Jeffrey Hunter (1926-1969) was an American actor, celebrated for his youthful appearance and his "golden boy" charm, which made him a popular face in 1950s and 1960s cinema.

His film career featured him in diverse roles. He is best remembered for the intense Martin Pawley in John Ford's epic western *The Searchers* (1956), a role that defined his stature. Another iconic role was that of Jesus Christ in *King of Kings* (1961), which consolidated his versatile image. Hunter also participated in the war epic *The Longest Day* (1962).

He demonstrated remarkable versatility, portraying both positive heroes and more complex, even villainous characters, as in the film noir *A Kiss Before Dying* (1956). Although he had an iconic television role as Captain Pike in the *Star Trek* pilot, his subsequent career gravitated towards minor productions before his premature death.