Cary Grant biography Wikipedia
Grant left school at the age of 14 and joined a traveling vaudeville troupe, where he honed his skills as an acrobat and performer. He later moved to the United States and began his career in Hollywood in the early 1930s. His first major success came in the 1937 film "The Awful Truth," which cemented his reputation as a leading man.
Over the course of his career, Grant appeared in over 70 films, including classic movies such as "Bringing Up Baby," "The Philadelphia Story," "His Girl Friday," "Notorious," "An Affair to Remember," and "North by Northwest." He was known for his suave, debonair style and his impeccable comedic timing, as well as his ability to play dramatic roles.
Grant was married five times throughout his life, and had one daughter, Jennifer Grant. He retired from acting in the early 1960s and devoted his time to raising his daughter and pursuing philanthropic interests. He was awarded an Honorary Oscar in 1970 for his contributions to the film industry.
Cary Grant, born Archibald Alexander Leach on January 18, 1904, in Bristol, England, had a difficult childhood. His parents, Elias James Leach and Elsie Maria Leach, struggled with poverty and their relationship was strained. When Grant was nine years old, his mother was institutionalized for mental illness, which had a profound effect on him.
As a result of his family situation, Grant did not receive much formal education. He attended Bishop Road Primary School in Bristol but left school at the age of 14 to work as a stilt walker and unicyclist with a touring acrobatic troupe called "The Penders." It was during this time that he honed his physical skills and developed his stage presence.
In 1920, Grant traveled to the United States with the troupe and decided to stay. He began performing on Broadway and in vaudeville shows, where he adopted the stage name Cary Grant. He also worked as a stilt walker and performed in a number of comedy skits.
Despite his lack of formal education, Grant was known for his intelligence and wit. He was an avid reader and had a keen interest in politics and social issues, which he would later use to his advantage in his film roles. His experience as a performer also helped him develop his charm, charisma, and natural talent for acting, which would eventually lead him to become one of the most beloved and iconic actors of Hollywood's Golden Age.
Cary Grant's early life was marked by poverty and instability. After his mother's institutionalization, he and his brother were sent to live with their father, who had a difficult time caring for them. Grant's father eventually put them in the care of the Bristol City Council, which placed them in foster homes. This led to a sense of abandonment and isolation for Grant, who often found solace in books and movies.
It was during his time with "The Penders" that Grant discovered his love for performing. He was initially hired as a prop boy but quickly worked his way up to a performer. He learned to walk on stilts, perform acrobatic stunts, and act in comedy skits. This experience taught him the importance of timing, physical comedy, and improvisation, skills that would serve him well in his future acting career.
In 1920, at the age of 16, Grant traveled with the troupe to the United States, where he decided to stay. He worked odd jobs to make ends meet, including working as a limousine driver and a janitor, before eventually finding work in the theater. He landed his first Broadway role in the play "Better Times" in 1928, which led to more theater work and eventually to his first film role in the 1932 movie "This is the Night."
Despite his lack of formal education, Grant was a curious and intelligent person who was constantly reading and learning. He had a particular interest in politics and social issues, and he became a vocal advocate for causes such as the fight against fascism in Europe and the need for better mental health care in the United States.
In his early years in Hollywood, Grant struggled to find his footing as an actor. He was initially cast in supporting roles and was not seen as leading man material. However, he persevered and eventually landed his breakthrough role in the 1937 film "The Awful Truth," which earned him critical acclaim and established him as a major star.
Throughout his career, Grant was known for his suave, debonair style and his impeccable comedic timing. He appeared in over 70 films, including classic movies such as "Bringing Up Baby," "The Philadelphia Story," "His Girl Friday," "Notorious," "An Affair to Remember," and "North by Northwest." His charisma, charm, and talent as an actor made him one of the most beloved and iconic figures in Hollywood history.
Vaudeville and performing career
Cary Grant's performing career began when he was just a teenager. He joined the touring acrobatic troupe "The Penders" as a prop boy, but he quickly worked his way up to become a performer himself. He learned to walk on stilts, perform acrobatic stunts, and act in comedy skits. This experience taught him the importance of timing, physical comedy, and improvisation, skills that would serve him well in his future acting career.
