George Dewey Cukor American film director Date of Birth: 07.07.1899 Country: USA

1. Early Life and Education
2. Military Service and Career Beginnings
3. Hollywood Success
4. 'Gone with the Wind' and Notable Works
5. World War II Service and Later Career
6. Final Years and Legacy

Early Life and Education

George Cukor, the renowned American film director, was born in the Lower East Side of New York City, the youngest child and only son of Hungarian Jewish immigrants, Victor and Helen Ilona Cukor. Despite his Jewish heritage, his parents were not particularly religious, and George himself did not practice any specific faith. As a child, Cukor developed a passion for the performing arts and began acting in local amateur theater and taking dance lessons. At the age of seven, he made his stage debut alongside David O. Selznick, who would later become his mentor and friend.

Military Service and Career Beginnings

After graduating from high school, Cukor was expected to follow in his father's footsteps and study law. He enrolled at City College of New York but had little enthusiasm for his studies. In November 1918, he joined the Students Army Training Corps but served for only two months as the war ended shortly after. Cukor's military career was brief, and he soon returned to performing on stage in New York. As Hollywood talent agents began arriving in the city, Cukor quickly transitioned to film.

Hollywood Success

In 1928, Cukor signed a contract with Paramount Pictures. He later worked for Universal Pictures and, in 1930, directed three films for Paramount, earning a salary increase from $600 to $1,500 per week. Cukor quickly gained a reputation as a "woman's director," known for eliciting great performances from actresses. He collaborated with Katharine Hepburn on multiple films, cementing his status as one of Hollywood's top directors.

'Gone with the Wind' and Notable Works

One of Cukor's most famous and enduring achievements is his classic 1936 adaptation of Margaret Mitchell's novel, "Gone with the Wind." He also played a significant role in the production of the legendary "The Wizard of Oz," changing Judy Garland's hair color from blonde to her iconic brunette shade.

World War II Service and Later Career

In 1942, at the age of 43, Cukor rejoined the military as an enlisted man. Despite his efforts to earn an officer's rank, he remained in the ranks. After the war, he returned to filmmaking and continued to direct a series of successful films, including the beloved 1964 musical "My Fair Lady," starring Audrey Hepburn.

Final Years and Legacy

Cukor's later years were marked by a somewhat reduced pace. His final film, "Rich and Famous," was released in 1981 when he was 82 years old. George Cukor passed away on January 24, 1983, from a heart attack and was interred near Glendale, California. He remains one of the most influential and celebrated directors in American cinema history.