
The entertainment industry is a dynamic landscape, constantly shifting and evolving, yet certain figures emerge who not only navigate its complexities but redefine what it means to be a global star. Among them, Australian actor Chris Hemsworth stands as a towering presence, a performer whose career trajectory offers a fascinating case study in versatility, strategic role selection, and an enduring appeal that transcends the conventional boundaries of genre. From his early days on Australian television to becoming a linchpin of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Hemsworth has meticulously built a filmography that showcases both his charismatic power and his genuine artistic ambition.
His journey is far more intricate than simply wielding a magical hammer. It encompasses a deliberate progression through diverse roles, challenging perceptions, and, at times, confronting the very expectations placed upon him by Hollywood. As an actor frequently lauded for his physique and magnetic screen presence, Hemsworth has consciously pursued projects that reveal deeper layers of his talent, from critically acclaimed biographical dramas to nuanced comedic performances, solidifying his status as one of the most bankable and respected talents working today.
This in-depth exploration delves into the pivotal moments and strategic decisions that have shaped Chris Hemsworth’s remarkable career. We will trace his evolution from a budding actor in his native Australia to an international icon, dissecting the roles that defined him, the challenges he overcame, and the consistent drive that has propelled him to the forefront of the global entertainment conversation, offering insights into the making of a modern Hollywood legend.

1. **The Early Australian Years: From Home and Away to Hollywood’s Doorstep**Chris Hemsworth’s path to international stardom began far from the sprawling sets of Hollywood, rooted instead in the sun-drenched landscapes and domestic dramas of Australian television. Born in Melbourne in 1983 and raised across Victoria and the rugged Outback of Bulman, Northern Territory, his childhood was a tapestry of contrasting experiences. He has described his “earliest memories” as being “on the cattle stations up in the Outback,” followed by moves back and forth to Melbourne, shaping a foundational adaptability.
His entry into acting commenced with appearances in various television series starting in 2002, including three episodes of `Guinevere Jones` as King Arthur, `Neighbours`, and `Marshall Law`. These early roles provided initial experience, but it was his next venture that truly cemented his presence on Australian screens. In 2004, he secured the role of Kim Hyde in the immensely popular Australian soap opera `Home and Away`.
Hemsworth appeared in 171 episodes of `Home and Away` before his departure on July 3, 2007. This extensive television experience provided invaluable training and exposure, laying the groundwork for his future ambitions. However, he later reflected that while the soap opera made him “more visible,” his work on it “did not earn him respect within the film industry.” This sentiment highlights a common challenge for actors transitioning from long-running television serials.
Adding to the unique challenges of his early career, Hemsworth participated in the fifth season of `Dancing with the Stars Australia` in 2006. This appearance almost jeopardized his future as Marvel’s Thor, with producers expressing concerns that his participation in a dance competition might deter fans. This anecdote underscores the unpredictable pressures that shaped his early career and public image, showcasing an early brush with unique scrutiny.

2. **A Star is Born: The Impact of Star Trek and Early Film Ventures**The transition from Australian television to Hollywood is notoriously difficult, but Chris Hemsworth quickly made a significant impression. His breakthrough arrived in 2009 with a pivotal, albeit brief, role in J.J. Abrams’ highly anticipated `Star Trek` reboot. Hemsworth was cast as George Kirk, the valiant father of James T. Kirk, whose heroic sacrifice in the film’s opening sequence sets the tone for the franchise. This role, initially offered to Matt Damon, became a launching pad, with Abrams appreciating his commitment to the part.
The impact of his performance was immediate and resonated deeply with critics. Josh Tyler of CinemaBlend enthusiastically praised Hemsworth’s scene, describing it as the “best five minutes I’ve spent in a movie theater this year.” Such critical acclaim for a relatively small role speaks volumes about Hemsworth’s innate screen presence. `Star Trek` became a significant box office success, grossing US$385.7 million, ensuring Hemsworth’s powerful introduction was seen by a vast global audience, signaling his arrival as a talent to watch.
Building on this momentum, Hemsworth explored further film opportunities. In the same year, 2009, he appeared as Kale Garrity in the thriller `A Perfect Getaway`. While the film garnered “mixed reviews,” Hemsworth’s portrayal of a “thuggish backpacker” was specifically highlighted for its effectiveness. Critics noted his “appropriately intimidating” performance, and Paul Young of Screen Rant commended it as “solid.” These early roles, though varied in genre and scope, consistently drew attention to his strong dramatic capabilities and physical presence.
By 2010, Hemsworth was solidifying his Hollywood foothold, starring as Sam in `Ca$h` alongside English actor Sean Bean. The film’s director, Stephen Milburn Anderson, recalled being “very impressed” with Hemsworth’s audition, noting his youth, suitable look, acting prowess, and undeniable attractiveness. This early endorsement from a director after only six weeks in the U.S. speaks to his rapid assimilation. Such recognition culminated in November 2010 when The Hollywood Reporter named Hemsworth one of the young male actors “pushing – or being pushed” onto the Hollywood “A-List.”

