For over six decades, George Hamilton has epitomized charisma and star power. Known for his distinctive tan and silver screen presence, Hamilton’s journey to fame has fascinating roots in Arkansas. Let’s delve into the origins and rise of this Hollywood legend.
The early years : from memphis to blytheville
George Stevens Hamilton, born on August 12, 1939, in Memphis, Tennessee, spent his formative years in Blytheville, Arkansas. His parents, Ann Stevens Hamilton and bandleader George William “Spike” Hamilton, provided a unique backdrop for his early life. His mother’s family roots added a layer of prestige and social influence to his upbringing.
Ann Stevens Hamilton, the only daughter of the town doctor Carlos Crawford Stevens, was known for her education and socialite status. She attended boarding school in St. Louis and a finishing school in New York City. These experiences undoubtedly influenced George’s taste for glamour and high society. Ann’s first marriage to a Wall Street businessman produced her first son, but they returned to Blytheville after the stock market crash and the ensuing Great Depression.
It was in Memphis that Ann met George “Spike” Hamilton. The couple wed and soon had two children, George and his younger brother, David. This marriage ended in 1944 due to “Spike” Hamilton’s affair with his band’s singer, June Howard. Subsequently, the young George Hamilton experienced a significant phase of his youth at his grandparents’ home in Blytheville.
A move to hollywood : the glamour beckons
After the passing of both of Ann’s parents in 1947, she decided to move the family to Hollywood, chasing new opportunities and a fresh start. This move proved pivotal for young George. The allure of the entertainment industry and the glamorous life beckoned. Despite another relocation to the East Coast after Ann’s remarriage in 1950, George’s brush with Hollywood had sown the seeds of ambition.
George attended several boarding schools, including a prestigious private school in New York. His mother’s fourth marriage relocated him to Palm Beach, Florida, for his senior year. Here, he cultivated his passion for acting and began to develop the iconic tan that would later become an integral part of his public persona.
Upon completing high school, George Hamilton returned to Hollywood. His striking looks and charming tan quickly won him roles on popular TV shows such as “The Adventures of Rin Tin Tin” and “The Donna Reed Show.” His first significant film appearance came in 1959 with “Crime and Punishment, U.S.A.”, earning him a Golden Globe for Most Promising Newcomer.
The 1960s : heartthrob status and beyond
The 1960s marked George’s rise to heartthrob status, amplified by his contract with MGM Studios. His roles in a series of films cemented his popularity. Movies like “Where the Boys Are,” “A Thunder of Drums,” and “Your Cheatin’ Heart” showcased his versatility and appeal.
In addition to his film career, George gained fame for his participation in game shows, both as a competitor and a host. Notably, in 1966, he dated Lynda Bird Johnson, President Lyndon B. Johnson’s daughter, a relationship that kept him in the public eye. By the decade’s end, George had appeared in 18 films and various TV shows, broadening his portfolio and influence in Hollywood.
The 1970s saw a shift towards television roles for George Hamilton. With appearances in shows like “Columbo” and the mini-series “Roots,” he expanded his repertoire. His production and starring role in the movie “Evel Knievel” in 1971 highlighted his behind-the-scenes capabilities. The decade’s capstone was his starring role in the Dracula comedy “Love at First Bite,” which became a commercial success.
Expanding horizons : the 1980s and beyond
In the 1980s, George Hamilton’s career took another interesting turn. Already renowned for his tan and off-screen persona, he ventured into the skincare business. His George Hamilton skincare and suncare systems enabled fans to achieve a tan safely, reflecting his enduring appeal.
While acting roles lessened, George remained influential. He starred in commercials and continued to appear in TV roles. A notable comeback came in 1990 with his role in “The Godfather : Part III” as the family lawyer. He followed this with an appearance in “Doc Hollywood” alongside Michael J. Fox and co-hosted a talk show with his ex-wife for a year.
As the new millennium approached, George continued to work steadily, frequently appearing as himself in TV shows and films, highlighting his charming personality. He published his first book in 1998, “Life’s Little Pleasures,” which focused on appreciating life’s moments. In 2008, he released his memoir “Don’t Mind If I Do,” providing an in-depth look at his life and career.
George has also made a point to reconnect with his roots. During his book tour, he returned to Blytheville to discuss his childhood and grandparents, underscoring the significance of his early years in Arkansas.
The enduring charm of a hollywood icon
George Hamilton’s career has spanned over six decades, marked by distinct phases and numerous achievements. In the early 2000s, he continued to add to his resume with appearances such as a contestant on “Dancing With the Stars” in 2006 and a recurring role on the sitcom “American Housewife.” In 2011, he faced skin cancer scares but used his own tanning products to maintain his signature look.
Even in his 80s, George Hamilton remains a symbol of charm, elegance, and an enduring tan. Much of his persona can be traced back to his upbringing, heavily influenced by his mother Ann Stevens Hamilton and their Arkansas roots. His ability to navigate the changing tides of Hollywood while maintaining his distinctive style and warmth has cemented his legacy as a beloved Hollywood legend.
Tables and Facts about George Hamilton
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1939 | Born in Memphis, Tennessee |
| 1947 | Moved to Hollywood |
| 1959 | First film role in “Crime and Punishment, U.S.A.” |
| 1966 | Dated Lynda Bird Johnson |
| 1971 | Produced and starred in “Evel Knievel” |
| 1979 | Starred in “Love at First Bite” |
| 1990 | Appeared in “The Godfather : Part III” |
| 2006 | Contestant on “Dancing With the Stars” |
