Can you imagine what it must be like to hide parts of yourself from the world? Unfortunately, that was the reality for the iconic star, Tab Hunter, for most of his life.
Tab Hunter, known for his blond, clean-cut good looks, captured the hearts of many in the 1950s and 1960s. He starred in numerous movies and became a huge Hollywood heartthrob. One of his most popular films was “Damn Yankees”, and he also appeared in “The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean”. Born in 1931 in Manhattan, New York City, Tab had an early passion for movies, earning him the nickname “Hollywood” in the United States Coast Guard where he served.
At the age of 17, he was introduced to the legendary agent Henry Willson, who was responsible for shaping the beefcake craze of the 1950s. Known for his “Malibu beach boy looks”, Tab Hunter became one of the most popular teen idols of the time. He admitted that he had to learn on the job and serve his apprenticeship in the spotlight.
However, being a homosexual actor in the 1950s was not easy. Tab Hunter, like many others, had to hide his true self and pursue relationships in secret to protect his career. He opened up about his experiences as a closeted gay man in Hollywood in later years, reflecting on the difficulties he faced.
But Tab’s life changed when he met his long-time love, Allan Glaser. The two eventually got married, finding happiness and success together. Before Glaser, Hunter was in a secret relationship with fellow actor Anthony Perkins, which had been whispered about for years. Tab decided that it was time to reveal the truth and be open about his secret romances.
One of the reasons he chose to come out publicly was because he learned that someone else was planning to write a book about his life. He wanted to be the one to share his story with the world. Tab Hunter had known since his teenage years that he preferred men, but due to societal pressures, he couldn’t openly embrace his sexuality at the time.
Despite the challenges he faced, Tab Hunter had a successful career. His popularity soared when he landed a role in the movie “Battle Cry” in 1955. He became the face of Hollywood, appearing on magazine covers and gaining a seven-year contract with Warner Bros. During this time, he was often seen with his co-star Natalie Wood, creating the illusion of a romantic relationship. However, behind the scenes, Hunter was involved in a secret affair with Anthony Perkins.
Throughout his life, Tab Hunter managed to keep his secret relationships hidden, and he continued to act in movies without any scandals affecting his career. He eventually found happiness and contentment with Allan Glaser, living a quiet life away from the spotlight in Santa Barbara.
Tragically, Tab Hunter passed away at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy of talent, resilience, and love. His contributions to Hollywood and his courage in sharing his story serve as an inspiration to many.
What are your thoughts on Tab Hunter’s complicated career? Share your opinion in the comments below!
