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Entertainment
Rock Hudson: 30 Years After the Star’s Death
Published 12:49 PM EDT, Tue September 29, 2015
One-time Hollywood colleagues, President Ronald Reagan and first lady Nancy Reagan invited Hudson to a White House state dinner in May 1984. Hudson found out he had AIDS a month later, a diagnosis he kept secret from all but a few friends for more than a year.Rock Hudson became the first well-known public figure to die of AIDS-related causes 30 years ago on October 2, 1985. His gaunt appearance shocked fans that summer when he reunited with former co-star Doris Day to promote a TV series on pets that she was launching.The future superstar cuddles with his Aunt Evelyn in 1927. He was born Roy Harold Scherer Jr. on November 17, 1925, in Winnetka, Illinois, north of Chicago.Shortly before becoming a major star, Hudson made a less than convincing Native American in ‘Taza, Son of Cochise’ (1954), donning a black wig and wearing dark makeup.‘Magnificent Obsession’ (1954) offered Hudson a star-making part opposite Jane Wyman, helping him transition into becoming a matinee idol.The actor married his agent’s secretary, Phyllis Gates, in 1955, a move that aimed to normalize his reputation in Hollywood.Hudson scored his only Oscar nomination as Bick Benedict in the 1956 epic ‘Giant,’ which showcased his ability to rival the biggest stars of the time.‘Pillow Talk’ (1959) helped establish Rock Hudson and Doris Day as one of the screen’s great romantic teams.‘Seconds’ (1966) was a radical departure from the romantic comedies Hudson was known for, showcasing his ambition to be seen as a serious actor.‘Ice Station Zebra’ (1968) proved popular despite critical backlash, marking a turning point in Hudson’s acting journey.In the ’70s, Hudson shifted his focus to television, starring in ‘McMillan & Wife,’ a comedy mystery series that catered to a different audience.Hudson’s haggard appearance on ‘Dynasty’ in 1984 raised concerns and media speculation regarding his health, especially after his AIDS diagnosis became public.
