Ep 12. Jack Lemmon: America's Everyman

Jack Lemmon was one of the most beloved actors in Hollywood history. Known for his everyman demeanor and easy-going charm, he won millions of fans over the course of his long and illustrious career. In "Jack Lemmon: America's Everyman," the twelfth episode of the first season of Hollywood Idols, viewers get a glimpse into the life and legacy of this iconic figure.

The episode kicks off with an overview of Lemmon's early years. Born in Boston in 1925, he grew up during the Great Depression and served in the Navy during World War II. After the war, he attended Harvard University, where he acted in student productions and developed a love for the theater. He later moved to New York City, where he worked as a barkeep and acted in off-Broadway productions before making his way to Hollywood.

Once in Tinseltown, Lemmon quickly made a name for himself. His breakthrough role came in the 1955 comedy "Mister Roberts," in which he co-starred with Henry Fonda and James Cagney. The film was a box office hit and launched Lemmon's career as a leading man. From there, he went on to star in a string of successful comedies, including "Some Like It Hot" (1959) and "The Apartment" (1960), both directed by Billy Wilder.

Over the course of his career, Lemmon worked with many of Hollywood's top directors and actors, including Wilder, Blake Edwards, Walter Matthau, and Shirley MacLaine. He also received numerous accolades for his work, winning two Academy Awards, six Golden Globe Awards, and three Primetime Emmy Awards. Despite his success, however, he remained humble and unassuming, earning him the nickname "America's Everyman."

In "Jack Lemmon: America's Everyman," viewers get to see clips from some of Lemmon's most memorable film performances, including his roles in "The Odd Couple" (1968), "Grumpy Old Men" (1993), and "Glengarry Glen Ross" (1992). The episode also features interviews with some of Lemmon's co-stars and friends, including Matthau, MacLaine, and Kevin Spacey.

Throughout the episode, viewers get a sense of the deep respect and admiration that Lemmon's peers had for him. They describe him as a consummate professional, a generous collaborator, and a true artist. MacLaine, in particular, speaks movingly about Lemmon's talent and charisma, noting that he was one of the few actors who could make her laugh on set even when the cameras weren't rolling.

As the episode draws to a close, viewers are left with a sense of the tremendous impact that Jack Lemmon had on the film industry and on popular culture as a whole. He was an actor whose work was characterized by wit, humanity, and heart – qualities that made him stand out in an era of larger-than-life Hollywood stars.

Overall, "Jack Lemmon: America's Everyman" is a fitting tribute to a talented performer who left an indelible mark on the entertainment world. Whether you're a longtime fan of Lemmon's work or just discovering his films for the first time, this episode is sure to provide valuable insights into the life and career of an unforgettable actor.