Sterling Hayden: Hollywood's Radical Rebel and True Original

#classicmoviestars #classicmovies #oldmovies
Sterling Hayden was a man who lived life on his own terms. During the golden age of Hollywood he was more concerned with ships and sailing than being an actor. He was a reluctant star, a war hero, a communist and a self described “rat”.
Sterling Hayden was one of the kings of 1940s and 1950s film noir and he appeared in the classics THE ASPHALT JUNGLE, CRIME WAVE, and THE KILLING among others - Just for that alone his legacy should be cemented but he seems to be as underrated as some of his classic 1950s film noir movies .
I spent a lot of time with Sterling Hayden while making this video and this is by no means a definitive look at his career or life but I think it's a nice overview. The films I chose to focus on are the ones that resonated deeply with me.
Just to clarify because I seem to have overlooked putting in this detail - Sterling Hayden and Madeleine Carroll were married in the winter of 1942 in New Hampshire.
It did occur to me that I did not really describe the social context for the House Un-American Activities hearings so if you’re unfamiliar with the Hollywood, HUAC, the red scare and the blacklist of the 1950s here’s an overview video to watch.
• What is the Hollywood ...
Also, I did have a segment on his 1976 novel Voyage, but for some reason there were audio issues so I had to cut it out. The novel, coming in at just under 800 pages, was a best seller and it is his only published work of fiction.
You can watch the full interviews with Sterling Hayden here:
• Sterling Hayden Interv...
You can watch some of Sterling Hayden’s movies for free here:
Journey Into Light (1951)
• Journey Into Light (19...
Battle Taxi (1955)
• ♦War Classic♦ 'BATTLE ...
Manhandled (1949)
• Manhandled (1949)
El Paso (1947)
• Video
Suddenly (1954) I didn’t use this one in the video but I really like this film. I
• Suddenly (1954) | Full...
The Killing (1956) if you’re curious about that suitcase. . . .
• Video
Finally, if you want to brave it, here’s the link to Sterling Hayden’s very first film 1940’s VIRGINIA.
• Video
If you're interested in the films and books mentioned in this video I've listed where you can find them in the links below. If you buy something through my links I may get a small share of the sale. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
I can not recommend Sterling Hayden’s 1963 autobiography “Wanderer” enough. If you have any interest in the man then you need to read this book.
amzn.to/3PLLhXe
His novel “Voyage” is out of print but you can find used copies on both Amazon and Ebay.
The Asphalt Jungle (1950) Absolutely essential viewing. This is the criterion edition which has some fantastic special features including the excellent Hayden documentary PHARAOHS OF CHAOS which I used some clips of in this video.
amzn.to/3BrqKmf
The Star (1952) This is one of the few films where Sterling Hayden gets show his tender side. He and Bette Davis have great chemistry and in an article in Modern Screen magazine he says that Davis inspired him to have confidence and he felt himself able to give back to her on screen what she was giving to him.
amzn.to/3SmxQ1I
Johnny Guitar (1954) If you haven't seen it, watch it. It's unlike anything else.
amzn.to/3OE9T2I
Naked Alibi (1954): I bought this one earlier this year and I have already watched it 5 times and listened to the great commentary track as well. It’s a noir scorcher!
amzn.to/3zEvSSW
Crime of Passion (1957) This is 100% Barbara Stanwyck’s movie. Sterling Hayden provides some nice support as the oblivious cop/husband but she’s the star.
amzn.to/3QmoQb9
subscribe to the free cinema cities newsletter
📰screenspectator.substack.com?sd=pf
If you're loving these videos consider supporting the channel at:
☕️www.buymeacoffee.com/cinemaci...
⭐️ / cinemacities
✅Check out the full list of Cinema Cities Books and Movie recommendations www.amazon.com/shop/cinemacities
🎵Like the music? Find my playlist with the music I've used here:
share.epidemicsound.com/l84tu...
And, if you sign up to Epidemic Sound through the playlist link, you'll get 1 month for free!
I hang out on Twitter so come on over and say hi!
😀Twitter: / cities1978​
✉️Email: [e-mail]
Disclosure: This video description may contain affiliate links and referral codes, which means I may receive a commission or referral bonus for purchases or sign-ups made through my links. I am a participant in multiple affiliate and referral programs, including Amazon and Epidemic Sound.

[@CinemaCities1978]

After rewatching this I just realized that I failed to say when Sterling Hayden and Madeleine Carroll got married! They were married in the winter of 1942 in New Hamspshire. Also, Sterling Hayden died on May 24, 1986.

[@craigbhill]

Only 60.

[@jamesanthony5681]

@@craigbhill He was 70, no?

[@John-nz6jb]

​@craigbhill thanks for the update Einstein 😀

[@John-nz6jb]

​@jamesanthony5681 that is right Sir!😂

[@maryellenmcmahon9120]

Loved him in Dr.Strangelove- pitch perfecr deadpan comedic performance. And then in The Godfather film- portrayed a corrupt Irish cop to a t...A hugely talented actor ...

[@Kermit_T_Frog]

His performance in "Dr. Strangelove" has to be one of the most memorable supporting roles in all of cinema.

[@CinemaCities1978]

I agree 100%

[@guadalahonky4002]

His performance in Dr Strangelove was not by design, but Hayden said his takes 'began to blow,' to such a degree that Hayden pulled Stanley Kubrick aside and apologized for not being on his game, he said I've tried everything and there's nothing I can do. Stanley replied to Sterling: 'Well, there's nothing I can do either, Sterling.' So, Stanley chose to focus on Peter Sellers three parts (there were four parts as Sellers was also to play Major Kong in the bomber, but that was scratched) and Stanley let Peter go off as Lionel Mandrake, The President, and Strangelove. kzbin.info/www/bejne/pHXYmZSojdGEetE

[@Kermit_T_Frog]

@@guadalahonky4002 I don't know what you mean by "not by design." Adlibbed? Not up to par? Not as large a role as it was intended to be? At any rate, I think you are wrong.

