Born on October 18, 1927, in Wise, Virginia, he became a distinguished American actor renowned for his intense performances and distinctive voice. He gained prominence with roles in films such as "Dr. Strangelove" and "Patton," the latter earning him an Academy Award, which he famously declined. Known for his versatility, he excelled in both dramatic and comedic roles. Throughout his career, he appeared in numerous stage and screen productions, leaving a lasting impact on the film industry before passing away on September 22, 1999.