Charles Durning (February 28, 1923 – December 24, 2012) was an American actor. With appearances in over 100 films, Durning’s memorable roles include police officers in the Oscar-winning The Sting (1973) and crime drama Dog Day Afternoon (1975), along with the comedies Tootsie, To Be Or Not To Be and The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, the last two of which earned him Academy Award nominations for Best Supporting Actor. He won a Tony award for his portrayal of Big Daddy in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof in 1990.
Durning was honored with the Life Achievement Award at the 14th Annual Screen Actors Guild Award Ceremony on January 27, 2008. On July 31, 2008 he was given a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame next to that of one of his idols, James Cagney.
Military service
For his military service on World War II, Durning was awarded the Silver Star, Bronze Star, and three Purple Heart medals. Additional awards include the World War II Victory Medal.
Durning participated in the Normandy Invasion of France on D-Day, June 6, 1944, and was among the first troops to land at Omaha Beach.
Charles Durning cause of death
Charles Durning died of natural causes at his home in Manhattan, New York on December 24, 2012. Durning was 89. In his obituary, the Los Angeles Times called Durning “the king of character actors”.