Lee J. Cobb

Lee J. Cobb, born as Leo Jacoby on December 8, 1911, was a remarkable American actor notable for his exceptional roles in both films and on the Broadway stage. He was known for his representation of rather arrogance, intimidating and abrasive characters; however, he also excellently portrayed respectable figures such as judges and police officers. Cobb was the first to play the role of Willy Loman in Arthur Miller's 1949 play Death of a Salesman directed by Elia Kazan. His acting prowess earned him two nominations for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his roles in 'On the Waterfront' (1954), and 'The Brothers Karamazov' (1958). Cobb's notable film performances included Juror #3 in '12 Angry Men' (1957), 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 Lt. William Kinderman in 'The Exorcist' (1973). On television, Cobb left a lasting impression in the Western series, 'The Virginian' as Judge Henry Garth as well as in the ABC legal drama 'The Young Lawyers' where he played David Barrett. He was nominated thrice for an Outstanding Single Performance by an Actor Primetime Emmy Awards.