From Combat to Hollywood: 31 Actors That Served Overseas, Part I
Tony Curtis
Like Henry Fonda, Kirk Douglas, Paul Newman, and many others, Tony Curtis served in the U.S. Navy before reaching Hollywood star status. He fought in World War II. Later, he’d become known for his roles in Some Like It Hot, Spartacus, The Defiant Ones and The Sweet Smell of Success. His daughter is the lovely Jamie Lee Curtis.
Charlton Heston
Ben-Hur, Planet of the Apes, The Ten Commandments… each film did its part in shaping the filmmaking landscape. This was due in large part to its star: Charlton Heston, a World War II veteran that served in the Army Air Force.
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James Avery
Years after fighting in the Vietnam War (U.S. Navy), Avery played Uncle Phil on TV’s The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.
Rock Hudson
With over 75 credits now to his name (Giant, Pillow Talk and McMillain & Wife, to name a few), it’s easy to see that Rock Hudson became a Hollywood mainstay after his time in the U.S. Navy. He served in World War II.
James “Jimmy” Stewart
When people think of Jimmy Stewart, they likely think of the walk. They think of the unique way he talked. They think of Rear Window, of It’s a Wonderful Life, of Vertigo and of Anatomy of a Murder.
What may not be known about Stewart is that he played an integral role in World War II, not only as a pilot in the Army Air Force, but also as a recruiter. In the video, you’ll see Stewart doing his part in a small film explaining the needs of the military and how much of an honor it is to serve your country.
Throughout World War II, Stewart flew 24 missions, piloting B-24 bombers over Europe. Impressively, Stewart insisted on remaining a reserve after the war. He also went on to fly at least one mission in the Vietnam War.
