Charlton Heston

Charlton Heston, April 5, age 84: The ruggedly handsome Heston was known for his heroic roles in films like 1959's "Ben-Hur" (for which he won the best actor Oscar), "El Cid" and "The Ten Commandments," in which he played a commanding Moses. Even his role in "Planet of the Apes... more" was transformative and heroic. He was also known for his offscreen activities, from his work in the early '60s in the civil rights movement and his presidency of the Screen Actors Guild, to his conservative politics in his later years, including his presidency of the National Rifle Association. He was married for 64 years to his college sweetheart, Lydia, who released this statement upon Heston's death: "Charlton Heston was seen by the world as larger than life. We knew him as an adoring husband, a kind and devoted father, and a gentle grandfather with an infectious sense of humor. He served these far greater roles with tremendous faith, courage and dignity."

(Coll A. Pele/Starface/Retna Ltd.)