The year 1968 was a landmark in Hollywood, with the silver screen illuminated by a constellation of unforgettable stars who captivated audiences with their talent, charisma, and timeless performances. These actors and actresses not only defined an era but also set the standards for cinematic excellence. From the suave coolness of Steve McQueen to the elegant grace of Audrey Hepburn, these icons left an indelible mark on the film industry. This article delves into the lives and legacies of some of the top actors and actresses of 1968, exploring their meteoric rise to fame and their enduring impact on Hollywood and beyond.
Top Actors of 1968
Paul Newman
In 1968, Paul Newman was one of Hollywood's most sought-after leading men. Known for his striking blue eyes and charismatic screen presence, Newman had already established himself with iconic roles in films such as "The Hustler" (1961) and "Hud" (1963). In 1967, he starred in "Cool Hand Luke," earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor and solidifying his status as a top actor of his generation. Newman's ability to portray complex characters with depth and authenticity made him a favorite among audiences and critics alike.
He was one of Hollywood's highest-paid actors, having starred in several box office hits. For "Cool Hand Luke" (1967), he reportedly earned around $750,000, a substantial sum for the time. His rising fame and consistent roles in successful films would have placed his net worth in the millions, likely around $3-5 million.
Paul Newman continued to have a successful career well into the late 20th century, with notable films like "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" (1969), "The Sting" (1973), and "The Color of Money" (1986), for which he finally won an Oscar. Beyond acting, he was also known for his philanthropy, particularly with his Newman's Own food products, whose profits go to charity. Newman passed away in 2008, but his legacy endures through his extensive body of work and charitable contributions.
Steve McQueen
Steve McQueen was at the height of his fame in 1968, celebrated as the "King of Cool" for his rugged charm and anti-hero persona. That year, he starred in "Bullitt," which featured one of the most famous car chase scenes in film history. McQueen's roles in "The Magnificent Seven" (1960) and "The Great Escape" (1963) had already made him a household name, and "Bullitt" cemented his status as a major Hollywood star. His preference for action-packed roles and his real-life passion for motorcycles and cars endeared him to a wide audience.
Steve McQueen was also among the top-earning actors in 1968, known for his action-packed roles and box office appeal. For "The Thomas Crown Affair" (1968), he earned $1 million. His net worth at the time was likely in the range of $5-7 million, bolstered by his successful career and wise investments in real estate and automobiles.
McQueen's career continued to flourish in the 1970s with hits like "The Getaway" (1972) and "Papillon" (1973). However, his life was cut short when he died of cancer in 1980 at the age of 50. Despite his early death, McQueen remains an enduring icon of cool, and his films continue to be celebrated by new generations of fans.
Clint Eastwood
In 1968, Clint Eastwood was transitioning from television fame on "Rawhide" to becoming a major film star. He had already achieved international fame for his roles in Sergio Leone's "Dollars Trilogy," particularly as the "Man with No Name." In 1968, he starred in "Coogan's Bluff," which marked the beginning of his association with the director Don Siegel. This collaboration would continue with successful films like "Dirty Harry" (1971).
Also in 1968, Clint Eastwood was gaining substantial recognition and earning significant fees for his roles. His earnings for "Coogan's Bluff" (1968) were around $750,000. His net worth was likely around $2-4 million, given his rising star status and continued success in film and television.
Eastwood's career has spanned several decades, and he has become one of the most respected figures in Hollywood, both as an actor and director. He has directed and starred in numerous acclaimed films, including "Unforgiven" (1992), "Million Dollar Baby" (2004), and "Gran Torino" (2008). Even into his 90s, Eastwood remains active in the film industry, continuing to produce and direct new projects.
Sean Connery
In 1968, Sean Connery was already synonymous with James Bond, having played the iconic spy in five films, including "Dr. No" (1962) and "Goldfinger" (1964). His portrayal of Bond set the standard for the character and made him a global superstar. Despite his success as Bond, Connery was eager to take on diverse roles to avoid being typecast.
Sean Connery, synonymous with James Bond by 1968, was earning top dollar for his roles. He reportedly made $750,000 for "You Only Live Twice" (1967). His net worth in 1968 would have been around $4-6 million, considering his steady stream of high-paying roles and the global success of the Bond franchise.
Connery successfully broke free from the Bond image, starring in a variety of films across different genres, such as "The Man Who Would Be King" (1975) and "The Untouchables" (1987), for which he won an Academy Award. He retired from acting in 2006 and largely stayed out of the public eye until his death in 2020. Connery's legacy as one of the great actors of the 20th century remains strong.
Dustin Hoffman
Dustin Hoffman became an overnight sensation with his role as Benjamin Braddock in "The Graduate" (1967), a film that captured the generational tensions of the 1960s and became an iconic representation of the era. By 1968, Hoffman was recognized as one of the most promising young actors in Hollywood, known for his ability to bring vulnerability and depth to his characters.
After the success of "The Graduate" (1967), Dustin Hoffman saw a significant boost in his earnings. He was paid around $20,000 for "The Graduate," but his subsequent roles commanded higher fees. His net worth in 1968 was likely around $1-2 million, as he was just beginning his ascent to major stardom.
