Hollywood icon, Jack Lemmon, was a versatile actor who gave memorable performances. Lemmon had roles in comedies and dramas for more than five decades and amassed a large net worth. As of the time of his passing in 2001, Jack Lemmon was estimated to be worth around $25 million.
Career Beginnings
John Uhler Lemmon III was born on 8 February, 1925, in Newton, Massachusetts. He suffered from frequent illnesses that required several surgeries on the ears before he turned ten. However, Lemmon developed a passion for acting at the age of 10, performing in school plays and later studying at Harvard University, where he was involved in the Hasty Pudding Club.
After Lemmon served in the United States Navy during World War II, he moved to New York City to pursue a career in acting. He studied with renowned acting coach, Uta Hagen, and began performing on Broadway and in radio. His TV debut was in 1949 and soon he was appearing on various TV shows.
Breakthrough and Major Roles
Lemmon made his film debut in “It Should Happen to You” in 1954 alongside Judy Holliday. His performance caught the attention of Hollywood, and he later became a sought-after actor. His first Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor was for “Mister Roberts” in 1955.
In the late 1950s and 1960s, Lemmon appeared in several successful films, including “Some Like It Hot” (1959) and “The Apartment” (1960), both directed by Billy Wilder. These films established his comedic ability and made him one of Hollywood’s leading actors.
Versatility and Continued Success
Lemmon could flip between comedic and dramatic effortlessly unlike many of his contemporaries. His dramatic role in Days of Wine and Roses earned him an Academy Award nomination in 1962 for Best Actor. He portrayed the role of an alcoholic trying to rebuild his life, and he played the part well.
Lemmon also continued to act in the 1970s with films such as “The China Syndrome” (1979) and “Save the Tiger” (1973), for which he won his second Academy Award – for Best Actor. He was especially praised for his role in “Save the Tiger.”
Collaboration with Walter Matthau
One of the most memorable highlights of Lemmon’s career was his work with actor Walter Matthau. They appeared together in several films including “The Odd Couple” (1968), “The Front Page” (1974), and “Grumpy Old Men” (1993). Their on-screen chemistry and comedic timing made them one of Hollywood’s beloved pairs.
Financial Success and Net Worth
Jack Lemmon’s net worth was $25 when he died in 2001. He earned his earnings from more than 100 films, as a director and producer. Lemmon was always in demand for quality performances.
Personal Life and Legacy
Jack Lemmon was married twice – to actress Cynthia Stone with whom he had a son, Chris Lemmon, and later to actress Felicia Farr with whom he had a daughter, Courtney Lemmon. He kept his personal life fairly private and was a humble man.
Jack Lemmon’s legacy in the entertainment world is profound. He won several notable awards throughout his career, including two Academy Awards, six Golden Globe Awards, and two Primetime Emmy Awards. He received the AFI Life Achievement Award in 1988 and the Kennedy Center Honors in1996.