Who Is Lee J. Cobb? Age, Biography and Wiki
Lee J. Cobb was born on December 8, 1911, in New York City, making him 114 years old as of 2025. He is best known for his compelling performances in both film and theater. Cobb's acting career began in the 1930s, and he quickly gained prominence in the industry with his roles in films like "12 Angry Men" and "Death of a Salesman." His talent earned him critical acclaim and several award nominations throughout his career before his passing in 1976. Despite his death, Cobb's influence remains strong, and his roles continue to resonate with audiences today.
| Occupation | Stage Actor |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 8, 1911 |
| Age | 64 Years |
| Birth Place | New York City, NY, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Sagittarius |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 11 February, 1976 |
| Died Place | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
Popularity
Lee J. Cobb's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Lee J. Cobb stood at an imposing height of 5 feet 11 inches (1.80 meters). His weight fluctuated throughout his life, but he was typically around 175 pounds (79 kg) during his prime acting years. Known for his robust physique, Cobb's appearance often contributed to the strong, authoritative characters he portrayed.
Family, Dating & Relationship status
Lee J. Cobb was married to actress and singer Mary H. Cobb (née Ginsburg) from 1935 until their divorce in 1957. He later married his second wife, actress and dancer, for whom he remained wed until his death in 1976. While Cobb’s personal life remained relatively private, he fathered three children, who have spoken fondly of his dedication as a father. With regard to his dating history, details remain scarce, solidifying his reputation as a committed family man.
He grew up in The Bronx, New York, on Wilkins Avenue, near Crotona Park. His parents were Benjamin (Benzion) Jacob, a compositor for The Jewish Daily Forward newspaper, and Kate (Neilecht), a homemaker
Net Worth and salary
At the time of his passing, Lee J. Cobb’s net worth was estimated to be around $2 million. This figure has understandably grown in retrospect due to the appreciation for his archived performances and films. In 2025, his estimated posthumous earnings continue to generate revenue through licensing and DVD sales, solidifying his status as an enduring icon in the entertainment industry.
Career, Business and Investments
Cobb's career spanned over four decades, and he was most recognized for his work on Broadway and in films. Notable works include his portrayal of "Big Daddy" in "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof" and his role in "The Exorcist." Besides acting, Cobb was also involved in various business ventures and invested in theater productions, contributing to his overall success in the entertainment field. His extensive filmography remains influential, with numerous accolades celebrating his contributions to American cinema.
Cobb studied accounting at New York University while working as a radio salesman. Still interested in show business, he went back to California and studied acting at the Pasadena Playhouse. He finally made his film debut at 23 in two episodes of the film serial The Vanishing Shadow (1934). He joined the Manhattan-based Group Theatre in 1935.
Social Network
Though Lee J. Cobb did not live in the era of social media as we know it today, he established a strong network within the entertainment industry. His interactions with colleagues such as Henry Fonda and Marlon Brando are well documented. Posthumously, fans commemorate Cobb’s work on social media platforms, sharing iconic scenes and quotes, helping to keep his legacy alive.
Cobb was a member of the Group Theatre and originated the role of Willy Loman in Arthur Miller's 1949 play Death of a Salesman under the direction of Elia Kazan. He received his first Oscar nomination for playing Johnny Friendly in Kazan's On the Waterfront (1954).
His subsequent film performances included Juror #3 in 12 Angry Men (1957), patriarch Fyodor Karamazov in The Brothers Karamazov (also 1958), Dock Tobin in Man of the West (1958), Barak Ben Canaan in Exodus (1960), Marshall Lou Ramsey in How the West Was Won (1962), Cramden in Our Man Flint (1966) and its sequel In Like Flint (1967), and Lt.
William Kinderman in The Exorcist (1973).
Education
Lee J. Cobb attended the City College of New York briefly before pursuing a career in acting. He honed his craft in various theater productions and continued to develop his skills on stage, which later translated seamlessly into his film work. Cobb's dedication to his craft and commitment to continual improvement played a significant role in his lasting success.
In summary, Lee J. Cobb's contributions to the acting world remain celebrated, ensuring that he holds a special place in cinematic history. As we look into 2025, his legacy lives on, inspiring new generations of actors and filmmakers.
Cobb married Yiddish theatre and film actress Helen Beverley in 1940. They had two children, actress Julie Cobb, and son Vincent Cobb, before divorcing in 1952. Cobb's second marriage was to school teacher Mary Hirsch, with whom he also had two children. Cobb supported Progressive Party candidate Henry A. Wallace in the 1948 United States presidential election.