[@guadalahonky4002]

@@Kermit_T_Frog Then you did NOT watch that video where he addresses that exact subject. Perhaps you should.

[@Kermit_T_Frog]

@@guadalahonky4002 Shrug.

[@troglodytefilms]

Thank You ! This is an awesome study about Sterling !! He rode into the Mobil gas station on Bridgeway in Sausalito 3 days after i started working there as a petroleum transferral technician (pump jockey). He’d just received his 1959 BMW motorcycle, with a small wicker basket attached to the handlebars for groceries, back from a dealership in San Francisco … he looked like ‘Heidi’s’ grandfather - @ 6’5” basically wrapping himself around the bike! I had no idea who he was that day in ‘85 but soon found out!! I jumped out to serve him with a smile and asked him, “Fill it with STUPID UN-LEADED, Sir?” A brief flicker of annoyance flashed across his face as he looked at my name tag. “I don’t like jokes. Don’t spill a drop on the paint. Just got her back from the dealership in the City. I loaned it to them to display in their store window.” I gently filled the tank with Super Unleaded as he balanced the bike to make it level. I didn’t spill a drop. He started it up and drove up the hill and turned right … i heard the bike stop but didn’t know he lived around the corner. When I went back into the office, my trainer, Brian, asked me how it went with Sterling Hayden ... That’s when it clicked - ‘Dr. Strangelove’ is my absolute favorite film ! I’d just seen ‘The Godfather’ a week earlier and had just moved to Sausalito to go to auditions and try to get into The American Conservatory Theatre in SanFrancisco … !!! Two weeks later, i was reading his book, ‘The Wanderer’ and he drove in with his daughters’ Karmen Ghia - all 6’5” crammed into it … i trotted out and waited on him. “Fill it with SUPER, Mr. Hayden?” He looked at me & said, “Call me Sterling.” After filling the tank, i asked him if he’d do me a favor to which he replied, “Depends!”. I asked him to autograph my dog-eared copy of ‘The Wanderer’. He smiled. He looked at my name tag again and asked where i got the name of Donnan. When i told him i was named after the poet Robinson Jeffers’ twin boys, Sterling was surprised. “One of my favorite people! And you were named after both sons?” When I returned from the office for his autograph, he signed it, “To Donnan Balazs, Courage! Fuck ‘em all !!” - Sterling Hayden He started calling me ‘Donnan The Magician’ because i made his day by asking for an autograph. He said, “Come on up to the house for a cup of tea sometime.” I was thunder-struck!!! After screwing up my courage a week later, i walked up to his house after work, knocked on the door and his wife Ms. Katherine answered the door. She called out, Sterling! Your little magician from the gas station is here!” The next several hours are still etched in my heart and soul. After he died a year later, my tears were flowing when Katherine came down with a framed picture from him … to give to us guys at the gas station. I’m sure Sterling’s still sailing, just like he always will. Thanks again for all your hard work producing this stellar presence!!! D.G.Balazs - aka Garth Sky Walker

[@CinemaCities1978]

Oh wow! What an amazing story. The comments for this video have been full of the most wonderful personal accounts of the experiences people had with Sterling Hayden. Thank you so much for sharing this.

[@roadrunner381]

What a good story, he seemed like cool guy to me, your a lucky guy to have had met him and go to his house and all, thx for sharing that story!👍

[@gaillouise8310]

Love your story, what a wonderful man. I think I saw all his movies.

[@PhilBaird1]

A beautiful story with a wonderful ending. You did the man proud.

[@user-fg4fr2bz5y]

i saw him too! see my comment here!😮

[@classiclife7204]

The Killers, Dr. Strangelove, The Asphalt Jungle, The Godfather, Johnny Guitar ... weird how this guy managed to be in some of my favorite movies, arguably some of the greatest movies of all time, and all he wanted was a damn boat

[@CinemaCities1978]

😂

[@ianm2170]

Not quite. Kubrick's film is called "The Killing", although "The Killers" is a fine film, too.

[@sexobscura]

He's instantaneous

[@JackKlumpass]

He’s also great in Altman’s The Long Goodbye, people forget that film

[@gyg_pa9381]

​​@@JackKlumpass honestly the long goodbye is one of my favorites, people throw the word underrated around too much but this definetly fits the bill

[@tomraleigh1924]

I grew up with his 2 sons. A lot of people did not know who their father was. It was never really discussed. After watching this it gives me more respect for him. I can sense he had his demons so to speak but he was not a showboat and and acting never went to his ego. He lived a very low key life. One of his sons went to Yale.

[@CinemaCities1978]

I read a lot of stuff about old hollywood (obviously 😂) and I have to say Sterling Hayden is one of the people that I find forever fascinating. He lived a life that was only possible in 20th century but always seemed like a man born in the wrong time.

[@jean6872]

@@CinemaCities1978 America was sick back then . . . and still is.

[@Memo-nd6fj]

@@jean6872 You mean hollwood was sick and now, sicker.

[@dukecraig2402]

He's actually mentioned in a nonchalant way by John Houseman's character in the 1975 Robert Redford movie Three Days of The Condor (possibly my favorite Redford movie), when Cliff Robertson's character asks him if he "saw a lot of action in the war" when he was in the OSS before it became the CIA Houseman responds with "I sailed the Adriatic with a movie star", it was written in as a direct reference to Hayden and his covert smuggling of agents and arms to the fighter's battling the Nazi's in that part of Europe. It was Hollywood giving one of it's own a little nod I guess you could say.

