Introduction
Francis Timothy McCown, known to the world as Rory Calhoun, was born on August 8, 1922, in Los Angeles, California. His early years were marked by turmoil and instability. After his father’s premature death, young Francis found himself entangled in a series of juvenile misdemeanors, including car theft and armed robbery, which led to his incarceration in the California Youth Authority. He spent much of his teenage years in and out of reformatories, a fact that would later shape his rugged on-screen persona.
The Road to Hollywood
Calhoun’s life took a dramatic turn when he was discovered while horseback riding in the Hollywood Hills by actor Alan Ladd, who introduced him to his agent, Sue Carol. This chance encounter led to a screen test with 20th Century Fox, and soon, Rory Calhoun was born. His rugged good looks and natural charisma made him a perfect fit for the Western genre, which was immensely popular at the time.
Rising Star in Westerns
Calhoun’s breakthrough role came in the early 1950s with "The Red House" (1947), where he starred alongside Edward G. Robinson. But it was his performance in "How to Marry a Millionaire" (1953) that cemented his status as a leading man. Calhoun's salary for this film was a then-impressive $75,000, reflecting his rising star power. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, he became a staple of Western films, starring in hits like "The Texan" (1958-1960), a television series that ran for 78 episodes and significantly boosted his popularity.
Diversifying Roles and Continued Success
While Westerns were his forte, Calhoun demonstrated versatility with roles in various genres. He starred in the film noir "With a Song in My Heart" (1952) and the adventure film "The Treasure of Pancho Villa" (1955). Despite the changing tastes of cinema-goers in the late 1960s and 1970s, Calhoun found a niche in low-budget horror and action films, maintaining a steady presence in Hollywood.
Financial Ventures and Real Estate
Beyond acting, Calhoun was a savvy businessman. He invested heavily in real estate, purchasing several properties in the San Fernando Valley. By the mid-1960s, his real estate holdings were valued at approximately $2 million—a substantial sum for the time. He also ventured into the nightclub business, opening "Rory's" in Palm Springs, California, which became a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Personal Life and Relationships
Calhoun's personal life was as eventful as his career. He was married twice, first to Lita Baron in 1948, with whom he had three daughters. Their marriage ended in a highly publicized divorce in 1970, where Baron cited Calhoun's numerous infidelities. He later married Sue Rhodes in 1971, and they remained together until his death.
Later Career and Legacy
In the 1980s and 1990s, Calhoun transitioned to television, guest-starring in popular series like "Murder, She Wrote" and "The A-Team". His final film role was in "Pure Country" (1992), starring country music legend George Strait. Despite his decline in health, Calhoun continued to work sporadically until his death on April 28, 1999.
Impact and Recognition
Though often typecast as a cowboy, Calhoun's impact on the film industry was far-reaching. He was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960, a testament to his enduring legacy. His films, particularly the Westerns, continue to be celebrated for their portrayal of rugged individualism and the American frontier spirit.
Exclusive Insights and Anecdotes
An interesting lesser-known fact about Calhoun is his involvement in the film "Apache Territory" (1958), for which he also served as a producer. This venture into production showcased his keen understanding of the film industry and his desire to have creative control over his projects. Additionally, during the filming of "The Texan", Calhoun was reportedly earning $2,500 per episode, a significant amount that reflected his status as a leading television star.
Final Reflections
Rory Calhoun’s life was a tapestry of highs and lows, marked by a troubled youth, a successful acting career, and savvy business ventures. His story is one of redemption and reinvention, embodying the resilience and determination of a true Hollywood star. Through his films and television appearances, Calhoun left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, one that continues to be remembered and celebrated by fans and historians alike.
