Ben Johnson (1918-1996) was an American actor and stuntman, best known for his roles in western films such as The Wild Bunch and The Last Picture Show. He was born in Foraker, Oklahoma and raised in Texas.
Johnson began his career as a stuntman in the late 1930s, working on films such as Stagecoach and The Grapes of Wrath. He quickly became known for his daring stunts, often performing them himself and without the aid of special effects. He earned the nickname "the man of a thousand faces" due to the variety of roles he could perform.
In the 1950s, Johnson moved into acting, appearing in a number of westerns, including The Wild Bunch, Duel in the Sun, and The Last Picture Show. He was often cast as the villain, often playing characters with a menacing presence. He won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Sheriff Pat Garrett in The Last Picture Show.
In addition to his acting career, Johnson was also a successful rancher and rodeo performer. He owned and operated the Ben Johnson Ranch in Oklahoma, where he raised horses and cattle. He also won several rodeo championships, including the All-Around Cowboy Championship at the National Finals Rodeo in 1971.
Johnson was also an active member of the Screen Actors Guild, often speaking out against discrimination in Hollywood. He was vocal in his support of actors of color, and in his later years, he spoke out against the Vietnam War.
Johnson died in 1996, at the age of 77. He was honored posthumously with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. His legacy as an actor and stuntman continues to live on, and he is remembered for his iconic performances in western films.
