What a life. What a career. What a recognizable face. What impressive talent which led him to many awards for a displayed skill set within the realm of acting. Ernest Borgnine was known for playing the role of a “heavy.” He was built like a brick house, possessed a warm, gap-toothed grin that would make you show your own pearly whites and possessed a true knack for being in the spotlight.
In 1955, Borgnine was offered one of the most prestigious awards in all of the entertainment world–an Oscar for his portrayal of the title character in the cinema classic, Marty. For anyone who loves film, or good TV, he was an individual who was easy to admire. A wonderful storyteller, and an individual with a strong sense of sacrifice and duty.
The son of Italian immigrants, Ermes Effron Borgino served in the United States Navy, and after being discharged, he reenlisted when the Japanese military forces attacked Pearl Harbor in 1941. He would take his military experience and eventually lead a ravel of comedic seamen on the small screen sit-com McHale’s Navy.
Borgnine died on Sunday, surrounded by family, including his wife of nearly 40 years, Tova. His children were also present. His declining health was brought on by kidney issues that eventually his body in a state of failure.
“Ernie” is yet another loss of that inspiring WWII generation, who we still have so much to learn from. Condolences to his family, as well as his biggest fans.
