How Did Yul Brynner Die?
Yul Brynner died of Lung cancer on October 10, 1985, at age 65.
What was Yul Brynner's cause of death?
Yul Brynner died of lung cancer on October 10, 1985, in New York City at the age of 65. A longtime heavy smoker, he was diagnosed while performing in a Broadway revival of The King and I. Before his death he recorded a powerful anti-smoking public service announcement, which aired posthumously and simply urged viewers, 'Just don't smoke.'
How old was Yul Brynner when they died?
Yul Brynner was 65 years old at the time of death.
When did Yul Brynner die?
Yul Brynner died on October 10, 1985.
Yul Brynner Biography
Yuliy Borisovich Briner, known as Yul Brynner, was born on July 11, 1920, in Vladivostok, Russia. Instantly recognizable for his shaved head and commanding presence, he won the Best Actor Oscar for The King and I and starred in The Ten Commandments and The Magnificent Seven.
Personal Life
Who are Yul Brynner's parents?
Unknown
Was Yul Brynner married?
Yul Brynner was married once, to Kathy Lee (1983–None).
Did Yul Brynner have children?
Yul Brynner had 4 children: Rock Brynner, Victoria Brynner, Melody Brynner, Mia Brynner.
What religion was Yul Brynner?
Yul Brynner was N/A.
What was Yul Brynner's ethnicity?
Yul Brynner was of Russian / Swiss heritage.
Career Highlights
Movies
- The King and I (1956) — Watch on Amazon
- The Ten Commandments (1956) — Watch on Amazon
- The Magnificent Seven (1960) — Watch on Amazon
- Westworld (1973) — Watch on Amazon
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Awards
- Academy Award for Best Actor (1957)
Facts About Yul Brynner
- Won the Best Actor Oscar for The King and I, a role he played over 4,600 times on stage
- His shaved head became one of Hollywood's most recognizable trademarks
- Played a menacing android gunslinger in the original Westworld
- Recorded an anti-smoking message aired after his death from lung cancer
Yul Brynner Quotes
"Now you have seen me, so I'll go on doing what I want to do."
Legacy
Yul Brynner is remembered for one of the most iconic stage-and-screen roles in history and for his stark posthumous warning against smoking.
Sources
Last verified: 2026-08-17