Peter Fonda
- Feb 22, 1940
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 7
DOB: February 23, 1940 | Birthplace: New York City, New York | Profession: Actor, Filmmaker
Unfortunately, Peter Fonda has passed away
Died: August 16, 2019 (Age 79 Years)
City: Los Angeles, California, USA
Cause of Death: Respiratory failure due to lung cancer
Resting Place: Cremated, ashes scattered at sea
Obituary: HERE
Peter Fonda was an American actor, director, and screenwriter whose work captured the restless spirit of the counterculture era. Best known for co-writing, producing, and starring in the landmark 1969 film Easy Rider, Fonda left a lasting mark on American cinema with his cool demeanor, rebellious image, and wide-ranging performances across decades.
Early years
Born into Hollywood royalty as the son of acclaimed actor Henry Fonda and the younger brother of actress Jane Fonda, Peter grew up surrounded by the entertainment industry. His childhood was marked by tragedy when his mother, Frances Ford Seymour, died by suicide when he was just ten years old. After attending boarding school and the University of Nebraska, Fonda turned to acting, initially appearing on Broadway and in television roles before transitioning to film.
Career
Peter Fonda's career began in the early 1960s with supporting roles in films such as Tammy and the Doctor (1963) and The Victors (1963), and guest appearances on popular television series. But it was Easy Rider (1969)—the low-budget road film he co-wrote with Dennis Hopper and Terry Southern—that made him a cultural icon. As Wyatt, the quiet, reflective biker cruising through America’s social divisions, Fonda helped usher in the New Hollywood era.
Following Easy Rider, Fonda continued to work in independent cinema, often exploring themes of freedom, rebellion, and alienation. His directorial debut, The Hired Hand (1971), gained a cult following for its lyrical style and revisionist take on the Western. He also appeared in films such as Dirty Mary, Crazy Larry (1974), Race with the Devil (1975), and Ulee’s Gold (1997), which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. In later years, Fonda took on character roles in films like 3:10 to Yuma (2007), Ghost Rider (2007), and The Limey (1999), showcasing his versatility across genres.
Behind the scenes
Peter Fonda was known for his free-spirited, philosophical nature and deep love of motorcycles, music, and open-road culture. He was an outspoken advocate for civil liberties and environmental causes, echoing the ideals reflected in his most famous roles. Though he spent much of his career in the shadow of his legendary father and successful sister, he carved his own legacy as a countercultural figurehead and respected artist. He was married three times and had two children, including actress Bridget Fonda.
Top 10 Films/TV Shows
Easy Rider (1969)
Ulee’s Gold (1997)
The Hired Hand (1971)
The Limey (1999)
Dirty Mary, Crazy Larry (1974)
Race with the Devil (1975)
3:10 to Yuma (2007)
The Trip (1967)
Ghost Rider (2007)
The Passion of Ayn Rand (1999, TV film)
Accolades
Fonda received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for Ulee’s Gold and a Golden Globe win for the same performance. He also earned critical praise and award nominations for his role in The Passion of Ayn Rand. In 2000, he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Honors and recognitionsIn addition to his Hollywood honors, Peter Fonda was celebrated at film festivals around the world, including Venice and Sundance, and received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Denver International Film Festival in 2013 for his contributions to independent cinema.
Conclusion
Peter Fonda embodied the spirit of a cinematic generation seeking meaning, freedom, and authenticity. Through roles that challenged the mainstream and celebrated the outsider, he helped reshape American film. His legacy continues not only through his performances, but also through the filmmakers and actors he inspired.
About the Author
Our biography and obituary articles are crafted by the dedicated staff at Massive Action Media. With a selective and intentional approach, we highlight the lives and legacies of influential figures in entertainment, focusing on those who shaped classics, cult favorites, and standout works that resonate with our platform’s unique voice. Each piece is thoughtfully curated to reflect our commitment to meaningful storytelling.
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