RyeGPT People of Note: Actor Lex Barker
RyeGPT People of Note is a series highlighting individuals who have a connection to the City of Rye. In the series we ask OpenAI’s ChatGPT to prepare a biography and explain the individual’s connection to Rye.
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Today, meet actor Lex Barker.
Lex Barker, the renowned actor famous for his roles in Hollywood and European cinema, particularly as Tarzan and Old Shatterhand, had a career that spanned over three decades. Born Alexander Crichlow Barker Jr. on May 8, 1919, in Rye, New York, he came from a prominent family. His father, Alexander Crichlow Barker Sr., was a wealthy building contractor, and his mother, Marion Thornton Beals, came from a distinguished background. Barker’s upbringing in the affluent community of Rye provided a solid foundation for his future successes.
Barker’s early education included attending the prestigious Phillips Exeter Academy and later Princeton University, although he left before graduating to pursue an acting career. His athletic build and striking good looks made him a natural fit for Hollywood. His breakthrough role came in 1949 when he was cast as Tarzan in “Tarzan’s Magic Fountain.” Barker starred in five Tarzan films, solidifying his status as a leading man in action and adventure genres.
After his tenure as Tarzan, Barker continued to work in Hollywood but found renewed fame in Europe, particularly in Germany. He starred in numerous successful German films, including adaptations of Karl May’s novels, where he played Old Shatterhand. These films were immensely popular and made Barker a household name in Europe.
Lex Barker’s personal life was as eventful as his career. He was married five times:
- Constanze Thurlow (1942-1950): Barker’s first marriage to Constance Thurlow produced two children, Alexander “Zan” Barker III and Lynn Thurlow Barker.
- Arlene Dahl (1951-1952): His second marriage to actress Arlene Dahl lasted about a year.
- Lana Turner (1953-1957): Barker’s third marriage to actress Lana Turner was highly publicized and ended in divorce after a turbulent relationship.
- Irene Labhart (1957-1962): His fourth marriage to Swiss actress Irene Labhart resulted in the birth of their son, Christopher Barker. Sadly, Irene died of leukemia in 1962.
- Tita Cervera (1965-1972): Barker’s fifth marriage to Spanish socialite and beauty queen Carmen Cervera, known as Tita, ended in divorce in 1972.
Despite his international success, Barker maintained a strong connection to his roots in Rye, New York. He often spoke fondly of his upbringing in Rye, which he credited with shaping his character and values.
Lex Barker’s life came to a sudden and tragic end on May 11, 1973. While walking down Lexington Avenue in New York City, he suffered a heart attack and collapsed. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival. He was 54 years old at the time of his death.
Barker’s passing marked the end of a remarkable career that had significant impacts on both American and European cinema. His legacy continues to be celebrated by fans around the world, and his connection to Rye, New York, remains a significant part of his story, highlighting the formative influence of his hometown on his extraordinary life and career.
