James Coburn Biography, Body Measurements, Relationship and More

James Harrison Coburn III, born on August 31, 1928, in Laurel, Nebraska, was an American film and television actor. He appeared in over 70 films and made 100 television appearances throughout his 45-year career. Coburn became known for his roles in Westerns and action films, such as The Magnificent Seven, The Great Escape, and Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid. He won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Affliction and received a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for producing The Mists of Avalon. Coburn was also known for his “cool” image during the New Hollywood era.

For a detailed look into James Coburn’s early life, education, career, personal life, and more, continue reading below.

Early Life and Education

James Coburn was born on August 31, 1928, in Laurel, Nebraska. He came from a Scots-Irish and Swedish immigrant family, and his father owned a garage business that was affected by the Great Depression. Coburn grew up in Compton, California, and attended Compton Junior College. After serving in the U.S. Army, where he worked as a truck driver and radio DJ, he pursued his passion for acting and studied at Los Angeles City College.

During his early years, Coburn faced challenges and setbacks, but his determination and love for the craft drove him forward. His educational background and experiences in the Army shaped his character and provided a foundation for his future success in the entertainment industry.

Early Life Highlights:

• Born on August 31, 1928, in Laurel, Nebraska.
• Grew up in Compton, California.
• Attended Compton Junior College.
• Served in the U.S. Army as a truck driver and radio DJ.
• Studied acting at Los Angeles City College.

These formative years laid the groundwork for Coburn’s journey towards becoming a renowned actor, and they shaped his perspective on life and the industry. From humble beginnings to pursuing his dreams, Coburn’s early life and education set the stage for his future accomplishments.

Career Beginnings

From Television to Film Debut

James Coburn’s career in the entertainment industry began with television roles. In 1953, he made his first appearance on Four Star Playhouse, showcasing his talent and versatility as an actor. Shortly after, he caught the attention of viewers through a Remington Products razor commercial, which laid the foundation for his future success.

It wasn’t long before Coburn made his much-anticipated film debut in 1959’s Ride Lonesome. This marked the start of his journey into the world of cinema where he would leave an indelible mark. With his natural charisma and undeniable screen presence, Coburn quickly gained recognition and set the stage for a remarkable career.

Television Roles and Rising Stardom

Following his film debut, Coburn continued to make appearances on television, showcasing his acting range in popular shows like Bonanza, Laramie, and Perry Mason. These early television roles allowed him to refine his craft and broaden his audience reach.

However, it was Coburn’s breakthrough role in the 1960 film The Magnificent Seven that propelled him to stardom. His portrayal of the knife-wielding Britt captured audiences’ attention and established him as a genuine star. This breakthrough role opened doors for Coburn, leading to more prominent and diverse roles in the years to come.

Exploring New Horizons

With his rising stardom, Coburn continued to explore new horizons within the film industry. He embraced the challenge of playing unique characters and showcased his versatility as an actor. Coburn’s career beginnings set the groundwork for an extraordinary journey that would see him become a respected and acclaimed figure in Hollywood.

As he transitioned from television to film, Coburn’s talent and dedication paved the way for his future success. From his initial television appearances to his film debut, Coburn’s career beginnings showcased his potential and set the stage for the remarkable achievements that would follow.

Breakthrough and Stardom

After years of working steadily in television and smaller film roles, James Coburn’s breakthrough came in 1960 with the iconic film “The Magnificent Seven.” Coburn portrayed the knife-wielding Britt, a character that instantly captivated audiences and showcased his unique acting abilities. This role propelled Coburn into stardom and opened doors for him to take on leading roles in future projects.

In 1966, Coburn further solidified his status as a Hollywood star with his portrayal of super agent Derek Flint in the James Bond parody film “Our Man Flint.” Coburn’s charismatic performance and effortless coolness resonated with audiences, making him a favorite among fans. His success continued with other popular films like “What Did You Do in the War, Daddy?” and “Dead Heat on a Merry-Go-Round,” where he showcased his versatility as an actor.

Stardom Achieved and Admired Roles

Coburn’s breakthrough and subsequent stardom allowed him to tackle a wide range of roles and genres, further cementing his status as a talented actor. He went on to deliver strong supporting performances in films like “Major Dundee,” “Charade,” and “The Americanization of Emily.” However, it was his portrayal of Pat Garrett in the 1973 film “Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid” that garnered critical acclaim and showcased his ability to delve into complex characters.