Hoffman's career continued to thrive with critically acclaimed performances in films such as "Midnight Cowboy" (1969), "Kramer vs. Kramer" (1979), and "Rain Man" (1988), for which he won two Academy Awards. He remains active in the industry, both in acting and directing, and is celebrated for his contributions to film over several decades.
Top Actresses of 1968
Audrey Hepburn
In 1968, Audrey Hepburn was one of the most beloved actresses in Hollywood, known for her elegance, charm, and humanitarian efforts. She had already won an Academy Award for "Roman Holiday" (1953) and delivered memorable performances in "Breakfast at Tiffany's" (1961) and "My Fair Lady" (1964). In 1967, she starred in "Wait Until Dark," receiving critical acclaim for her portrayal of a blind woman terrorized by criminals.
Audrey Hepburn was one of the highest-paid actresses of her time. For "My Fair Lady" (1964), she earned $1 million. By 1968, her net worth was likely around $10-12 million, bolstered by her numerous successful films and enduring popularity.
Hepburn gradually stepped away from acting in the 1970s to focus on her work with UNICEF, becoming a Goodwill Ambassador and dedicating much of her later life to humanitarian causes. She passed away in 1993, but her legacy as both a film icon and a humanitarian continues to inspire.
Elizabeth Taylor
By 1968, Elizabeth Taylor was already a Hollywood legend, known for her stunning beauty, dramatic roles, and high-profile personal life. She had won two Academy Awards for Best Actress for "BUtterfield 8" (1960) and "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" (1966). In 1967, she starred in "Reflections in a Golden Eye," showcasing her versatility as an actress.
Elizabeth Taylor was one of the wealthiest actresses in Hollywood by 1968, commanding significant salaries for her roles. She earned $1.1 million for "Cleopatra" (1963), a record-breaking fee at the time. Her net worth in 1968 was likely around $15-20 million, considering her film earnings and lucrative endorsements.
Taylor continued to act in films and television throughout the 1970s and 1980s, though her focus gradually shifted to activism, particularly in the fight against AIDS. She co-founded the American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR) and the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation. Taylor passed away in 2011, leaving behind a legacy as one of Hollywood's greatest stars and a dedicated humanitarian.
Julie Andrews
In 1968, Julie Andrews was one of the most popular actresses in Hollywood, known for her roles in "Mary Poppins" (1964), for which she won an Academy Award, and "The Sound of Music" (1965). Her wholesome image and remarkable singing talent made her a favorite among audiences. In 1967, she starred in "Thoroughly Modern Millie," further cementing her status as a top actress.
Julie Andrews, celebrated for her roles in "Mary Poppins" (1964) and "The Sound of Music" (1965), was earning top fees for her performances. For "Thoroughly Modern Millie" (1967), she was paid $1 million. Her net worth in 1968 was likely around $8-10 million, reflecting her high demand and successful career.
Andrews' career continued to flourish with roles in films, television, and stage productions. She also became a successful author of children's books. Despite a setback in the late 1990s due to a throat surgery that affected her singing voice, Andrews has remained active in the entertainment industry, including voice roles in films like "Shrek" and "Despicable Me." She continues to be celebrated for her contributions to film and music.
Faye Dunaway
In 1968, Faye Dunaway was a rising star in Hollywood, having gained critical acclaim for her role as Bonnie Parker in "Bonnie and Clyde" (1967). Her performance earned her an Academy Award nomination and established her as a leading actress known for her intense and complex portrayals. Dunaway's striking looks and powerful screen presence made her a favorite for challenging roles.
Faye Dunaway was a rising star in 1968, with her breakthrough role in "Bonnie and Clyde" (1967). She earned around $60,000 for that film. Her net worth in 1968 was likely around $500,000 to $1 million, as she was still in the early stages of her career but quickly gaining recognition.
Dunaway's career continued to be successful in the 1970s and 1980s with notable performances in films like "Chinatown" (1974) and "Network" (1976), for which she won an Academy Award. While her later career has had fewer high-profile roles, she remains a respected figure in Hollywood and has occasionally returned to the screen for film and television projects.
Katharine Hepburn
By 1968, Katharine Hepburn was already an established star with a career spanning several decades. Known for her fierce independence and strong-willed characters, Hepburn had won her first Academy Award for "Morning Glory" (1933) and delivered memorable performances in films like "The Philadelphia Story" (1940) and "The African Queen" (1951). In 1967, she starred in "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner," which addressed the issue of interracial marriage and earned her another Academy Award nomination.
By 1968, Katharine Hepburn was an established and highly respected actress with a long career. She earned $150,000 for "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner" (1967). Her net worth in 1968 was likely around $8-10 million, reflecting her extensive body of work and continued success in Hollywood.
Hepburn continued to work in film and television into the 1990s, winning a total of four Academy Awards, more than any other actor or actress. She remained active and influential in the industry until her passing in 2003. Hepburn is widely regarded as one of the greatest actresses in the history of American cinema.
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