More than five decades have passed since “The Dirty Dozen” premiered in 1967, solidifying its status as one of the most iconic war films in cinematic history. The film, which showcased a group of misfit soldiers on a perilous mission, left an indelible mark on the genre and on the careers of its cast members. Tragically, many of these stars have since passed away, often under heart-wrenching circumstances.

Lee Marvin, who played the tough and determined Major John Reisman, was a veteran of World War II before his Academy Award-winning acting career took off. He passed away in 1987 from a heart attack at the age of 63. Ernest Borgnine, portraying General Warden, was celebrated for his versatility and won an Oscar for “Marty.” He died at 95 from kidney failure in 2012.

Jim Brown, a legendary NFL player turned actor, brought depth to the role of Robert T. Jefferson. He remained active in film until his death in 2023 at the age of 87 due to natural causes. Charles Bronson, known for his rugged persona, played Joseph T. Vlattislaw and died in 2003 from pneumonia and Alzheimer’s complications at age 81.

The cast also included George Kennedy, an Oscar winner who died in 2016 at 91 due to heart disease, and Telly Savalas, who was remembered for his iconic role in “Kojak” and passed away from cancer in 1994. Donald Sutherland, who played Vernon Pinkley, enjoyed a prolific career until his passing in 2024 at age 88.

Other notable cast members include Clint Walker, who died in 2018, and John Cassavetes, a pioneering filmmaker who passed away in 1989. The film’s legacy continues to resonate, reminding audiences of the extraordinary talents that graced the screen and the tragic fates that befell them. “The Dirty Dozen” remains a poignant tribute to both the courage of its characters and the actors who brought them to life.