3. **Wielding the Hammer: Chris Hemsworth’s Defining Role as Marvel’s Thor**The year 2011 marked the beginning of a truly transformative chapter in Chris Hemsworth’s career, as he took on the iconic mantle of Thor, the God of Thunder, in the nascent Marvel Cinematic Universe. This role was not just a significant acting job; it was a career-defining moment that would catapult him into global superstardom and forever intertwine his image with one of Marvel’s most powerful superheroes. The casting process was rigorous, with Hemsworth famously auditioning alongside Tom Hiddleston. To embody the Norse god, Hemsworth underwent a considerable physical transformation, gaining “20 pounds of muscle” for the part.
The release of `Thor` in 2011 was met with critical praise and proved a resounding commercial success, grossing US$449.3 million worldwide and ranking as the 15th highest-grossing film of that year. Critics, including Kenneth Turan of the Los Angeles Times, specifically lauded Hemsworth’s portrayal. His ability to blend the regal, often archaic dialogue of an Asgardian prince with moments of human vulnerability and burgeoning humor resonated deeply, firmly establishing him as a charismatic leading man.
This initial success was swiftly followed by an even grander spectacle in 2012 with `The Avengers`. Hemsworth reprised his role as Thor, joining an unprecedented ensemble of six superheroes to defend Earth. `The Avengers` was a cultural phenomenon, achieving critical and commercial triumph with a worldwide gross exceeding US$1.5 billion. Its success solidified the MCU’s potential and cemented Hemsworth’s place at its core.
A key factor in `The Avengers’` monumental impact was the palpable onscreen chemistry among its diverse cast, which Peter Travers of Rolling Stone praised. Hemsworth’s integration into this superhero pantheon demonstrated his ability to shine both individually and as part of a dynamic collective. His performance in these early MCU films established a benchmark for superhero portrayals, balancing mythic grandeur with an accessible humanity, laying the groundwork for a decade of unparalleled success within the franchise.

4. **Beyond the Bifrost: Testing the Waters with Diverse Genres**While his role as Thor brought unprecedented global recognition, Chris Hemsworth was keen to demonstrate his acting range beyond capes and cosmic battles. Even amidst his early MCU commitments, he actively sought out projects that would challenge him in diverse genres. One such film was the horror-comedy `The Cabin in the Woods`, which, despite being shot shortly after `Star Trek`, saw a delayed release until 2012. This film garnered overwhelmingly “positive reviews,” becoming a cult classic for its inventive deconstruction of horror tropes.
In `The Cabin in the Woods`, Hemsworth showcased a different facet of his acting, portraying Curt Vaughan, the archetypal “Alpha male jock.” Alison Foreman of Mashable even described this as his “iest” role yet, indicating his ability to inhabit characters that, while physically impressive, also conveyed depth and humor within a genre-bending narrative. This performance proved he could excel in material that cleverly subverted expectations, a crucial step in diversifying his artistic profile beyond pure action.
Later in 2012, Hemsworth took on the role of Eric the Huntsman opposite Kristen Stewart in `Snow White and the Huntsman`. This dark fantasy retelling, while a “commercial success” grossing US$396 million worldwide, received “mixed reviews.” Critics, including Angela Watercutter of Wired, expressed reservations about the onscreen chemistry between Hemsworth and Stewart and felt the characters were “not fully fleshed-out.” This experience demonstrated the challenges of working within high-concept adaptations.
Another venture that year was the remake of `Red Dawn`, where Hemsworth played Jed Eckert. He was cast in `Red Dawn` after MGM executives saw dailies footage from `The Cabin in the Woods`. However, this film proved to be a “box-office bomb,” grossing only US$50 million against a US$65 million production budget, and was met with “negative reviews.” These varied experiences highlighted the unpredictable nature of film projects and underscored his early attempts to avoid typecasting.

