10 fun and interesting Jason Robards facts

1. A True All-rounder

As a high school student, Jason Robards was a true all-rounder, excelling in football, baseball, basketball and track. He was so talented that he even considered pursuing a professional career in athletics. However, his passion for acting eventually won out and he went on to become one of the most acclaimed actors of his generation, winning two Academy Awards and a Tony Award.

Also → Michael Douglas: an acclaimed actor with a long and successful career

2. 4-time Oscar Nominee

Jason Robards was an acclaimed actor who was nominated for four Academy Awards for his portrayals of real-life people. He was nominated for his roles as Benjamin Bradlee in the political thriller “All the President's Men”, Howard Hughes in the biographical comedy-drama “Melvin and Howard”, and Dashiell Hammett in the biographical drama “Julia”. Robards' performances in these films were highly praised and earned him a place in Hollywood history.

Also → Kurt Russell Nominated for Emmy Award in 1979

3. Jason Robards Receives National Medal of the Arts

In 1997, Jason Robards was honored with the prestigious American National Medal of the Arts by the National Endowment of the Arts. This award is the highest honor given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the arts in the United States. Robards was recognized for his outstanding career as an actor, which spanned over five decades and included numerous awards, including an Academy Award, a Tony Award, and an Emmy Award.

Also → William H. Macy: An Actor with an Accomplished Career

4. Jason Robards & DiCaprio Up for Oscars 24 Yrs Later

In 1980, Jason Robards was nominated for an Oscar for his portrayal of Howard Hughes in the film "Melvin and Howard". 24 years later, Leonardo DiCaprio was also nominated for an Oscar for his portrayal of the same character in "The Aviator". Both actors gave powerful performances that earned them recognition from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

Also → Ellen Burstyn: Triple Crown Winner!

5. Katharine Hepburn Godmother to Jason Robards' Son

Katharine Hepburn, the iconic actress of stage and screen, was the godmother of Jason Robards' son, Sam Robards. The two had a close relationship, with Hepburn taking on the role of godmother to Robards' son, a role she held until her death in 2003. Robards, an acclaimed actor in his own right, was known for his roles in films such as All the President's Men and Magnolia, and was the recipient of two Academy Awards. His son, Sam, has followed in his father's footsteps, appearing in films such as American Beauty and A.I. Artificial Intelligence.

Also → Liam Neeson: An Acclaimed Actor

6. WWII radioman who served his country with bravery

Jason Robards served his country during World War II as a radioman in the U.S. Navy. He was stationed on the USS Northampton, a heavy cruiser, and saw firsthand the horrors of war. During his time in the Navy, Robards was involved in several battles, including the Battle of the Philippine Sea and the Battle of Okinawa. He was awarded the Bronze Star for his bravery and dedication to duty. Robards' service in the Navy was a defining moment in his life, and he was proud to have served his country during such a tumultuous time.

Also → Willem Dafoe Nominated for Two Academy Awards

7. Three-time Emmy, Tony, and Oscar nominee

In 1978, Jason Robards made history by becoming only the second actor to ever receive nominations for an Emmy, Tony, and Oscar in the same calendar year. This remarkable feat was a testament to Robards' immense talent and versatility as an actor, and it cemented his place in the annals of entertainment history. His Emmy nomination was for his role in the miniseries "Washington: Behind Closed Doors," his Tony nomination was for his performance in the play "The Disenchanted," and his Oscar nomination was for his role in the film "Julia."

Also → Melvyn Douglas: Legendary Actor

8. Jason Robards Nominations for Joseph Jefferson Award

In 1976, Jason Robards was nominated for a Joseph Jefferson Award for Best Guest Artist in a play at the Academy Festival Theater in Chicago. This prestigious award is given to recognize excellence in the Chicago theater community, and Robards' nomination was a testament to his talent and dedication to the craft. His nomination was a major accomplishment, and it was a proud moment for the theater community.

Also → Tom Hulce: The Academy Award-Nominated Actor

9. 3 U.S. Presidents Portrayed

Jason Robards is an acclaimed actor who has achieved a remarkable feat in his career - he is one of the few actors to have portrayed three different US presidents in the movies. He has brought to life the characters of Franklin Roosevelt, Abraham Lincoln and Ulysses Grant, each of whom he has portrayed with remarkable accuracy and skill. His performances have been widely praised and have earned him numerous awards and accolades.

Also → Brian Dennehy: an acclaimed dramatic actor

10. Jason Robards, 78, Passes Away After Long Battle with Lung Cancer

In 2000, the world lost one of its most beloved actors, Jason Robards. Robards, who had a career spanning over five decades, passed away at the age of 78 after a long battle with lung cancer. His death was a great loss to the entertainment industry, as he had won two Academy Awards and had been nominated for seven more. He was also a Tony Award winner, and had appeared in over 100 films and television shows. Robards will be remembered for his incredible talent and his lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.