[@dukecraig2402]

​@@jean6872 And exactly what country is it you're from that has American graveyards in it as a result of your liberation and then received economic aid bailing it out after the war? You smack talkers that run your mouths like that never volunteer what country you're from when you're running your mouths on America, that's because you know whatever one it may be has a history and has done things far worse than America has. Like what are the chances you're from one of the countries that had colonies here that started the institution of slavery before America was even a country but then likes to run your mouths on America about slavery as if it was invented here? Huh? Which one of those countries are you from? Or maybe you're from one that built it's economy on a banking system that hid gold that came from people's teeth. But no matter which one it is I'll guarantee you it's got a history far worse than America's, so take you smart mouthed insults and shove them up your pompous ass.

[@OuterGalaxyLounge]

Sterling Hayden lighting a broken cigarette and looking at it with amusement at the end of Crime Wave (1953) is one of my favorite things in all of movies. This guy ruled.

[@johnstrawb3521]

Crime Wave! Another gem. Love the vigor of the gas station robbery, among other things.

[@gibbynyc6482]

Yep, one of my favorite moments too. That movie's a neat little noir and Hayden just bulls his way through, badass all the way through until that bit with the butt, then he laughs to himself...perfect period on the end of his performance.

[@waukivorycopse2402]

Great film, directed with great style by Andre de Toth

[@donnafromnyc]

Gene Nelson is soooo good-looking in Crime Wave and just perfect in the young married role. Unique among his roles as usually a dancer.

[@HowardMoon56]

Just finished watching Crime Wave. A Great little movie and that last scene is so cool and funny. Eddie Muller said that director of the movie De Toth didn't let Sterling to smoke during the filming to get him more irritated and agressive for the role. That fact makes that last scene even more ironic and hillarious !🙂

[@MartinSage]

The man had that deep baritone voice just like Bob Mitchum. He also had the same attitude towards Hollywood. I saw an interview with Mitchum where the lady asked Bob what was his favorite director. “They’re all the same” was Mitchum’s reply. She was stunned 😳

[@jamesanthony5681]

Mitchum was a much better actor. Hayden was over the top and loud many times. Sterling had a screen presence, however.

[@John-nz6jb]

​@jamesanthony5681 all actors are the same. "All actors are whores": Katherine Hepburn

[@biaedwards4025]

Sadly Mitchum in real life was said to be a racist redneck. According to Tony Curtis he refused to act with Sidney Portier. Sterling was on the right side of history with regards to the civil rights. Of course he was way smarter than Mitchum.

[@jamesanthony5681]

@@biaedwards4025 'Of course he was way smarter than Mitchum'? What makes you say that? The Esquire magazine article? Bob Mitchum actually read books and wrote some poetry, for what that's worth. Yes, Hayden wrote as well.

[@fishtolizard3930]

@@biaedwards4025 ...what’s your source on this unpleasant news? Found some stinging stuff related to an episode of anti-semitism which Mitchum walked back/explained/apologized for... but hadn’t previously heard/read, nor can currently find any info to back up the idea that Robert Mitchum was racist. We didn’t internet dig too deep on this and one may never know for sure (people were and still are, sadly enough, taught all sorts of hateful crap, so we’re not saying what’s what here...). He was a casual pot smoker and cut a Calypso record, however, so that’s mighty unusual behavior for someone who doesn’t dig black folks (just sayin’).

[@Napewastewin]

That was absolutely brilliant to watch. Sterling has for a long time been one of my all-time heroes. I read Wanderer while I was sitting at anchor on my 50 foot ketch in Olympia harbor. That got me up and moving. Long story short. I went to Scandinavia, Denmark, and bought a Danish coaster from the 20s. Spent the next seven years in the shipyard it was originally built in, to re-rig her and rebuild. Then we went sailing in the Mediterranean, kitted out to look like an 1800s privateer. Crew and passengers alike dressed in period clothes. Sterling helped fuel the dream in May.

[@CajunWolffe]

I you haven't already read "Voyage." If you like ships and the sea, it's the book for you. The character "Harwar" is told through Sterling's mind's eye. I spent a little time at sea on a couple "restored" ladies myself; I'd never buy a new boat, you don't know her. Most of my time on boats was as a captain on offshore crew boats in the oilfields of the Gulf of Mexico. Throttling down on 20,000 HP and feeling a 120-foot aluminum hull get on step at 30 knots is a thrill all its own.

[@Napewastewin]

@@CajunWolffe I read that one also. In fact, I have done my best to not miss anything that Sterling has done. But, thanks for looking out!

[@choward5430]

The Asphalt Jungle is one of my all-time favorites. Also, The Killing, which I would like to see re-made.

[@blank557]

Hayden captured my attention by sheer chance. I happened to be flipping through channels one day, and caught his monologue in the Asphalt Jungle about striving to earn enough money to buy back his family's horse farm. I was so entralled I watched the rest of the movie, wishing I had caught it at the beginning. Even so, what an impression his and the rest of movie made on me.

[@CinemaCities1978]

What a wonderful introduction to Sterling Hayden! I was able to find the film free for you to watch on the internet archive archive.org/details/the-asphalt-jungle-1950 I hope you enjoy it! It's one of my favorite Hayden films and the supporting actors are all phenomenal.

[@blank557]

@@CinemaCities1978 Thanks, but I've have since bought the DVD, watched it several times, and plan to do so in the future. That's a film that will never get old

[@winstonsmith8240]

He didn't seem the easiest man, but certainly a very honourable one at the end of the day. It takes courage to admit one's mistakes, especially for someone in his position. An impressive character, and in a handful of his best films, he was bloody good. Rip.

[@wickfields]

Thank you for this. A wildly underrated treasure of the American cinema and endlessly captivating personality.

