guest star. He appeared in the short-lived series "The Cop and the Kid" (1975), "Eye to Eye" (1985) and "First Monday" (2002) as well as the four-season "Evening Shade" in the 1990s.
"If I'm not in a part, I drive my wife crazy," he acknowledged during a 1997 interview. "I'll go downstairs to get the mail, and when I come back I'll say, ï¾'Any calls for me?'x"
Mr. Durning's rugged early life provided ample material on which to base his later portrayals. He was born into an Irish family of 10 children in 1923, in Highland Falls, N.Y., a town near West Point. His father was unable to work, having lost a leg and been gassed during World War I, so his mother supported the family by washing the uniforms of West Point cadets.
Bayoneted in France
The younger Mr. Durning himself would barely survive World War II.
He was among the first wave of U.S. soldiers to land at Normandy during the D-Day invasion and the only member of his Army unit to survive. He killed several Germans and was wounded in the leg. Later he was bayoneted by a young German soldier whom he killed with a rock. He was captured in the Battle of the Bulge and survived a massacre of prisoners.
In later years he refused to discuss the military service for which he was awarded the Silver Star and three Purple Hearts.
"Too many bad memories," he told an interviewer in 1997. "I don't want you to see me crying."
Tragedy also stalked other members of his family. Mr. Durning was 12 when his father died, and five of his sisters lost their lives to smallpox and scarlet fever.
A high school counselor told him he had no talent for art, languages or math and should learn office skills. But after seeing "King Kong" and some of James Cagney's films, Mr. Durning knew what he wanted to do.
Leaving home at 16, he worked in a munitions factory, on a slag heap and in a barbed-wire factory.
Mr. Durning and his first wife had three children before divorcing in 1972. In 1974 he married his high school sweetheart, Mary Ann Amelio.
He is survived by his children, Michele, Douglas and Jeannine. The family planned to have a private family service and burial at Arlington National Cemetery.
451 Entries
Watching your work has inspired me to always be vigilant in my everyday life. You will never be forgotten. Thank you for being you. Continue resting in heaven.
Carletus McMillan
Other
January 5, 2023
Nice men on Seseme street Elmo saves Christmas good playing santa
Luff Spencer
July 15, 2019
Godspeed Charles, and thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Rest Charles, until you hear at dawn,
the low, clear reveille of God.
Thank you for your service to this nation.
Harry Simpson
December 24, 2018
Rest in peace Mr Charles Durning. A great actor and American hero.
L
December 7, 2017
I researched Charles' history after watching his brilliant performance in Brother Where Art Thou? and discovered that he was the polar opposite of that character. Another lion sleeps tonight.
Stefano Morano
June 1, 2017
Praying that you will R.I.P.. I am also praying for your family. Thank you sir for your service to our country. Thank you also for the great acting that you did in your movies. I actually saw several of the movies on TV or on CD/DVD. God bless you and yours.
Carol Stout
December 27, 2016
Valenda Newell
October 12, 2016
A great actor but more so a great American who always found time to honor the vets during the Memorial or Independence Day celebrations. You were a true hero Mr Durning, and you will be sorely missed.
Maurice H Bank
December 15, 2014
I recall his occasional visits to the Venice Restaurant in Highland Falls.It was good to see him enjoying the company of his brother and friends. Memories are of long ago, but not forgotten. You made our lives richer.
Don Gruno
December 12, 2014
Blessings to your family, you dear, fine man. I have many memories of your great portrayals, but none so memorable as Menelaus "Pappy" O'Daniel. Charles is never far away; keep the faith.
Bob Strickland
December 11, 2013
Thank you for your service to our country. Your sacrifices will not be forgotten. Your acting has brought many happy moments to me throughout the years! You are held in high esteem.
David Smith
July 27, 2013
To the Durning Family, Although 7 months late, (just got back online), I wanted, nay Needed to extend my condolences on the passing of your BELOVED DAD. You do not know me, your Dad was one of my FAVORITE ACTORS. GOD BLESS YOU AS YOU MOURN YOUR LOVING DAD. I watched the Tribute of him & the other WWII Vets on Nat. Memorial Day Concert & could tell how TRULY SPECIAL he was to all of you. Although I am about your ages, 50, he reminds me of my Grandfathers both. He is RESTING IN OUR FATHER's LOVING HANDS. May he rest in Peace.
