The 1956 film “The Ten Commandments,” directed by Cecil B. DeMille, remains a monumental classic, captivating audiences for over six decades. As the film celebrates its 67th anniversary, a retrospective look at its cast reveals a mix of enduring legacies and tragic losses.
Among the prominent actors, Anne Baxter, who portrayed Nefertiti at the age of 33, passed away in 1985 at 62. Her performance left a lasting impact on viewers, demonstrating her talent and charisma. Charlton Heston, known for his powerful role as Moses, left us in 2008 at the age of 84, remembered for his commanding presence on screen.
John Derek, who played Joshua, died in 1998 at 71, while Martha Scott, who brought Yochabel to life, passed away in 2003 at the age of 90. Both actors contributed significantly to the film’s emotional depth. Vincent Price, cast as Baka, also left a mark before his death in 1993 at 82, known for his distinctive voice and presence in horror cinema.
Yvonne De Carlo, who played Sephora, died in 2007 at 84, and Nina Foch, portraying Bethia, left us in 2008, also at 84. Their performances added layers of complexity to the narrative. The film also showcased talents like Judith Anderson and Cedric Hardwick, who respectively portrayed Memnet and Seti, passing away in 1992 and 1964.
The legacy of “The Ten Commandments” continues to resonate with audiences, and while many of its stars have since passed away, their contributions to cinema remain cherished. As families gather to watch this iconic film, they are reminded of the remarkable talent that brought the biblical epic to life, alongside the somber recognition of the tragic fates that befell its cast.