After traveling with "The Penders" to the United States in 1920, Grant began performing in vaudeville shows, where he honed his skills as a comedian and physical performer. He adopted the stage name Cary Grant and started to make a name for himself in the entertainment world.
In 1927, Grant moved to New York City and began performing on Broadway. He landed his first role in the play "Nikki," which led to more theater work, including a successful run in the play "Boom-Boom" in 1929. He was praised for his physicality, his charm, and his natural talent as an actor.
Grant's big break came in 1932 when he landed his first film role in the movie "This is the Night." While the film was not a critical or commercial success, it put Grant on the radar of Hollywood producers and directors.
Throughout the 1930s, Grant continued to work in films, often playing supporting roles or characters who were not the leading man. However, his natural charm and charisma made him stand out, and he began to gain a following of fans who appreciated his talent as an actor.
In the late 1930s, Grant's career took off with the success of the films "The Awful Truth" and "Bringing Up Baby." These films showcased his impeccable comedic timing and established him as a leading man in Hollywood.
Despite his success in Hollywood, Grant never forgot his roots as a performer. He often incorporated his vaudeville training into his film roles, using physical comedy and timing to great effect. He also continued to perform on stage throughout his career, making occasional appearances in plays and musicals.
Grant's vaudeville and performing career not only taught him the skills he needed to become a successful actor but also gave him a love for entertaining and performing that stayed with him throughout his life.
Cary Grant Film career
Cary Grant's film career spanned more than three decades and included over 70 movies. He was known for his charm, wit, and sophistication, and he became one of the most popular and beloved actors in Hollywood history.
Grant's film career began in the early 1930s, with supporting roles in movies such as "This is the Night" and "Blonde Venus." However, it was not until the late 1930s that he became a major star, thanks to his roles in the comedies "The Awful Truth" and "Bringing Up Baby." These films showcased his impeccable comedic timing and established him as a leading man in Hollywood.
Throughout the 1940s, Grant continued to work in a variety of genres, including dramas, comedies, and romantic films. He worked with some of the most talented directors of the era, including Alfred Hitchcock, Howard Hawks, and Frank Capra. His films during this time included "Notorious," "Arsenic and Old Lace," "The Philadelphia Story," and "His Girl Friday."
In the 1950s, Grant began to take on more dramatic roles, showcasing his range as an actor. He starred in the films "An Affair to Remember," "North by Northwest," and "To Catch a Thief," among others. He also continued to work in comedies, including "Monkey Business" and "Operation Petticoat."
Despite his success in Hollywood, Grant was never satisfied with his own performances and often worried that he was not a good enough actor. He once said, "I'm a pretty good imitation of myself, but I'm the only one that really knows the job."
Grant's last film role was in 1966, in the movie "Walk, Don't Run." After his retirement from acting, he continued to be a prominent figure in Hollywood and was a vocal advocate for causes such as mental health care and the fight against fascism.
Grant's film career is remembered for his impeccable comedic timing, his suave and sophisticated style, and his ability to play a wide range of roles. He was nominated for two Academy Awards, and in 1970, he was awarded an honorary Oscar for his lifetime of contributions to the film industry.
Cary Grant Hollywood stardom
Cary Grant was one of Hollywood's biggest stars during the 1940s and 1950s. His debonair style, good looks, and natural charm made him a fan favorite, and he was known for his ability to play a wide range of roles.
Grant's rise to Hollywood stardom began in the late 1930s, when he starred in the comedies "The Awful Truth" and "Bringing Up Baby." These films showcased his impeccable comedic timing and established him as a leading man in Hollywood. He quickly became a favorite of moviegoers, who loved his natural charisma and charm.
Throughout the 1940s, Grant continued to work in a variety of genres, including dramas, comedies, and romantic films. He worked with some of the most talented directors of the era, including Alfred Hitchcock, Howard Hawks, and Frank Capra. His films during this time included "Notorious," "Arsenic and Old Lace," "The Philadelphia Story," and "His Girl Friday."
During World War II, Grant became a prominent figure in Hollywood and used his celebrity to support the war effort. He served as a public speaker, encouraging people to buy war bonds and support the troops. He also traveled to Europe with the United Service Organizations (USO) to entertain the troops.
