For the last fifty years, Paul Newman has perfectly personified every roll thrown his way. From Butch Cassidy to Eddie Felson, he’s brought many of Hollywood’s most memorable characters to life. Last year he lent his voice to the computer animated feature Cars, and it now appears that will be remembered as the last contribution to his epic resumé. The eighty two year old actor made his retirement announcement on ‘Good Morning America’ yesterday, ending a more than five decade run.
There’s nothing this man hasn’t accomplished in his life. He’s reportedly a good auto racer, his salad dressing walks all over Hidden Valley’s, and some of the most beautiful women in the world have shared his bed. Hell, he’s even donated over two hundred million dollars to charity in his life. Dammit, Paul. You make the rest of us untalented saps look bad!
I was eleven years old when I first encountered the magic of Paul Newman. My parents brought home The Sting, and I gawked at the screen as I instantly fell in love with his depiction of Gondorff. It was all so deliciously spiteful. A few weeks later I watched Slap Shot with my father, and I laughed so hard that I missed at least half the dialogue. To this day, it is the only movie that I have watched twice in one night.
Cinema Blend salutes you, Paul. You’re the reason a lot of people fell in love with movies, and you’re an even better humanitarian. Have a wonderful retirement.
