I loved him, he was an activist and philanthropic man that could act his ass off. His "Newman's Own" line of foods was founded in order for him to funnel large amounts of money to his favorite charities and causes.
His role in Tennessee Williams Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, was probably my favorite among many of the wonderful films of his career. Playing what many saw as a in-denial homosexual alongside Elizabeth Taylor and Burl Ives, I was highly pissed that he didn't win an Oscar for that role.
He was married to the same woman for over 50 years, Joanne Woodward, herself a fine actor. His family was stuck by tragedy when his only son Scott died of a drug overdose. He created the Scott Newman Foundation in his son's memory.
His philanthropic work is legendary, with his brands under the umbrella, Newmans Own, giving over $200 Million to his various causes. He recently turned his share of the corporation over to the charities he loved, knowing his end was near.
He loved auto racing, as I do, only he actually drove race cars and fielded several teams. At the age of 70 he was part of the team that won the 24 Hours of Daytona.
And finally Paul Newman was left of center, which did much to endear him to me. He gave money to Chris Dodd's recent presidential campaign, Ned Lamont and went as far back as supporting Eugene McCarthy...which put him on Nixon's Enemies List. That alone was something to make me smile.
He had been a chain-smoker most of his adult life and cancer claimed this wonderful man with the beautiful blue eyes...damn it all.
