Steve McQueen was an iconic American actor nicknamed 'The King of Cool' for his anti-hero persona. His popularity soared during the counterculture of the 1960s, making him a top box-office draw of that era. He was an avid racer of both motorcycles and cars, often performing his own stunts in films like 'The Great Escape' and 'Bullitt.' McQueen received an Academy Award nomination for his role in 'The Sand Pebbles' and remains an enduring symbol of masculinity and rebellion in cinema.