Date of birth: November 02, 1913
Date of death: October 20, 1994 (aged 80 years)
Height: 6′ 1″ (185 cm)
Hair color: Blonde
Eye color: Blue
Burton Stephen Lancaster was born on November 2, 1913, in New York City. Before acting, he performed as a circus acrobat with his childhood friend Nick Cravat, an athletic background that later informed several early screen roles.
Lancaster’s film career began with The Killers and included From Here to Eternity, Sweet Smell of Success, Birdman of Alcatraz, The Leopard and Atlantic City. He won the Academy Award for best actor for Elmer Gantry.
Lancaster died on October 20, 1994, at age 80. The original facts block had his colors reversed; it now correctly lists blond hair and blue eyes. The old article’s appearance-heavy commentary was replaced with a documented account of his circus training and acting range.
Updated details
Biographical and career details were reviewed and the article text was updated on September 7, 2026. Historical measurements and past routine descriptions are identified as such.
