Paul Child Former officer, artist, husband of Julia Child Date of Birth: 15.01.1902 Country: USA

Biography of Paul Child

Paul Child, a former officer, artist, and husband of Julia Child, was a multifaceted and artistic individual. Born in 1902 in Montclair, New Jersey, Paul received his education at Boston Latin School before attending Columbia College. He later moved to Paris, where he began pursuing his interest in art, working as a painter, engraver, and designer for newspapers and magazines.

During World War II, Paul joined the Office of Strategic Services and was stationed in India and Ceylon. His responsibilities included designing and organizing military headquarters and exhibitions. It was during his time in Ceylon that he met Julia McWilliams, who would later become known as Julia Child, the renowned French cuisine chef, television presenter, and author. Despite their 10-year age difference, Paul, who was fluent in several languages and well-versed in European gastronomy, and Julia fell in love. They also shared a passion for culinary arts and even traveled to China together to explore Chinese cuisine.

On September 1, 1946, Paul and Julia got married, just a day after surviving a car accident. They settled in Washington, D.C., where Paul worked as part of the American diplomatic corps in Paris, while Julia served as the ambassador's wife. As Julia delved deeper into gastronomy, Paul left his government job in 1961 to support her career. He contributed by creating illustrations for her books, designing interiors for photographs, and assisting with various aspects of her work.

Paul Child's diverse talents extended beyond his artistic abilities. He had a keen interest in poetry and even wrote his own poems. Additionally, he frequently appeared on Julia's television show, "The French Chef," which debuted in the early 1960s. According to friends and acquaintances, Paul and Julia had a harmonious and loving relationship, deeply respectful and appreciative of each other. They became instrumental in popularizing French cuisine in America.

Paul Child lived to be 92 years old, passing away on May 12, 1994, in Lexington, Massachusetts. Their romantic relationship was depicted in the 2009 film "Julie & Julia," based on Julie Powell's memoirs. Meryl Streep portrayed Julia Child, earning a Golden Globe, while Stanley Tucci played the role of Paul Child.