Tab Hunter, the renowned heartthrob of Hollywood’s golden age, led a life filled with hidden truths and sacrifices. Behind his glamorous acting career lay a concealed secret – his true identity and sexuality. In an era when being a gay actor was incredibly challenging, Tab Hunter navigated a world that demanded he keep his personal life hidden.
Born in Manhattan, New York City, in 1931, Tab Hunter discovered his passion for movies at a young age. He even lied about his age to join the US Coast Guard when he was just 15. Instead of spending time at the pub like his colleagues, Tab stayed at home, honing his acting skills by watching movies. Little did he know that his destiny would soon take him to the heart of Hollywood.
At the age of 17, Tab Hunter met Henry Willson, a renowned agent known for spotting talented male actors. Willson’s focus was not on acting skills, but on chiseled features and a fit physique. Hunter effortlessly fit the description with his “Malibu beach boy looks.” He quickly became one of the era’s most beloved adolescent idols, adored for his talent and good looks.
The Challenge of Concealment
Despite his fame and countless female admirers, Tab Hunter had to lead a double life. Like many other gay actors of the time, he concealed his true identity to protect his career. He had to pursue relationships in secret while keeping his authentic self hidden from the public eye. It was a challenging and isolating experience, where he couldn’t even enjoy a simple dinner or movie date with a partner without fearing exposure.
In his later years, Tab Hunter spoke openly about the difficulties of being a gay man in Hollywood. He acknowledged that he had to learn by experience and pick up the necessary skills on the job. But the charade of heterosexuality took its toll on him, impacting his personal well-being.
True Love Prevails
Eventually, love and happiness found their way to Tab Hunter’s life through his lifelong partner, Allan Glaser. After years of hiding behind closed doors, Hunter decided it was time to be true to himself and the world. Together, they entered into a successful and fulfilling marriage, choosing to live a quiet life away from the Hollywood spotlight in a modest cottage outside Santa Barbara.
Reflecting on his life, Tab Hunter emphasized that success was not the sole measure of a fulfilling life. He found contentment in the love he shared with Glaser and the simplicity of their chosen path.
Tragically, Tab Hunter’s journey came to an end in his beloved home at the age of 86, due to a heart attack caused by a blood clot in his lungs. However, his legacy as a Hollywood icon and a trailblazer for the LGBTQ+ community lives on.
Join the Conversation
We invite you to share your thoughts and stories in the comments below! What are your reflections on the challenges faced by Tab Hunter in his professional life? Let’s connect and celebrate the incredible journey of this Hollywood legend together!
