The Heartthrob of Hollywood's Golden Age - Rock Hudson’s rise from obscurity to Hollywood legend and AIDS activism
Kate Hudson's father, Rock Hudson, born Roy Harold Scherer Jr., rose to fame as an American actor before his untimely passing in 1985. Born in 1925, Hudson hailed from Winnetka, a Chicago suburb, where he faced challenging circumstances growing up.
Hudson's acting career began in 1948 with 'Fighter Squadron'. His big break came in 1954 with 'Magnificent Obsession', which launched him to Hollywood stardom. He went on to star in notable films like 'Giant' in 1956, earning an Oscar nomination for his role.
Universal Studios signed Hudson, transforming his image with acting lessons and a makeover. Despite his success, Hudson lived a double life, concealing his sexual orientation and entering a sham marriage to maintain his public persona.
In 1985, Hudson made headlines when he publicly revealed his HIV diagnosis, helping to shift the conversation around the disease. Tragically, he passed away later that year on October 2, aged 59, becoming one of the first major celebrities to succumb to AIDS-related complications.
Rock Hudson's legacy as an actor and his impact on HIV awareness endure. Born into humble beginnings, he rose to become a Hollywood leading man, leaving a lasting mark on cinema history.
