Virgilio Teixeira (actor)

Virgilio Delgado Teixeira (26 October 1917 – 5 December 2010) was a Portuguese film, television and stage actor, known for roles in Portuguese, Spanish and American films. He was known as a Portuguese "heartthrob" and a leading actor during the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s.[1]

Teixeira was born in Funchal, Madeira, on 26 October 1917.[1] He began his career in Portuguese and Spanish cinema before taking roles in Hollywood productions.[1] Teixeira made his film debut in the 1943 film, Ave de Arribação.[1] In 1948, Teixeira portrayed Julio, the love interest of Amalia Rodrigues's character, in Fado, História de uma Cantadeira, which was directed by Perdigão Queiroga.[1] His later work in Portuguese film and television included A Mulher do Próximo in 1982 and the telenovela, Chuva na Areia, in 1984.[1]

Teixeira's Hollywood credits included roles in Alexander the Great, Return of the Seven, and Doctor Zhivago.[1]

Additionally, Teixeira served as the first director of the Centro das Comunidades Madeirenses.[1]

Virgilio Teixeira died in Funchal, Madeira, of respiratory problems on 5 December 2010, at the age of 93.[1] He was survived by his wife, Vanda Teixeira.[1] President of the Regional Government of Madeira Alberto João Jardim called Teixeira a "Great Madeiran" following his death.