Douglas Fairbanks Jr: Early Life and Career
Douglas Fairbanks Jr was born on December 9, 1909, in New York City, to famous actor Douglas Fairbanks Sr and his first wife, Anna Beth Sully. He grew up in a showbiz family and made his debut in films at the age of 13 in the silent film “Stephen Steps Out” (1923). He went on to star in several films in the 1920s and 1930s, including “Little Caesar” (1931) and “Gunga Din” (1939).
In addition to his acting career, Fairbanks Jr was also a decorated war hero, serving in the US Navy during World War II. He later wrote a book about his experiences, “A Hell of a War” (1993). He was also an accomplished author, publishing several books throughout his life, including his autobiography, “The Salad Days” (1988).
Douglas Fairbanks Jr: Wives and Children
First Marriage: Joan Crawford
Fairbanks Jr’s first marriage was to actress Joan Crawford in 1929. The couple met on the set of the film “Our Modern Maidens” (1929) and were married for four years before divorcing in 1933. They had no children together.
Second Marriage: Mary Lee Epling
In 1939, Fairbanks Jr married Mary Lee Epling, a wealthy socialite. They had three daughters together: Daphne, Victoria, and Melissa. The couple remained married until Epling’s death in 1988.
Third Marriage: Vera Lee Shelton
After Epling’s death, Fairbanks Jr married Vera Lee Shelton in 1991. The couple remained married until Fairbanks Jr’s death in 2000.
Douglas Fairbanks Jr: Death
Douglas Fairbanks Jr died on May 7, 2000, at the age of 90, in New York City. He had been in declining health for several years before his death. He was survived by his wife, Vera Lee Shelton, and his three daughters.
Douglas Fairbanks Jr: Legacy
Douglas Fairbanks Jr was a talented actor, war hero, and author, who left a lasting legacy in Hollywood. He appeared in over 75 films throughout his career and was known for his debonair charm and dashing good looks. He was also a respected member of the US Navy, earning several medals for his service during World War II. His autobiography, “The Salad Days,” is still considered a classic of Hollywood memoirs. Fairbanks Jr’s contributions to the entertainment industry and his country will not be forgotten.
FAQ
Who was Douglas Fairbanks Jr?
Douglas Fairbanks Jr was an American actor, producer, and director born on December 9, 1909, in New York City, New York, USA. He was the son of the famous actor and producer Douglas Fairbanks Sr.
Who were Douglas Fairbanks Jr’s wives?
Douglas Fairbanks Jr was married three times. His first wife was Joan Crawford, an American actress, and they were married from 1929 to 1933. His second wife was Mary Lee Eppling, and they were married from 1939 to 1941. His third wife was Vera Shelton, and they were married from 1948 until his death in 2000.
Did Douglas Fairbanks Jr have any children?
Yes, Douglas Fairbanks Jr had two children. His first child, a daughter named Joan Crawford Fairbanks, was born in 1931, but she died shortly after birth. His second child, a daughter named Daphne Fairbanks, was born in 1940.
When did Douglas Fairbanks Jr die?
Douglas Fairbanks Jr died on May 7, 2000, in New York City, New York, USA, at the age of 90.
