Is Rod Steiger A-List?
No — Rod Steiger is currently ranked C tier — recognizable within their niche but with limited mainstream visibility.
Reached A-list in 1967
In the Heat of the Night
Lost A-list status in 1970
Dropped to B tier — Waterloo
Ranking Timeline
Early Television Roles
Begins his acting career with television roles.
On the Waterfront
Gains recognition for his supporting role in 'On the Waterfront'.
The Pawnbroker Acclaim
Receives acclaim for his role in 'The Pawnbroker'.
In the Heat of the Night
Wins the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in 'In the Heat of the Night'.
Waterloo
Stars in Waterloo, which is considered a big-budget box office bomb.
The Amityville Horror
Stars in The Amityville Horror, which is commercially successful.
The Ballad of the Sad
Continues to work in film and television, taking on smaller roles.
Passes Away
Rod Steiger dies in July 2002, leaving behind a legacy in Hollywood.
Remembered Performance
Steiger's intense acting style continues to be remembered, particularly his performance in 'In the Heat of the Night'.
Last updated: February 21, 2026