John Wayne is a legendary Hollywood actor known for his iconic roles in Western movies. However, not many people know that John Wayne's real name is Marion Robert Morrison. In this article, we'll explore the story behind John Wayne's real name and how he came to be known as one of the greatest actors of all time.
The Early Years
Marion Robert Morrison was born on May 26, 1907, in Winterset, Iowa. He was the son of Clyde Leonard Morrison and Mary Alberta Brown. Clyde Morrison was a pharmacist while Mary Alberta was a housewife. Marion had two younger siblings, Robert and Mary.
Marion's family moved to Glendale, California, when he was a child. In Glendale, Marion attended school and played football. He was a good student and an excellent athlete. However, his plans for college were derailed when he got a football injury that ended his sports career.
The Name Change
After his football career came to an end, Marion Morrison began working at a local movie studio as a prop boy. It was there that he met director Raoul Walsh, who was impressed by his good looks and strong presence.
Walsh cast Marion in a small role in his movie "The Big Trail." However, Walsh felt that the name Marion Morrison wasn't quite right for a leading man. He suggested that Marion change his name to John Wayne, and the rest is history.
The Rise to Fame
John Wayne's first leading role came in the movie "The Duke Comes Back." However, it was his role in the movie "Stagecoach" that made him a star. John Wayne became known as the quintessential Western hero, starring in movies such as "Rio Bravo," "The Searchers," and "True Grit."
John Wayne won his first Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role for his performance in "True Grit" in 1970. He continued to act in movies until his death in 1979 at the age of 72.
The Legacy of John Wayne
John Wayne's legacy lives on today, not only through his movies but also through the John Wayne Cancer Foundation. The foundation was established in 1985, after John Wayne's death, to fund cancer research and education.
John Wayne was a legendary actor and a true American icon. His real name, Marion Robert Morrison, may not be as well-known as his stage name, but it was the talent and charisma of the man behind the name that made him a legend.
Conclusion
John Wayne's real name was Marion Robert Morrison. He changed his name to John Wayne after being cast in his first leading role by director Raoul Walsh. John Wayne went on to become a Hollywood legend, starring in countless classic Western movies. His legacy lives on today through his movies and the John Wayne Cancer Foundation.