David Niven's Bold Decision to Join the Fight Against the Nazis
On September 3, 1939, just two days after Germany invaded Poland, Britain and France declared war on Germany, marking the beginning of World War II.
While the world was engulfed in chaos and bloodshed, British actor David Niven, then 29 years old, was in Hollywood wrapping up the filming of “Raffles.”
As soon as he received the news, Niven, determined to contribute to the war effort, began contemplating ways to return home, despite the opposition from the British embassy and his studio.
At the time, the United States had not yet officially joined the war, meaning Niven would have to find a way back to England if he wanted to fight against the Nazis immediately.
This meant defying the instructions of the British embassy and negotiating a complicated route back home.
When news of the war broke out, Niven was on a sloop in Corona del Mar, California, enjoying a night of drinking with fellow British actor Robert Coote.
A man in a small boat approached them early in the morning, asking if they were English.
Upon learning they were, the man informed them that Britain had declared war on Germany.
Coote eventually joined the Canadian air force, while their friend Laurence Olivier returned to England and joined the Royal Air Force.
Niven, on the other hand, was determined to secure a position in the RAF and decided to make his way back to the UK by any means necessary.
Despite being advised by the British consulate in Los Angeles to stay in the US and represent his country through his work in Hollywood, Niven refused to accept this answer.
He sought a meeting with the ambassador at the British embassy in Washington, D.C., who sympathized with his desire to fight but reiterated the government's stance.
Unwilling to give up, Niven attempted to convince his producer, Samuel Goldwyn, to suspend his contract so he could join the war effort.
However, Goldwyn refused to grant him permission.
Determined to find a way, Niven resorted to trickery.
He had his brother send a fabricated cable ordering him to return to England and rejoin his old regiment.
This clever ruse successfully convinced Goldwyn, allowing Niven to make his way back home.
He embarked on a journey that took him to Italy by ship, then overland to France, and finally, with the assistance of the RAF, on a bomber to England.
Upon his arrival, Niven rejoined the British Army and played an active role in the D-Day landings.
His contributions during the war earned him the American Legion Of Merit and the rank of lieutenant colonel.
Following the war, Niven returned to Hollywood and continued his successful acting career.
He appeared in over 60 films, including the renowned “Around the World in 80 Days” in 1956.
Niven's talent was recognized with an Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in “Separate Tables” in 1958.
Sadly, he passed away from ALS at the age of 73 in 1983.
David Niven's story serves as a testament to his determination and unwavering commitment to fight for his country, even when faced with opposition and obstacles.
