Montgomery Clift was an American actor born on October 17, 1920, in Omaha, Nebraska. He gained fame in the 1940s and 1950s for his intense performances in films such as A Place in the Sun and From Here to Eternity. Clift was known for his brooding persona and ability to portray complex characters, making him a significant figure in the Method acting movement. Despite his success, Clift struggled with personal issues, including substance abuse and a tragic car accident in 1956 that severely impacted his health and career. He continued to act in films like Judgment at Nuremberg and The Misfits until his death on July 23, 1966. Clift's legacy endures as a talented and influential actor in American cinema.