John Wayne (born May 26, 1907, in Winterset, Iowa, U.S. – died June 11, 1979) was an American actor, director, and producer. He attended the University of Southern California before entering the film industry through behind-the-scenes work and small acting roles. Years of perseverance eventually led to his rise as one of Hollywood’s biggest stars.
He achieved stardom with Stagecoach and later appeared in classics such as The Searchers, Red River, Rio Bravo, and True Grit. He won the Academy Award for Best Actor for True Grit. Known for rugged masculinity, confidence, and strong screen presence, he became the defining star of the Western genre.
He remained a major box-office attraction for decades while also directing and producing films. His influence extended beyond Westerns into war films and American popular culture. With a career spanning more than fifty years and numerous iconic roles, he remains one of the most recognizable and influential actors in cinema history.