Sidney Lumet's parents were Baruch Lumet and Eugenia Wermus, both veteran players of the Yiddish stage.
Son of Baruch Lumet and Eugenia Wermus, both actors in the Yiddish Theatre. The family moved to New York City when he was a baby where they joined the Yiddish Art Theatre.
Stepfather of sound editor Leslie Gimbel and Bailey Gimbel.
Studied acting with Sanford Meisner.
Three of his films are listed on the American Film Institute's 100 Most Inspiring Movies of All Time. They are: Serpico (1973) at #84, The Verdict (1982) at #75, and 12 Angry Men (1957) at #42.
Wanted to direct Death Wish (1974) with Jack Lemmon in the leading role.
Was the original director of Funny Girl (1968), but left the picture over differences with producer Ray Stark and star Barbra Streisand. He was replaced by William Wyler.
Was voted the 42nd Greatest Director of all time by Entertainment Weekly.