In the 1950s, Grant continued to be a major star in Hollywood, taking on a variety of roles in both comedies and dramas. He starred in the films "An Affair to Remember," "North by Northwest," and "To Catch a Thief," among others. He also continued to work in comedies, including "Monkey Business" and "Operation Petticoat."
Despite his success, Grant was known for his humility and his willingness to take on supporting roles and work with up-and-coming actors and directors. He once said, "I don't know why I became a star. I don't have the necessary talent." This attitude, combined with his natural charisma and charm, endeared him to both audiences and his fellow actors.
Grant retired from acting in 1966, after a career that spanned more than three decades. However, he continued to be a prominent figure in Hollywood and was a vocal advocate for causes such as mental health care and the fight against fascism. He is remembered as one of Hollywood's greatest stars and as an icon of style and sophistication.
Cary Grant Post-War success and slump
After World War II, Cary Grant continued to enjoy great success in Hollywood, with a string of hits that included some of his most beloved films.
In 1946, Grant starred in "Notorious," a classic thriller directed by Alfred Hitchcock. The film was a critical and commercial success, and Grant's performance was praised for its intensity and emotional depth. He continued to work with Hitchcock on several more films, including "To Catch a Thief" and "North by Northwest," both of which are considered among the director's greatest works.
Grant also continued to work in comedies, teaming up with some of the most talented writers and directors of the era. In 1948, he starred in "Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House," a charming comedy about a family trying to build their dream home. The film was a hit with audiences and critics alike, and it remains a beloved classic to this day.
Despite his success, Grant began to experience a slump in the late 1950s and early 1960s. He took on a series of films that were not well-received by audiences or critics, including "The Pride and the Passion" and "That Touch of Mink." These films, which were seen as shallow and lacking in substance, led many to question whether Grant's star power was starting to fade.
In the mid-1960s, Grant decided to retire from acting, citing a desire to spend more time with his family and pursue other interests. His final film was "Walk, Don't Run" (1966), a light-hearted comedy that received mixed reviews from critics.
Despite the end of his acting career, Grant remained a beloved figure in Hollywood and continued to be celebrated for his charm, wit, and sophistication. In 1970, he received an honorary Academy Award for his lifetime of contributions to the film industry.
Today, Cary Grant is remembered as one of Hollywood's greatest stars and as an icon of style and elegance. His films continue to be watched and enjoyed by new generations of moviegoers, and his legacy as one of the most talented and beloved actors in Hollywood history remains secure.
In addition to his film career, Cary Grant was also a prominent figure in Hollywood outside of acting. He served as a member of the board of directors for the Screen Actors Guild, and he was an active supporter of mental health causes, serving on the board of directors for the Motion Picture and Television Fund and helping to establish the Cary Grant Pavilion, a care facility for elderly members of the entertainment industry.
Grant was also a vocal advocate for civil rights and equality, and he used his platform to speak out against discrimination and prejudice. In 1963, he spoke out in support of the Civil Rights Act, calling for an end to discrimination and segregation in all areas of American society.
Despite his many accomplishments and contributions to the entertainment industry, Grant was also known for his personal struggles. He had a complicated relationship with his father, who was an alcoholic, and he struggled with his own feelings of anxiety and insecurity throughout his life.
In his later years, Grant focused on his personal life, marrying his fifth wife, Barbara Harris, in 1981. He remained a beloved figure in Hollywood, and his death in 1986 was widely mourned by fans and colleagues alike.
Today, Cary Grant's legacy continues to live on through his films, his advocacy work, and his impact on Hollywood and popular culture. He is remembered as one of the greatest actors of all time, and as a true icon of style, grace, and sophistication.
Cary Grant Final film roles
Cary Grant's final film roles were in the 1960s, as he began to wind down his acting career and prepare for retirement. Although these roles were not among his most memorable or successful, they showcased his versatility and charm as an actor.
In 1962, Grant starred in "That Touch of Mink," a romantic comedy co-starring Doris Day. The film was a box office hit, but it received mixed reviews from critics, with some calling it a lightweight and forgettable entry in Grant's filmography.
