James Coburn American Actor

James Coburn (born August 31, 1928 – died November 18, 2002) was an American actor who rose to fame in the 1960s and became known for his cool demeanor, rugged looks, and commanding screen presence.

Coburn’s breakthrough came with his role in *The Magnificent Seven* (1960). He went on to star in a wide range of films, including the spy spoof *Our Man Flint* (1966), cementing his status as a leading man. His versatility allowed him to move effortlessly between action, westerns, comedies, and dramas.

Later in his career, Coburn earned critical acclaim for his performance in *Affliction* (1997), which won him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. He was also a prolific voice actor and appeared in numerous television productions.

Recognized as one of Hollywood’s most charismatic figures, Coburn left behind a legacy of memorable performances and remains celebrated for his contributions to American cinema.

James Coburn

Date of Birth: August 31, 1928

Place of Birth: Laurel, Nebraska, U.S.

Nationality: American

Known for: The Magnificent Seven, Our Man Flint, Affliction

Career Highlights

Coburn appeared in more than 70 films and 100 television programs. He often portrayed tough, laconic characters, but his natural charm and humor gave depth to his roles. From westerns and war films to thrillers and comedies, Coburn’s career spanned five decades.

Award Recognition

His portrayal of Glen Whitehouse in *Affliction* was hailed as one of his finest performances, earning him an Academy Award in 1999 at the age of 70.

Death and Legacy

James Coburn died on November 18, 2002, in Beverly Hills, California. Remembered for his charisma and versatility, he continues to be admired as a quintessential figure of American film.

Filmography

Year Title Type Notes
Feature Films
1959Ride LonesomeFilmSupporting role; early Western appearance
1959The Last of the Fast GunsFilmWestern supporting role
1960The Magnificent SevenFilmBreakthrough role as Britt
1961The Last SunsetFilmWestern drama
1962Lonely Are the BraveFilmModern Western classic
1963The Great EscapeFilmIconic WWII ensemble film
1964CharadeFilmThriller with Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn
1965Major DundeeFilmSam Peckinpah Western
1966Our Man FlintFilmSpy parody; cult classic lead role
1967In Like FlintFilmSequel to Our Man Flint
1967The President’s AnalystFilmPolitical satire
1968Duck, You Sucker!FilmSergio Leone epic
1970Pat Garrett and Billy the KidFilmRevisionist Western
1973Pat Garrett & Billy the KidFilmAlternate cut appearance
1974Hard TimesFilmGreat Depression-era boxing drama
1974Bring Me the Head of Alfredo GarciaFilmCult Peckinpah film
1975Bite the BulletFilmWestern adventure
1977Cross of IronFilmWar film directed by Sam Peckinpah
1979PlayersFilmRomantic drama
1981LookerFilmScience fiction thriller
1989Young Guns IIFilmWestern sequel
1994A Pure FormalityFilmPsychological mystery
1997AfflictionFilmAcademy Award–winning performance
1998MaverickFilmSupporting role in Western comedy
1999PaybackFilmCrime thriller with Mel Gibson
2001American GunFilmFinal film role
Television
1957–1958Have Gun – Will TravelTV SeriesMultiple guest appearances
1958–1959RawhideTV SeriesRecurring Western roles
1959BonanzaTV SeriesGuest appearance
1960Alfred Hitchcock PresentsTV SeriesGuest role
1962The VirginianTV SeriesWestern anthology appearance

Legacy & Recognition

  • Recognized as one of the defining screen tough-guys of 1960s and 1970s American cinema.
  • Frequent collaborator with director Sam Peckinpah, shaping the revisionist Western genre.
  • Academy Award winner for Best Supporting Actor (Affliction, 1997).
  • Enduring influence on modern action and Western film archetypes.

References

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