[@CinemaCities1978]

You're welcome! I totally agree that Hayden is an underrated treasure and endlessly captivating.

[@drnoir33]

Hayden is a fascinating cat, weirdly lacking in recognition, so thank you for this. On the commentary track for CRIME WAVE, James Ellroy says Hayden's Sims "is Bud White," referring his detective in L.A. CONFIDENTIAL (my favorite film). While I cannot imagine anyone other than Russell Crowe in that role, I see his point. Hayden's towering presence would have done wonders in the Victory Motel. Meawhile, THE KILLING is one of the few Stanley Kubrick films I genuinely love, while THE ASPHALT JUNGLE is the greatest heist film ever made (and another personal favorite). Plus, he was wonderfully bonkers in 9 TO 5. :)

[@CinemaCities1978]

I remember hearing that after I had read Ellroy's LA Quartet, and that totally made sense. Funny enough, I just had a conversation the other day about how Kubrick left me cold. But as a noir fan and Hayden fan, I actually really love The Killing.

[@drnoir33]

@@CinemaCities1978 I also enjoyed Kubrick's other "noir" film, KILLER'S KISS, which is an odd little gem. Otherwise, Kubrick feels to me like the triumph of style over substance. I might feel differently if I were a filmmaker, not just a film-enjoyer, but I ain't, so I don't. :)

[@jaydouglas5847]

Hi Doc, good comment. I was surprised they didn't mention the film he shared co-lead with Sinatra. The movie " Suddenly" were Frank is an assassin and Sterling is the small town police captain. Have you seen that film ? It's reminds me of the " The Killing" in style and tone.

[@drnoir33]

@@jaydouglas5847 Thank you! I have seen SUDDENLY, yes.

[@davidsigalow7349]

"Crime Wave" is a very good movie.

[@ramongonzalez2112]

I discovered Sterling a few years ago; he’s terrific; similar to Bob Mitchem. He had the guts to go where his heart took him, especially the sea.👏

[@LuxuryPossum]

Sterling Hayden is so cool! It's nice to know a guy like that could have existed back then and been a big star! I love Johnny Guitar, it is probably one of my favorite westerns (along with Samuel Fuller's 40 Guns). I often find myself quoting his line from the Long Goodbye "I'm all turned around..."

[@CinemaCities1978]

Yes, Sterling Hayden was undeniably cool! They defiantly don't make 'em like that anymore.

[@nadyarossi5102]

Johnny Guitar was a strange movie, to be sure.

[@Cracktaculus]

Hayden walked in and made that one film for everyone. That's what makes a great actor.

[@clintmesle7613]

His OSS career was legendary and General "Wild Bill" Donovan was very fond of him. Great review of his life and work. Bravo!

[@CinemaCities1978]

If you want to know more of Hayden's military career I recommend the excellend book, "Sterling Hayden's Wars" by Lee Mandel (if you haven't read it). It has a lot of detail about his exploits in during WWII.

[@KarmaFlight]

Men can be complex creatures. War brings out the best and worst in them...

[@Brucev7]

@@KarmaFlight Men have to have a 'work', hobby, something to occupy the 'task oriented mind'

[@E.L.RipleyAtNostromo]

Beautifully done! Thank you for remembering one of my favorite actors. I had no idea he was so attached to the sea.

[@hugh-johnfleming289]

My Dad knew Hayden. He was one of the most entertaining people I have ever known and completely out of his mind. The stories he could tell ...

[@MikeTucker-dj6ey]

I had the great good fortune to serve in a US Marine counterterrorism unit in the late 1980s. Sterling Hayden and Lee Marvin were heroes to us, and still are. Sterling Hayden is a legendary covert warrior. He served in the Marines before being seconded to the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), with which he served with distinction in the Balkans, France, Belgium, and Germany. One of the unsung heroes of Allied clandestine operations in WWII, he was awarded the Silver Star for displaying “great courage” in the Mediterranean Theater. Lee Marvin, by the way, survived 26 battles in the Pacific and was a decorated US Marine scout/sniper.

[@CinemaCities1978]

If you're interested in more about Hayden, I highly recommend the book "Sterling Hayden's Wars" it goes in depth into his war service and his exploits primarily in the Balkans and it's extraordinary.

[@MikeTucker-dj6ey]

@@CinemaCities1978 Many thanks--much appreciated, I'll check it out. 👍

[@onemarine6666]

Semper Fi ! 0211 here.

[@qtandem]

I'm just reading "Wanderer" right now, so this comes at the right time. Thank you very much! :D I find Hayden fascinating in many ways and, watching his interviews and reading his autobiography (he was an excellent writer, btw), it never ceases to amaze me how such a big guy in every sense of the word could belittle himself and his contribution to pictures so much.

[@CinemaCities1978]

His book is such a revealing work of self reflection. I agree, I find fascinating that he so easily and openly belittled himself and his work.

[@vitordragon]

I hope you read "Sterling Hayden´s Wars", by Lee Mandel. It´s such a great book about Mr. Hayden too. I wrote to Mr. Mandel after reading his book and the author was very kind. About Mr. Hayden, I think he was very ahead of his time - and he was a better actor than he thought. I wish I could have met him.

[@arctos49]

Hayden also wrote an historical novel "Voyage, a Novel of 1896", which is very good as well. I saw Sterling Hayden in Sausalito, CA about a year before he died. He was a passionate sailor who loved schooners and he was standing on a dock looking at a large schooner that was tied to the dock. He probably had sailed on it as well. Master sailor Irving Johnson had Hayden as a crew member on some long voyages and said that he was the finest First Mate he ever had. High praise from him.

[@davidotness6199]

He wrote the foreword to the classic "The Schooners of Gloucester."

