Charlton Heston, born as John Charles Carter on October 4, 1923, in Evanston, Illinois, was a noteworthy figure in the realm of American cinema. His career spanned over six decades, during which he starred in more than 100 films, leaving an indelible mark on Hollywood's Golden Age. Known for his commanding presence and deep, resonant voice, Heston often portrayed heroic characters in epic films such as The Ten Commandments (1956), where he played Moses, and Ben-Hur (1959), where he won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Judah Ben-Hur. Heston's early life saw him developing a passion for acting. He attended New Trier High School in Winnetka, Illinois, where he first honed his acting skills. After serving in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II, Heston studied at Northwestern University's School of Speech (now the School of Communication), further cementing his foundation in performance arts. Post-graduation, he moved to New York City, where he found work as a model and stage actor before making his way to Hollywood. Off-screen, Charlton Heston was known for his political activism. Initially a liberal Democrat, he supported John F. Kennedy's presidential campaign in 1960. However, he later shifted to the right, becoming a vocal supporter of conservative causes and serving as the president of the National Rifle Association from 1998 to 2003. Yet, his contributions weren't limited to politics. Heston also dedicated himself to philanthropic causes, notably advocating for civil rights and against gun violence. He passed away on April 5, 2008, in Beverly Hills, California, but his legacy in film and public service continues to endure.