Rupert Hughes: A Hollywood Legend

Rupert Hughes: A Hollywood Legend by James O. Kemm explores the life of the film pioneer, author, screenwriter, film director, composer, soldier, network radio commentator, wit and self-described poor uncle of a rich nephew. As uncle and mentor to the enigmatic Howard Hughes, Jr,. Rupert's role lends new intrigue to the legendary missing will and ensuing family debate. A charming and witty man who didn't quite fulfill his ambition to live a thousand years and a thousand lives, Rupert Hughes nevertheless packed an amazing number of accomplishments into his 84 years. Branded an iconoclast, the elder Hughes was involved in countless controversies, including a furor over his three-volume biography depicting George Washington as a human being rather than an idol. A strong opponent of censorship and a pioneer advocate of women's rights, Hughes urged reforms in working conditions and divorce laws. One of his more than 50 books (made into a silent motion picture) helped bring about the observance of Mother's Day. But his own personal life rivaled the turbulence of his famous nephew's: of his three marriages, the first ended in a much-publicized divorce; his second wife committed suicide, and his third wife died of an overdose of sleeping pills. His closest friends included humorist Will Rogers, movie producer Sam Goldwyn and actors Charlie Chaplin and Douglas Fairbanks.