Sue Martin
July 21, 2013
A class act that continues to entertain.Just a little bit immortal Chuck!
trevor adams
June 21, 2013
RIP CHARLIE as I use to call him I was so sadden to hear of his passing,so glad I had the opportunity o work for him and his wife ,I remember the good time listening to him singing and dancing for us in the kitchen , you sure will be missed,and loved will i cherish all those memorries
yolanda guerra
June 18, 2013
You will be missed. Rest in peace.
Felicia Wright
May 27, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Jon Lowder
May 5, 2013
"May the angels lead you into paradise and may the saints come to meet you."
R.M. Otero
March 25, 2013
He was one of my favorites. Truly an awesome man and a very brave one. I would like to have a beer with him in heaven.
Tracey Linder
February 24, 2013
One of my favorites. Truly an awesome man and a brave one.
Tracey Linder
February 24, 2013
he was awsome in so many movies and tv shows he was awsome
jenny
February 4, 2013
THANK YOU FOR GIVING US THE WAY TO LAUGH.we will HAVE great memories of this very wonderful man and actor, we are so sad ,but happy that you talent will live on in film . WE ARE REAL FANS OF THE REAL MAN CHARLES DURNING REST WELL SIR ,THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS AND SERVICE TO OUR COUNTRY. YOU WILL BE MISSED . MR.AND MRS.CLARKE SITH .PITTSBURGH,PA.
Joyce Smith
January 29, 2013
May he rest in peace, the bravest WWII veteran.
B. Taylor
B. Taylor
January 6, 2013
Carol Cancilla
January 5, 2013
A Great American Patriot. We were Bless to have him defending our Freedoms.
January 4, 2013
Charlie, You were one of Highland Falls' finest sons. Rest Well, you've earned it. Thank you for defending us and thank you for entertaining us. Your presence will be missed.You are 3rd from the left in this 1946 photo.
Jim and Gail Donnery
January 3, 2013
we will miss you Grandpa Charlie.
~ jezalene & jaycie
January 2, 2013
WHAT A GREAT ACTOR YOU WAS. SEVERAL MOVIES I WATCHED WAS GREAT ONES LIKE THE FINAL COUNTDOWN AND TWO OF A KIND. AND ALOT MORE. YOU AND LARRY HAGMAN AND JACK KLUGMAN WILL BE GREATLY MISSED. REST IN PEACE MY FRIEND.GOD BLESS
ELTON COPELAND
January 2, 2013
HE WILL BE MISSED MY PAYERS ARE WITH HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS
GERALD PENDLETON
January 2, 2013
Let the perpetual light shine upon him. Rest in Peace American Hero.
Gordon Witucki
January 2, 2013
Rip
January 1, 2013
Wish we could enjoy more of your brilliance and your talent. You will be missed.
December 31, 2012
Rip
P Garcia
December 31, 2012
Charles God bless you for all you did for others. We loved you more than you will ever know.
Michael Driscoll
December 31, 2012
Thank you so much for your service and sacrifices for our freedom, Mr. Durning. Your wonderful career as an actor was thoroughly enjoyed by many, but the freedom you fought for is precious to many more. God Bless You, and Godspeed, Charles.
Leonard Gregory Jr.
December 31, 2012
THANK YOU FOR LEAVING SUCH SOLID FOOT PRINTS HERE ON EARTH. YOUR PRESENCE WILL ALWAYS BE SEEN. I WILL MISS YOU SIR!
Gail Socha
December 31, 2012
Mr. Durning was a war hero who endured horrific and untold experiences, combat injuries, capture and POW status during WWII. For many, many years he related the first-hand accounts of his many comrades-in-arms at
the PBS Memorial Day observances, and imparted to us the incalculable cost of freedom. He consistently honored those who have so honored us.
Mr. Durning belongs to that elite and small group of actors who are so accomplished and professional they make everything look easy. He could portray a character imbued with every vice or virtue and make them instantly believable to the viewer.
