Oscar-winning actor Borgnine dead at 95

Veteran actor Ernest Borgnine, the star of dozens of films and TV shows who won an Oscar for his portrayal of a shy butcher in love in "Marty," died Sunday, his manager said. He was 95.

"Yes, sadly that is true," Lynda Bensky told AFP, without offering further details about the circumstances of his death.

Local media reports said the actor died at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles on Sunday with his family at his side.

Born on January 24, 1917 in Hamden, Connecticut, Borgnine was primarily known for his supporting roles in comedies such as the popular television series "McHale's Navy" and dramas like the World War II film "The Dirty Dozen."

The US Navy veteran won an Academy Award for best actor for his role in the 1955 film "Marty," which also took home Oscars for best picture, best director and best screenplay.

Borgnine -- who began his career as a stage actor and first shot to prominence in Hollywood when he played Sergeant "Fatso" Judson in "From Here to Eternity" -- was also known for his role on the television series "Airwolf."

In an interview with AFP in 2007, Borgnine said he would advise aspiring actors to "get a real job before you try to get an acting job."

"Learn about life and then learn your craft. And don't wear dark glasses on screen because you think you're cool. The eyes are an actor's best asset," Borgnine said.

AFP