John Agar, primarily recognized as the one-time husband of child star Shirley Temple, carved out a notable career as a versatile actor in Hollywood, particularly in Westerns, war films, and science fiction classics. His journey, marked by both professional success and personal struggles, came to an end on Sunday at the age of 81, leaving behind a legacy that extends beyond his early tabloid fame.
Agar’s entry into the Hollywood limelight was unconventional. Serving as a physical training instructor in the Air Force, he met Temple in 1945 through a blind date orchestrated by a mutual friend. At 24, Agar found himself captivated by the 16-year-old Temple, then a beloved figure in American cinema. Despite her mother’s reservations, their romance blossomed, culminating in a highly publicized Selznick-produced wedding, attended by the glitterati of Hollywood and then-Governor of California, Earl Warren. This union instantly propelled Agar into the public eye, setting the stage for his foray into acting.
The couple’s initial on-screen collaborations included “Fort Apache” and “Adventure in Baltimore,” films that capitalized on their celebrity marriage. However, behind the glamorous facade, their relationship faced turbulence. The birth of their daughter, Susan, in 1948 was followed by growing strains, attributed to Agar’s escalating drinking habits and alleged infidelities. Temple ultimately filed for divorce in 1949, a period that coincided with a critical juncture in Agar’s career.
Undeterred, John Agar solidified his presence in Hollywood through consistent roles in popular genres. He became a familiar face in Westerns, starring in iconic films such as “She Wore a Yellow Ribbon” and “Along the Great Divide.” His rugged demeanor also made him a natural fit for war movies, with memorable performances in “Sands of Iwo Jima” and “Breakthrough.” These roles showcased his ability to portray stoic and dependable characters, contributing to his steady work in the industry.
Despite his professional momentum, Agar’s personal demons continued to cast a shadow. His divorce and struggles with alcoholism, resulting in arrests for drunk driving, undeniably impacted his leading man appeal. He openly acknowledged his battle with alcohol, joining Alcoholics Anonymous and reflecting on his experiences with a degree of candor. “Yes, I drank too much, and I drank at the wrong time,” he admitted in a 1987 interview, suggesting a degree of unfair scrutiny compared to his peers.
In the latter part of his career, John Agar embraced roles in lower-budget, often genre-bending films. He gained a cult following for his appearances in science fiction and horror B-movies, including titles like “Revenge of the Creature” and “Tarantula.” These films, while not mainstream blockbusters, provided him with consistent work and further demonstrated his adaptability as an actor. His final major film credit was in the 1976 remake of “King Kong,” marking the end of a long and varied acting career. Subsequently, Agar transitioned into different fields, working in insurance and real estate, demonstrating a pragmatic approach to life beyond the screen.
John Agar’s career is a testament to his resilience and adaptability in the ever-changing landscape of Hollywood. While his early fame was intertwined with his marriage to Shirley Temple, he successfully carved out his own niche as a working actor, leaving behind a filmography that spans across genres and decades. He will be remembered not just for his personal life, but for his contributions to classic Westerns, war movies, and the enduring appeal of B-movie cinema.