5. **The Formula for Success: Critically Acclaimed Performance in Rush**Amidst his burgeoning superhero career, Chris Hemsworth sought opportunities to delve into more character-driven dramas, a strategic move that yielded significant critical dividends. In 2013, he collaborated with acclaimed director Ron Howard on the biographical sports drama `Rush`, where he took on the demanding role of James Hunt, the charismatic and flamboyant 1976 Formula 1 World Champion. This project offered a stark contrast to his fantasy and action roles, requiring a nuanced performance rooted in historical accuracy and intense dramatic tension.
Hemsworth’s portrayal of James Hunt was widely praised, proving his capabilities extended far beyond the physical demands of a superhero. Henry Barnes of The Guardian was particularly impressed, commending Hemsworth for delivering the “superb script” with “some mastery.” This marked a crucial moment in his career, demonstrating to a wider audience and the industry that he possessed the dramatic depth and skill to embody complex real-life figures. The role allowed him to shed the muscular persona of Thor and immerse himself in a character driven by raw ambition, rivalry, and a distinct personality.
The film itself garnered strong critical reception, with many highlighting the captivating dynamic between Hunt and his rival, Niki Lauda. Hemsworth’s ability to capture Hunt’s reckless charm, competitive spirit, and underlying vulnerability was key to the film’s success. This performance not only elevated his individual standing but also showcased his capacity to carry a sophisticated narrative that relied heavily on character development and emotional authenticity. `Rush` provided Hemsworth with a platform to showcase a different kind of heroism.

6. **Navigating Blockbuster Demands: From Ultron to Critical Scrutiny**Following the critical success of `Rush` and the undeniable box-office power of his Marvel commitments, Chris Hemsworth continued to balance the demands of a global franchise with attempts at more diverse projects. In 2015, he reprised his role as Thor for the fourth time in `Avengers: Age of Ultron`. This sequel was met with “positive reviews” and achieved massive commercial success, grossing over US$1.4 billion worldwide. Hemsworth also won the People’s Choice Awards for “Favorite Action Movie Actor.”
However, the same year saw Hemsworth venturing into less forgiving territory with director Michael Mann’s action thriller `Blackhat`, where he starred opposite Viola Davis. This film proved to be a significant critical and commercial misstep, “bombed at the box office” and “poorly received” by critics. A considerable issue for many reviewers was the unexpected casting of Hemsworth, known for his physicality, as a hacker. Christy Lemire of the Chicago Sun-Times remarked, “Anyone who makes [their] way in the world sitting in front of a computer screen all day is not going to look as hunky as Hemsworth.”
Hemsworth himself later expressed his dissatisfaction with his performance in `Blackhat`, offering a rare moment of self-criticism. He admitted, “I didn’t enjoy what I did in the film… It just felt flat, and it was also an attempt to do what I thought people might have wanted to see. But I don’t think I’m good in that space.” This honest reflection reveals an actor deeply invested in his craft and keenly aware of how certain roles align with his strengths, highlighting a continuous process of self-assessment.
The year 2015 also included two other significant projects. He co-starred in the comedy film `Vacation`, earning him an MTV Movie Awards nomination for “Best Kiss” with Leslie Mann. His final film of 2015 was `In the Heart of the Sea`, another collaboration with Ron Howard, where he played first mate Owen Chase. For this role, Hemsworth underwent an extreme physical transformation, adhering to a strict diet of 500-600 calories a day. Despite his dedication, the film received “mixed reviews” and was a “box office disappointment,” though he still earned a nomination for “Choice Movie Actor: Action” at the Teen Choice Awards.

