Fredric March, American actor (b. 1897)

Fredric March, born Ernest Frederick McIntyre Bickel on August 31, 1897, in Racine, Wisconsin, was an eminent American actor whose career spanned several decades, solidifying his status as one of Hollywood's most celebrated and versatile stars during its golden era, particularly the 1930s and 1940s. A true chameleon of the stage and screen, March left an indelible mark through his compelling performances, earning him an exceptional collection of awards that underscored his profound talent and adaptability. He passed away on April 14, 1975, leaving behind a legacy of artistic excellence.

A Dual Luminary: Triumphing on Screen and Stage

March's career was distinguished by his remarkable ability to excel in both film and theater, a feat achieved by very few in the acting profession. His dramatic prowess and nuanced characterizations brought him the highest accolades in both mediums. He achieved the prestigious Academy Award for Best Actor twice for his work in cinema and was honored with the equally coveted Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play on two separate occasions for his theatrical performances.

Academy Award Wins: Cinematic Brilliance

His first Academy Award for Best Actor came in 1932 for his chilling and transformative dual role in the horror classic Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1931). March’s portrayal was groundbreaking, capturing the terrifying internal struggle and physical metamorphosis of the characters with an intensity that captivated audiences and critics alike, setting a high bar for genre performances. This early sound film success showcased his extraordinary range right at the beginning of his Hollywood ascent.

Fifteen years later, he again claimed the Best Actor Oscar for his poignant performance as Al Stephenson, a returning World War II veteran, in William Wyler's critically acclaimed drama, The Best Years of Our Lives (1946). This film, which deeply resonated with post-war American society, allowed March to deliver a powerful, understated performance, depicting the quiet struggles and emotional toll of reintegration into civilian life. The contrast between his two Oscar-winning roles—from the fantastical horror of Jekyll/Hyde to the stark realism of Stephenson—underscored his unparalleled versatility as an actor.

Tony Award Success: Dominating Broadway

While his film career flourished, Fredric March remained deeply committed to the legitimate theater. His dedication to the stage brought him equal recognition. He received his first Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play for his captivating performance in Ruth Gordon's autobiographical play, Years Ago (1947), which opened shortly after his second Oscar win, highlighting his immediate return to theatrical excellence.

His second Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play was awarded in 1956 for his profoundly moving portrayal of James Tyrone in Eugene O'Neill's seminal work, Long Day's Journey into Night. This role is often considered one of the greatest in American theater, and March’s interpretation of the complex, tormented patriarch was hailed as definitive, further cementing his reputation as a master of dramatic acting.

A Rare Achievement: A Legacy Etched in Gold

Fredric March holds a truly unique place in the annals of acting history. He is one of only two actors ever to have won both the Academy Award and the Tony Award twice over. The other legendary performer to achieve this "double-double" distinction is the esteemed actress Helen Hayes. This extraordinary accomplishment underscores March's enduring impact and exceptional talent across both of the major performance platforms in American entertainment. His career stands as a testament to the power of versatility, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of artistic excellence.

Fredric March: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What was Fredric March's real name?
Fredric March was born Ernest Frederick McIntyre Bickel. He adopted his stage name as his career began to take off.
How many Academy Awards did Fredric March win?
Fredric March won the Academy Award for Best Actor twice. His wins were for Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1931) and The Best Years of Our Lives (1946).
Did Fredric March also act on stage?
Yes, Fredric March had a distinguished career in theater and was highly regarded as a stage actor. He won the Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play twice.
For which plays did Fredric March win Tony Awards?
He won Tony Awards for his performances in Years Ago (1947) and Eugene O'Neill's Long Day's Journey into Night (1956).
What made Fredric March a versatile actor?
Fredric March's versatility stemmed from his ability to convincingly portray a wide range of characters, from the terrifying duality of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde to the nuanced realism of a returning veteran in The Best Years of Our Lives, and complex stage roles like James Tyrone. He excelled in romantic leads, dramatic roles, and even horror, demonstrating remarkable adaptability across genres and mediums.
Who else shares Fredric March's unique award achievement?
Fredric March is one of only two actors in history to have won both the Academy Award and the Tony Award twice. The other esteemed actor to achieve this rare feat is Helen Hayes.