Steve McQueen Biography: Hollywood’s King of Cool and Racing Legend
Explore the Steve McQueen biography, from his rise to Hollywood stardom to his legendary passion for racing and rebellious screen persona.
Born on March 24, 1930, in Indiana, Terence Steven McQueen would become one of the greatest icons of cinema, remembered especially for his action films.
The “King of Cool” was once one of the highest-paid actors in Hollywood.
With a rebellious personality, he had challenges such as dyslexia and was partially deaf, the result of an infection he had during childhood. At 9 years old, after being beaten several times by his stepfather, he ran away from home and began living on the streets, where he committed some minor offenses. Some time later, he returned home, but the situation did not improve. Tired of the abuse, he left his family for good and started working various jobs to support himself. During this time, he worked at gas stations, as a sailor, and other jobs. His contact with the arts came in an unusual way when he was invited to make a small appearance in a play.
In 1952, he began acting in a neighborhood theater while studying with the famous Stella Adler. His Broadway debut came in 1955 in the play A Hatful of Rain. At 25, he moved to Hollywood, making some appearances in TV series and an uncredited role in Somebody Up There Likes Me (1956). But shortly after, he was hailed as the new James Dean. One reason was his passion for racing, which he especially pursued on weekends when Steve competed in races. He was also similar to James Dean in his antisocial character. He preferred staying home drinking alone rather than attending parties, turning down big invitations.
The 1960s and 70s cemented him as one of the highest-paid actors after hits like The Great Escape (1963), Bullitt (1968), and Papillon (1973). Steve was married three times. His first marriage was to Neile Adams (1956–1972), a singer and dancer. They had two children. The marriage ended when he met actress Ali MacGraw during the filming of The Getaway. Steve and Ali married in 1973 and divorced in 1978. His last wife was Barbara Mint, whom he left a widow in 1980. Steve died of cancer on November 7, 1980. His body was cremated.
Mais sobre a autora