Grant's next film was "Charade" (1963), a stylish thriller co-starring Audrey Hepburn. The film was a critical and commercial success, and it remains a beloved classic to this day. Grant's performance was praised for its wit and charm, and the film's clever plot and stylish direction helped to cement its place in the pantheon of great Hollywood thrillers.
Grant's final film role was in "Walk, Don't Run" (1966), a remake of the classic romantic comedy "The More the Merrier." The film was a minor box office success, but it received mixed reviews from critics, who found it to be a lackluster finale to Grant's illustrious career.
Despite the mixed reception to his final film roles, Cary Grant remained a beloved and respected figure in Hollywood, and his legacy as one of the greatest actors of all time continues to live on today.
Cary Grant Business interests
In addition to his acting career, Cary Grant also had a number of business interests over the course of his life. These ventures allowed him to expand his professional horizons and build upon his success in Hollywood.
One of Grant's most notable business ventures was a partnership with cosmetics executive Elizabeth Arden. In 1949, the two established a cosmetics company called Arden-Grant, which marketed a line of men's grooming products. The line was a success, and it helped to solidify Grant's image as a sophisticated and stylish figure.
Grant was also an early investor in the Fabergé brand, a line of luxury goods that was popular in the mid-20th century. He became a spokesman for the company, promoting their products in print and television advertisements.
In the 1960s, Grant invested in a chain of hotels called the Howard Johnson Motor Lodges. He became a major shareholder in the company, and he was credited with helping to modernize and streamline the brand.
Later in life, Grant also became involved in real estate, investing in a number of properties in California and elsewhere. He was known for his shrewd business sense and his ability to identify promising opportunities.
Throughout his business career, Cary Grant remained committed to maintaining his image as a sophisticated and stylish figure, and he was careful to select ventures that reflected his values and his brand. His success in the business world was a testament to his talent, his charm, and his entrepreneurial spirit.
Cary Grant also had a passion for aviation and was an accomplished pilot. He owned several planes and was known to fly himself to film sets and personal engagements. In 1953, he founded the Revaire Corporation, a company that manufactured airplane parts and accessories. He was actively involved in the management of the company and served as its president for several years.
Grant was also a collector of fine art and antiques. He had a particular interest in surrealist art, and he owned works by renowned artists such as Salvador Dali, Joan Miró, and René Magritte. He also collected vintage cars and was known to attend auto shows and auctions.
As a philanthropist, Grant was actively involved in a number of charitable causes. He supported the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and served as a spokesman for the organization. He also donated to various mental health causes, including the American Mental Health Foundation and the Motion Picture and Television Fund. In 1965, he was awarded the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for his charitable work.
In his later years, Grant focused on his personal life and spent much of his time traveling and enjoying his many hobbies. He remained a beloved and respected figure in Hollywood until his death in 1986, and his contributions to the entertainment industry and beyond continue to be celebrated today.
Cary Grant Personal life information
Cary Grant's personal life was the subject of much speculation and fascination throughout his career. He was married five times and had a number of high-profile romances and affairs.
Grant's first marriage was to Virginia Cherrill, a fellow actor whom he married in 1934. The marriage was short-lived, however, and the couple divorced the following year. Grant's next marriage, to Barbara Hutton, the Woolworth heiress, lasted from 1942 to 1945. The marriage was reportedly fraught with tension and infidelity, and it ended in a bitter divorce.
Grant's third marriage, to actress Betsy Drake, was his longest and most stable. The couple married in 1949 and remained together for 12 years. They co-starred in several films together, including "Room for One More" and "Every Girl Should Be Married."
After his divorce from Drake, Grant had a brief, high-profile romance with actress Sophia Loren. He later married Dyan Cannon, an actress 33 years his junior, in 1965. The marriage was tumultuous, and it ended in divorce just two years later.
Grant's final marriage was to Barbara Harris, a hotel publicist, in 1981. The couple remained together until Grant's death in 1986.
Despite his many romantic entanglements, Grant was known for his private and reserved demeanor. He was notoriously guarded with the press, and he rarely spoke about his personal life in interviews. In his later years, he devoted much of his time to traveling and pursuing his many hobbies, including flying, art collecting, and philanthropy.
Grant's personal life continues to be a source of fascination for fans and scholars alike, and his enduring mystique and charm continue to captivate audiences today.
