Actor Archibald Leach (aka Cary Grant) had been one of Hollywood’s biggest stars even before his wedding to actress, socialite, and heiress Barbara Hutton, in 19842, the two would be known in Hollywood circles as “Cash and Cary” due to their prodigious combined wealth (Grant refused any money per a prenup).
The union would not last long about three years – the same cannot be said about Cary Grant’s career.
Grant’s reign as Hollywood’s most dashing man carried on for decades and across generations of fans – even as late as 2021 a recent poll found Cary Grant as Hollywood’s most handsome actor ever!
His skill in acting was evident across all genres and especially in romantic comedies such as ‘The Philadelphia Story’ opposite Katherine Hepburn.
Grant was equally adept in thrillers making four classics throughout the 40’s & 50’s with famed director Alfred Hitchcock culminating in one of the greatest movies ever to be made 1959’s ‘North By Northwest’.
Grant’s persona extended beyond the silver screen to friendships with people from all walks of life, yet none as close as his friendship with Frank Sinatra which lasted until Grant’s death in 1986.
There has never been and may never be a more dashing example of Hollywood cool than Archie Leach!
As for 007, you ask…
Did you know that Cary Grant was asked to be the original James Bond but turned it down because he didn’t want to be in multiple Bond movies?
Did you also know he served as Best Man in “Cubby” Broccoli’s wedding to actress and writer Dana Wilson?
Alas, we now know why Cary Grant turned it down – Cubby’s vision was so much larger than a one-shot deal.
Check out all the seasons of The Latch Key Kids Podcast especially Season One ‘Breaking Bond’ streaming now on Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Audible, and Apple Podcasts.