James Cagney Quotes: James Cagney, born on July 17, 1899, in New York City, was an American actor and dancer who left an indelible mark on the golden age of Hollywood. Renowned for his dynamic performances, electrifying presence, and versatility, Cagney became one of the most iconic and influential figures in the history of cinema. From his memorable portrayals of tough guys and gangsters to his adeptness in musicals, Cagney’s career spanned over six decades, earning him critical acclaim and numerous awards.
Table of Contents
- James Cagney Info
- Top 10 James Cagney Quotes
- James Cagney Quotes About Life (ACTOR)
- James Cagney
- James Cagney Net Worth, Family and Age
- List of James Cagney Movies
- Conclusion
James Cagney Info
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | James Francis Cagney Jr. |
Date of Birth | July 17, 1899 |
Place of Birth | New York City, New York, USA |
Date of Death | March 30, 1986 |
Occupation | Actor, Dancer |
Early Life | Born to Irish-American parents, Cagney grew up in the Lower East Side of Manhattan, where he developed a passion for performing |
Breakthrough Role | Gained recognition for his role in “The Public Enemy” (1931), where he portrayed a charismatic yet ruthless gangster |
Iconic Characters | Known for his portrayals of tough guys and gangsters in films like “Angels with Dirty Faces” (1938) and “White Heat” (1949) |
Musical Talent | Showcased his dancing skills in musicals such as “Yankee Doodle Dandy” (1942), where he played legendary songwriter George M. Cohan |
Awards and Honors | Received numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in “Yankee Doodle Dandy” (1942) |
Legacy | Revered as one of the greatest actors of Hollywood’s golden age, Cagney’s performances continue to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers |

Top 10 James Cagney Quotes










James Cagney Quotes About Life (ACTOR)
Those vaudevillians knew something that ultimately I came to understand and believe – that audiences are the ones who determine material. They buy the tickets. – James Cagney



Never settle back on your heels. Never relax. If you relax, the audience relaxes. And always mean everything you say. – James Cagney



James Cagney
James Cagney remains an iconic figure in the history of cinema, celebrated for his dynamic performances, versatile acting range, and enduring legacy. With a career spanning over three decades, Cagney left an indelible mark on audiences and filmmakers alike with his memorable portrayals of complex and charismatic characters.
Cagney’s rise to prominence began in the 1930s, where he became synonymous with the tough-talking, street-smart persona in classic gangster films such as “The Public Enemy” and “Angels with Dirty Faces.” His electrifying screen presence and ability to convey both menace and vulnerability captivated audiences, earning him widespread acclaim and establishing him as one of Hollywood’s most bankable stars.
Beyond his iconic gangster roles, James Cagney showcased his versatility as an actor with acclaimed performances in a variety of genres, including musicals like “Yankee Doodle Dandy,” for which he won an Academy Award for Best Actor. His talent for dance, singing, and comedic timing further demonstrated his range and depth as a performer.
Cagney’s contributions to cinema extended beyond his acting talents; he was also known for his work ethic, professionalism, and dedication to his craft. His commitment to authenticity and attention to detail set a standard for excellence in the industry and inspired generations of actors to come.
As one of the most respected and beloved actors of Hollywood’s Golden Age, James Cagney’s legacy continues to endure, influencing filmmakers and captivating audiences with his timeless performances. His impact on the world of cinema remains unparalleled, solidifying his status as a true legend in the annals of film history.
James Cagney Net Worth, Family and Age
Here’s the information about James Cagney:
Information | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | James Francis Cagney Jr. |
Age | Deceased (born July 17, 1899; died March 30, 1986) |
Net Worth | – |
Height | 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 m) |
Spouse | Frances Vernon (m. 1922–1986, his death) |
Children | James Cagney III (adopted) |
Death | March 30, 1986 |
List of James Cagney Movies
Here are some notable films featuring James Cagney:
- The Public Enemy (1931) – as Tom Powers
- Angels with Dirty Faces (1938) – as Rocky Sullivan
- Yankee Doodle Dandy (1942) – as George M. Cohan
- White Heat (1949) – as Cody Jarrett
- Each Dawn I Die (1939) – as Frank Ross
- Footlight Parade (1933) – as Chester Kent
- The Roaring Twenties (1939) – as Eddie Bartlett
- City for Conquest (1940) – as Danny Kenny
- Love Me or Leave Me (1955) – as Martin Snyder
- Man of a Thousand Faces (1957) – as Lon Chaney
Conclusion
James Cagney, born on July 17, 1899, in New York City, was an iconic American actor and dancer. Renowned for his dynamic performances and versatile range, Cagney became a Hollywood legend during the Golden Age of cinema. He starred in numerous classic films, including “The Public Enemy,” “Angels with Dirty Faces,” and “Yankee Doodle Dandy,” for which he won an Academy Award. Cagney’s unique blend of toughness, charisma, and talent made him a beloved figure on screen. Additionally, he was known for his skilled tap dancing, showcasing his versatility as a performer. James Cagney’s legacy continues to inspire generations of actors and audiences alike.
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