An American film actor, director and producer. An Academy Award-winner, he was among the top box office draws for three decades, and was named the all-time top money-making star. An enduring American icon, he epitomised rugged masculinity and is famous for his demeanour, including his distinctive calm voice, walk and height. His acting breakthrough came in 1939 with John Ford's Stagecoach, making him an instant star. He went on to star in 142 pictures, primarily typecast in Western films. Among his best known films are The Quiet Man (1952), The Searchers (1956), Rio Bravo (1959), True Grit (1969) and The Shootist (1976).