A screen legend takes his final bow...

We've lost another one. People who class themselves as Film fans, Movie buffs and so on will experience the feeling of sadness felt when a favourite dies. Ernest Borgnine (Born January 24, 1917) died yesterday aged 95. Better biographies abound, but after ten years in the US Navy (Ironically he was discharged in 1941, only to - presumably - dash back in to re-enlist for the duration) he was facing unemployment. He recalled how his Mother gave him one of those 'Well?' looks that set the stomach sinking - but he didn't fancy a hum-drum career. Ten years later Grace Kelly handed him the Oscar...

 Although his filmography is impressive; The Dirty Dozen, Ice Station Zebra, the Black Hole, Convoy, Small Soldiers - TV shows such as Magnum PI and, of course the hit Airwolf (Alongside another favourite of mine Jan Michael-Vincent of Hooper fame), to me, Ernest Borgnine will always be simply Cabbie. His role in Escape from New York (1981) wasn't the lead role, but it was brilliant - he played it with a master's touch; just the right side of crazy, with a hint of humour. Most people will remember him for his many other roles, me, I'm waving goodbye to the Cabbie. 

 RIP ERNEST BORGNINE

  

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