10 fun and interesting Harry Dean Stanton facts

1. an illustrious career

Harry Dean Stanton has had an illustrious career that has spanned over five decades. During this time, he has appeared in over 200 films and television shows, including classics such as 'Alien', 'Paris, Texas', 'Repo Man', 'Pretty in Pink', and 'The Godfather Part II'. He has also had memorable roles in television series such as 'Twin Peaks', 'Big Love', and 'The X-Files'. His career has been recognized with numerous awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Austin Film Critics Association in 2011.

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2. Harry Dean Stanton, Actor, Dies at 91

In the late 2000s, Harry Dean Stanton made a memorable impression on viewers with his recurring role in the popular HBO television series Big Love. His character, Roman Grant, was the leader of a polygamist cult and Stanton's portrayal of the complex and often sinister character was widely praised by critics. His performance earned him a Satellite Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor in a Series, Miniseries, or Television Film in 2008.

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3. A Musician's Musician

Harry Dean Stanton came from a family with a strong musical background. His father, Sheridan Stanton, was a barber who sang in a barbershop quartet, while his mother, Ersel, was a homemaker who sang in the church choir. Growing up, Stanton was exposed to a variety of musical styles, from classical to country, and he developed a deep appreciation for music that would stay with him throughout his life.

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4. WWII Veteran, Cook

Harry Dean Stanton was a US Navy veteran of World War II, having served as a cook aboard an LST during the Battle of Okinawa. His service was integral to the Allied victory in the Pacific, as the LSTs were used to transport troops and supplies to the front lines. Stanton's bravery and dedication to duty during the conflict earned him the respect of his fellow servicemen, and his service is remembered to this day.

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5. A Country Singer and Actor

Harry Dean Stanton is an actor who has also been known to take the stage as a singer/guitarist. He has toured nightclubs across the country, performing a variety of country-influenced cover songs. His repertoire includes classic country hits from the likes of Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, and Hank Williams, as well as more modern tunes from artists like Brad Paisley and Dolly Parton. Stanton's performances have been praised for their heartfelt delivery and his ability to capture the emotion of the songs he sings.

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6. Harry Dean Stanton Festival Returns to Lexington

The Lexington Film League created a festival in 2011 to honor the late actor Harry Dean Stanton, who spent much of his adolescence in the city of Lexington, Kentucky. The festival, which was aptly named the Harry Dean Stanton Festival, was a celebration of Stanton's life and career, featuring screenings of his films, panel discussions, and a variety of other activities. The festival was a huge success, with many of Stanton's friends and colleagues in attendance, and it has since become an annual event in Lexington.

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7. A Young Man's Odyssey to the Stage

As a young man, Harry Dean Stanton attended Lafayette High School and the University of Kentucky in Lexington. While at the University of Kentucky, he had the opportunity to perform at the Guignol Theatre under the direction of the esteemed Wallace Briggs, a theater icon at the university. Stanton was able to hone his craft and develop his skills under the tutelage of Briggs, which would later serve him well in his long and successful career in the entertainment industry.

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8. A Successful Actor Who Studied Journalism

Harry Dean Stanton was a renowned actor, but before he made it big in Hollywood, he studied journalism and radio arts at the University of Kentucky. His studies in these fields gave him the skills and knowledge to become a successful actor, as he was able to use his understanding of the media to his advantage. He was also able to use his knowledge of radio arts to help him hone his craft, as he was able to use his voice to create a unique and captivating presence on screen.

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9. A Unique and Captivating Sound

In 2011, Harry Dean Stanton starred in the documentary 'Harry Dean Stanton: Crossing Mulholland', where he showcased his musical talents by singing and playing the harmonica. His performance was met with critical acclaim, with many praising his ability to bring a unique and captivating sound to the documentary. His harmonica playing was particularly praised, with many noting his skill in creating a unique and emotive atmosphere.

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10. Friends for Life

At the Pasadena Playhouse in Pasadena, California, Harry Dean Stanton studied alongside his friends Tyler MacDuff and Dana Andrews. The three of them formed a close bond during their time there, and their friendship has lasted for many years since. Harry Dean Stanton has gone on to become a renowned actor, appearing in films such as Alien, The Godfather Part II, and Paris, Texas. Tyler MacDuff and Dana Andrews have also had successful careers in the entertainment industry, with MacDuff appearing in films such as The Big Sleep and The Man Who Knew Too Much, and Andrews appearing in films such as The Best Years of Our Lives and The Ox-Bow Incident.