Remembering Errol Flynn, the Swashbuckling Star of Hollywood
The legendary Australian actor who became a quintessential figure of Hollywood’s Golden Age, was born on this day in 1909
Remembering Errol Flynn, the Swashbuckling Star of Hollywood
Errol Leslie Thomson Flynn was born on June 20, 1909, in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia. He was the son of Theodore Thomson Flynn, a prominent biologist, and Lily Mary Young, an adventurous woman who influenced Flynn’s spirited nature. Flynn’s early life was marked by a series of adventures and misadventures that took him from Australia to England and beyond.
Flynn’s career in entertainment began somewhat serendipitously. After a stint in New Guinea and various odd jobs, he moved to England and joined a repertory theater company. His big break came when he was cast in the lead role of “In the Wake of the Bounty” (1933), an Australian film that showcased his natural charisma and athleticism.
Flynn’s move to Hollywood in 1935 marked the beginning of his rise to stardom. He signed with Warner Bros. and quickly became one of the studio’s top stars. His breakthrough role was in “Captain Blood” (1935), where his portrayal of the dashing pirate Peter Blood made him an instant sensation. Flynn’s swashbuckling image was solidified with a series of successful films, including,
“The Adventures of Robin Hood” (1938), perhaps his most iconic role, Flynn’s Robin Hood is remembered as one of the definitive portrayals of the legendary hero, “The Sea Hawk” (1940), “Dodge City” (1939) and “The Charge of the Light Brigade” (1936), a historical drama that highlighted Flynn’s dramatic abilities.
Flynn’s career in the 1940s and 1950s was marked by both professional successes and personal challenges. While he continued to star in notable films such as “They Died with Their Boots On” (1941) and “Objective, Burma!” (1945), his off-screen life was tumultuous. His health and personal issues began to affect his career, leading to fewer and less critically acclaimed roles in the later years.
Errol Flynn’s personal life was as adventurous as his on-screen characters. He was married three times: to actress Lili Damita (1935–1942), with whom he had a son, Sean Flynn; to Nora Eddington (1943–1949), with whom he had two daughters, Deirdre and Rory; and to Patrice Wymore (1950 until his death), with whom he had a daughter, Arnella. Flynn’s life was marked by numerous scandals, including accusations of statutory rape, which he was acquitted of in a highly publicized trial in 1943. His lifestyle was characterized by heavy drinking, substance abuse, and a penchant for adventure and excess.
Errol Flynn died on October 14, 1959, at the age of 50, in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. His death was attributed to a heart attack, exacerbated by years of heavy drinking and hard living.
A quintessential figure of Hollywood’s Golden Age, today, Errol Flynn remains one of Hollywood’s most enduring icons, remembered for his swashbuckling roles and his larger-than-life persona. His films continue to be celebrated for their adventurous spirit and Flynn’s undeniable charisma.
Look back at a scene from the iconic 1938 movie “The Adventures of Robin Hood” featuring Errol Flynn in action
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