Gig Young

Gig Young (born Byron Elsworth Barr; November 4, 1913 – October 19, 1978) was an American actor. He was active in film, television, and theatre from the late 1930's through the 1970's, and was initially known for his portrayals of characters with "light-hearted sophistication." He won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in They Shoot Horses, Don't They? (1969), with two previous nominations for Come Fill the Cup (1952) and Teacher's Pet (1959).

Young's career was tempered by a troubled personal life. Dissatisfied with the quality of roles, his worsening alcoholism caused him to lose several high-profile roles, severely hurting his career prospects. In 1978, Young murdered his 31-year-old wife three weeks after their wedding before turning the gun on himself and committing suicide at the age of 64.