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Ring Lardner JrAmerican journalist and screenwriter
Date of Birth: 19.08.1915
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Ring Lardner Jr.: A Man of Conscience in Hollywood
- Political Activism and the Communist Party
- Hollywood Career: From Film to Television
- Academy Award Success and McCarthyism
- The Blacklist and Exile
- Return to Screenwriting
- Personal Life and Legacy
- Autobiography and Posthumous Recognition
Ring Lardner Jr.: A Man of Conscience in Hollywood
Early Life and EducationRinggold Wilmer "Ring" Lardner Jr. was born in Chicago, Illinois in 1915. The son of famed journalist and humorist Ring Lardner, Ring Jr. developed a passion for writing at an early age. After attending Princeton University, he embarked on a career as a reporter for the New York Daily Mirror.
Political Activism and the Communist Party
In 1936, Lardner Jr. joined the Communist Party USA, driven by his belief in social justice. His political affiliation would later have a profound impact on his career.
Hollywood Career: From Film to Television
In the late 1930s, Lardner Jr. moved to Hollywood and began writing screenplays for major studios, including David O. Selznick's. His first notable works were "A Star Is Born" and "Nothing Sacred" (both 1937).
Academy Award Success and McCarthyism
Lardner Jr.'s career reached its peak during the 1940s. He won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for "Woman of the Year" (1942). However, his political views made him a target during the McCarthy era. In 1947, he refused to name names before the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) and was subsequently blacklisted.
The Blacklist and Exile
As a result of his refusal to cooperate with HUAC, Lardner Jr. was unable to work in Hollywood for many years. He was forced to live abroad and use a pseudonym until 1965.
Return to Screenwriting
In the late 1960s, Lardner Jr.'s banishment from Hollywood was lifted. He returned to screenwriting and contributed to notable films such as "MASH" (1970) and "The Greatest" (1977).
Personal Life and Legacy
Lardner Jr. was married twice, first to Silvia Schulman and later to Frances Chaney. He had five children from both marriages. He died in 2000, leaving behind a legacy of courage and integrity in the face of adversity.
Autobiography and Posthumous Recognition
Lardner Jr.'s autobiography, "I'd Hate Myself in the Morning," was published posthumously. It recounts his experiences during the blacklist era and his unwavering commitment to principle.