[@s.marcus3669]

This is my first video of yours that I've watched and you got me hooked. It's SO rare to find well-narrated videos on youtube; especially when so many can't pronounce half the words that they utter. I liked the smooth jazz piano music, not too loud and not distracting at all; totally appropriate for a film noir typecast actor. Way to go, Cinema Chick!

[@CinemaCities1978]

Thanks for watching. I'm glad you like the content, I hope you find more here to enjoy!

[@claybadger]

Thanks for this! I remember his performance in Suddenly caught my attention then I recognized him instantly. Powerful presence.

[@philmanson2991]

I fell in love with "Dr. Strangelove" when I was 12, and it's still my favorite movie of all time. SH is absolutely FABU as BG Jack Ripper! A total tour de force ensemble...A MASTERPIECE!!

[@JH-so5kt]

As a big Hayden fan, I really appreciate the time for making this vid. You did a good job running down his notable movies, but I would highly recommend Crime Wave (1953) to anyone reading the comments that wants to check out more of his work. Not only was it one of Hayden's finest performances, it's also one of the best B crime movies of the classic noir period. Crime Wave is also beautifully shot in a docudrama or proto veritae style that was way ahead of its time with gorgeous location work. 1958's Terror in a Texas Town may not feature a great Hayden performance due to his odd Swedish (?) accent, but his great presence makes up for the odd accent choice. And it's something of a cult oddball gem, which is rare for the western genre. Only Track of the Cat (1954) can really rival it in terms of weirdness, in a good way.

[@gaillouise8310]

What a beautiful specimen of a man, he did look like a Viking God and I liked every film I saw him in just so I could look at him...didn't really care what the movie was about.

[@anniebardelli7007]

I love Track of the Cat.

[@patriciamorris7211]

​@@gaillouise8310Me too!!!! He is absolutely positively addictive 🥰 😊

[@JSB1882]

I remember in my 20s watching The Tomorrow Show" with Tom Snyder. I was fascinated by Sterling Hayden when he would be on it. Thank you for bringing him some light because I would watch this man in anything.

[@fatedtolive667]

Thank you. As an irregular myself, it's really pleasing to learn that someone you'd never met, but about whom i had positive vibes, turned out to be the right kind off irregular, flawed, but in mostly relatable ways.

[@MrHowie18]

I lived in Sausalito CA. in the 1980"s. Sterling lived in the Sausalito Inn owned by a friend of his. My friend David was a cab driver. We used to take Sterling out for a evening drive across three bridges, thru the city and back again. We talked about everything, movies, books, poetry politics history etc. We also i might add indulged in some Afghani Hash!

[@CinemaCities1978]

I'm so envious of this experience!

[@neilbrown9922]

I loved this retrospective on Hayden, and have now added several film noir to my must-watch list.

[@CinemaCities1978]

I hope you enjoy them!

[@emitindustries8304]

"The Long Goodbye" is one of my favorite movies also. Hayden is perfect in it, and it seems like real life when he's onscreen. Eliot Gould is great also. And towards the end, you can catch a glimpse of Arnold Schwarzenegger in a bit part as a thug.

[@mindspringers2447]

Yeah, but the real scene stealer was Morris The Cat.

[@Michaela1942]

In the late 60s, I was in the Theater/Film dept at UCLA with Christian Hayden. He was a very quiet, intelligent, thoughtful guy and would talk about his father in a wistful, rather sad manner.

[@CinemaCities1978]

Thank you for sharing that story. I don't think Sterling would've been an easy person to live with...when he was around.

[@leifandresen3817]

Hayden was a Marine Corps Captain and was awarded a Silver Star. Very interesting guy with a unique outlook on life.

[@gj003f6898]

Also served in the O.S.S. apparently.

[@anthonyrogers6429]

@@gj003f6898 Served in the OSS AND was a card carrying communist.

[@steveclapper5424]

He lived his life as he saw fit.

[@Johnconno]

That's why he only drank distilled rainwater with pure grain alcohol.

[@whatabouttheearth]

He was an enlisted Marine who got selected for OCS and than as an officer worked with Col. Wild Bill Donovans OSS.

[@paulmogg8036]

Very interesting 👌 I worked with his son Mathew Haydon way back in 1989/90 ! Mathew was working as a site agent in Beverley Hills..... I got on incredibly well with Mathew.....cool guy ! Mathew shared story's about his father ....and told me about trips to Europe with his father on boating holidays! Happy memories 🥂

[@davidstevenson9517]

Enjoyed your profile of Sterling Hayden very much. Lightly styled but informative. He certainly suffered badly from guilt, numbing himself constantly with alcohol and cannabis, as vividly apparent in the french/german documentary that your profile featured clips from. Much appreciated.

[@CinemaCities1978]

thank you so much for watching. I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[@mrkurtlovesmovies]

Congrats on another fine (and now viral!) episode, CC. You really captured the man here. I've been a fan of his work and was surprised how little I knew about the man. An interesting note: in the BTS book The Annotated Godfather, it's noted that Hayden never ate the catered food on the production. He only ate fruits and nuts, which the book implied he brought with him. Seeing this portrait of the man, it all makes sense now. Very impressed by his civil rights support, too. I popped this on again last night and will likely screen it a third time, too.

[@CinemaCities1978]

Hi Mr. Kurt!!!!! I'm so glad you enjoyed this video. Sterling Hayden was such a fascinating individual I feel like this video could've been 2 hours long. That story about the food is a perfect Hayden anecdote. He was someone, although greatly flawed, worked very hard at being his own man.

