Watch CBS News

Actor-Comedian Ernest Borgnine Still Working At 94

One of the busiest actors in show business is celebrating his 94th birthday today.

Born Ermes Effron Borgnino to Italian immigrants in Hamden, Conn., and eventually changing his name to Ernest Borgnine, he's enjoyed a career spanning more than six decades.

He was the  lead in many films in the '50s including the Academy Award-winning turn in "Marty," named best picture of 1955.

On television he was best known for playing Cmdr. Quinton McHale in the series "McHale's Navy."  He also co-starred in the mid-'80s series "Airwolf" and voiced Mermaid Man in the animated children's series "SpongeBob SquarePants."

He was 92 when he earned an Emmy nomination for the series "ER" and recently he got a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Rhode Island International Film Festival.

He's been married five times (including possibly one of the briefest marriages in show business history -- one month to Ethel Merman).

But at 94, Ernie says he's determined to stick it out.

"I've vowed to live to the year 2013," he said recently.  "After that I don't give a damn!"

Reported by Bob Nelson, KYW Newsradio 1060.

 


View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.