Rock Hudson

Born:November 17, 1925

Place of Birth:Winnetka, Illinois, USA

Died:October 2, 1985

Known For:Acting

Biography

Rock Hudson, born Roy Harold Scherer Jr., was an iconic American actor who captivated audiences with his charm and talent. Rising to fame during the Golden Age of Hollywood, Hudson's career spanned over three decades, leaving a lasting impact on the film industry. Known for his heartthrob status, he solidified his stardom with memorable performances in classic films such as "Magnificent Obsession," "All That Heaven Allows," and "Giant," which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

Beyond his dramatic roles, Hudson showcased his versatility in a series of beloved romantic comedies alongside the talented Doris Day. Films like "Pillow Talk," "Lover Come Back," and "Send Me No Flowers" cemented his status as a leading man with undeniable on-screen chemistry. Transitioning to television in the late 1960s, Hudson found success with the popular series "McMillan & Wife," further showcasing his acting range and captivating audiences in a new medium.

While Hudson's professional accomplishments were widely celebrated, his personal life faced challenges due to societal attitudes towards his sexual orientation. Despite maintaining discretion, his colleagues in the industry were aware of his identity as a gay man. In a courageous move, Hudson publicly disclosed his AIDS diagnosis in 1985, becoming one of the first celebrities to raise awareness about the disease. Tragically, he passed away on October 2, 1985, marking a significant loss in both the entertainment world and the fight against AIDS.

Rock Hudson's legacy endures as a trailblazing figure who transcended barriers and left an indelible mark on Hollywood. His contributions to film and television continue to inspire audiences, while his advocacy for AIDS awareness has left a lasting impact on public health discourse. Hudson's talent, charisma, and bravery in sharing his truth have solidified his place as a legendary figure in the history of cinema.

Images

Filmography

Acting

Giant

Jordan "Bick" Benedict Jr.

1956

Wealthy rancher Bick Benedict and dirt-poor cowboy Jett Rink both woo Leslie Lynnton, a beautiful young woman from Maryland who is new to Texas. She marries Benedict, but she is shocked by the racial bigotry of the White Texans against the local people of Mexican descent. Rink discovers oil on a small plot of land, and while he uses his vast, new wealth to buy all the land surrounding the Benedict ranch, the Benedict's disagreement over prejudice fuels conflict that runs across generations.

Elizabeth Taylor: The Lost Tapes

Self (archive footage)

2024

Newly discovered interviews with Elizabeth Taylor and unprecedented access to the star’s personal archive reveal the complex inner life and vulnerability of the groundbreaking icon.

All That Heaven Allows

Ron Kirby

1955

Two different social classes collide when Cary Scott, a wealthy upper-class widow, falls in love with her much younger and down-to-earth gardener, prompting disapproval and criticism from her children and country club friends.

Seconds

Antiochus 'Tony' Wilson

1966

An unhappy middle-aged banker agrees to a procedure that will fake his death and give him a completely new look and identity; one that comes with its own price.

Bend of the River

Trey Wilson

1952

Two men with questionable pasts, Glyn McLyntock and his friend Cole, lead a wagon-train load of homesteaders from Missouri to the Oregon territory...

Lover Come Back

Jerry Webster

1961

Jerry Webster and Carol Templeton are rival Madison Avenue advertising executives who each dislike each other’s methods. After he steals a client out from under her cute little nose, revenge prompts her to infiltrate his secret "VIP" campaign in order to persuade the mystery product’s scientist to switch to her firm.

Production

Seconds

Associate Producer

1966

An unhappy middle-aged banker agrees to a procedure that will fake his death and give him a completely new look and identity; one that comes with its own price.