The 1968 Planet of the Apes is an undeniable sci-fi masterpiece, proving you don’t need CGI or explosions to make a tantalizing thriller. With incredible costumes, makeup, and a story that still resonates today, the film boasts one of the greatest cliffhangers of all time. Its cast brought the complex ape civilization and human struggle to life, and while the franchise has continued through multiple sequels and reboots, the original’s cast remains unmatched. Let’s look back at these talented actors and see what they’ve been up to.
1. Charlton Heston (George Taylor)
Charlton Heston led the film as George Taylor, an astronaut whose mission ends in disaster when his crew crash-lands on the titular ape planet. His defiant roar while trapped in a net is one of the most iconic moments in cinema.
Heston’s career spanned decades, beginning in 1941. His breakout came in The Greatest Show on Earth (1952), followed by legendary roles like Moses in The Ten Commandments (1956) and Judah in Ben-Hur (1959). The ‘70s brought more classics, including Soylent Green (1973). Later, he starred in The Colbys and worked alongside his son Fraser in TV movies.
Married to his wife Lydia since 1944, Heston battled health challenges later in life, including prostate cancer and Alzheimer’s. He passed away in 2008 at 84, leaving behind a legacy of timeless performances.
2. Maurice Evans (Dr. Zaius)
As Dr. Zaius, Maurice Evans played the orangutan Minister of Science and a staunch antagonist to Heston’s Taylor. His portrayal gave the film its necessary tension and gravitas.
Evans, a classically trained British actor, began his career in the 1920s. He shone on stage and in films like Rosemary’s Baby (1968). Surprisingly, his biggest success came on TV, where he appeared in shows like Tarzan and Bewitched as Samantha’s father. His final film role was in The Jerk (1979). Evans passed away in 1989 at 87.
3. Roddy McDowall (Cornelius/Caesar)
Roddy McDowall brought warmth and intellect to Dr. Cornelius, the skeptical chimpanzee scientist who helps Taylor. Behind the prosthetics, McDowall’s emotive performance stood out.
Starting as a child actor in the ‘30s, McDowall starred in Lassie Come Home (1943) and became lifelong friends with Elizabeth Taylor. He later appeared in Cleopatra (1963) and The Legend of Robin Hood (1968). Beyond acting, McDowall was a talented photographer, publishing books featuring celebrity profiles. He passed away in 1998 from lung cancer at 70.
4. James Daly (Dr. Honorious)
Dr. Honorious, the smug prosecutor during Taylor’s trial, was played by James Daly. His biting dialogue added to the film’s tension.
Daly started his career in the early ‘50s and found success in Medical Center as Chad Everett’s boss. He died of a heart attack in 1978 at 59. His legacy lives on through his children, Tyne Daly (Cagney & Lacey) and Tim Daly (Wings).
5. Linda Harrison (Nova)
Linda Harrison portrayed Nova, the stunning, silent human who develops a bond with Taylor. Although she had no dialogue, her presence became iconic.
Before acting, Harrison was a beauty queen and model. She appeared in Bracken’s World and later took roles in films like Cocoon (1985). Today, she’s 78 and lives in Maryland.
6. Lou Wagner (Lucius)
Lucius, Zira’s rebellious and witty nephew, was brought to life by Lou Wagner. His youthful energy and humor made him a memorable character.
Wagner began acting in the ‘60s and became known for his role in CHiPs as the precinct’s mechanic. He also starred in McDonald’s commercials as The Professor. Now 83, Wagner remains a skilled actor, often cast in younger roles due to his youthful appearance.
7. Kim Hunter (Dr. Zira)
Dr. Zira, the compassionate chimpanzee psychologist who aids Taylor, was brilliantly portrayed by Kim Hunter. Her performance brought depth and heart to the film.
Hunter’s career began in the ‘40s, with notable roles in A Matter of Life and Death (1946) and A Streetcar Named Desire (1951), for which she won an Oscar. Despite being blacklisted in the ‘50s, she continued acting in smaller roles and soap operas. Hunter’s final major film was Clint Eastwood’s Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil (1997). She passed away in 2002 at 79.
The original Planet of the Apes remains a sci-fi classic that inspired a sprawling franchise. But can any sequel or reboot top the magic of the 1968 film? Let’s hear your thoughts on your favorite entry in the series!
