Staff Writer
Mickey
Rooney, an iconic Hollywood actor, was pronounced dead Sunday, April 6 at the
age of 93. Throughout his life, he has
appeared in many musicals and television series. At just 6 years old, Mickey Rooney made his
first film appearance. With A Family Affair being premiered in 1937, Rooney became the
top star at the box office. Known for
his short stature at only 5’2” and his many spouses, this ambitious man never ceased
to amaze.
“Let’s
put on a show!” Mickey Rooney spent decades doing just that. His approach to life was simple, but one of a
kind. He sang and danced, played roles
both serious and silly, wrote memoirs, a novel, movie scripts and plays. Looking back on highlights of his career, some
of his most coveted roles were A Family
Affair (1937), Boys Town (1938), Babes in Arms (1939), The Human Comedy (1943), The Bold and the Brave (1956), and The Black Stallion (1978). His life was definitely busy and filled with
many acting jobs. Rooney also joined the
service to help entertain troops and work on the American Armed Forces network. He returned ready to work, and continued back
acting as an energetic soldier in The
Bold and the Brave.
Ava Gardner, Betty Jane Baker, Martha Vickers,
Elaine Devry, Carolyn Mitchell, Marge Lane, Carolyn Hockett, and Jan Rooney all
have one thing in common. They are the
many wives of Mickey Rooney. Ironically,
after eight failed marriages, he found his peace and happiness residing with
his son in his Hollywood home.
A
short actor with a long career of over nine decades, labeling Mickey Rooney a
legend on screen feels something of an understatement. Rooney had an iconic
career and profound effect on Hollywood as a superstar and prolific artist. As
the last star of the silent film era, he successfully transitioned into
television and stage and became an international celebrity. Rooney always said, “Don’t retire, inspire.” His enthusiasm for life and gregarious nature
will be missed, but it will never be forgotten.
