Burt Lancaster did not enter the film world until his mid-thirties, having developed a taste for acting in Army shows but lacking any formal dramatic training. A former circus performer, his strong personality and presence, athletic physique and winning smile made him a popular Hollywood star from the 1940s into the 70s, and kept him prominent in star character roles thereafter. Lancaster's first film role, as an ex-prizefighter on the lam in Robert Siodmak's splendid film noir, "The Killers" (1946), turned out to be one of Hollywood's most impressive star debuts and one of his finest
Founder (with Nick Cravat) of Lang and Cravat acrobatic team
Performed with many circuses (including Ringling Bros.), Also in vaudeville, at funfairs and nightclubs during 1930s
1939
Injured right hand; gave up acrobatics and worked as a firefighter, refrigeration company inspector and as a floor walker, then salesman for Marshall Field and Company, Chicago IL
Drafted into Army, Special Services Division stationed in North Africa and Italy, where he directed and appeared in revues including "Stars and Gripes"
