Introduction
Cliff Robertson was an American actor who appeared in numerous Hollywood movies and TV shows throughout his career. He was born on September 9, 1923, in La Jolla, California, and died on September 10, 2011, in Stony Brook, New York. Robertson was not only a talented actor but also a pilot, screenwriter, and director. In this article, we will explore the life and career of Cliff Robertson, from his early days in Hollywood to his personal tragedies.
Early Life and Career
Early Life
Cliff Robertson was born to parents Clifford Parker Robertson II and Audrey Willingham in La Jolla, California. He was the only child of his parents. Robertson attended La Jolla High School and later enrolled at Antioch College in Ohio. However, he dropped out of college to join the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. After serving in the military, Robertson returned to California and started his acting career.
Early Career
Robertson made his film debut in 1955 with the movie “Picnic.” He then appeared in several other movies, including “Gidget” (1959), “The Interns” (1962), and “633 Squadron” (1964). In 1963, Robertson won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in the movie “Charly.” He also appeared in several TV shows, including “The Twilight Zone,” “Batman,” and “The Outer Limits.”
Personal Tragedies
Death of Daughter
In 1981, Robertson’s daughter, Heather, died in a tragic accident. She was only 21 years old at the time. Heather was reportedly playing a game of Russian roulette with her boyfriend when the gun went off, killing her instantly. This incident was a significant blow to Robertson and his family, and he later stated that he never fully recovered from the loss of his daughter.
Blacklisting
In the 1950s, Robertson was blacklisted by Hollywood for his political beliefs. He was a supporter of the Democratic Party and was vocal about his opposition to the Vietnam War. As a result, he was unable to find work in Hollywood for several years. However, he continued to work in theater and eventually made a comeback in Hollywood in the 1960s.
Conclusion
Cliff Robertson was a talented actor who appeared in numerous Hollywood movies and TV shows throughout his career. Despite facing personal tragedies and being blacklisted by Hollywood, he continued to pursue his passion for acting and left a lasting impact on the industry. Robertson’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of actors and filmmakers.
