Clark Gable, one of the iconic leading men of Hollywood's Golden Age, had a remarkable career that spanned nearly three decades.
Known for his rugged masculinity and undeniable charisma, Gable earned the title of the “King of Hollywood.”
While he is most remembered for his role as Rhett Butler in “Gone with the Wind,” his journey to stardom was far from smooth.
Gable's upbringing was modest, born in Cadiz, Ohio, in 1901.
His mother, Adeline, suffered from severe health issues throughout her life and tragically passed away when Gable was just 10 months old.
Raised by his aunt and uncle, Gable longed for a mother figure and eventually reunited with his father and stepmother.
His passion for acting began to emerge during his teenage years.
Despite dropping out of school at 16, Gable found work at a tire factory while pursuing his love for literature and music.
It was during this time that he saw a production of “The Bird of Paradise” and realized his calling as an actor.
Gable's rise to fame was aided by his first two wives, Josephine Dillon and Ria Langham.
Dillon, who was his manager, helped him refine his appearance and acting skills.
Langham's high society connections in New York further propelled his career.
However, Gable's unconventional looks initially made him an unlikely leading man, according to Louis B. Mayer, the head of MGM.
Despite this, Gable's talent and appeal to female audiences secured his success.
Behind the cameras, Gable was known for his womanizing ways.
Loretta Young, his co-star in “Call of the Wild,” later revealed that Gable had raped her during the production.
The incident resulted in Young becoming pregnant, which she concealed through an elaborate adoption scheme.
This dark side of Gable's personal life contrasts with his on-screen persona.
Gable's third wife, Carole Lombard, was the love of his life.
Their marriage was tragically cut short when Lombard died in a plane crash.
Devastated by her loss, Gable enlisted in the Army air force during World War II.
There were rumors that he had a death wish and wanted to die in the war.
Interestingly, Adolf Hitler himself admired Gable and considered him a prized “war criminal.”
Gable was aware of Hitler's fascination and even joked about being put in a cage like a gorilla if captured.
Clark Gable's story is a testament to the complexities and contradictions of fame.
From his humble beginnings to his rise as a Hollywood legend, Gable's journey was marked by triumphs and tragedies.
Despite the untold truths that surrounded him, there was no denying his enduring impact on the world of cinema.
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