As a few if you are aware, I have done quite a bit of research on Aldo Ray the actor. Today will be the first of several series on his career and life. Born in Pen Argyl, Pennsylvania in 1926, his family moved to Crockett, California when he was a small child. A high school football star, he served in the Navy in World War II at the invasion of Okinawa in a unit that became the Navy SEALS. He attended UC Berkeley for a time before dropping out to get elected Constable of Crockett. When he gave his brother a ride to a movie audition in 1951, he got the part himself and resigned his position.
. After some bit parts and uncredited roles, his career really took of in 1952.
Thanks! Yes I remember him well-Dee Exx
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome, Dee. I knew this one would appeal to you.
DeleteI've seen him many times, but never associated him with the name "Aldo Ray," which is referenced in "Inglourious Basterds." I think that whenever I see him in a movie or TV series, I have my eye on a costar, so I only know him in passing. I look forward to more of this. Keep up the great work.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Leroy! Hie real name was Aldo Da Re, pronounded dah ray, and he fought bitterly with the studio to keep it. They compromised on Ray and let him keep the first name unaltered.
DeleteBig fan of his. Any truth to the rumor that he played for our team?
ReplyDeleteSB Dan
No, not really, Dan. More than a few hopeful gays have latched onto the stories about Aldo swimming nude at George Cukor's pool parties, which he actually did and talked about, and unsubstantiated reports of minor sexual favors to get a part. Every reliable behavioral observation of the man indicates that he was thoroughly heterosexual. One thing that threw a lot of people off was a remark he made to the effect of, "I wish I hadn't gotten so interested in girls when I did." This was taken out of context, as he was talking specifically in reference to his painful and expensive divorces. He was married three times and had at least two long term relationships with women after the last divorce, the final female partner staying with him until his death.
DeleteWell, phooey.
DeleteThanks.
There is a cock pic.. I've seen it but don't have it....
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