Early Life and Career

Born as Charles Dennis Buchinsky on November 3, 1921, in Ehrenfeld, Pennsylvania, Charles Bronson was the 11th of 15 children in a Lithuanian immigrant family. He grew up in poverty and worked odd jobs to help support his family.

After serving in the Air Force during World War II, Bronson pursued acting and changed his last name to Bronson. He began his career in theater and television before making his film debut in "You're in the Navy Now" in 1951.

Rise to Fame

Bronson gained recognition for his roles in Western films such as "The Magnificent Seven" (1960) and "Once Upon a Time in the West" (1968). He became known for his tough guy persona and stoic demeanor on screen, often playing vigilantes or lone gunmen.

In the 1970s, Bronson achieved international fame with his role as vigilante Paul Kersey in the "Death Wish" series. The films were controversial for their portrayal of vigilantism, but they were box office hits and solidified Bronson's status as a Hollywood icon.

Height of Career

During the peak of his career, Bronson was one of the highest-paid actors in Hollywood. He starred in numerous action films such as "Hard Times" (1975), "Breakout" (1975), and "The Mechanic" (1972). His rugged good looks and intense performances made him a favorite among audiences.

Bronson continued to work steadily throughout the 1980s and 1990s, appearing in films like "Murphy's Law" (1986) and "Death Wish V: The Face of Death" (1994). Despite his advancing age, he remained active in the industry until his retirement in 1999.

Net Worth

At the time of his death on August 30, 2003, at the age of 81, Charles Bronson had an estimated net worth of $65 million. Throughout his career, he amassed a fortune through his successful film roles and endorsements.

Bronson's legacy lives on through his iconic performances and enduring influence on action cinema. He is remembered as a true tough guy both on and off screen, leaving behind a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.