Paul Newman… A Hollywood Legend Dead at 83

Cool Hand Luke – No Man Can Eat 50 Eggs

Screen legend and philanthropist, Paul Newman, who donated millions to charity, died today, September 27, 2008, from his battle with lung cancer.  Newman's career spanned over five decades. 

"Paul Newman's craft was acting. His passion was racing. His love was his family and friends. And his heart and soul were dedicated to helping make the world a better place for all," Foundation Vice-Chairman Robert Forrester said.  What a beautiful and poetic sentiment to be said about a man. 

One of my favorite movies of Newman's was Cool Hand Luke.  Check out the YouTube video from one of my favorite scenes in Cool Hand Luke.

Newman's role as Butch in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, opposite Robert Redford, skyrocketed his career and made him a household name.  With his good looks, cool manner and stunning blue eyes he was destined to appear on screen.

Newman was nominated for ten Oscars and won in 1987 for his role as "Fast Eddie" in The Color of Money.  His last film was the 2002 Road to Perdition where he played John Rooney.  And my five year old may not know who Paul Newman is… but he would recognize his as Doc Hudson from the 2006 animated movie Cars.

Go to imdb.com to see his filmography.

He loved racing cars and he became a race car enthusiast. Over the years he won four Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) championships, won the GTS class in the 1995 24 hour race at Daytona, and sponsored race teams.

In January 2005 Newman, then 79, escaped from his burning race car after it spun on track at the Daytona Beach circuit. He was not injured in the accident.

Newman was married to Joanne Woodward for 50 years.  He was also survived by five daughters and several grandchildren.  His son Scott Newman, died of an accidental drug overdose in 1978.

Mr. Newman will be greatly missed.  He left a legacy of charitable giving, from his Hole-in-the-Wall Gang, a camp for seriously ill children and his proceeds from Newman's Own.  I believe it is this that he would much rather be remembered by.

RIP – Paul Newman.  Our thoughts are with your family.