From War to the Oscar A back injury would end Kennedy's military career in the late '50s, but his showbiz connections from his time in service helped prepare him for the transition to an acting career. While serving as technical advisor for the "Phil Silvers Show" (CBS, 1955-59), Kennedy had made infrequent, uncredited appearances on the program, which encouraged him to take on supporting roles on numerous TV series -- usually as a tough cowboy, outlaw or lawman. His big-screen debut came in Stanley Kubrick's classic "Spartacus" (1960) as a rebelling soldier, and soon he moved on to other high-profile projects, such as "Charade" (1963) with Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn.