(1905-1994)American Film ActorBy Eric Menjivar

Joseph Chesire Cotten was born on May 15, 1905 in Petersburg, Virginia.At an early age he discovered his passion for telling stories and performing for his family.Cotten studied at the Hickman School of Expression in Washington, D.C. and afterwards, worked as an advertising agent.In 1924 Cotten decided to try acting in New York and in 1930 made his Broadway debut.He got the opportunity to act in films due to his friendship with Orson Wells, and his film debut was in the Welles-directed short film Too Much Johnson in 1938. He would appeare in many of Welles films, the most famous of which is Citizen Kane.

One of his trademarks is that in the 40s, he was seen primarily as a romantic, leading man.He worked with many of the top leading ladies of the time, such as Jennifer Jones, Loretta Young, and Marilyn Monroe.

Selected FilmographyCitizen Kane (1941) directed by Orson Welles - Cottens Hollywood debut and considered by many to be one of the greatest films of all time. Shadow of A Doubt (1943) directed by Alfred Hitchcock Was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Writing (Original Story) and was chosen by the Library of Congress for preservation in the U.S. National Film Registry.Love Letters (1945) directed by William Dieterle. The Film was nominated for several Academy Awards including Best Actress (Jennifer Jones), Best Art Direction, and Best Music, Song.Portrait of Jennie (1948) directed by William Dieterle. The only award Cotten ever received was for his acting in this film. He won the Volpi Cup for Best Actor at the Venice Film Festival. The Third Man (1949) directed by Carol Reed. Considered a film noir masterpiece.

Film Stills/Movie PostersLove LettersShadow of a Doubt

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