Steve Martin has enjoyed a remarkable career that spans over six decades. He made his acting debut in 1966 on the children’s TV show, *Dusty’s Attic*. Since then, he has captured the hearts of audiences, especially with his recent role in *Only Murders in the Building*. His remarkable chemistry with Martin Short has introduced him to a new generation of viewers.
Steve Martin’s Iconic Roles
Before *Only Murders in the Building*, Martin was already a celebrated figure in Hollywood comedy. His standout films from the 1980s, including:
- The Jerk
- Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid
- The Man with Two Brains
- Dirty Rotten Scoundrels
- Three Amigos
- Planes, Trains and Automobiles
These films solidified his status as a leading comedic actor. Throughout his extensive career, he has portrayed a variety of memorable characters, but one role stands out as the pinnacle of his achievements.
Roxanne: Martin’s Career-Defining Role
In a revealing moment during a 1993 Playboy interview, Martin highlighted his role as CD Bales in *Roxanne* as his favorite. This film, an adaptation of *Cyrano de Bergerac*, was significant in several ways:
- It was his first solo screenplay.
- It represented a personal challenge, taking four to five years to complete.
- It debuted to critical acclaim and received a Golden Globe nomination for ‘Best Actor – Musical or Comedy’.
Financially, *Roxanne* was a success, earning more than three times its budget at the box office.
Enduring Legacy
When asked by *Only Murders in the Building* co-star Gomez to name his favorite character, Martin’s response was immediate: “CD Bales!” He described the character as “alive and kicking” with a lot of energy. This response underscores the significance of the role in Martin’s career.
As Martin reflects on his incredible journey, it’s clear that *Roxanne* remains a central part of his legacy, illustrating the balance of comedy and depth that he skillfully brings to the screen.
