Have you ever wondered how old Robert Blake is and what defines his legacy in Hollywood? Known for his iconic roles and a career spanning decades, Robert Blake has long been a figure of intrigue. From his early days as a child actor to his later years embroiled in controversy, Blake's life story is nothing short of fascinating. Let's take a deep dive into his age, personal life, and career milestones to better understand the man behind the name.
Robert Blake, born as Michael James Gubitosi, is an American actor who made his mark in both television and film. With a career that began in the 1930s, Blake is best recognized for his role as Baretta in the hit TV series of the same name. His life, however, has been a mix of extraordinary achievements and significant challenges. While his acting prowess earned him accolades, his personal life has been a subject of both public admiration and scrutiny.
As of today, Robert Blake is no longer in the limelight, but his age and legacy continue to be topics of interest for fans and historians alike. This article will explore every aspect of his life, from his biography and career highlights to the controversies that shaped his later years. So, if you're curious about how old Robert Blake is and what makes him a Hollywood legend, keep reading to find out.
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Table of Contents
- Biography of Robert Blake
- Early Life and Background
- How Did Robert Blake Start His Career?
- Career Highlights
- What Are Robert Blake's Most Notable Roles?
- Awards and Recognitions
- Personal Life and Family
- How Old Is Robert Blake?
- Controversies and Legal Battles
- Life After Hollywood
- What Is Robert Blake's Current Status?
- Frequently Asked Questions About Robert Blake
- Conclusion
Biography of Robert Blake
Robert Blake, originally named Michael James Gubitosi, was born on September 18, 1933, in Nutley, New Jersey, USA. He is an accomplished actor known for his contributions to both film and television. Having started his career at a very young age, Blake grew up in the entertainment industry, which shaped his professional and personal trajectory.
Personal Details and Bio Data
| Full Name | Michael James Gubitosi |
|---|---|
| Stage Name | Robert Blake |
| Date of Birth | September 18, 1933 |
| Age (as of today) | 90 years old |
| Place of Birth | Nutley, New Jersey, USA |
| Profession | Actor |
| Years Active | 1939–1997 |
| Notable Works | “Baretta,” “In Cold Blood,” “Our Gang” |
Early Life and Background
Robert Blake was born into a family of Italian-American descent. His parents, Giacomo (James) Gubitosi and Elizabeth Cafone, were entertainers who performed as a song-and-dance duo. Growing up, Blake was surrounded by the arts, which naturally led him to the world of acting. However, his childhood was far from idyllic. He faced significant challenges, including an abusive home environment and early exposure to the pressures of Hollywood.
How Did Robert Blake Start His Career?
Blake's entry into acting began when his family moved to Los Angeles, California, in the late 1930s. His father secured him roles as a child actor in MGM's “Our Gang” comedy series, also known as “The Little Rascals.” This marked the beginning of a career that would span nearly six decades.
Child Actor in “Our Gang”
Blake appeared in the “Our Gang” series from 1939 to 1944, where he gained recognition for his comedic timing and endearing screen presence. This early exposure set the stage for his later successes in Hollywood.
Career Highlights
Blake's career is a tapestry of diverse roles and achievements. From his early days in “Our Gang” to his critically acclaimed performance in “In Cold Blood” (1967), his versatility as an actor is evident. He is perhaps best known for his role as Detective Tony Baretta in the TV series “Baretta,” which aired from 1975 to 1978.
What Are Robert Blake's Most Notable Roles?
Robert Blake's filmography is extensive, but some roles stand out as career-defining:
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- “In Cold Blood” (1967): Based on Truman Capote's novel, Blake's portrayal of Perry Smith was both haunting and critically acclaimed.
- “Baretta” (1975–1978): This TV series brought him widespread fame and earned him an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series.
- “Lost Highway” (1997): Directed by David Lynch, Blake's performance as the Mystery Man added a surreal and chilling element to the film.
Awards and Recognitions
Blake has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including:
- Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series (1975)
- Golden Globe nominations for his performances in TV and film
- Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
Personal Life and Family
Robert Blake's personal life has been as eventful as his professional one. He was married twice and has three children. His first marriage was to actress Sondra Kerr, with whom he had two children. His second marriage, to Bonnie Lee Bakley, ended in tragedy and controversy, as Bakley was murdered in 2001. Blake was later tried and acquitted of her murder, although the case remains a significant chapter in his life story.
How Old Is Robert Blake?
As of today, Robert Blake is 90 years old. Born on September 18, 1933, he has lived through nearly a century of Hollywood's transformations, from the Golden Age to the modern era. Despite his advanced age, Blake's contributions to the entertainment industry continue to be remembered and celebrated.
Controversies and Legal Battles
Blake's life took a dramatic turn in the early 2000s when he was accused of murdering his second wife, Bonnie Lee Bakley. Although he was acquitted in the criminal trial, a civil jury found him liable for her wrongful death. This case overshadowed his later years and significantly impacted his public image.
Life After Hollywood
After retiring from acting in 1997, Blake lived a relatively low-profile life. Following his legal battles, he largely disappeared from the public eye, focusing on writing and personal reflection. He authored a memoir titled “Tales of a Rascal: What I Did for Love,” which provides insights into his extraordinary life.
What Is Robert Blake's Current Status?
As of now, Robert Blake lives a quiet life away from the public sphere. While he occasionally makes headlines due to his past controversies, he remains a figure of interest for fans and media alike. His contribution to Hollywood remains an essential part of his legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Robert Blake
1. How old is Robert Blake?
Robert Blake is 90 years old, born on September 18, 1933.
2. What is Robert Blake known for?
He is best known for his roles in “Baretta” and “In Cold Blood,” as well as his early work in the “Our Gang” series.
3. Is Robert Blake still alive?
Yes, Robert Blake is still alive as of today.
4. Was Robert Blake convicted of murder?
No, he was acquitted in the criminal trial for the murder of his wife, Bonnie Lee Bakley. However, he was found liable in a civil case.
5. What is Robert Blake’s most famous role?
His most famous role is Detective Tony Baretta in the TV series “Baretta.”
6. Does Robert Blake have any children?
Yes, he has three children from his two marriages.
Conclusion
Robert Blake's life is a compelling story of talent, fame, and controversy. At 90 years old, he remains a figure of intrigue in Hollywood history. From his early days as a child actor to his celebrated roles in TV and film, Blake's contributions to the entertainment industry are undeniable. While his later years were marred by legal troubles, his legacy as an actor continues to endure, offering a fascinating glimpse into the complexities of fame and human resilience.
