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Tony Curtis

Tony Curtis was an American actor born Bernard Schwartz who became a major Hollywood star in the 1950s and 1960s.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Tony Curtis was an American actor born Bernard Schwartz who became a major Hollywood star in the 1950s and 1960s. Known for both comic and dramatic roles, he appeared in films such as Some Like It Hot, The Defiant Ones, Spartacus, and The Boston Strangler. He was also a painter and author.

Early life

Tony Curtis was born in New York City to Hungarian-Jewish immigrant parents and grew up in the Bronx. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II before pursuing acting.

Film career

Curtis signed with Universal Pictures in 1948 and became a major star in the 1950s and 1960s. His best-known films include Some Like It Hot, The Defiant Ones, Spartacus, Sweet Smell of Success, and The Boston Strangler.

Later work

After his peak years in Hollywood, Curtis continued to act in film and television roles. He also developed a second career as an artist and published memoirs and other writing.

Personal life

Curtis was married several times and was the father of actress Jamie Lee Curtis. His family life and marriages were frequently noted in biographies and media profiles.

Key facts

  • Tony Curtis was born Bernard Schwartz and adopted his stage name.
  • He rose to fame in the 1950s as a Hollywood leading man.
  • Curtis was noted for versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles.
  • He received an Academy Award nomination for The Defiant Ones.
  • He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II.

Frequently asked questions

Who was Tony Curtis?
Tony Curtis was an American film actor, painter, and author best known for his Hollywood roles in the 1950s and 1960s.
What was Tony Curtis's birth name?
His birth name was Bernard Schwartz.
What films is Tony Curtis best known for?
He is best known for Some Like It Hot, The Defiant Ones, Spartacus, Sweet Smell of Success, and The Boston Strangler.
Did Tony Curtis serve in the military?
Yes. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II.
Was Tony Curtis related to Jamie Lee Curtis?
Yes. Jamie Lee Curtis is his daughter.
When did Tony Curtis die?
He died on September 29, 2010, in Henderson, Nevada.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannicahttps://www.britannica.com/biography/Tony-Curtis
    Supports: Birth name, birth and death dates, nationality, and general career overview.
  2. Turner Classic Movieshttps://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/person/848347%7C148433/Tony-Curtis
    Supports: Major films, Academy Award nomination mention, and career overview.
  3. EBSCO Research Startershttps://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/biography/tony-curtis
    Supports: Early life, Navy service, Universal contract, family, and later writing/artwork.
  4. Biography.comhttps://www.biography.com/actors/tony-curtis
    Supports: Birth name, family relationships, marriage history, and death information.
  5. Who2https://www.who2.com/bio/tony-curtis/
    Supports: Career progression, later film/TV work, painting, memoirs, and family details.