On the occasion of Rod Taylor’s birthday (Jan. 11, 1930), I’m sharing a recent acquisition that definitely casts Rod in the party spirit.
“How Rod Taylor Muscled in on Hollywood,” was part of a series of articles titled “The Hellraisers” in Australia’s TV Times magazine. The installment featuring Rod was published Aug. 4, 1973. Link to PDF of the article
The article features an interview with Rod in a boisterous mood, emphasizing the “booze, broads and brawls” aspect of Rod’s life. Despite describing some less-than-savory escapades, the article is praiseworthy of Rod and includes kind words from co-stars.
In particular, it notes:
“A diabolical charmer, he is a man whom women of all ages find irresistible; a man men can admire for his he-man quality and his ribald, salty wit and personality.”
In addition, it also includes his enjoyment of good food, making art, and living life to its fullest.
The 1973 article mentions a romance with Carol Kikumura, the woman who would become Rod’s wife in 1980. She helped settle him down considerably more, and they remained married until his death on Jan. 7, 2015.
Here are some photos to illustrate things mentioned in the article:
His walls hung with his own paintings.
See Rod’s artwork
A lavish wooden bar that he built.
His skill at tennis and archery.
His appreciation of good wine. Cheers!
The Rod Taylor Blog 