Alan Ladd was an American actor who rose to fame in the 1940s and 1950s. He is best known for his roles in films such as 'This Gun for Hire' (1942), 'The Blue Dahlia' (1946), and 'Shane' (1953). He was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in 'Shane'. He also starred in several television series, including 'The Rifleman' (1958-1963). Ladd died in 1964 at the age of 50.