Happy Birthday, Kirk Douglas

On Friday, the legendary actor Kirk Douglas celebrates his 95th year and almost a century of accomplishment. Best known for his iconic roles in "Spartacus," "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea," and "Lust for Life," the self-described "ragman's son" made his way from poverty to screen legend.
The superstar had a humble start: The first-generation American was born Issur Danielovitch Demsky to Russian-Jewish parents in Amsterdam, New York, back in 1916. An avid performer in high school plays, the go-getter made his mark at Saint Lawrence University in upstate New York, where he became a wrestling champion. He later received an acting scholarship at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City, where he met classmate and fellow future icon Lauren Bacall.
The actor had barely launched a theater career when he shipped out with the U.S. Navy in 1941 and changed his name to Kirk Douglas. The war vet returned to New York City in 1945 to work radio shows,

theater, and commercials. When the jobs dried up, the young hopeful moved to Hollywood, and with the help of former classmate Bacall, got a screen test and his first role in "The Strange Love of Martha Ivers," starring Barbara Stanwyck. And, as they say, a star was born.

New Pic`s:

Kirk Douglas

Kirk Douglas

Kirk Douglas

Old Pic`s:

 Kirk Douglas

Kirk Douglas