Ten fun facts about James Coburn

1. The Iconic 1973 Album "Band on the Run"

The iconic 1973 album "Band on the Run" by Paul McCartney features the legendary actor James Coburn on its cover. Coburn, who was known for his roles in films such as The Magnificent Seven and The Great Escape, was chosen to represent the album's theme of freedom and adventure. The cover art, which was designed by artist Humphrey Ocean, features Coburn in a classic pose, with a leather jacket and a cigarette in hand, looking off into the distance. The image has become an iconic representation of the album and of Coburn's career.

Also → Charles Bronson: Hollywood Icon and Renowned Actor

2. College Friends Go on to Star in Classic Western Film

James Coburn and Robert Vaughn were college friends who went on to star together in the classic western film, "The Magnificent Seven". The two had been friends since their college days, and their chemistry on screen was undeniable. Coburn and Vaughn had a natural rapport that made their characters in the film come alive, and their friendship was evident in the way they interacted with each other. It was a perfect pairing that made the movie a classic.

Also → James Cromwell - an actor with a long and successful career

3. The Magnificent Eleven

James Coburn was a star in the classic western "The Magnificent Seven", despite having only eleven lines in the entire movie. His presence was so powerful that he was listed as a star in the credits, despite his limited dialogue. His character, Britt, was a pivotal part of the movie, and his performance was so memorable that it earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

Also → James Purefoy Screen Tested for James Bond Role

4. Actor Who Was Considered for 'The A-Team'

In 1983, James Coburn was considered for the role of the iconic character Hannibal Smith in the hit television series "The A-Team". Although he was not ultimately cast, Coburn's name was among the first to be considered for the role, which was eventually filled by George Peppard. Coburn was a highly sought-after actor at the time, having starred in several successful films, including "The Magnificent Seven" and "The Great Escape".

Also → James Franco: From James Dean to Spider-Man

5. James Coburn & Kris Kristofferson: Friendship On & Off Screen

James Coburn and Kris Kristofferson were more than just friends - they were frequent collaborators, appearing in three films together. The two starred in the classic western "Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid", the action-packed "Convoy", and the crime thriller "Payback". Their friendship was evident on and off the screen, and their chemistry was undeniable.

Also → Steve McQueen: Iconic Warrior Actor

6. Actor Who Studied With Stella Adler

Before becoming an acclaimed actor, James Coburn studied under the renowned acting teacher Stella Adler. He first honed his craft at UCLA, where he was exposed to a variety of acting techniques and styles. After leaving UCLA, Coburn sought out Adler, who was known for her unique approach to teaching the craft of acting. Under her watchful eye, Coburn developed the skills that would eventually make him a star.

Also → Leonardo DiCaprio Refuses Role in James Dean Movie

7. Iconic Movie Star

James Coburn was an iconic actor who starred in some of the most memorable movies of all time, including "The Great Escape", "The Magnificent Seven", "Cross of Iron", "Our Man Flint", and "Charade". His performances in these films have been praised for their depth and complexity, and his characters have become iconic in their own right. Coburn's career spanned over four decades, and he was nominated for an Academy Award for his performance in "Affliction". He was also the recipient of a Golden Globe Award for his performance in "The Magnificent Seven".

Also → Edward James Olmos: 1988 Academy Award Nominee for Stand and Deliver

8. James Coburn Beats RA with Dietary Supplement

In 1979, James Coburn was diagnosed with the debilitating autoimmune disorder, rheumatoid arthritis. In the 90's, he sought out the help of a holistic healer to treat the disorder, and was prescribed a dietary supplement. To his delight, Coburn began to show immediate improvements in his condition after taking the supplement.

Also → Mads Mikkelsen: A renowned Danish actor who began his career in 1996

9. Close Friend of Bruce Lee, Pallbearer at His Funeral

James Coburn was a close friend of action legend Bruce Lee, so much so that he was chosen to be a pallbearer at Lee's funeral. Coburn was one of the few people to be given this honor, and it speaks to the respect and admiration he had for Lee. Coburn was a major star in his own right, having appeared in over 70 films, including the iconic western The Magnificent Seven. He was also a recipient of an Academy Award for his performance in Affliction.

Also → Omar Sharif: A Star of Hollywood's Most Iconic Films

10. James Coburn, Legendary Actor and Flautist, Dies at 73

On November 18, 2002, James Coburn tragically passed away in California due to a heart attack. Just moments before, he had been peacefully sitting at home, playing his beloved flute. His death came as a shock to many, as he had been in seemingly good health prior to the attack.

Also → Brian Dennehy: Iconic Actor