It is worth mentioning that Coburn also dabbled in directing, with his most notable directorial work being the 1977 war film “Cross of Iron.” This film was highly praised by critics, particularly in Europe, and further solidified Coburn’s reputation as a multi-talented artist.

Throughout his career, Coburn’s breakthrough and subsequent stardom allowed him to leave a lasting impact on the film industry. His charismatic presence, versatility as an actor, and ability to effortlessly captivate audiences have made him a beloved figure in Hollywood. Coburn’s contributions to cinema will forever be remembered, and his iconic roles continue to inspire and entertain audiences to this day.

Supporting Actor and Critical Acclaim

James Coburn’s versatile acting skills and undeniable screen presence earned him critical acclaim and established him as a respected supporting actor in the film industry. Throughout his career, Coburn delivered memorable performances that showcased his range and talent.

One of Coburn’s standout roles was as Pat Garrett in the 1973 film Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid, directed by Sam Peckinpah. His portrayal of the legendary lawman garnered praise from critics, who highlighted his ability to bring depth and nuance to his character.

In addition to Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid, Coburn received accolades for his supporting performances in other notable films. His role in Major Dundee showcased his ability to capture the essence of complex characters, while his appearance in Charade added an element of intrigue and mystery to the film.

The films below highlight Coburn’s notable supporting roles:

1. Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid (1973)
2. Major Dundee (1965)
3. Charade (1963)
4. The Americanization of Emily (1964)

Legacy and Influence

Coburn’s contributions to the film industry were not only recognized during his lifetime but continue to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers. His ability to breathe life into supporting characters and create memorable moments on screen solidified his place in Hollywood history.

With critical acclaim and an impressive body of work, James Coburn will always be remembered as a talented and versatile supporting actor who left an indelible mark on cinema.

Personal Life and Relationships

James Coburn’s personal life was marked by two marriages and close friendships. He was first married to Beverly Kelly from 1959 to 1979, and they had two children together, James H. Coburn IV and Lisa Coburn. In 1993, Coburn married Paula Murad, with whom he spent the remaining years of his life.

Aside from his marriages, Coburn also had a notable friendship with martial arts icon Bruce Lee. The two became close during the filming of the movie “Enter the Dragon,” and Coburn was one of the pallbearers at Lee’s funeral.

Coburn’s personal relationships played a significant role in his life, providing support and companionship throughout his career. While he achieved great success in the entertainment industry, his personal connections added depth and meaning to his life.

Key Points:

• James Coburn was married to Beverly Kelly from 1959 to 1979 and Paula Murad from 1993 until his death.
• He had two children, James H. Coburn IV and Lisa Coburn.
• Coburn had a close friendship with Bruce Lee and was a pallbearer at Lee’s funeral.

Health Struggles and Personal Transformation

In 1980, James Coburn was faced with a life-changing diagnosis. He was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic inflammatory disorder that causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints. This condition not only impacted his physical well-being but also posed a significant challenge to his acting career.

Despite the debilitating effects of rheumatoid arthritis, Coburn refused to let it define him. He embarked on a holistic journey of healing and personal transformation. Coburn adopted a comprehensive approach to his health, incorporating diet, physical therapy, and exercise into his daily routine.

Through his dedication and determination, Coburn was able to alleviate his symptoms and continue pursuing his passion for acting. His journey with arthritis fueled his interest in alternative medicine and spirituality, leading him to explore new avenues of healing and personal growth.

This period of personal transformation had a profound impact on Coburn and his approach to life. It not only allowed him to manage his health struggles but also deepened his understanding of the mind-body connection and the power of holistic healing.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout his illustrious career, James Coburn was recognized for his exceptional talent and iconic screen presence. His performances garnered critical acclaim and earned him numerous awards and nominations in the entertainment industry.

Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor

In 1997, Coburn received the highest honor in the film industry as he won the prestigious Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his remarkable performance in the movie Affliction. His portrayal of Glen Whitehouse, a troubled father, showcased his versatility and depth as an actor.

