Lee Marvin was a versatile and iconic actor known for his distinctive voice and rugged on-screen presence. He gained widespread recognition for his role as Ben Rumson in the 1969 musical Western film "Paint Your Wagon," in which he sang the famous song "Wand'rin Star." Here are some interesting facts about Lee Marvin and his connection to "Wand'rin Star":
"Wand'rin Star" Performance: Lee Marvin's rendition of "Wand'rin Star" in "Paint Your Wagon" was a significant departure from his usual tough-guy roles. Despite not being a trained singer, his deep, gravelly voice gave the song a unique and memorable quality.
Chart Success: Surprisingly, "Wand'rin Star" became a massive hit. Lee Marvin's recording of the song reached No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart in 1970, making him one of the unlikeliest pop stars of his time. It also earned him a Gold record.
Oscar-Winning Actor: Lee Marvin won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role as Kid Shelleen and Tim Strawn in the 1965 film "Cat Ballou." This award recognized his acting talent and versatility beyond his singing performance in "Paint Your Wagon."
Military Service: During World War II, Lee Marvin served in the U.S. Marine Corps and saw action in the Pacific. He was wounded during the Battle of Saipan and was awarded the Purple Heart.
Prolific Career: Over his career, Lee Marvin appeared in numerous classic films, including "The Dirty Dozen," "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance," "The Killers," and "Point Blank." His tough-guy persona made him a sought-after actor in the 1960s and 1970s.
Personal Struggles: Lee Marvin had a reputation for being a hard-drinking and often rowdy individual, both on and off the set. His rough-and-tumble personality often influenced his choice of roles and contributed to his unique on-screen presence.
Hollywood Walk of Fame: In recognition of his contributions to the entertainment industry, Lee Marvin was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. His star is located at 6780 Hollywood Boulevard.
Legacy: Lee Marvin left a lasting legacy in Hollywood as one of the most distinctive and memorable actors of his generation. His performance in "Paint Your Wagon" and his unexpected success as a singer with "Wand'rin Star" remain enduring aspects of his career.
Lee Marvin's performance of "Wand'rin Star" remains a standout moment in his career and showcases his ability to take on diverse roles and challenges in the world of entertainment.