Virgilio Teixeira

Virgílio 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. Teixeira was born in Funchal, Madeira. He began his career in Portuguese and Spanish cinema before taking roles in Hollywood productions. Teixeira made his film debut in the 1943 film, Ave de Arribação. 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. His later work in Portuguese film and television included A Mulher do Próximo in 1982 and the telenovela, Chuva na Areia, in 1984. Teixeira's Hollywood credits included roles in Alexander the Great, Return of the Seven, and Doctor Zhivago. Additionally, Teixeira served as the first director of the Centro das Comunidades Madeirenses. Virgílio Teixeira died in Funchal, Madeira, of respiratory problems on 5 December 2010, at the age of 93. He was survived by his wife, Vanda Teixeira. President of the Regional Government of Madeira Alberto João Jardim called Teixeira a "Great Madeiran" following his death.