This man died.

James Dean made his first film, East Of Eden, in 1954. The film was released in 1955 and a few months later he was dead. Before his death he made two other films, the George Stevens film Giant (which also starred Ellizabeth Tayor and Rock Hudson), and the cult classic Rebel Without A Cause. Both films were box office smashes and propelled James Dean to icon status.

James Dean is credited as one of the most famous icons of his generation along with Marliyn Monroe and Elvis Presley. His influence now rivals his once idol, screen legend, Marlon Brando. Contemporary actors such as Johnny Depp credit him as an inspiration and a pioneer. His films were the first to publically address teen angst and are credited for inspiring modern films such as Donnie Darko.


Artist who have themselves crossed over to icon status even credit him as an influence. Elvis Presley and Bob Dylan both admired him and John Lennon once said that without James Dean there wouldn't be any Beatles. Many actors have a long string of blockbuster movies but none can say they're as big as James Dean and only have 3 films.