Robert Hirsch, a celebrated French actor of great renown, entered this world on the twenty-sixth day of July, nineteen hundred and twenty-five, marking the beginning of a remarkable life that would be filled with numerous accolades and achievements.
Throughout his illustrious career, he was a proud and esteemed member of the revered Comédie-Française, holding the prestigious title of sociétaire since nineteen hundred and fifty-two, a testament to his unwavering dedication and exceptional talent.
Noted French actor, Hirsch, has garnered an impressive array of accolades throughout his remarkable career, with a particularly notable distinction being the prestigious César Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role in 1990, which he received in recognition of his extraordinary portrayal in the critically acclaimed film, Hiver 54, l'abbé Pierre.
Not only did he make a significant impact on the silver screen, but he also left an indelible mark on the world of theater, taking on notable roles in iconic productions such as The Hunchback of Notre Dame and more recently, Le gardien, a French adaptation of Harold Pinter's celebrated play, The Caretaker, which had its world premiere at the esteemed Théâtre de l'Oeuvre and Théâtre de Paris during the 2006/07 season.
The remarkable story of a dedicated and passionate individual, Hirsch, who in April 2011, took the bold step of approaching renowned playwright Florian Zeller with a specific request - to create a role that would showcase his unique talents.
Zeller, known for his mastery of crafting complex and captivating characters, was moved by Hirsch's enthusiasm and created Le Père, a production that would have its world premiere at the esteemed Le Théâtre Hébertot in Paris, in September 2012.
What made this achievement even more remarkable was the age of the actor, Hirsch, who at 87, brought to life the central character, André, in this unforgettable production, showcasing his enduring passion and dedication to his craft.
Robert Hirsch was a renowned American actor, born on December 28, 1928, in the bustling metropolis of Chicago, Illinois. His early life was marked by a strong interest in the performing arts, which would eventually shape his future career. Hirsch's passion for acting led him to pursue formal training, and he went on to attend the prestigious Juilliard School in New York City.
After completing his education, Hirsch began his professional career in the early 1950s, initially appearing in various stage productions and television shows. His breakthrough role came in 1959 when he played the character of Mike McDonald in the popular sitcom "The Real McCoys." This marked the beginning of a long and illustrious career in television, with Hirsch going on to appear in numerous shows, including "The Untouchables," "Bonanza," and "The Virginian."
In addition to his work in television, Hirsch also made a name for himself in film, appearing in a range of movies throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Some of his most notable roles include "The Carpetbaggers" (1964),"The Hallelujah Trail" (1965),and "The Big Bounce" (1969).
Throughout his career, Hirsch worked with some of the most prominent figures in the entertainment industry, including directors John Wayne, Howard Hawks, and Sam Peckinpah. His versatility as an actor allowed him to take on a wide range of roles, from comedic characters to more dramatic parts.
Despite his impressive body of work, Hirsch's personal life remained somewhat private. He married actress Shirley Knight in 1963, and the couple had a daughter together. The couple divorced in 1974, and Hirsch later married actress Shirley Jones in 1978.
Robert Hirsch passed away on November 11, 2017, at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy as a talented and dedicated actor who made a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
