While we like to think that today we live in a more cultured era, celebrity personalities are still carefully crafted to properly present to the public a particular image of A-list stars. And that means managing all aspects of their lives, including yes, their sexuality. The decision for gay and lesbian actors to live "out" is not an easy one, because it comes unfairly saddled with certain baggage, but during Hollywood’s golden era, there wasn’t even a choice. And Tab Hunter knows what it was like.
The legendary actor takes the central focus of "Tab Hunter Confidential," with Hunter sharing his experiences living as a closeted gay man, while trying to maintain his place as Hollywood’s next big star. Debbie Reynolds, Robert Wagner, John Waters, George Takei, Clint Eastwood, Portia De Rossi, and more join Hunter in the documentary. Here’s the official synopsis:
In the 1950s, Tab Hunter is number one at the box office and number one on the music charts. He is Hollywood’s most sought-after star and America’s boy next door. Natalie Wood, Debbie Reynolds and Sophia Loren are just a few of the actresses he is romantically linked to. Nothing, it seems, can damage his skyrocketing career. Nothing, that is, except for the fact that Tab Hunter is secretly gay. Now, Tab Hunter’s secret is out.
Catching it at SXSW, we called the film "riveting and insightful," so be sure to track it down. "Tab Hunter Confidential" opens on October 16th.
