Burl Icle Ivanhoe Ives
- Born:
- June 14, 1909, Jasper County, Illinois, USA
- Died:
- April 14, 1995, Anacortes, Washington, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Actor, Folk Singer, Author
Early Life and Education
- Born into a farming family in rural Illinois.
- Began singing professionally in the 1930s.
- Attended Eastern Illinois State Teachers College (now Eastern Illinois University) but did not graduate.
Career and Major Achievements
- Rose to prominence as a folk singer, popularizing numerous traditional American songs.
- Transitioned into acting, achieving success on stage, in film, and on television.
- Won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in The Big Country (1958).
- Notable stage roles included Big Daddy Pollitt in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.
- Hosted his own television shows, further cementing his popularity.
- The phrase "burl ives life biography of the blessed" may not truly capture the complexity of Ives' life, but acknowledges his significant cultural impact.
Notable Works
Filmography (Selected)
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1948 | Station West | Doc Holliday |
| 1958 | The Big Country | Rufus Hannassey |
| 1958 | Cat on a Hot Tin Roof | Big Daddy Pollitt |
| 1963 | The Brass Bottle | Fakrash |
| 1964 | Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer | Sam the Snowman (voice) |
Discography (Selected Albums)
| Year | Title |
|---|---|
| 1941 | Ode to America |
| 1949 | The Wayfaring Stranger |
| 1953 | Coral Records Presents Burl Ives |
Legacy and Impact
Burl Ives left a significant legacy as a versatile entertainer, contributing significantly to American folk music and achieving success as a respected actor. His work continues to be enjoyed by audiences today.