[@mrkurtlovesmovies]

@@CinemaCities1978 I'll say! He was definitely that. I must admit, when I saw you'd chosen him for a profile, it seemed a curious choice at first, even for a fan of his work, like myself. I had no idea the treasure trove of facts I'd learn about the man. Very early on, the wisdom of your choice was abundantly clear. Very glad so much of his own voice was a part of it, too. Great job, CC!

[@CinemaCities1978]

@@mrkurtlovesmovies I love it when there are interviews and a person can speak for themselves. For Sterling there were A LOT of interviews and all of them were amazing.

[@ironduke2000]

Presently reading "Wanderer," and Sterling Hayden wrote better prose than any actor I've ever read with the exception of Louise Brooks. Actually I decided to pick up a copy of "Wanderer" after listening to an interview, circa 1969, with Gary Lockwood, who fairly raved about the book.

[@CinemaCities1978]

I picked up Wanderer on a whim last year after watching a couple of Hayden's films. I was blown away by how honestly he talks about his life, his failings and his insecurities. He was truly one of the mot fascinating people of the 20th Century.

[@robert4724]

A dear friend of mine who met Hayden in his later years said the first time she met him he appeared donning a long white beard looking like Moses. My friend said that Hayden told her and her father that his one greatest regret, shame was naming names, that he was haunted by his testimony.

[@CinemaCities1978]

Wow! Thanks for sharing that story. He really had a hard time dealing with what he'd done. But, he really was in a tough spot and compared with others, who gleefully volunteered to speak to committee, his conscious really bothered him.

[@DesertRockfall]

Excellent job! I 100% loved your presentation. Ever since I saw him in The Godfather as a kid, and then Dr. Strangelove, I knew he was special. Over time I went backwards and discovered his great earlier work. They don't make guys like this anymore. Truly, one of a kind!

[@steveweinstein3222]

One of my favorite actors. You did a great job of capturing this singular personality.

[@CinemaCities1978]

Since he's one of your favorites, I'm really happy that you liked the video.

[@andymoody8363]

I love this pen portrait of Hayden, certainly one of my favourite actors probably more for his individulism and code of ethics which I think you encapsulate beautifully at the end of the film. I'll be catch up with your other films ASAP. Great work.

[@garyedwards3269]

Great insights. Well done video all around. I wanted to get to know Sterling Hayden after watching a couple of his movies...and now I feel I have. Good job CC.

[@CinemaCities1978]

I'm glad this video was able to give you more insight in Sterling Hayden the man. He is really one of the most interesting people of the 20th century.

[@bigcity2085]

Don't forget his two or two part interviews with Tom Snyder(the second one, I was in a pizza joint,grabbing a beer from the bar, and there's Snyder and Hayden on the tube, and I had the bartender turn it up.Fitting,eh ?)...those are famous.Wow, thanks for all the movie links. Nice job.

[@CinemaCities1978]

Those interviews with Tom Snyder are fantastic! I used some clips from those in the video. Also, the link to all 3 of his Snyder interviews are in the video description.

[@WoodsToLiveBy]

A fascinating actor and person. His Dr. Strangelove & Johnny Guitar performances are iconic. Thanks for this bio.

[@keithmockett3810]

At 66 I fell like I latgely have been asleep until recently! Many thanks for your video essay ... humbled to consider what many have been through before I! I am passionate about movies! Best regards Keith xxx

[@CinemaCities1978]

thank you for taking the time to watch!

[@ebenwilson]

Wonderful video. Thank you so much! I first saw him in 9 to 5 as the "Chairman of the Board" Russell Tinsworthy. A brief performance but one I will never forget. "Voyage" is a fabulous novel. The man was truly and artist, and a "Wanderer".

[@CinemaCities1978]

you're welcome! Whenever a Sterling Hayden fan enjoys the video I feel like I did a good job. 😁

[@diego-search]

Really well donel! Great quotes from Hayden, Huston and others!

[@CinemaCities1978]

Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed it. Hayden really was one of a kind.

[@hankvandenakker4271]

THANK YOU FOR THIS FANTASTIC LOOK INTO S.HAYDEN. HE'S AS INTERESTING AS YOU'RE COVERAGE OF IT. YOU'VE REMINDED ME OF FORGOTTEN MOVIES AND YOU'VE TOLD ME OF SOME I HADN'T KNOWN. THANX, I'M GOING TO YOUR CHANNEL NOW AND HAVE A LOOK AROUND.

[@slimcoogan3277]

This was a great tribute vid! I learned a lot. Thank you! Sterling was a great actor IMO. I just watched Crime Wave this weekend, again. One of his best performances. Long live his memory.

[@billvandaalen2162]

In Three Days of the Condor, there's a scene where John Housman, playing the head of the CIA, tells Cliff Robertson, "In World War ll I sailed the Adriatic with a movie star." He was referring to Hayden who sailed boats bringing weapons to Yugoslavian partisans.

[@aisforapple2494]

I'm new to your channel and I love it! ❤ Thank you for doing this video on Sterling Hayden. It's sad that he is usually forgotten when discussing Hollywood's "tough guys" and leading men. I think you missed 'Suddenly' with Sterling and Frank Sinatra, but an informative biography. Hayden's performances in 'Asphalt Jungle', 'The Killing' and 'Dr. Strangelove' are phenomenal. Thanks again! 👍🎬

[@CinemaCities1978]

Thanks for watching. While I didn't discuss Suddenly in the video, I do talk about it in the video description.

[@jedgould5531]

Bless you and your flowers. Tenderly imparted story of legend. I like your voice. Well done. Like him in “The Killing” as well.

[@ricaug50]

Wow!! That was great! I always wondered why he isn't as well remembered as some of the other leading men of his time, now I know. Thank you so much for your insight and reflection on one of Hollywood's true misfits. Really informative, entertaining, and well put together, thank you!