7. **Refining the God of Thunder: The Evolution of Thor in Ragnarok and Infinity Saga**Following a period of varied success and critical reflection, Chris Hemsworth embarked on a transformative phase within the Marvel Cinematic Universe that would redefine his iconic character, Thor, and solidify his position as a dynamic comedic and dramatic force. The release of `Thor: Ragnarok` in 2017 marked a pivotal shift, injecting a vibrant, often humorous, new energy into the franchise under director Taika Waititi’s vision. Hemsworth reprised his role, bringing a fresh, lighter touch to the God of Thunder that resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike, earning widespread praise for its innovative approach.
This reinvigorated portrayal was integral to the overwhelming critical and commercial success of `Thor: Ragnarok`, and subsequently, the climactic `Avengers` films: `Avengers: Infinity War` in 2018 and `Avengers: Endgame` in 2019. Across these three blockbusters, Hemsworth’s ability to blend comedic timing with profound emotional depth was repeatedly lauded. Matt Zoller Seitz of RogerEbert.com, for instance, drew an intriguing parallel, likening Hemsworth’s acting to that of Cary Grant and stating that his “charisma holds [Thor: Ragnarok] together whenever it threatens to spin apart,” highlighting his central, anchoring presence.
The evolution of Thor’s character within the Infinity Saga provided Hemsworth with unparalleled opportunities to showcase his expanding range. By `Avengers: Endgame`, his performance was recognized for its striking departure from the traditional superhero physique, portraying Thor as an “endearing despite some ragged material and the actor’s seemingly limited dramatic range.” Joe Morgenstern of The Wall Street Journal specifically praised Hemsworth’s ability to transform into “the graceful, exuberant comic actor he was destined to be, while Thor morphs, alarmingly and charmingly—yet still heroically—into a beer-bellied apparition who could pass for Jeff Lebowski.” This bold character arc, combining vulnerability with humor, cemented his legacy as one of the MCU’s most adaptable and beloved figures, further earning him a Teen Choice Award for Choice Sci-Fi Movie Actor.

8. **Beyond Marvel’s Grasp: Exploring New Frontiers and Franchises**While his presence in the MCU remained paramount, Chris Hemsworth continued his strategic pursuit of projects outside the superhero realm, demonstrating a clear ambition to avoid typecasting and explore diverse genres and character types. In 2016, he returned as Eric the Huntsman in `The Huntsman: Winter’s War`, a sequel to his earlier dark fantasy outing. Despite co-starring with formidable talents like Jessica Chastain, the film underperformed commercially and garnered criticism, with Oliver Lyttelton of IndieWire remarking on the perceived lack of onscreen chemistry between Hemsworth and Chastain, and their struggles with accents, suggesting they appeared to be “in different films.”
Later that same year, Hemsworth showcased his comedic chops in the rebooted `Ghostbusters` film, portraying Kevin the receptionist. Although the film faced a mixed critical and commercial reception, Hemsworth’s performance was singled out for its fresh, hilarious quality. Caroline Westbrook of Metro praised him for “deliver[ing] the most fun” in the movie, a testament to his innate comedic talent that had been increasingly visible in his later Thor appearances. His role in `Ghostbusters` earned him a Kids’ Choice Award for Favorite Movie Actor, further solidifying his appeal beyond action and drama.
Hemsworth also had plans to reprise his breakthrough role as George Kirk in a fourth installment of the rebooted `Star Trek` film series, a testament to the early impact he made in the franchise. However, these plans ultimately fell through in August 2018 due to contract negotiations and, as Hemsworth later revealed, an underwhelming script, highlighting his discerning approach to project selection. This decision underscored his commitment to quality and his readiness to walk away from a major franchise if the creative vision did not align with his expectations.
In 2019, he ventured into another established franchise with `Men in Black: International`, a spin-off of the popular `Men in Black` series, where he starred opposite Tessa Thompson, his co-star from `Thor: Ragnarok`. The film achieved a worldwide gross of US$253 million but received generally unfavorable reviews from critics who cited “lackluster action and forgettable plot.” Despite these criticisms, the onscreen chemistry between Hemsworth and Thompson was widely praised, proving their dynamic appeal could transcend differing project quality and highlighting Hemsworth’s continued ability to forge compelling relationships on screen.

