Who Is Martin Balsam? Age, Biography and Wiki
Martin Balsam was born on November 4, 1919, in the vibrant city of The Bronx, New York City, USA. Renowned for his remarkable acting talent, Balsam became a household name through his impressive roles in film and television from the 1950s until the 1990s. He won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1966 for his outstanding performance in "A Thousand Clowns," solidifying his status in Hollywood. With a career spanning over five decades, Balsam is remembered not only for his versatility as an actor but also for his dedication to the craft.
| Occupation | Stage Actor |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 4, 1919 |
| Age | 76 Years |
| Birth Place | New York City, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Scorpio |
| Country | Italy |
| Date of death | 13 February, 1996 |
| Died Place | Rome, Italy |
Popularity
Martin Balsam's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Martin Balsam stood at an approximate height of 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm) with a weight of around 160 lbs (73 kg). Known for his commanding presence on screen, his physical attributes complemented his dynamic performances. Though specific measurements aren't widely documented, Balsam's charismatic appearance added to his on-screen allure.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
While Martin Balsam was known primarily for his professional accomplishments, his private life also held significance. He was married three times: to actress Jane Hadley, to Dianah (Diana) Dary, and to Ruth Balsam, with whom he had children who have occasionally been mentioned in interviews reflecting on his legacy. His relationships were often intertwined with his career, showcasing both personal and professional dynamics. As of 2025, Balsam remains a beloved figure, with many eager to learn about his life beyond his celebrated acting career.
His other notable film roles include Juror #1 in 12 Angry Men (1957), private detective Milton Arbogast in Psycho (1960), Hollywood agent O.J. Berman in Breakfast at Tiffany's (1961), Bernard B.
Norman in The Carpetbaggers (1964), Lieutenant Commander Chester Potter, the ship doctor, in The Bedford Incident (1965), Colonel Cathcart in Catch-22 (1970), Admiral Husband E. Kimmel in Tora! Tora! Tora! (1970), Mr.
Green in The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974), Signor Bianchi in Murder on the Orient Express (1974), and Howard Simons in All the President's Men (1976). He had a recurring role as Dr. Milton Orloff on the television drama Dr. Kildare (1963–66), and Murray Klein on the sitcom Archie Bunker's Place (1979–83).
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing in 1996, Martin Balsam's net worth was estimated to be around $5 million. Although hard to gauge in today's valuation, this wealth was accumulated through his successful roles in film, television, and theatre. His earnings from iconic films and prominent television roles, such as in "The Twilight Zone," showcased his talent and popularity. Today, his estate continues to receive accolades and recognition, with historical value surrounding his work.
Career, Business and Investments
Balsam began his career in the theatre, performing in various productions before transitioning to film. His breakthrough role was in "12 Angry Men" (1957), followed by a series of successful projects in the 60s, 70s, and beyond. Balsam's versatility allowed him to traverse genre boundaries, from drama to thrillers. In addition to acting, he was reportedly involved in various investments related to the industry, although specifics of these ventures remain largely private.
Martin Henry Balsam (November 4, 1919 – February 13, 1996) was an American actor. He had a prolific career in character roles in film, in theatre, and on television.
An early member of the Actors Studio, he began his career on the New York stage, winning a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play for Robert Anderson's You Know I Can't Hear You When the Water's Running (1968). He won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in A Thousand Clowns (1965).
Social Network
Despite his passing, Martin Balsam's legacy remains alive online. His work is celebrated across various social media platforms dedicated to classic cinema and acting. Film historians and fans actively share clips of his famous performances, ensuring that younger audiences continue to discover his contributions to the film industry. However, during his lifetime, Balsam was known to maintain a lower profile concerning personal social media, primarily focusing on his work rather than public image.
Education
Balsam’s educational background includes attending Columbia University, where he studied acting before embarking on his remarkable career. His formal training imparted essential skills that contributed to his success in stage and screen acting. This foundation played a crucial role in shaping his approach to diverse roles, leading to his unparalleled success and lasting impact on the industry.
In conclusion, Martin Balsam's remarkable journey through the entertainment landscape showcases the essence of a dedicated artist. As we look to the future and remember his legacy in 2025, fans continue to celebrate his enduring influence on acting and cinema.
He attended DeWitt Clinton High School, where he participated in the drama club. He studied at the Dramatic Workshop of The New School in New York with the German director Erwin Piscator and then served in the United States Army Air Forces from 1941 to 1945 during World War II, achieving the rank of Sergeant.
He served as a sergeant radio operator in a B-24 in the China-Burma-India Theater of Operations.
