In a revelation that shook the world, Rock Hudson disclosed his AIDS diagnosis 33 years ago in 1985 after being diagnosed secretly in 1984.
This iconic movie star managed to keep his illness under wraps until his publicist confirmed the news on July 25, 1985.
Let’s delve into the hidden story of this legendary actor’s courageous decision, originally unveiled in 2015.
During the peak of his stardom in the early ’60s, Lee Garlington, a retired stockbroker at 77, shared a close bond with Rock Hudson, dating him from 1962 to 1965.
Recalling those days, Garlington fondly describes Hudson as “a sweetheart” whom he adored deeply.
More than three decades following Hudson’s demise due to AIDS-related complications on October 2, 1985, at the age of 59, Garlington, along with other close associates of Hudson like Dr. Michael Gottlieb, his immunologist, business manager Wallace Sheft, and his co-star Doris Day from “Pillow Talk,” reminisce about the cherished memories with the beloved friend they mourned.
Garlington, a young film extra when he first encountered Hudson in 1962, vividly remembers the impression the renowned actor left on him.
Despite rumors surrounding Hudson’s sexuality, Garlington’s curiosity led to their first meeting outside Hudson’s cottage on the Universal lot, marking the beginning of their relationship.
A year later, following Garlington’s breakup, he was introduced to Hudson through a mutual friend, leading to their initial interaction at Hudson’s mansion in Beverly Hills.
Despite Garlington’s initial apprehension, their bond grew over time, marked by discreet encounters and cautious outings to maintain appearances.
Their outings to movie premieres were meticulously planned, each accompanied by a female date to conceal their true relationship.
The societal stigma surrounding homosexuality in that era necessitated discretion, a fact both Hudson and Garlington acknowledged.
While Hudson never explicitly requested secrecy, a trespassing incident by a female fan during a road trip prompted Hudson to enhance security measures, realizing the vulnerability of his private life.
Nonetheless, their relationship thrived in the midst of secrecy, filled with shared moments of simplicity and genuine connection.
Reflecting on Hudson’s authentic persona, Garlington recalls their casual escapades and intimate moments, including Hudson’s endearing gesture of teaching him how to shave properly.
Their parting ways in 1965 stemmed from personal growth disparities, with Garlington seeking a paternal figure which Hudson, described as a gentle giant lacking assertiveness, could not fulfill.
The news of Hudson’s AIDS diagnosis in 1985 came as a shock to Garlington, who attempted to reach out to his ailing ex-lover, only to be advised against it due to Hudson’s deteriorating health condition.
Learning from Hudson’s posthumous biography that he considered Garlington his “true love” left Garlington overwhelmed, realizing the depth of their bond and the profound impact he had on Hudson’s life, forever cherishing their unspoken love.
