Keir Dullea
Actor in '2001: A Space Odyssey'
Keir Dullea (born May 30, 1936) is an American actor with a career spanning over six decades in film, television, and stage. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Dullea studied at the Interlochen Center for the Arts and made his Broadway debut in the early 1960s. He gained international recognition for his portrayal of astronaut David Bowman in Stanley Kubrick's landmark science fiction film '2001: A Space Odyssey' (1968), a role that defined much of his public image and remains one of cinema's most iconic performances. Beyond '2001,' Dullea appeared in numerous films including 'Madame X,' 'The Fox,' and 'Coma,' as well as extensive television work. He returned to his iconic role in '2010: The Year We Make Contact' (1984). Dullea has maintained a steady career in character roles and guest appearances on television throughout his later years, demonstrating the longevity of his acting talent. His performance in '2001' cemented his place in science fiction cinema history and made him recognizable to multiple generations of film enthusiasts.
Entertainment
American
1936
Thinking about the name
Keir
Scottish origin
“A Scottish name derived from Gaelic roots, Keir means 'dark-skinned' or 'dusky,' though it has evolved beyond its literal meaning to represent tradition and Celtic heritage. The short, strong sound gives it contemporary appeal while maintaining historical depth. It's both timeless and distinctly Scottish.”