William Clark Gable was an American film actor, often referred to as “The King of Hollywood”. He had roles in more than 60 motion pictures in multiple genres during a career that lasted 37 years, three decades of which was as a leading man.
Clark Gable, born William Clark Gable on February 1, 1901, in Cadiz, Ohio, and passing away on November 16, 1960, in Los Angeles, California, was an iconic American actor. He is often referred to as the “King of Hollywood” and was one of the most prominent and charismatic actors during the golden age of Hollywood. Here are some key points about Clark Gable:
- Early Life: Clark Gable grew up in a small town in Ohio. He worked various jobs, including in the oil industry and as a stage actor, before making his way to Hollywood.
- Breakthrough Role: Gable’s breakthrough came with his role as Rhett Butler in the epic film “Gone with the Wind” (1939), opposite Vivien Leigh. His portrayal of Rhett Butler is one of the most iconic performances in film history.
- Academy Award: Gable won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in “It Happened One Night” (1934), co-starring Claudette Colbert. This film helped solidify his status as a leading man in Hollywood.
- Leading Man: Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, Clark Gable was one of Hollywood’s leading men, starring in numerous successful films, such as “Mutiny on the Bounty” (1935), “Boom Town” (1940), and “The Hucksters” (1947).
- Partnership with MGM: Gable was under contract with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) for much of his career, and he became one of the studio’s most valuable and bankable stars.
- Personal Life: Clark Gable was married five times, with his most famous marriage being to actress Carole Lombard. Tragically, Lombard died in a plane crash in 1942.
- World War II Service: During World War II, Gable served in the U.S. Army Air Forces as a gunner and aerial photographer. His wartime service was well-regarded, and he achieved the rank of major.
- Post-War Career: After the war, Gable continued his acting career and appeared in films like “The Misfits” (1961), co-starring Marilyn Monroe, which would be his final film.
- Legacy: Clark Gable’s legacy endures through his memorable performances and his status as a Hollywood legend. He is often cited as one of the greatest actors in film history.
- Iconic Mustache: Gable was known for his distinctive mustache, which became one of his signature features.
Clark Gable’s career spanned several decades, and his rugged charm, charisma, and commanding screen presence made him a beloved figure in Hollywood. His role as Rhett Butler in “Gone with the Wind” remains one of the most iconic in cinematic history, and he left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.