All That Heaven Allows: A Biography of Rock Hudson by Mark Griffin

[gilda_elise]

Comments

[nakeisha]

At least you enjoyed the bits about his films.

It's a shame the author seemed to concentrate on gossip rather than facts.

[gilda_elise]

That really was a disappointment. If you can't find enough facts to write about, maybe you shouldn't be writing a book about the man.

[nakeisha]

That's a very good point - one maybe more writers should consider.

[gilda_elise]

Lol, that'll be the day.

[spikesgirl58]

[dancingpony]

Yes, I’d find it difficult to believe a biography built so heavily upon gossip. Some of the gossipers undoubtedly had ulterior motives for what they said about Hudson.
He lived in a difficult time period for anyone to be gay, much less a man whose livelihood depended on his image as a sex symbol.

[gilda_elise]

Hudson was in a terrible situation, given the times. I was hoping for a deeper look at the man, himself, not the gossip that's easily found just about anywhere. I don't know, maybe there's one out there.

[dancingpony]

I think there is an “approved” biography that he co-wrote or at least contributed too. It’s probably not as sensational but it might be a more accurate depiction if his thoughts (even if a somewhat sanitized version of his actions).

[gilda_elise]

It doesn't seem as if you can get the entire story, but I'd be happy with a more in-depth and less sensational account of his life.

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[honor_reid]

I have enjoyed some of Rock Hudson's movies but have always felt bad for him that he had to hide who he was for so long. Too bad the author decided to lean into the gossip that surrounded him.

[gilda_elise]

Yes, I was hoping for something more substantial. Given Hudson's situation, I think it was taking the easy route, basing so much of the book on gossip and innuendo. He deserved better.