[@finerees]

Sterling Hayden makes for a compelling subject. Fascinating. Thank you so much!

[@CinemaCities1978]

I agree! He is one of the most interesting people to ever come out of Hollywood. His honesty about and openess about his failings and flaws made him even more compelling.

[@chicagopete3516]

Fantastic telling of his life story, my must watch list just got bigger!

[@LeviVagas8643]

Thank you. Fascinating piece. His frank honesty about his motivations for testifying before Congress and his remorse leaves no ambiguity. It take courage to openly admit that your actions harmed someone. In addition, he reveals the man’s name to eliminate any abstractness of the pain he caused by testifying.

[@brianseay8242]

Hmmmm, I wonder why no one ever considered Sterling Hayden playing Santiago in Ernest Hemmingway's book The Old Man & The Sea? I think Hayden would have been perfect, considering Hayden's passion for the sea.

[@CinemaCities1978]

I wonder at this as well. Especially, in his later years his image was the ideal Santiago!

[@shakeAbooty88]

Anyone but Spencer Tracy. Hemingway said Tracy looked like an accountant. The producer, Leland Hayward, lied about Hemingway's appreciation of the film, saying Hemingway was pleased with it. In 1959, Hemingway implicitly disagreed with Hayward's assessment, stating that the only Hollywood adaptation of one of his stories that he liked was "The Killers". Sterling would have done well in his later years; his size would not have been apparent.

[@oldfogey4679]

Brian nowadays the woke would demand a Cuban actor which would have been the best choice for Santiago! Cesear Romero would be a better choice as Santiago than hayden!

[@Stasiaflonase]

Thank you for your perspective. I think he was extremely underrated and wasn’t given the right material too often. The Asphalt Jungle proved just how special he was.

[@CinemaCities1978]

I agree, the material he was given was usually mediocre, but when he was got to be in first class productions he really showed them he had the chops to pull it off.

[@Stasiaflonase]

@@CinemaCities1978 yes indeed!!

[@AmosAmerica]

Well done! First time viewer here. Thanks for this interesting lesson in film and rebellion.

[@davebeedon3424]

Found out about your channel when KZbin recommended this video. I'm glad it did. Thanks for the fascinating story of Mister Hayden, whom I knew only for his role as General Jack Ripper. Keep up the good work. I subscribed.

[@CinemaCities1978]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@fasteddie9055]

ASPHALT JUNGLE with the great Monroe and Hayden is still a very popular film for both collectors and TCM watchers. I love this film !!!!!!

[@christophersenn1304]

The 2 things I liked most about this commentary on the life of Sterling Hayden is both the sensitive look at Hayden's life, and how much was revealed about the sensitivity of the presenter. As to my perspective on Hayden, if he had done no more than his role in Strangelove, that would have been enough for any actor's life.

[@seashepherds4959]

Thank You for this excellent mini documentary. Sterling Hayden certainly inspired many dreams and hopes. Cinema Cities 1978 has done a beautiful and honest job of portraying him in his own words and rare footage.

[@CinemaCities1978]

Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed the video.

[@user-fg4fr2bz5y]

i lived in Sausalito California in 1986 and was walking down Caladonia Street when i saw Sterling walking right towards me. I had seen him in all those old movies and recognized him immediately! 😮I found out later he had passed away shortly later. So sad.😢

[@carolleenkelmann4751]

Very poetic. Going down the middle of the road and hanging on. - I'd like to know how his kids turned out and what they ened up doing.

[@josephdrach2276]

How could Sterling Hayden's brilliant performance in Doctor Strangelove not get more then a quick mumbled remark? He was superb! His interaction with Peter Sellers is truly amazing.

[@mortalclown3812]

Terrific bio. You definitely get him. One of my favorite actors. He was a great writer, too. Read 'Voyage' twice. 'Wanderer' is epic. Rest in paradise, SH.

[@CinemaCities1978]

Thank you!

[@foofinatic]

Great work. After loving the performances in Asphalt jungle, Johnny Guitar, The Killing, Long Goodbye, I had to know more

[@CinemaCities1978]

thank you for watching! Sterling Hayden is definitely someone that you want to know more about. I'm glad I could help you know him a little better.

[@estellacoggins715]

He was in The Godfather as the Police Captain. The most memorable scene was when Michael shot him in the face in Italian Restaurant. He was so great as the Police Captain. Just an excellent performance.

[@Parkeralto]

I met Sterling Hayden in the mid 1970s. I was living on a wooden sailboat in Sausalito and he was staying in the same harbor in a converted tug, doing his writing in a railroad caboose that had somehow gotten stranded there. He would stroll along the pier, an impressive sight, as if Captain Ahab himself had come to life. He complimented my boat so we had that in common. At a gathering of wooden boat folks celebrating the stepping of new masts in a restored schooner, he happily showed pictures of his river barge tied up along the quay in Paris. When asked about his latest film, King of the Gypsies, typically dismissive, he said he hadn't seen it.

[@CinemaCities1978]

Wow! So many people in the comments have had some fantastic encounters with Sterling Hayden. In all of those stories, including this one, Sterling Hayden never disappoints.

[@harmoniabalanza]

The anchor outs of Sausalito! What a bunch. Gate 5 houseboats, where Alan Watts lived. I spent some happy times on that boat long after Watts died (90's) and renters were living there.

[@chokkan7]

What I want to know is this: how could anyone NOT like Sterling Hayden?

[@CinemaCities1978]

I don't know those people, do those people exist???? 😂

[@jamesanthony5681]

Umm?......the people and the relatives of the people that he named to the HUAC in the 1950's? Just a guess.

[@danperlmutter]

WOW! Just WOW! this is so good; not surprisingly, since you always do a great job on all your videos. Thank you for your content.

