The Early Life of Rex Harrison
Rex Harrison was born on March 5, 1908, in Huyton, Lancashire, England. His real name was Reginald Carey Harrison, but he was known professionally as Rex Harrison. He was the son of a cotton broker and attended Liverpool College. He started his acting career in 1924 in the Liverpool Repertory Theatre and later moved to London to pursue his acting career.
He made his film debut in 1930 in the film The Great Game. He went on to star in many successful films, including Major Barbara, The Ghost and Mrs. Muir, and Cleopatra. However, he is best known for his role as Professor Henry Higgins in the film adaptation of the musical My Fair Lady.
The Personal Life of Rex Harrison
Marriages and Children
Rex Harrison was married six times and had a total of six children. His first marriage was to Colette Thomas in 1934, and they had one son together. His second marriage was to Lilli Palmer in 1943, and they had one son together. They divorced in 1957. His third marriage was to Kay Kendall in 1957, but she died of leukemia in 1959. His fourth marriage was to Rachel Roberts in 1962, and they had one son together. They divorced in 1971. His fifth marriage was to Elizabeth Rees-Williams in 1971, and they divorced in 1975. His sixth and final marriage was to Mercia Tinker in 1978, and they remained married until his death.
Personal Tragedies and Triumphs
Rex Harrison had his share of personal tragedies and triumphs. In 1942, he was involved in a serious car accident that left him with a permanent limp. In 1957, his wife Lilli Palmer left him for another man, which caused him to have a nervous breakdown. However, he made a successful comeback in the film Cleopatra in 1963. In 1989, he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and died on June 2, 1990, in New York City.
The Legacy of Rex Harrison
Rex Harrison was a talented actor who left a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry. He won two Tony Awards for his performances in the plays Anne of the Thousand Days and My Fair Lady. He also won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in the film My Fair Lady. He was inducted into the American Theater Hall of Fame in 1984. His contribution to the film and theater industry will always be remembered.
Conclusion
Rex Harrison was a legendary actor who had a successful career in the film and theater industry. Despite his personal tragedies, he was able to make a successful comeback and leave a lasting legacy. His performances in My Fair Lady and other successful films will always be remembered by his fans. He will always be remembered as one of the greatest actors of his time.
