John garfield bio biography john

John Garfield (1913- 1952)

Biography and Movie Career

John Garfield, born Jacob Julius Garfinkle on March 4, 1913, in New York City, emerged as one of Hollywood's most authentic and naturalistic actors, renowned for his intense performances and his gritty, working-class appeal.

Garfield's career was defined by his blend of charisma and toughness, which gave depth to his roles and often brought a raw, vulnerable edge to Hollywood’s golden age.

Early Life and Personal Struggles

Garfield was born into a poor Jewish family on New York’s Lower East Side.

John garfield bio biography john

His father, David Garfinkle, was a cloth cutter who struggled to provide for the family, especially after Garfield’s mother, Hannah, died when he was just seven. Her death affected him deeply, contributing to a rebellious streak that marked his youth.

Moving between relatives and foster homes, Garfield faced various hardships, including a bout of rheumatic fever that perm