George Burns

George Burns (born as Nathan Birnbaum January 20, 1896; died March 9, 1996) had a career spanning much of the 20th century, including vaudeville, radio, TV, films and nightclubs. He was a nominee for best comedy actor for The Sunshine Boys (1975), alongside costar Walter Matthau. When both of them tied as winners, awards strategists changed tactics for the Oscar race: Matthau was touted as best actor, while Burns became supporting actor, and he won.