Lee Majors, the famous American actor, and Farrah Fawcett, a young college beauty driven to Hollywood, had a fateful encounter that sparked a legendary love story.
Lee Majors’ Journey to Fame
Lee Majors, originally from Kentucky, faced early tragedy with the loss of both his parents before the age of two. Despite setbacks, he pursued his education and played football for Eastern Kentucky State College. Unfortunately, injuries ended his dreams of becoming a professional football player.
He left Kentucky and went to Los Angeles to become a high school coach, but fate had other plans for him. Introduced to acting by his football friends, Majors studied and worked his way up in the movie industry. He gained recognition as the character Heath on the ABC network series “The Big Valley” alongside Barbara Stanwyck.
Majors went on to appear in TV shows like “Owen Marshall” and “The Men From Shiloh.” In 1973, his breakthrough came when he was cast as the “Million Dollar Man.” The role brought him immense fame, to the point where he couldn’t even go to bars without being challenged to arm wrestling matches.
Farrah Fawcett’s Rise to Stardom
Farrah Fawcett, born in Texas to an oilfield contractor, had a strong Catholic upbringing. She attended the University of Texas, where she was voted the college beauty queen. A publicity agent spotted her picture, and two years later, Fawcett was on her way to Hollywood with the support of her parents.
In Hollywood, Fawcett found success as a model and made guest appearances in commercials for various products. Her star quickly rose, catching the attention of Lee Majors’ publicist, who left her a message inviting her to dinner. Though initially annoyed, Fawcett fell in love with Majors at first sight when they finally met.
Their first date, however, was cut short when Fawcett got sick. The next day, Majors sent her 13 yellow roses and couldn’t help but praise her beauty and charm.
Marriage, Stardom, and Challenges
At the time of meeting Fawcett, Majors was already married and had a child. However, he and Fawcett married in 1973, right as Majors gained popularity for his role as a bionic robot in “The Six Million Dollar Man.” Fawcett, a successful model herself, fully supported her husband in his acting career.
They lived in a beautiful French house in Bel Air and were both at the peak of their careers. Fawcett’s fame skyrocketed in 1976 when she was cast in “Charlie’s Angels.” Her iconic movie poster, featuring her in a red one-piece bathing suit, sold millions of copies, and her hairstyle became an international sensation.
The couple faced challenges dealing with the paparazzi’s constant attention and the pressures of their demanding careers. Eventually, their marriage began to crack under the strain of Fawcett’s sudden fame and commitments. They separated in 1979 and finalized their divorce in 1982.
Farewell to a Legend
After her divorce from Majors, Fawcett had a long-term relationship with actor Ryan O’Neal. Sadly, she was diagnosed with cancer in 2006, just four years after O’Neal’s own battle with the disease. Fawcett fought a brave fight against anal cancer but tragically passed away in 2009 at the age of 62.
Lee Majors, deeply saddened by her passing, spoke highly of her strength and courage. Reflecting on their marriage, he shared stories and memories of their time together. Despite the complexities of their careers, he remained proud of their endurance and accomplishments.
Lee Majors continued to work and pursue his passion for acting, even at the age of 84. His love story with Farrah Fawcett may have had its challenges, but their time together remains an iconic chapter in Hollywood history.
