What is the name of the character played by Sterling Hayden in The Killing?

The character played by Sterling Hayden in *The Killing* is Johnny Clay.

Johnny Clay is a career criminal recently released from prison who organizes the film’s central racetrack robbery. His plan depends on precise timing and a small team, including cashier George Peatty, bartender Mike O’Reilly, police officer Randy Kennan, and financier Marvin Unger.

The target is a thoroughbred racetrack, where the gang intends to steal an estimated two million dollars. Johnny also arranges distractions: a sharpshooter will kill the favored horse, while a wrestler will cause a disturbance at the bar. The scheme’s disciplined structure contrasts with the greed, jealousy, and betrayal that eventually unravel it.

Viewers sometimes confuse Johnny with George Peatty or Marvin Unger because all three are central to the robbery. Johnny is the planner and leader; Unger supplies backing and a hideout, while Peatty is the vulnerable track employee whose wife, Sherry, betrays the operation. Kubrick’s 1956 film was adapted from Lionel White’s novel *Clean Break*.