Who Is Charles Durning? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Charles Durning was born on February 28, 1923, and passed away on December 24, 2012. Known for his versatile acting skills, Durning had a prolific career in film, television, and theater. He is remembered for his roles in classics such as Dog Day Afternoon, Tootsie, and The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. As of 2025, Durning would have been 102 years old. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of actors and filmmakers.
| Occupation | Voice Actors |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 28, 1923 |
| Age | 89 Years |
| Birth Place | Highland Falls, New York, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Pisces |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 24 December, 2012 |
| Died Place | New York City, U.S. |
Popularity
Charles Durning's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While exact measurements for Charles Durning may not be readily available, he was notably distinguished by his commanding presence on screen. He stood at approximately 6 feet tall and weighed around 200 pounds during his prime. His robust physique contributed to his ability to portray authoritative characters in various genres.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Throughout his life, Charles Durning was married twice. He first wed his wife, Carolyn Durning, and they had three children together; however, the couple later divorced. He then married his second wife, who he remained with until his passing in 2012. There are no records of any significant relationships or boyfriends posthumously, as Durning's family life and commitments to his private relationships were kept largely out of the public eye.
He was the son of Louise (née Leonard; 1894–1982), a laundress at West Point, and James E. Durning (1883 – c. 1935). His father was an Irish immigrant, and his mother was also of Irish descent. Durning was raised Catholic. Durning was the ninth of ten children.
His three brothers – James (known as Roger, 1915–2000), Clifford (1916–1994), and Gerald (1926–2000) – and his sister Frances (1918–2006) survived to adulthood, but five sisters died from scarlet fever and smallpox as children.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his death, Charles Durning was estimated to have a net worth of approximately $10 million. His wealth was garnered through a successful career that spanned several decades and included an array of high-profile film roles, theater performances, and television appearances. Although exact figures for his salary vary, Durning's status as an acclaimed actor certainly ensured he received substantial compensation for his work.
Durning began his career in 1951. While working as an usher in a burlesque theatre, he was hired to replace a drunken actor on stage.
Subsequently, he performed in roughly 50 stock company productions and in various off-Broadway plays, eventually attracting the attention of Joseph Papp, founder of The Public Theater and the New York Shakespeare Festival. Beginning in 1961, he appeared in 35 plays as part of the Shakespeare Festival.
"That time in my life was my best time," Durning told Pittsburgh's Post Gazette in 2001. "I had no money at all, and he [Joseph Papp] didn't pay much. You were getting a salary for performance plus a rehearsal salary. We would do three plays in Central Park for the summer.
And then you'd do three to six plays every year down on Lafayette Street – new plays by new writers: Sam Shepard, David Mamet, David Rabe, John Ford Noonan, Jason Miller."
Career, Business, and Investments
Durning's career took off after serving in World War II, where he was awarded the Silver Star for his bravery. He began acting in theater before transitioning to film and television, where he quickly gained recognition for his authentic performances and commanding screen presence.
Beyond acting, Durning also engaged in various business ventures and investments, though specific details remain limited. His work ethic and dedication to the craft allowed him to remain relevant in the industry until his retirement in the early 2000s.
Charles Edward Durning (February 28, 1923 – December 24, 2012) was an American actor who appeared in over 200 movies, television shows and plays. Durning's best-known films include The Sting (1973), Dog Day Afternoon (1975), The Muppet Movie (1979), True Confessions (1981), Tootsie (1982), Dick Tracy (1990), and O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000).
He was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for both The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas (1982) and To Be or Not to Be (1983). Prior to his acting career, Durning served in World War II and was decorated for valor in combat.
Social Network
Though Charles Durning passed away in 2012, his impact on social media continues. Various pages and fan accounts commemorate his legacy, sharing memorable quotes, clips from his greatest films, and tributes from fans around the world. Social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook often showcase throwback content that allows new audiences to discover his work.
On December 27, 2012, Broadway theatres dimmed their lights to honour him. The New York Times, which commented on Durning's more than 200 credited roles, referred to him and actor Jack Klugman, who died the same day, as "extraordinary actors ennobling the ordinary". The Huffington Post compared the two men, calling them "character actor titans".
Education
Charles Durning's early education was somewhat disrupted due to the war, but he later honed his craft at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City. This education laid the foundation for his illustrious career as an actor, embodying a unique blend of talent and skill that would define his performances.
Durning served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He was drafted at age 20. Durning landed in France as part of an artillery unit after the D-Day invasion of Normandy. After being wounded by a German anti-personnel mine in the bocage, he spent six months recovering.
Durning was reassigned to the 398th Infantry Regiment with the 100th Infantry Division, and participated in the Battle of the Bulge in December 1944. He was discharged with the rank of private first class on January 30, 1946.
