Tab Hunter, a name that evokes images of sun-kissed beaches and carefree romance, was a Hollywood heartthrob who captured the hearts of millions in the 1950s and 60s. His boyish good looks and athletic build made him a natural leading man, but his career was a complex journey filled with both triumphs and challenges.
Early Life: From Arthur to Tab
Born Arthur Andrew Kelm on July 11, 1931, in New York City, Tab’s early life was marked by instability and hardship. His parents divorced when he was young, and he spent much of his childhood moving from place to place with his mother and brother.
Despite the challenges, Tab found solace in sports and developed a passion for ice skating. His athletic abilities caught the attention of talent scouts, and he soon found himself in Hollywood, where he was given the stage name Tab Hunter.
Career and Movies: The Rise of a Star
Tab Hunter’s rise to fame was meteoric. His first major role came in 1952’s “Island of Desire,” where he starred opposite Linda Darnell. The film was a box office hit, and Tab’s good looks and charisma quickly made him a teen idol.
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He went on to star in a series of popular films throughout the 1950s, including “Battle Cry” (1955), “Track of the Cat” (1954), and “Lafayette Escadrille” (1958). His roles ranged from romantic leads to action heroes, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
One of Tab’s most memorable films was “Damn Yankees!” (1958), where he played a baseball player who sells his soul to the devil. The film was a critical and commercial success, and Tab’s performance earned him rave reviews.
The Secret Struggle
Despite his on-screen success, Tab Hunter was grappling with a secret that could have destroyed his career. In an era when homosexuality was taboo, he was forced to hide his true identity from the public.
The pressure to conform to Hollywood’s expectations took a toll on Tab’s mental and emotional well-being. He struggled with anxiety and depression, often turning to alcohol to cope with the stress.
Tab’s private life was a stark contrast to his public image. While he was portrayed as a carefree bachelor, he was involved in secret relationships with other men, including actor Anthony Perkins.
Personal Life and Relationships
Throughout his life, Tab Hunter yearned for love and companionship. He had several significant relationships, including a long-term partnership with actor Allan Glaser.
Tab and Allan met in the 1980s and quickly fell in love. They kept their relationship private for many years, but eventually came out as a couple in the 2000s.
Later Career and Life
In the later years of his career, Tab Hunter shifted his focus to theater and television. He starred in several successful stage productions, including “The Tender Trap” and “Camelot.”
He also appeared in numerous television shows, such as “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman” and “The Love Boat.” His talent and charm continued to shine through, earning him new fans and accolades.
Tab Hunter passed away on July 8, 2018, at the age of 86. His death marked the end of an era in Hollywood, but his legacy lives on through his films and the memories he created for millions of fans.
Here are some fabulous photos of young Tab Hunter from his early life and career.
