Douglas Fairbanks Jr.

Douglas Elton Fairbanks Jr December 9 1909 May 7 2000 was an American actor producer and decorated naval officer of World War II The son of silent film star Douglas Fairbanks and stepson of Mary Pickford he established his own successful career in Hollywood during the 1930s and 1940s becoming known for his charm sophistication and versatility in both romantic comedies and adventure films Among his most notable films are The Prisoner of Zenda 1937 Gunga Din 1939 Little Caesar 1931 and The Corsican Brothers 1941 He also appeared opposite many of the eras leading actresses including Katharine Hepburn Joan Crawford Loretta Young Rita Hayworth and Paulette Goddard During World War II Fairbanks served with distinction in the United States Navy helping develop military deception and special operations techniques For his wartime service he received numerous decorations from the United States the United Kingdom France and several other nations After the war he continued acting in films and television while also becoming a respected producer and public figure Fairbanks remains remembered as one of Hollywoods most elegant leading men and among the few major stars to achieve distinction both on screen and in military service In 1969 he was inducted into the Hall of Fame of the International Best Dressed List