Primetime Emmy Award Nomination

Besides his remarkable acting skills, Coburn also ventured into producing. His work on the television miniseries The Mists of Avalon earned him a Primetime Emmy Award nomination. This recognition further solidified his reputation as a talented and multifaceted entertainer.

In addition to these individual accolades, James Coburn’s popularity among audiences was evident in his ranking as the 12th-biggest star in Hollywood in 1967. His unique charm, charisma, and “cool” image made him a beloved and respected figure in the industry.

Later Career and Legacy

Despite his ongoing battle with arthritis, James Coburn continued to work steadily in both film and television throughout the 1980s and 1990s. He proved his versatility as an actor by taking on a wide range of roles, showcasing his talent and charismatic presence. Coburn’s final film role was voicing the character of Henry J. Waternoose III in the animated film Monsters, Inc.

Coburn left a lasting legacy in the film industry with his impressive body of work, having appeared in over 100 films and made numerous television appearances during his 45-year career. He was highly regarded for his skill as an actor and received critical acclaim for his performances in both leading and supporting roles. Coburn’s “cool” image during the New Hollywood era solidified his status as a much-loved and respected actor.

Notable Films and Contributions

• Starring as knife-wielding Britt in The Magnificent Seven (1960), which marked his breakthrough role and earned him widespread recognition
• Portraying super agent Derek Flint in the James Bond parody film Our Man Flint (1966), establishing himself as a leading man
• Receiving critical acclaim for his portrayal of Pat Garrett in Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid (1973), directed by Sam Peckinpah
• Directing and starring in the war film Cross of Iron (1977), which showcased his versatility as an actor and filmmaker

James Coburn’s contributions to the film industry will always be remembered, and his diverse range of performances continues to inspire actors and movie lovers alike. His legacy lives on through his iconic screen presence and the lasting impact he made throughout his remarkable career.

In Conclusion

James Coburn’s later career was a testament to his passion for acting and his dedication to his craft. Despite facing health struggles, he continued to deliver memorable performances that solidified his place in cinematic history. Coburn’s legacy is one of versatility, charisma, and a true love for the art of acting. He will always be remembered as one of the greats in the industry.

Body Measurements and Personal Details

James Coburn, renowned American film and television actor, was not only known for his exceptional talent but also for his distinct physical appearance. Standing at an impressive height of 6 feet 2 inches, Coburn possessed a lean and athletic physique that perfectly complemented his tough-guy roles on-screen. His towering presence commanded attention, and his lanky build exuded an aura of strength and agility.

Coburn’s distinctive features included a recognizable toothy grin that added to his charismatic on-screen persona. His captivating smile became a trademark of his performances, reflecting his charm and magnetism as an actor. Coupled with his sharp wit and captivating presence, Coburn’s physical attributes contributed to his enduring popularity and appeal.

Born on August 31, 1928, in Laurel, Nebraska, Coburn’s personal details reveal a man who hailed from humble beginnings. Throughout his illustrious career, which spanned over 45 years, he left an indelible mark on the film industry. Regrettably, Coburn passed away on November 18, 2002, in Beverly Hills, California, at the age of 74, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

Key Points:

• James Coburn stood at an impressive height of 6 feet 2 inches.
• He possessed a lean and athletic physique.
• Coburn’s charming toothy grin became a trademark of his performances.
• He was born on August 31, 1928, in Laurel, Nebraska.
• James Coburn passed away on November 18, 2002, at the age of 74.

Net Worth and Trivia

James Coburn had a net worth of $10 million at the time of his death. Throughout his successful career, he accumulated wealth not only from his acting work but also from his ventures as a martial artist and car enthusiast. Coburn’s unique skills as a martial artist led him to train under the legendary Bruce Lee, showcasing his dedication to honing his craft.

Aside from his on-screen talents, Coburn had a passion for rare automobiles. In his later years, he exported these valuable vehicles to Japan, using them as a source of income. This demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit and adaptability within the industry.

James Coburn’s diverse range of performances and iconic screen presence left a lasting legacy in the film industry. He will always be remembered as a versatile actor who brought charisma and depth to his roles. His enduring impact and contribution to the world of entertainment are a testament to his talent and dedication.