On April 5, Charlton Heston passed away from what appears to
be an advanced case of Alzheimer’s. Sadly, this concludes the saga of one of Hollywood’s biggest
icons, which lasted a wonderful 84 years. Heston redefined the role of the
leading man with his charm, amazing charisma and his ability to project
feelings and emotions, while still presenting a tough and determined demeanor.
Heston was one of the last of the old Hollywood generation; the generation that still believed in substance and class and less
in fads and controversy.
In many ways, Charlton Heston portrayed a typical all
American life. Born John Charles Carter, Heston took his famous last name when
his mother remarried one Chester Heston during his adolescent years. Heston
spent a two year stint in the United States Air Force during WWII. Later in
life, Heston was heavily involved in politics and other mainstream activities
that would keep in the public eye. He accompanied Martin Luther King during the
civil rights march in Washington;
he supported Ronald Reagan when the former President found himself in political
turmoil and was the president of the Screen Actors Guild for a period of 6
years. His most controversial political involvement is undoubtedly his association
with the NRA, (National Rifle Association) in which he was president from ’98
to 2003.
On screen, Charlton Heston’s achievements were second to
none. The Ten Commandments, El Cid, Planet of the Apes, and Ben Hur, for which
he won an Academy Award for best actor, are just a few of Heston’s crowning achievements. It is ironic that Heston passed away only days before Passover, as
his most recognizable role is that of Moses in The Ten Commandments.
Heston will always be remembered for his chiseled good
looks, fantastic acting and his ability to touch audiences in that emotional
and inspiring way. He was loved by many and revered by most, not only for his
professional success, but for his straightforward honesty and sound judgment.
Charlton Heston was the type of man that parents prayed their daughters would
bring home and the type of man that few men would be lucky enough to call a
friend. He is the last of a dying breed in Hollywood. A generation that paved the way
for the contemporary success Hollywood celebrities
enjoy. A generation of men who brought their grit and determination to a world
that was sorely lacking in heroes and role models. Heston was one of the
leaders of that old guard; a legend of legends that will always have a
prominent place in history.
In many ways, Charlton Heston portrayed a typical all
American life. Born John Charles Carter, Heston took his famous last name when
his mother remarried one Chester Heston during his adolescent years. Heston
spent a two year stint in the United States Air Force during WWII. Later in
life, Heston was heavily involved in politics and other mainstream activities
that would keep in the public eye. He accompanied Martin Luther King during the
civil rights march in 