9. **Dominating the Streaming Landscape: Extraction and Netflix Success**The turn of the decade heralded a new era for Chris Hemsworth as he strategically embraced the burgeoning streaming landscape, achieving unprecedented success with his action-packed collaboration with Netflix. In 2020, he starred in the action thriller `Extraction`, reuniting him with the Russo brothers, who served as producers on the project. This film proved to be a monumental hit for the platform, breaking Netflix’s viewership record previously held by `Bird Box`, having been watched by an astounding 90 million households in its initial month of release. This success firmly established Hemsworth as a dominant force in the direct-to-streaming space, demonstrating his global appeal beyond traditional theatrical releases.
His triumph with `Extraction` paved the way for a highly anticipated sequel, `Extraction 2`, released in 2023, where he reprised his role as the formidable Tyler Rake. The continued popularity of the franchise further cemented his status as a leading action star and a valuable asset for streaming platforms, with reports indicating he earned a substantial US$20 million for his return as Rake. This financial success, coupled with the critical attention, highlighted his ability to command significant remuneration through the evolving entertainment distribution models.
Beyond the `Extraction` series, Hemsworth continued to explore his role as both an actor and a producer within the streaming ecosystem, showcasing a commitment to diverse storytelling. He had an uncredited cameo and served as an executive producer for the 2022 film `Interceptor`, further broadening his behind-the-scenes involvement. Additionally, he took on a starring role and producer credit in `Spiderhead` (2022), demonstrating a willingness to delve into different genres, including sci-fi thrillers, and a growing influence over the creative direction of his projects. His proactive engagement with streaming platforms reflects a keen awareness of industry trends and a strategic move to diversify his career portfolio.

10. **Personal Endeavors and Public Image: Fitness, Family, and Philanthropy**Beyond his captivating performances on screen, Chris Hemsworth has cultivated a robust public image characterized by his commitment to fitness, his dedication to family, and his engagement in philanthropic efforts. His physique, prominently showcased through his role as Thor, has consistently garnered media attention, with his exercise routines and health philosophies regularly featured in prominent publications such as The Times of India, Men’s Health, MensXP, Entertainment Tonight, and Metro. This public fascination with his fitness journey led him to transform his personal regimen into a global resource.
In a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and desire to share his wellness principles, Hemsworth created the fitness app Centr. This platform offers paying customers access to a comprehensive suite of nutrition, wellness, and exercise routines, reflecting his holistic approach to health. Centr has become a significant extension of his brand, allowing him to connect directly with fans and inspire a broader audience to adopt healthier lifestyles. This venture further positions him as a lifestyle guru, leveraging his influence beyond the silver screen.
Hemsworth’s charismatic appeal extends beyond his physical prowess; in 2014, he was notably named the “Sexiest Man Alive” by People magazine, a recognition that underscored his widespread popularity and magnetic screen presence. His personal life is equally grounded, centered around his marriage to Spanish model and actress Elsa Pataky, whom he married in December 2010 after meeting earlier that year. The couple shares a daughter, born in May 2012, and twin sons, born in March 2014, forming a close-knit family unit.
The Hemsworth family made a significant personal move in 2015, relocating from Los Angeles to Byron Bay, New South Wales, in his native Australia. This decision reflected a desire for a more private and grounded lifestyle away from the intense glare of Hollywood. His commitment to his roots is also evident in his avid support for the Western Bulldogs in the Australian Football League, where he has starred in campaigns and donated his fees to the Australian Children Foundation, showcasing his philanthropic spirit. In May 2020, he and his brother Liam further extended their charitable reach by participating in a reading of Roald Dahl’s `James and the Giant Peach` in aid of Partners In Health, a global non-profit charity.
His contributions extend to national recognition, as he was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in the 2021 Queen’s Birthday Honours. This honor acknowledges his significant service to the performing arts and his wider community engagement. Beyond his professional achievements, Hemsworth is a dedicated father who actively participates in his children’s interests, regularly taking his twin sons to compete in national Brazilian jiu-jitsu tournaments under trainer Thalison Soares, reflecting a hands-on approach to fatherhood.

