A legendary "King of the Cowboys" who starred in numerous Western films and recorded popular country music, known for his smooth voice and rugged charm.
Rex Allen, affectionately known as the Arizona Cowboy, left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment as a film and television actor, singer, and songwriter. He was also the iconic narrator of many Disney nature and Western productions, earning him a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1975.
Allen was born on December 31, 1920, on a ranch in Mud Springs Canyon, Arizona, to Horace E. Allen and Luella Faye Clark. Growing up, he played guitar and sang at local functions with his fiddle-playing father. After graduating from high school, Allen toured the Southwest as a rodeo rider, eventually making his way to the East Coast, where he began his show business career.
Allen's singing career took off on radio station KOY in Phoenix, Arizona, and later on the National Barn Dance on WLS in Chicago. His talent and charisma caught the attention of Republic Pictures in Hollywood, which offered him a screen test and put him under contract in 1949.
In the 1950s, Allen starred as himself in 19 Western movies, becoming one of the top ten box office draws of the day. His on-screen persona embodied the clean-cut, God-fearing American hero of the Wild West, clad in a white Stetson hat, astride his faithful horse Koko, and accompanied by a loyal buddy who shared his adventures.
Comic-relief sidekicks Buddy Ebsen and Slim Pickens added to the humor and charm of Allen's films, which were often depicted in comic books. His character's popularity soared, and he became a household name, known for his wholesome, family-friendly entertainment.
Allen's personal life was marked by three marriages. In 1940, he married Doris Windsor, with whom he had one child, Rexine Allen. His second marriage was to Bonnie Linder from 1946 to 1973, producing four children. In 1992, he married Virginia Hudson, with whom he divorced in 1999.
Throughout his life, Allen cherished his family and prioritized his relationships with them. His five children inherited his love for music and the performing arts, carrying on his legacy in their own unique ways.
Rex Allen's contributions to the film industry earned him a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1975. He remains an beloved figure in American entertainment, remembered for his authenticity, kind heart, and dedication to creating wholesome, family-friendly content.
As a narrator, Allen's distinctive voice brought Disney's nature documentaries and Western productions to life, educating and entertaining generations of audiences worldwide. His legacy extends beyond his on-screen persona, inspiring countless individuals to pursue careers in the performing arts.
Rex Allen's remarkable life and career serve as a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and a passion for entertaining others. As the Arizona Cowboy, he left an indelible mark on Hollywood, and his legacy continues to inspire and delight audiences to this day.
52 Years Old
A pioneering African American basketball player and coach who broke racial barriers in the sport, known for his impressive playing career and later coaching success.
72 Years Old
A Welsh-Australian singer-songwriter known for his folk-infused pop music and hit singles like "Hello, Goodbye" and "Sadie the Cleaning Lady". He was a popular artist in the 1960s and 1970s.
Born in 1907
A legendary country music singer, actor, and entrepreneur who popularized Western music and films, starring in over 90 movies and recording iconic hits like "Back in the Saddle Again."
Born in 1912
Leading man of 1930s-1950s films, starring in musicals and westerns, including the iconic "Miracle on 34th Street".
Born in 1898
Star of numerous classic Westerns, known for his rugged, stoic persona and iconic roles in films like "Ride the High Country" and "The Searchers".
Born in 1905
A legendary cowboy actor and singer who starred in numerous Western films and TV shows, known for his deep, resonant voice and rugged charm.
