Born: 8 February 1931 · Died: 30 September 1955 · Age at death: 24
How old was James Dean when he died?
James Dean died aged 24. He was born on 8 February 1931 and died on 30 September 1955.
American actor of East of Eden, Rebel Without a Cause and Giant who became an icon of youth after dying at 24
Did you know?Before his Hollywood success, he appeared in a soft drink television commercial and worked as a car park attendant.
Quick facts
Date of birth8 February 1931
Date of death30 September 1955
Age at death24
Cause of deathCar collision
NationalityAmerican
BirthplaceMarion, United States
Occupationfilm actor, television actor, stage actor
Editor's Take:
James Dean became a lasting symbol of restless youth after starring in just three major films. He was raised on an Indiana farm by his aunt and uncle after his mother died. He studied acting in New York, absorbing the intense Method style. East of Eden, Rebel Without a Cause and Giant were all made in about 18 months. He loved fast cars and raced them. In September 1955 he died in a crash in his Porsche in California, aged 24. Two of his Oscar nominations came after his death.
James Byron Dean (February 8, 1931 – September 30, 1955) was an American actor. He became one of the most influential figures in Hollywood in the 1950s, and his impact on cinema and popular culture was profound, although his career lasted only five years.
