Karl Malden, Academy Award and Emmy winning actor and past president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, died today at the age of 97.

After getting his start on radio, Karl Malden moved on to become a character actor in films, including On the Waterfront, A Streetcar Named Desire, Birdman of Alcatraz and Patton. In the 1970’s, he starred with newcomer Michael Douglas in the hit TV series The Streets of San Francisco.

He also gained pop icon status with his 21-year stint as the pitchman for American Express Travelers Cheques – “Don’t leave home without them!”

We won’t, Mr. Malden. Rest in peace.