Oscar winning actor Karl Malden dies at 97

Thursday, July 2, 2009, 11:33 [IST]
London (ANI): Oscar winning actor Karl Malden has died at the age of 97 at his home in Los Angeles. His family said that the actor had been in poor health for several years and his death occurred due to natural causes, reports the BBC.

Malden, who rarely played the lead in the films he did, had acknowledged in the past that his average looks and prominent nose - twice broken on the sports field - would not help him play a leading man. Hence, most of his more memorable performances came in supporting roles.

The actor refrained form TV series until he got to act as homicide detective Mike Stone in The Streets of San Francisco alongside Michael Douglas, which ran from 1972 to 1977. Eventually, he became know as Lt Mike Stone while Douglas got his share of fame as Insp Steve Keller in the drama series.

Malden was also nominated for four consecutive times for an Emmy for The Streets of San Francisco.
But he finally lifted the trophy in 1984, for the mini-series "Fatal Vision". Malden won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor in 1951, for his performance in A Streetcar Named Desire, and was nominated again in 1954.

User Comments
Mary Nash Stoddard 02 Jul 2009 07:22 pm
Tribute to a Beloved Film Star by Mary "Sam" Stoddard DALLAS TX - July 1, 2009 -- I just learned of the death of a dear family friend and legendary actor, Karl Malden. I had the great honor of being Mr. Malden's personal assistant in 1984. It was one of the best jobs I ever had. What a wonderful time we had with Mona and Karl, while they were in the DFW area making a CBS Movie of the Week. So many great stories to tell and memories that make me smile. The Maldens are my heroes for many reasons - including their 71 year happy marriage. My heart goes out to Mona and the family. When my husband died twenty four years ago, Mona was there for me. Now, it is my sad duty to do the same for her, with equal compassion and love. Karl Malden will be in our hearts and minds forever. His films will be here for all times, to thrill, inspire and entertain. His work will hopefully be praised and studied by film buffs and aspiring actors everywhere, as a model for those who would follow in his footsteps. We will miss this great man of stage and screen. We were fortunate to have him with us as long as we did. Thank you, Mr. Malden. You truly were a Star! Contact: Mary 1-214-387-4001
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