Nancy Reagan was the first to notice a mole on Rock Hudson's face, a concern that led him to seek medical attention in June 1984.
The diagnosis was devastating – the actor had contracted Aids.
In his final days, Hudson, a staunch Republican, reached out to President Ronald Reagan for assistance in transferring to a French facility for experimental treatment.
However, no help was extended from the US president.
Subsequently, Hudson spent $250,000 to charter a Boeing 747 back to Los Angeles, where he passed away two months later, becoming the first celebrity to succumb to an Aids-related illness at the age of 59.
Director Stephen Kijak sheds light on the interconnected relationships within Hollywood during that era in the documentary “Rock Hudson: All That Heaven Allowed.”
The diaries of Rock's friend, George Nader, featured in the film, revealed their shared delight in Reagan's rise to power, mocking the counterculture movements.
Despite Hudson's conservative views, his public battle with Aids inadvertently sparked change, leading to the renaming of the documentary to “The Accidental Activist.”
Born Roy Harold Scherer Jr. on November 17, 1925, in Illinois, Rock Hudson's journey into stardom began after serving in the US Navy during World War II.
Talent scout Henry Willson discovered him in Los Angeles and signed him as one of the renowned “beefcake” models alongside Tab Hunter and Rory Calhoun.
The shift in American masculinity during that period resonated well with Hudson's image and persona.
The documentary delves into Hudson's closeted queerness and the complexities of his personal life, featuring insights from his long-term lover Lee Garlington and author Armistead Maupin.
Hudson's sham marriage to Phyllis Gates aimed to counteract speculations about his sexuality, while his on-screen romances projected an unattainable allure.
His rivalry with James Dean, revolving around Elizabeth Taylor, highlighted the tension between the two actors and their shared struggles with their identities.
Contrary to the prevailing narrative of tortured gay actors in Hollywood, Hudson's experience painted him as a s-*ual gladiator, relishing in a carefree lifestyle amidst the secrets of pre-Stonewall Hollywood.
While his career accolades were overshadowed by peers like Yul Brynner and overlooked by award institutions, Hudson's legacy as a movie star remains intact.
Despite the challenges he faced in the industry, his dedication to the craft and enduring popularity among fans solidified his status as a Hollywood icon.
“Rock Hudson: All That Heaven Allowed” offers a compelling glimpse into the enigmatic life of a Hollywood legend, exploring the complexities of identity, fame, and the cultural landscape of the golden age.
Available on various digital platforms, the documentary serves as a tribute to Rock Hudson's enduring legacy in the realm of entertainment.
