In Memory of my Hero!
Charlton Heston's Legacy
Charlton Heston died in Beverly Hills with his wife Lydia by his side. The two had been married for 64 years. Here, they are seen at a "90 Stars for 90 Years" party in 2002.
Heston's portrayal of heroes like Judah Ben-Hur and Moses made him a Hollywood icon. "Heston was seen by the world as larger than life. No man could have given more to his family, to his profession, and to his country," said his family in a statement after his death.
Heston is seen here in a publicity still for 'Ben-Hur.' His first starring film role was in the 1950 film noir 'Dark City.'
Heston rehearsed the famed chariot race in 'Ben-Hur' for two months. "I couldn't drive it well, but that wasn't necessary. All I had to do was stay on board so they could shoot me there," he said. "MGM guaranteed I would win the race."
Heston starred as Moses in Cecil B. DeMille's 1956 epic 'The Ten Commandments.' IMDB.com reports that DeMille was said to have been attracted to Heston for the role because the actor bore a resemblance to a Michelangelo statue of Moses.
Heston's turn in the 1968 science fiction classic 'Planet of the Apes' allowed him to chew the scenery with such great lines as "it's a mad house" and "G-d damn you all to hell!"
He starred in the 1973 sci-fi cult classic 'Soylent Green.' Heston's over-the-top cry "Soylent Green is made out of people" is a favorite quotable of film geeks everywhere.
Heston was elected president of the National Rifle Association in 1998. He would hold the position until 2003. "America doesn't trust you with our 21-year-old daughters, and we sure, Lord, don't trust you with our guns," he said to President Bill Clinton as he took on the NRA title.
When stepping down from his role as NRA president, Heston said it was "quite a ride. I loved every minute of it." Michael Moore was criticized for interviewing an apparently-confused Heston in his 'Bowling for Columbine' documentary.
Heston smiles after being awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2003. President Bush said "the largeness of character that comes across the screen has also been seen throughout his life" when presenting him with the honor.
Heston, seen with his grandson in 2002, revealed over five years ago that he had symptoms similar to Alzheimer's disease. "I must reconcile courage and surrender in equal measure," he said at the time.
"I have a face that belongs in another century," Heston said of his appearance. "He was known for his chiseled jaw, broad shoulders and resonating voice, and, of course, for the roles he played" said his family following his death.
May he Rest in The Lord's hands and Peace be with him.
No comments:
Post a Comment