11. **Unpacking Health and Longevity: The Limitless Journey and Personal Revelations**In a profound exploration of human potential and personal vulnerability, Chris Hemsworth ventured into documentary filmmaking with `Limitless With Chris Hemsworth`, a six-part series for National Geographic released in 2022. Collaborating with acclaimed filmmaker Darren Aronofsky, the show saw Hemsworth undertaking various challenges designed to enhance human health and longevity, offering a deeply personal and often intense look at his own physical and mental resilience. Each episode pushed Hemsworth to his limits, from taking a plunge in icy Arctic waters to engaging in prolonged fasting periods, demonstrating his commitment to understanding and optimizing his well-being.
The series also involved Hemsworth’s participation in an indigenous Australian ceremony, an experience intended to connect him with ancestral wisdom and cultural practices related to health. However, this particular segment sparked some controversy, as Indigenous groups claimed that the filming at the sacred site was disrespectful to their culture, highlighting the complexities and sensitivities involved when engaging with diverse cultural heritage in media productions. This incident underscored the broader discussions around cultural representation and respect within the entertainment industry.
Perhaps the most significant and deeply personal revelation from the `Limitless` series came in episode five, where Hemsworth disclosed a hereditary predisposition to Alzheimer’s disease. He revealed that his maternal grandfather suffered from the condition, and he himself has inherited two copies of the APOE4 gene—one from each parent. This genetic profile makes it eight to ten times more likely for him to eventually develop Alzheimer’s than the general population. The candid disclosure offered a rare glimpse into the personal health concerns of a major public figure, resonating with many and prompting broader conversations about genetic predispositions and proactive health management.
This personal revelation transformed the series from a mere exploration of longevity into a powerful, vulnerable narrative about confronting one’s own mortality and genetic destiny. Hemsworth’s willingness to share such sensitive information demonstrated his courage and commitment to transparency, turning his public platform into a vehicle for raising awareness about a serious health issue. It added a profound layer of depth to his public persona, showcasing a man grappling with universal human anxieties while inspiring others to consider their own health journeys.

12. **Charting the Future: Upcoming Projects and Enduring Legacy**As Chris Hemsworth continues to evolve both personally and professionally, his future filmography promises a compelling mix of genre diversity, character exploration, and continued engagement with major franchises, cementing his enduring legacy in Hollywood. The recent release of `Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga` in May 2024 saw Hemsworth deliver a transformative performance as the warlord Dementus. Critics, including The Washington Post, lauded his portrayal, stating he had “perhaps created one of the all-time-great screen villains,” a testament to his ability to inhabit complex, darker roles and expand his artistic range significantly.
Venturing into the animated world, Hemsworth voiced a young Optimus Prime, known as Orion Pax, in the `Transformers` prequel film, `Transformers One`, further diversifying his portfolio and showcasing his vocal acting talents. This role illustrates his appeal across different mediums and his willingness to take on projects that resonate with a broad, multi-generational audience. His adaptability and strategic choices continue to underscore his growth as a global entertainer.
Looking further ahead, Hemsworth is in talks to play the titular character in Paul King’s `Prince Charming` for Disney, a potential role that would see him embrace a classic fairytale archetype with a contemporary twist. This potential project signals a continued interest in family-friendly blockbusters while offering another opportunity to demonstrate his versatility. Moreover, his commitment to the Marvel Cinematic Universe remains, with Hemsworth set to return as Thor in `Avengers: Doomsday`, scheduled for release in 2026, reinforcing his foundational role in one of the most successful film franchises of all time.
Beyond these high-profile projects, Hemsworth’s upcoming slate includes `Crime 101` and `Stuntnuts: The Movie`, both in post-production, along with `Subversion`, which is currently filming. These diverse endeavors—ranging from action and comedy to potential dramatic thrillers—paint a clear picture of an actor continuously seeking new challenges and expanding his creative boundaries. Chris Hemsworth’s journey, from Australian television to global superstar, is a testament to his strategic career choices, unwavering dedication to his craft, and a compelling blend of charismatic screen presence and profound personal integrity. His impact on the entertainment industry, both as an actor and as a public figure, continues to grow, promising a legacy defined by versatility, commercial success, and a genuine connection with audiences worldwide.
Chris Hemsworth’s career trajectory is a vivid illustration of strategic evolution and an enduring commitment to artistic growth. From his early days in Australian soap operas to wielding Mjolnir as Thor, and now venturing into diverse genres, producing impactful streaming content, and openly sharing his personal health journey, he has meticulously sculpted a career that is as resilient as it is remarkable. His journey showcases not just the making of a movie star, but the profound development of an artist who continually seeks to challenge perceptions, explore new narratives, and leave an indelible mark on both the industry and the hearts of his global audience. He remains a towering figure in the entertainment landscape, whose next move is always eagerly anticipated, solidifying his status as a true Hollywood legend.