John Kitzmiller

Former film actor[6]

What is John Kitzmiller known for?

John Kitzmiller, an acclaimed American actor, was born on December 4, 1913, in Battle Creek, Michigan. He got his early education at Battle Creek Central High School before proceeding to the University of Michigan where he earned a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering in 1937. His life took a turn when he was commissioned in the U.S. Army and reached the rank of captain, serving in Italy during the World War II.

Kitzmiller's acting career began in Italy, following his encounter with Luigi Zampa and Carlo Ponti in 1946. He subsequently made significant strides in his acting career, particularly in his roles in Italian neorealist films. He made a significant impact in more than fifty European films, often playing characters who stood against racism.

His remarkable talent won him the Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Actor in 1957 for his performance in the Slovenian film Valley of Peace, making him the first Black actor to receive this prestigious award. He is, however, best-known for his role as Quarrel in the very first EON-produced James Bond movie, Dr. No, in 1962.

Sadly, Kitzmiller's life was cut short by a liver ailment in Rome, Italy, on February 23, 1965, at the age of just 51.