the william holden lifetime achievement award

Established in 1997

William Holden's father was an industrial chemist and his mother a teacher. In 1937, while studying chemistry at Pasadena Junior College, he was signed to a film contract by Paramount. His first starring role was as a young man torn between the violin and boxing, "Golden Boy" (1939). From then on he was type-cast as the boy-next-door. After returning from World War II military service, he got two very important roles: Joe Gillis the gigolo in "Sunset Blvd." (1950) the tutor in "Born Yesterday" (1950) followed by his Oscar-winning role as the cynical sergeant in "Stalag 17" (1953) and stayed popular through the '50s, e.g., "Picnic" (1955). He spent much of his later time as co-owner of the Mount Kenya Safari Club, dividing his time between Africa and Switzerland.

"Movie acting may not have a certain kind of glory as true art, but it's damn hard work."

- William Holden

Award Recipients

The William Holden

Lifetime Achievement

Award

In case you were wondering, William Holden does have a Las Vegas connection. Holden married Brenda Marshall in 1941 inside a Congregationalist Church in Las Vegas.

We would like to thank the estate of actor William Holden (1918-1981) for their generosity in allowing the LVFCS to honor Mr. Holden's contribution to motion pictures in this modest way.

The William Holden Wildlife Foundation Education Center offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the outdoors in a rare communication with nature often unavailable to them in their own environment. It is essential to build a respect and appreciation for both the flora and fauna and the understanding of their delicate balance.

To receive an information, or to contribute to the work of the William Holden Wildlife Foundation, please send your contribution to:

The William Holden Wildlife Foundation
Post Office Box 67981
Los Angeles, CA 90067 USA

www.whwf.com