While Cary Grant was known for his guardedness when it came to his personal life, there are a few other details worth mentioning. For example, it has been reported that Grant suffered from undiagnosed depression for much of his life. He was said to have struggled with feelings of anxiety and insecurity, and he was known to have had difficult relationships with his parents.
Despite these challenges, Grant was also known for his wit, humor, and kindness. He was beloved by his co-stars and colleagues in Hollywood, and he was respected for his professionalism and work ethic. He was also known for his generosity and philanthropy, and he was a vocal advocate for a number of causes throughout his life.
In his later years, Grant struggled with health issues, including arthritis and vision problems. He underwent a number of surgeries and medical treatments, but he continued to stay active and engaged in his hobbies and interests.
Grant's legacy as a Hollywood icon continues to be celebrated today, and his influence on the film industry and popular culture is widely recognized. His enduring appeal and lasting impact are a testament to his talent, charm, and unique contribution to the world of entertainment.
Cary Grant Relationships
Cary Grant had a number of high-profile relationships throughout his life, in addition to his marriages. One of his most famous romances was with fellow actor Katharine Hepburn. The two met on the set of the film "Sylvia Scarlett" in 1935, and they quickly became close friends. They went on to star in several more films together, including "Bringing Up Baby" and "The Philadelphia Story."
While Grant and Hepburn never officially dated, their close friendship sparked rumors of a romantic relationship that persisted for many years. In her autobiography, Hepburn referred to Grant as the "best actor" she had ever worked with, and she described their relationship as a deep and meaningful friendship.
Grant also had a brief affair with actress Grace Kelly in the 1950s. The two met while filming the movie "To Catch a Thief" and reportedly had a passionate fling. Kelly later went on to marry Prince Rainier III of Monaco, and Grant remained close with the couple, visiting them frequently in Monaco.
Another of Grant's famous relationships was with actress and writer Betsy Drake, whom he married in 1949. The couple had a close and loving relationship, and they co-starred in several films together. However, the marriage began to falter in the early 1960s, and the couple ultimately divorced in 1962.
Grant's romance with Dyan Cannon, whom he married in 1965, was also the subject of much media attention. The couple had a daughter together, Jennifer Grant, but the marriage was tumultuous and short-lived. They divorced in 1968.
Despite his many relationships, Grant was known for his guardedness when it came to his personal life. He rarely spoke about his romantic entanglements in public, and he was notoriously private and reserved with the press. Nonetheless, his personal life continues to be a source of fascination for fans and scholars alike.
In addition to the relationships that Cary Grant had with women, there has been speculation over the years about his sexuality. Although Grant was married five times, there have been rumors that he was bisexual and had relationships with men as well as women. However, Grant himself never publicly commented on his sexuality, and his private life remains a subject of much speculation and debate.
Despite his guardedness, Grant was known for his warmth and generosity in his personal relationships. He was a devoted father to his daughter Jennifer, and he maintained close friendships with many of his co-stars and colleagues in Hollywood. He was also a mentor to a number of up-and-coming actors and actresses, including Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn.
Grant's personal life was not without its difficulties, however. In addition to his struggles with depression and anxiety, he also faced a number of legal challenges throughout his career. He was sued several times by women who claimed to have had relationships with him, and he was accused of being a negligent father by some of his ex-wives.
Despite these challenges, however, Grant remained a beloved figure in Hollywood and beyond. His charm, talent, and iconic style continue to inspire admiration and affection among fans and scholars alike.
Cary Grant Politics
Cary Grant was known to be a private person, and he kept his political views largely to himself. However, he was known to have supported various social and political causes throughout his life, and he was an active participant in a number of organizations.
One of the causes that Grant was most passionate about was the fight against drug addiction. He served on the board of directors of the National Committee for Prevention of Narcotics, and he worked with a number of other organizations to raise awareness of the dangers of drug abuse.
Grant was also known to be a supporter of the Democratic Party, and he was a vocal advocate for civil rights and other progressive causes. He was said to have been influenced by the political activism of his fourth wife, Dyan Cannon, who was a vocal advocate for women's rights and other social issues.
Despite his involvement in these causes, however, Grant remained largely apolitical in his public life. He rarely spoke out on political issues, and he was careful to avoid taking controversial positions that might alienate his fans or colleagues.
