Happy Birthday to Henry Fonda

Henry Fonda was born on May 16, 1905 in Grand Island, Nebraska. He died at age 77 in 1982. He is indeed one of our most famous Nebraskans. The American Film Institute named him as the sixth greatest male star of all time. What an honor! And isn't he a handsome man?

He grew up in Nebraska and is early training in acting was by Dorothy Brando--mother of Marlon Brando. His acting debut was at the Omaha Community Playhouse. He moved to New York in 1928. He had a brief marriage to Margaret Sullavan. He was a roommate of Jimmie Stewart as they honed their craft in the theater.

The internet movie database lists 115 movies and television programs he was in. Among the most famous were some of the classics such as: Jezebel, 12 Angry Men, Young Mr. Lincoln, The Lady Eve, and The Grapes of Wrath. A personal favorite of mine is Lillian Russell starring Alice Faye.

Fonda won a best actor Oscar for for On Golden Pond in 1981 and a lifetime achievement Oscar in 1980. He was nominated in 12 Angry Men. He also won Tony awards and BAFTA.

I think Fonda's acting is very straight forward. That may be from his midwest upbringing.

Fonda is the father of Peter Fonda and Jane Fonda. He has several grandchildren who also are in show business.

Happy 105th birthday, Mr. Fonda. We'll be thinking of you today.

Nebraska Nellie