Eight Surprising Facts About James Dean

Despite starring in just three major feature films before his untimely death after a car accident at age 24 in 1955, James Dean has endured. The actor, who was born on February 8, 1931, was known for his performances that utilized the immersive “Method” acting technique. And though it's been nearly 65 years since his passing, Dean continues to be the barometer for both effortless cool and committed performing. Let's take a look at some of the more interesting facts behind his life and career.

Dean was born on February 8, 1931 in Marion, Indiana to Winston Dean, a dentist, and Mildred Wilson. When Dean was just nine years old, Mildred passed away from cancer, so Winston sent Dean to live with his aunt and uncle near rural Fairmount, Indiana, where he grew up on a Quaker farm and was a standout high school athlete. Upon graduating from high school in 1949, Dean hopped a bus to California in order to pursue acting while attending Santa Monica City College. But his first role was likely not up to the level of his talents: Dean was cast as part of an ensemble for a Pepsi commercial and seen dancing and singing around a jukebox. He was paid $30.