Rock Hudson Biography

Fast Facts

• Received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his contributions to film
• Donated $250,000 to the National AIDS Research Foundation
• After serving in the military during World War II, he decided to pursue acting by applying to the drama program at the University of Southern California, but he was rejected
• In his first professional acting job in "Fighter Squadron," it took him 38 takes in order to successfully deliver his one line
• Quote: "I have no philosophy about acting or anything else․ You just do it․ And I mean that․ You just do it․"
• Widely recognized as a leading man in various films, ranging from dramatic westerns to sophisticated comedies
• Although he was extremely near-sighted, he rarely allowed himself to be photographed wearing glasses
• Had a surgery early in his career in order to make his voice deeper, but the effects of the procedure left him with the inability to learn how to sing
• Went to the same high school as fellow actors Charlton Heston, Ann-Margret, Ralph Bellamy and Bruce Dern
• Was originally chosen to play Atticus Finch in "To Kill a Mockingbird," but was ultimately rejected from the part because he was seen as being to young