Like the aging Sea Captain Pete he portrayed in one of his last films, Mr. Durning has now taken his last voyage "out of our sight", but has left us with indelible memories of the many wondrous voyages on which he has taken us.
Thank you, Charles.
Barbara Billick
December 31, 2012
MY FATHER TO WAS IN WW2,HE PASSED AWAY 9 YEARS AGO.
MOSES GUTIERREZ
December 31, 2012
RIP Soldier. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. You will be missed!
Koma Kehuli
December 31, 2012
His role in Tootsie was so clever.A war hero as well.He will be missed.
Kathie O'Donnell
December 30, 2012
God Bless you and thank you for your service.
December 30, 2012
He was truely the best...will miss him..
December 30, 2012
God bless you and keep you.you were a great actor
Stuart singleton
December 30, 2012
good buy to a great soldier n actor.we will miss you.the heavens hold you now.go with god and r.i.p with love a big fan(sue Mc).
December 30, 2012
Rest in Peace, Mr. Durning...God Bless YOu
Joan Gowanlock
December 30, 2012
We have lost a true Hero! I send my sympathy to all of Charlie's family.
A wonderful man. I am privileged to have known him. RIP dearest Charlie!
Elsa Amelio Ferrari
White Plains, NY
December 30, 2012
I will miss your not only powerful but very believable characters, Mr. Durning, thanks for serving our great country and keeping us safe. You will always be remembered every time we see one of your movies. My heart felt prayers go out to your family.
Gwendolyn Williams
December 30, 2012
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
December 30, 2012
A patriot, a hero and a great actor. He surely will be missed. Rest in peace.
Charles Ratliff
December 30, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
December 29, 2012
I only knew you as the actor Charles Durning. Now I know the real you, the hero Charles Durning. Thank you for sharing your life with all of us. My prayers for your family and friends at this difficult time. They now have their own Guardian Angel.
Janice O'Connor
December 29, 2012
RIP in peace Mr. Durning you did your job here on earth. Now it time to rest and live in paradise.Love to your family & friends.
Laura Berberick
December 29, 2012
My thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time. He was not only a hero and fine actor, but also a true American treasure. Thanks go to his family for sharing him with all of us who enjoyed his film and TV career. He will be greatly missed.
Catherine Horne
December 29, 2012
R.I.P., sir. You and my father followed the same path during WWII and because of that I was so drawn to you work.
Dominick Caridi
December 29, 2012
Caitlin Dee
December 29, 2012
You will be missed .you are a true American hero.You fought for us then you entertained us.May you have true PEACE now.
DEB HOLBEN
December 29, 2012
The world needs more heros, You'll be missed
Tony Mosca
December 29, 2012
Eternal rest...
Grant Sloan
December 29, 2012
Over the years I've enjoyed your acting and you always were the person you portayed. Now I know you were also a hero in the war and suffered in your personal life. I can only imagine the heartbreak,but you never let it show and we profited by the characters you portrayed. We'll miss you and think,who'll take your place.You were,and are,great.Thank you.
James Mills
December 29, 2012
May God watch over your family in this time of their greif.I pray they know you Lord so they will all be together again some day My sympathy go out to you at this time
julie loyd
December 28, 2012
a great warrior who I enjoyed as an actor in his movies. He was good at what he did. RIP
Janet Pitts
December 28, 2012
The greatest generation was due to individuals like this man. You set the standard sir. Gods speed sir.
RIP.
Mike Zeigler
December 28, 2012
I am very sadden by the passing of this fine actor. I remember one very memorial role on NCIS, which he played a Medal of Honor recipient. He was so excellent but then again he had first hand knowledge of this role didn't he. I have seen Mr. Durning in many roles. He was an excellent actor. He will be missed by many.
Linda Hartman
December 28, 2012
To a brother in arms from a great generation, I salute you and pray for your eternal peace.
M Royack
December 28, 2012
U where a great actor
Robert Redcay
December 28, 2012
Grateful for your service and sacrifice
RIP BRAVE WARRIOR -_-
Nina Heath
December 28, 2012
Not only was Mr. Durning an excellent actor but I honor him for his service to America.
