**Jack Palance (1919-2006)** was an American actor renowned for his distinctive appearance, raspy voice, and intense screen presence, which made him ideal for antagonist or "villain" roles.

He rose to prominence playing menacing figures, particularly as the relentless gunfighter Jack Wilson in **Shane** (Il cavaliere della valle solitaria, 1953), a role that earned him an Academy Award nomination. Other memorable performances include **Sudden Fear** (Paura improvvisa, 1952) and the complex role of boxer Louden Penrose in **Requiem for a Heavyweight** (Requiem per un campione, 1962).

After a long career marked by "tough guy" roles in Westerns, war films, and thrillers, he won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his ironic portrayal of the gruff cowboy Curly Washburn in **City Slickers** (Scappo dalla città - La vita, l'amore e le vacche, 1991), a role that parodied his cinematic image. His imposing figure and intense performances remain iconic in cinema.