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Top Actors of the 1940s

The 1940s turned out to be an important decade in Hollywood as it marked the advent of television and the decline of the studio system. Actors who thrived in this decade went on to leave an indelible mark in the history of Hollywood. Gregory Peck, for instance, received the Presidential Medal of Freedom and Cary Grant was among Hollywood’s most important leading men during the decade. Here is a list of the top actors who dominated the Hollywood in the 1940s.

1. Gregory Peck

Gregory Peck
    
Also Known As: Eldred Gregory Peck
Birthday: 05 April 1916
Born In: La Jolla, California, United States
Sun Sign: Aries
Died On: 12 June 2003

American actor Gregory Peck was one of the most famous movie stars between the 1940s and the 1960s. In 1999, Gregory Peck was ranked 12th in the Greatest Male Stars of Classic Hollywood Cinema list published by the American Film Institute. Also known for his humanitarian efforts, Gregory Peck was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1969.

2. Cary Grant

Cary Grant
    
Also Known As: Archibald Alec Leach
Birthday: 18 January 1904
Born In: Horfield, Bristol, England
Sun Sign: Capricorn
Died On: 29 November 1986

Considered one of the greatest actors ever, Cary Grant’s good looks, popular appeal and a knack for romantic comedy made him an enduring Hollywood star from the 1930s to the 1960s. Penny Serenade, An Affair to Remember, To Catch a Thief, North by Northwest and Charade are some of his classic films. He was bestowed an honorary Oscar in 1970.

3. James Stewart

James Stewart
    
Also Known As: James Maitland Stewart
Birthday: 20 May 1908
Born In: Indiana, Pennsylvania, United States
Sun Sign: Taurus
Died On: 02 July 1997

Best known for his everyman screen persona, James Stewart was ranked third in the greatest American male actors list published by the American Film Institute (AFI) in 1999. During his 55-year acting career, he displayed strong morality both on and off the screen, as a result of which he epitomized the ideal American man of the 20th century.

4. William Holden

William Holden
    
Also Known As: William Franklin Beedle Jr
Birthday: 17 April 1918
Born In: O'Fallon, Illinois, United States
Sun Sign: Aries
Died On: 12 November 1981

William Holden is best known for his Academy Award-winning performance in Stalag 17 and his Emmy-winning role in the TV film The Blue Knight. He also appeared in the films Sunset Boulevard and The Bridge on the River Kwai, and on Lux Radio Theatre. He was also a wildlife conservationist.

5. Spencer Tracy

Spencer Tracy
    
Also Known As: Spencer Bonaventure Tracy
Birthday: 05 April 1900
Born In: Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
Sun Sign: Aries
Died On: 10 June 1967

One of the most popular actors of classical Hollywood cinema, Spencer Tracy was known for his versatility, which helped him win two successive Oscars for Best Actor. In 1999, he was ranked the ninth greatest male star of Hollywood's Golden Age by the American Film Institute. Tracy is widely regarded as one of the finest actors of the 20th century.