John Traylor
December 28, 2012
RIP
Linda Summers
December 28, 2012
RIP sir!!!
L. Lenser
December 28, 2012
A great American actor and great War Hero..you will be missed..
Ruth Gómez
December 28, 2012
Another Great One gone from the Greatest Generation. So many memorable roles and wonderful performances. None more esteemed than American Patriot. As Jack Amsterdam was once told: "The Winner Goes to Dinner." Bon Appetit, Mr. Durning.
Rey Criollo
December 28, 2012
Rest in peace Charlie, Highland Falls and the rest of the world will miss you
Joe Barna
December 28, 2012
A great legend will be missed..a great American and actor and War hero..You will be missed.Our condolences to your Family.
Ruth Gomez
December 28, 2012
Another Hero and great Actor passes from this stage to the Great Stage to perform for The King of Kings.
Lance Jones
December 28, 2012
God bless you and thank you for your service and your talents that have entertained us through the years. You will be sorely missed.
A fan from Brooklyn
December 28, 2012
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
DERALD GINGER
December 28, 2012
Rest in Peace, I grew up seeing your face on tv and whenever I would see you on a new show or movie I would think this is gonna be good if he is a part of it. So I am sure heaven will be great now that you are there.
December 28, 2012
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
December 28, 2012
Rest in peace..
Thanks for your courageous service in WWII.. You will always be remembered as a true American hero..
May god bless your family in this time of sorrow..
Matt Bondy
December 28, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
December 28, 2012
R.I.P you were a fine man and actor you will be greatly missed ! May God Bless you and your family
Jennifer Davis
December 28, 2012
I've really enjoyed all his work. I grew up seeing him. Entertainment has lost a true talent.
Larry Thibodeaux
December 28, 2012
Charla McFarland
December 28, 2012
I Salute a True Hero,
R.I.P.God Bless
Frank Marcan
Korea War Veteran 51-52
Frank Marcan
December 28, 2012
A genuine entertainer, and even more genuine hero.
God bless you, and keep you.
Andrew Abodeely
December 28, 2012
Linda Summers
December 28, 2012
Rest in peace dear soldier.
Rick Dunlap
December 28, 2012
A wonderful hero and a great actor. You will be missed
Lorena Bell-Ranta
December 28, 2012
You are a TRUE Hero...Rest in Peace. You will be missed and remembered for the great person you were! Love and prayers for your family!
Jean Larson
December 28, 2012
I have seen Mr. Durning in many character roles and some movies, but have to admit my favorite role of his was his appearance on "NCIS" as a Medal of Honor recipient. Playing that role almost mirrors his military life. He will be missed for his acting in different character roles. My condolences to his family.
Carol Dukes
December 28, 2012
R.I.P. Sir, walk with God.
David Dekanich
December 28, 2012
Another Hero lost. What a tragedy for us all. Thank you for service, sacrifice and dedication to our great nation. Thank you for coming home and entertaining us for years. You are missed. An American Treasure.
j h
December 28, 2012
I never knew you were a veteran of WWII, a courageous and honorable man. Thank you for serving alongside many great men for your country. Keep soaring in the sky's above. Much love
Kathryn Fallon
December 28, 2012
Thank you for you service, you sir are a true Hero. Your movie career spans so much and I have enjoyed watching. May your family find peace. Go home solider and rest.
Karen Vaughn
December 28, 2012
Sir, we salute you for your service and sacrifice. I also salute you for the many years of entertainment. God bless you and keep you in his arms!
John Brooks
December 28, 2012
Thank you for all you service. Prayers are with your family.
Marsha
December 28, 2012
Another name of note slips away, and we finally learn of his contribution to America's Greatest Generation. Rest In Peace Sir... and Thank You.
David Blythe
December 28, 2012
Great guy and actor! Sorry to hear of his passing.
april herrman
December 28, 2012
Thank you for your service. True warrior.
Sgt Callarman, USMC
Cody Callarman
December 28, 2012
As a former military officer I salute you rest in peace brother you are a true hero
Arnaldo Garcia
December 28, 2012
A true hero
Armando Pulido
December 28, 2012
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