George Orson Welles (May 6, 1915 - October 10, 1985) was an American actor and filmmaker. Remembered for his innovative work in film, radio, and theatre, he is considered among the greatest and most influential filmmakers of all time.

Aged 21, Welles directed high-profile stage productions for the Federal Theatre Project in New York City--starting with a celebrated 1936 adaptation of ''Macbeth'' with an African-American cast, and ending with