Tony Curtis: From Bronx Tailor's Son to Hollywood Icon

Early Life and Career

Tony Curtis, born Bernard Schwartz on June 3, 1925, was an American actor whose six-decade career left an indelible mark on Hollywood. Eldest of three children to Jewish parents Helen Klein and Emanuel Schwartz, Curtis grew up in the Bronx, New York.

Rise to Stardom

Curtis began his acting career in the early 1940s, but his breakout role came in the 1950s as the ambitious press agent Sidney Falco in "Sweet Smell of Success." Throughout the decade, he starred in numerous films, including "Some Like It Hot," "The Vikings," and "Spartacus," establishing himself as a heartthrob and one of Hollywood's most sought-after actors.

Later Career and Legacy

As his career progressed, Curtis transitioned into more dramatic roles, showcasing his versatility as an actor. He appeared in films such as "The Defiant Ones," for which he received an Academy Award nomination, and "The Boston Strangler." Curtis continued to act until his passing on September 29, 2010, leaving behind a rich legacy of iconic performances.