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Wanderer Sterling Hayden: The Man, the Actor, the Hero

Blake Bell

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Sterling Hayden was a complex and fascinating figure, a man who lived a life of adventure and intrigue. He was a decorated war hero, a successful actor, and a committed activist. This article explores the life and legacy of this extraordinary man.

Wanderer

by Sterling Hayden

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Early Life and Military Service

Sterling Hayden was born Sterling Walter Hayden in Montclair, New Jersey, on September 26, 1916. His father was a successful businessman, and his mother was a socialite. Hayden had a privileged upbringing, but he was also a rebel at heart. He dropped out of high school and joined the Merchant Marine at the age of 18.

When World War II broke out, Hayden joined the Office of Strategic Services (OSS),the forerunner of the CIA. He served in the OSS's Maritime Unit, which conducted covert operations in Europe and the Far East. Hayden was awarded the Silver Star and the Bronze Star for his service in the OSS.

Acting Career

After the war, Hayden began his acting career. He made his film debut in 1947 in the film "Bahama Passage." Hayden quickly became a leading man, starring in a number of films in the 1950s and 1960s, including "The Asphalt Jungle," "The Killing," and "Dr. Strangelove." Hayden was known for his rugged good looks and his intense, brooding performances.

In addition to his film career, Hayden also appeared in a number of television shows, including "The Naked City," "The Rifleman," and "The Defenders." He also wrote two books, "Wanderer" (1963) and "Voyage" (1976),which chronicled his life and adventures.

Activism

Hayden was a committed activist throughout his life. He was a vocal opponent of the Vietnam War, and he also spoke out against environmental degradation and social injustice. Hayden was arrested several times for his activism, including a time in 1968 when he was arrested for protesting the Vietnam War at the Democratic National Convention.

Personal Life

Hayden was married three times. His first marriage, to Betty Ann deNoon, lasted from 1942 to 1951. He then married actress Betty Peatty in 1951. The couple had two children, Christian and Gretchen. Hayden's third marriage, to Catherine Devine, lasted from 1962 until his death in 1986.

Hayden died of prostate cancer in Sausalito, California, on May 23, 1986. He was 69 years old.

Legacy

Sterling Hayden was a complex and fascinating figure, a man who lived a life of adventure and intrigue. He was a decorated war hero, a successful actor, and a committed activist. Hayden's legacy is one of courage, determination, and compassion. He was a true American hero.

Hayden's work has been praised by critics and audiences alike. He was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in "The Asphalt Jungle." He also received two Golden Globe Awards for his work in "The Asphalt Jungle" and "The Killing." Hayden's films continue to be enjoyed by audiences around the world.

Wanderer

by Sterling Hayden

4.5 out of 5