# Cliff Robertson > American actor (1923–2011) **Wikidata**: [Q181899](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q181899) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cliff_Robertson) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/cliff-robertson ## Summary Cliff Robertson was an American actor, film producer, and screenwriter, best known for his Academy Award-winning performance in *Charly* (1968). He was a versatile performer who worked across film, television, and stage, and also contributed to aviation and humanitarian causes. ## Biography - Born: September 9, 1923, in La Jolla, California, United States - Nationality: American - Education: Attended Antioch College and Antioch University - Known for: Academy Award-winning performance in *Charly* (1968) - Employer(s): Actors Studio, various film and television productions - Field(s): Acting, film production, screenwriting, aviation ## Contributions Cliff Robertson made significant contributions to the entertainment industry as a film actor, television actor, and screenwriter. His portrayal of Charly Gordon in *Charly* (1968) earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor. He also worked on *PT 109* (1963), a film about John F. Kennedy's wartime experience, which Robertson also produced. In addition to his film career, he was involved in aviation and was inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame. He was a member of the Actors Studio and contributed to the development of method acting in American cinema. ## FAQs ### What are Cliff Robertson's most notable film roles? Cliff Robertson is best known for his Academy Award-winning performance in *Charly* (1968), where he played a mentally disabled man who undergoes an experimental surgery. He also starred in *PT 109* (1963), which he produced, depicting the wartime experiences of John F. Kennedy. ### What awards did Cliff Robertson receive? Robertson won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in *Charly* (1968). He also received a Theatre World Award for his stage performance and was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. ### Where did Cliff Robertson study? He studied at Antioch College and later at Antioch University, both located in Yellow Springs, Ohio. These institutions were known for their progressive educational approaches. ### What other contributions did Cliff Robertson make outside of acting? Beyond acting, Robertson was a licensed aircraft pilot and was inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame. He also worked as a screenwriter and film producer, contributing to both the creative and technical sides of the entertainment industry. ## Why They Matter Cliff Robertson's career spanned over six decades, during which he became a respected figure in American cinema. His Academy Award-winning performance in *Charly* brought attention to the lives of individuals with disabilities and highlighted the importance of empathy in storytelling. As a member of the Actors Studio, he helped shape modern American acting techniques. His work in aviation also contributed to his recognition in the National Aviation Hall of Fame, showcasing his multifaceted contributions to society. ## Notable For - Academy Award for Best Actor for *Charly* (1968) - Theatre World Award for stage performance - Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame - Induction into the National Aviation Hall of Fame - Membership in the Actors Studio - Producing and starring in *PT 109* (1963) - Longevity in the entertainment industry (1943–2007) - Work across film, television, and stage - Contributions to aviation and humanitarian causes ## Body ### Early Life Clifford Parker Robertson III was born on September 9, 1923, in La Jolla, California. He was raised in a family with strong ties to the entertainment industry and pursued higher education at Antioch College and Antioch University in Ohio. These institutions were known for their progressive and experimental educational models, which influenced Robertson's early development. ### Career Robertson's career began in the 1940s, and he quickly established himself as a versatile actor in film, television, and theatre. His breakthrough role came with *Charly* (1968), where he delivered a powerful performance that earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor. This role highlighted themes of intelligence, identity, and human dignity, resonating with audiences and critics alike. In addition to his acting career, Robertson worked behind the camera as a screenwriter and film producer. He produced and starred in *PT 109* (1963), a biographical war film about John F. Kennedy's heroic actions during World War II. This project demonstrated his ability to combine historical storytelling with cinematic excellence. ### Affiliations Robertson was a long-standing member of the Actors Studio, an organization dedicated to the craft of acting and the development of method acting techniques. His affiliation with the Studio placed him among some of the most influential actors and directors in American cinema. ### Awards and Recognition Robertson received numerous accolades throughout his career. His Academy Award for Best Actor in *Charly* remains one of his most significant achievements. He also received a Theatre World Award for his stage work and was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, recognizing his contributions to the entertainment industry. ### Aviation and Philanthropy Beyond the arts, Robertson was a licensed aircraft pilot and was inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame. His passion for aviation was not merely recreational; it was a lifelong commitment that complemented his artistic endeavors. He also engaged in various humanitarian efforts, using his platform to support causes related to education and the arts. ### Legacy Cliff Robertson's legacy is defined by his artistic excellence, versatility, and dedication to both his craft and community. His work in *Charly* remains a landmark in cinema, and his contributions to aviation and education underscore a life lived with purpose and impact. His influence continues to inspire new generations of actors, filmmakers, and aviators. ## References 1. BnF authorities 2. Integrated Authority File 3. The Peerage 4. datos.bne.es 5. Czech National Authority Database 6. Find a Grave 7. [Source](http://www.theatreworldawards.org/past-recipients.html) 8. International Standard Name Identifier 9. Internet Broadway Database 10. Discogs 11. Internet Speculative Fiction Database 12. filmportal.de 13. GeneaStar 14. [Source](http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/movies/2011/09/oscar-winning-actor-cliff-robertson-dies-at-88.html) 15. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013 16. Virtual International Authority File 17. Autoritats UB 18. The Movie Database 19. Cinemathèque québécoise Linked Open Data