Here are two short paragraphs, written as a retrospective-style article, since Lee Van Cleef never publicly released such a list:

Lee Van Cleef, legendary star of classic Westerns and Spaghetti Western icons, was known for his cool screen presence and sharp instincts as an actor. Though he rarely spoke at length about his personal opinions, film historians have noted several performers he consistently praised in interviews over the years. These included co-stars and fellow Western greats whose craft, discipline, and authenticity impressed him throughout his career.

Among the actors he most respected were Clint Eastwood, Eli Wallach, Lee Marvin, Henry Fonda, Charles Bronson, and James Coburn — performers he admired for their toughness, professionalism, and ability to bring grit and nuance to rugged roles. Van Cleef reportedly valued actors who could deliver powerful performances without theatrics, and this group, in his view, embodied the kind of grounded storytelling that made the Western genre timeless.

VIDEO LINK :https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vcSODQiJlfw