James Dean is the legendary hero with a legendary story; live fast and die young. For over half a century, he has captured the world with his casual style, unflinching look and rebel attitude. James Dean has defined the essence of cool and without-a-cause for generations. His star continues to shine brighter and brighter.
Never has there ever been, never will there ever be. The one, the only, James Dean.
Remembering James Dean
02/08/09
Feb. 8 marks what would have been James Dean's 76th birthday.
Although Dean's tragic death at the age of 24 limited his career to only three major films, he is still remembered around the globe as the epitome of cool and one of the greatest actors of all time.
Dean was born on Feb. 8, 1931 in Marion, Ind. And although he spent part of his childhood in California, most of his upbringing took place in Fairmount, Ind.
It was in Fairmount, a small farming community located 52 miles north of Indianapolis, where Dean discovered his passion for theatre and acting.
Through three astounding performances in "East of Eden," "Rebel Without a Cause" and "Giant," Dean was on the cusp of finding great success and was an inspiration to the restless American youth of the 1950s. Unfortunately, his life and career were cut tragically short when he was killed in a car accident in 1955.
Today, Dean remains more popular than ever. Throughout the world his legions of fans continue to honor his life and career, and on this the 76th anniversary of his birth, we join them in celebrating his legacy.