All That Heaven Allows

Book excerpt: “Paints a vivid portrait of a man who lived a double life in order to maintain his status as a movie star. . . . Candid but credible...a real page-turner.” —Leonard Maltin, author of Hooked on Hollywood: Discoveries from a Lifetime of Film Fandom The inspiration for the HBO® Original Documentary, Rock Hudson: All that Heaven Allowed. Rock Hudson was the ultimate movie star. The embodiment of romantic masculinity in American film throughout the ‘50s and ‘60s, he reigned supreme as the king of Hollywood. As an Oscar-nominated leading man, Hudson won acclaim for his performances in melodramas (Magnificent Obsession), western epics (Giant) and blockbuster bedroom farces (Pillow Talk). In the ‘70s and ‘80s, Hudson successfully transitioned to television with his long-running series McMillan & Wife and a recurring role on Dynasty. The Hollywood icon appeared to have it all. Yet beneath the star persona, there was a deeply conflicted human being. Growing up poor in Winnetka, Illinois, Hudson was abandoned by his father, abused by an alcoholic stepfather, and controlled by his domineering mother. Despite the obstacles, Hudson was determined to become an actor. After signing with agent Henry Willson, Hudson was transformed from a tongue-tied truck driver into Universal Studio’s resident Adonis. But Hudson’s wholesome screen image was at odds with his closeted homosexuality. Because of his secret gay relationships, Hudson was continually threatened with public exposure. In 1985 the public learned that the actor was battling AIDS, a disclosure that focused worldwide attention on the epidemic. Drawing on more than 100 interviews, All That Heaven Allows delivers a complete and nuanced portrait of one of the most fascinating stars in cinema history. “Provides trenchant cinematic insight and social criticism.” —Library Journal, starred review “Engrossing.” —Kirkus Reviews