Today we celebrate the birthday of Sir Alfred Joseph Hitchcock, born August 13, 1899, in Leytonstone, England. Best known as the “Master of Suspense,” Hitchcock directed more than 50 iconic films over a six-decade career, leaving an indelible mark on cinema with classics like Psycho, Rear Window, Vertigo, North by Northwest, and The Birds.

To commemorate his legacy, the U.S. Postal Service issued a commemorative 32¢ stamp on August 3, 1998, as part of the Legends of Hollywood series. The design features a stark, elegant portrait of Hitchcock in black and grey tones, with a subtle silhouette of his profile—a fitting tribute to a visionary filmmaker known for his understated yet powerful style.

🧠 Why Alfred Hitchcock Still Captivates

• Hitchcock evolved from silent films into modern suspense thrillers, earning a reputation for psychological tension, visual storytelling, and clever cameos in his own films.

• Though he never won a Best Director Oscar, he received numerous lifetime achievement awards, including the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award (1968), BAFTA Fellowship (1971), and the AFI Life Achievement Award (1979). He was also knighted in 1980.

• Nine of his films have been inducted into the United States National Film Registry, including Vertigo, Psycho, Rear Window, and The Birds.

💌 Why This Stamps Belongs in Your Collection

Whether you’re a longtime cinephile, a stamp aficionado, or just someone who appreciates creative mastery, this Alfred Hitchcock stamp is a must-have. It honors one of cinema’s boldest storytellers and encapsulates the essence of suspense, style, and innovation.