Rupert Hughes: A Hollywood Legend - Hardcover

Rupert Hughes, A Hollywood Legend, explores the life of the film pioneer, author, screenwriter, film director, composer, soldier, network radio commentator, wit and self-described "poor uncle of a rich nephew." As uncle and mentor to the enigmatic Howard Hughes, Jr., Rupert's role lends new intrigue to the legendary "missing will" and ensuing family debate. Branded an iconoclast, the elder Hughes was involved in countless controversies, including a furor over his 3-volume biography depicting George Washington as a human being rather than an idol. A strong opponent of censorship and a pioneer advocate of women's rights, Hughes urged reforms in working conditions, and divorce laws. One of his more than 50 books, (made into a silent motion picture) helped bring about the observance of Mother's Day. But his personal life rivaled the turbulence of his famous nephew's: of his three marriages, the first ended in a much-publicized divorce; his second wife committed suicide, and his third wife died of an overdose of sleeping pills.