Nonetheless, Grant's philanthropic work and advocacy for various causes continues to be celebrated today. His legacy as a humanitarian and activist is a testament to his commitment to making the world a better place, and his influence on social and political issues is a testament to his enduring impact and relevance.
In addition to his work on social and political causes, Cary Grant was also involved in a number of business ventures and philanthropic organizations. He was a shrewd investor, and he built up a considerable fortune over the course of his career.
One of the most notable business ventures that Grant was involved in was the creation of his own production company, Grantley Productions. The company was responsible for producing several of Grant's films, including "Notorious" and "To Catch a Thief". However, Grant eventually sold the company in 1955, and he returned to working for the major studios.
Grant was also a philanthropist, and he was known for his generosity and support of various charitable causes. He was a major donor to the Catholic Charities of Los Angeles, and he also supported the United Way and the Children's Aid Society. In addition, he was a founding member of the Motion Picture and Television Relief Fund, which provides support and assistance to members of the entertainment industry in need.
Despite his success in business and philanthropy, Grant remained modest and unassuming throughout his life. He was known for his humility and his willingness to help others, and he was respected by his colleagues and fans alike for his integrity and his commitment to excellence.
How did Cary Grant die
Cary Grant died on November 29, 1986, at the age of 82. He suffered a stroke at his home in Davenport, Iowa, where he had been visiting his daughter, Jennifer.
Grant had been in poor health for several years leading up to his death, and he had suffered a number of health setbacks. In 1984, he underwent surgery to remove a tumor from his mouth, and in 1985, he had a mild stroke that left him partially paralyzed on one side of his body.
Despite these challenges, Grant remained active and engaged in his final years, and he continued to work on various projects until his health began to decline more rapidly in the fall of 1986. He had been planning to travel to London to receive an honorary award from the British Film Institute, but he was forced to cancel the trip due to his declining health.
Grant's death was widely mourned by his fans and colleagues in Hollywood and beyond. He was remembered as one of the greatest actors of his generation, and his influence on the film industry continues to be celebrated today.
Following his death, Cary Grant was cremated and his ashes were scattered in the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of Santa Monica, California. His memorial service was held at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Beverly Hills, California, and was attended by many of his friends and colleagues from the film industry.
In the years since his death, Grant has been widely celebrated as one of the greatest actors of all time. He was nominated for two Academy Awards during his career, and he received an Honorary Oscar in 1970 for his "unique mastery of the art of screen acting."
In addition to his work as an actor, Grant was known for his charm, wit, and elegance. He was a style icon and a role model for many men, and his influence on fashion and popular culture continues to be felt today.
Overall, Cary Grant's life and legacy are a testament to his remarkable talent, his unwavering commitment to excellence, and his enduring impact on the film industry and popular culture. His contributions to the art of cinema will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.
Cary Grant Screen persona
Cary Grant's screen persona was defined by his effortless charm, wit, and sophistication. He was known for his impeccable sense of style, his smooth, urbane delivery, and his ability to convey both humor and vulnerability in his performances.
Grant's persona was shaped by a combination of his natural charisma and his experiences as an actor. He was well aware of the power of his good looks and his debonair manner, and he worked hard to cultivate an image that would appeal to both male and female audiences. He was also known for his professionalism and his dedication to his craft, and he took great care to ensure that his performances were always polished and precise.
One of the key elements of Grant's screen persona was his ability to make even the most outlandish situations seem believable. He was able to deliver even the most absurd lines with a straight face, and he was always able to find the humor in even the most dire circumstances. This talent for blending humor and pathos is one of the things that set Grant apart from many of his contemporaries, and it helped to establish him as one of the greatest actors of his generation.
Grant's persona was also shaped by the roles he played. Throughout his career, he was known for his versatility and his ability to play a wide range of characters, from suave romantic leads to tough-talking detectives. He was equally comfortable in comedies and dramas, and he was able to infuse each of his performances with a unique blend of humor, charm, and emotional depth.
Overall, Cary Grant's screen persona was a reflection of his natural talent, his hard work, and his unwavering commitment to excellence. He was one of the most beloved and iconic actors of his generation, and his legacy continues to be celebrated and studied today.