[@CinemaCities1978]

Thank you for watching!

[@jamesheilman2634]

You tell his story with a true passion. I think he would have approved of this telling of his story. Congratulations Well done !

[@dougowen9873]

Ever since I read Wanderer back in the 1970's I have been almost obsessed with the man's life, fascinating personality, better actor than he gave himself credit for, John Huston nailed it when he told Hayden that Hayden could act (I think Sterling had a lot of respect of John Houston and that had something to do with the fact that he was so godawful good in the part) but GOD he was hard on himself ever since the HUAC hearings, I am convinced that really ran him off he rails for the rest of his life, escaped into alcohol and drugs, prostate cancer took him early but that may have been more a blessing than a curse, he was very unhappy at the end, hopefully he found peace whatever comes next after we check out of this, what for some people like Sterling, is truly a veil of tears.

[@CinemaCities1978]

I think what really got to me was the self loathing in Wanderer. It broke my heart. I would read a passage and say aloud "good god don't be so hard on yourself!". Have you read the biography Sterling Hayden's Wars by Lee Mandel? It's really good and fills in the pieces where Wanderer left off.

[@dougowen9873]

@@CinemaCities1978 I have read Mandel's bio, very well researched and in some ways even more depressing than Wanderer but fascinating. It sounds like you are a Hayden geek like I am so you have probably seen Pharos of Chaos which is an uneven picture of Sterling as he spiraled downward, he left his mark for sure on my soul. RIP

[@CinemaCities1978]

@@dougowen9873 oh man. . .Pharos of Chaos is so painful to watch. But, he's so honest and open about all of his demons and regrets that you can't turn it off.

[@biaedwards4025]

Thank you for this tribute to one of my favourite actors (along with Robert Ryan and Marlon Brando). I have Wanderer and his ambitious novel Voyage in my book shelf. Hayden loved the craft but not the business of acting. Still he got the perfect name for a movie star, partly thanks to his step father.

[@CinemaCities1978]

I love Robert Ryan too!

[@michellebrown1022]

Although Robert Ryan made a number of films alongside his contemporaries. He's one actor rarely mentioned.

[@juancervantes4085]

I found out about Sterling Hayden because of his role of Captain McCloskey in The Godfather. I found out he was a WWII War Hero. I did not know that he named names during the House Un-American Activities Committee. He was indeed a complex Individual.

[@CinemaCities1978]

If you haven't read his autobiography "Wanderer," I highly recommend it. It's a fascinating read and Hayden is brutally honest about his life and experiences.

[@curbozerboomer1773]

Complex, but also just another self-involved narcissist--like so many in Hollywood. He at least knew his success was mostly based on his screen charisma, not on his chops as an actor.

[@JackMyersPhotography]

Fantastic! this is an excellent video and mini documentary on Hayden‘s life. Thank you.

[@CinemaCities1978]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@dogpaw775]

possibly one of the best biopics (?) I have seen. I was aware of Sterling Hayden but hopefully, like me, this will increase your appreciation of the man immensely.

[@Teho231]

I have always for some reason loved this actor especially in movies Johnny Guitar and Doctor Strangelove. After seeing this piece I like him more as a person who knew what he really wanted and knew his tru passion. Thank you for this download.

[@angelmasionett7150]

With the piano playing..... Priceless

[@peterbamforth6453]

I don't know much about Sterling Hayden so I watched this and recognised him at once. A film, British production 1980s,Never released on video or dvd. He is superb in it.He owns a dilapidated yacht and runs an amusement arcade.And drives a classic Bently.I have watched it a few times and have it on my watch later list."Will you love me tomorrow" Very delicate subject matter, after watching your doc i think i understand why he played the part. :}

[@roymerritt9927]

I've never watched a movie with Sterling Hayden featured in it where my attention isn't drawn to him regardless of whether he is the protagonist or the antagonist because he is so believable you can't avoid suspending the reality of the fact you are watching a movie. He was a superb actor and was always an impressive practitioner of the craft. Other than George C. Scott, and Peter Sellers' performances in Doctor Strangelove he was the most outstanding of all the rest. And though his time on the screen was minimal at best he was magnificent as the corrupt New York Police Captain McCloskey in "The Godfather." His greatest asset as an actor as I perceive it was his commanding yet cynical voice.

[@nowherebound2908]

Great overview of Hayden - didn't know much about him - thanks!

[@jamesdavidson676]

The Godfather scene was classic. R.I.P. Sterling Hayden.

[@arnepianocanada]

Terrific! I knew nothing at all about him. Wonderful post.

[@CinemaCities1978]

thank you for watching!

[@alydar21]

In my youth, people said I resembled Sterling Hayden. Yeah right..fantastic 24 minutes and thank you!

[@CinemaCities1978]

If they said it, it was probably true! I’m glad you enjoyed the entire video. I really loved making it and it’s been great to share it with all the Hayden fans out there.

[@ggtjr4]

Wanderer is one of the best books that I’ve ever read and one that I still allow to influence me

[@CinemaCities1978]

Wanderer is one of the books I always recommend to people who about ask for star bios.

[@EmanAugust]

First saw Hayden in Kubrick's The Killing. An interesting man who led a very interesting life!

[@CinemaCities1978]

Definitely one of the most interesting men in Hollywood from that era, or any era.

[@marthawelch4289]

Nicely and professionally done! I must admit I never saw a movie star in Sterling Hayden. I had read that after his pictorial discovery on the ship, he was a male model of primarily swimsuits and underwear and perhaps that's where he should have stayed. Male models made pretty good money and women ran after them. Models being photographed didn't have as much to be ticked off about as there was in making movies. With movies there were just more "things" to argue about and more expectations by the studio bosses, directors, producers, etc. and more contractual obligations with stiff requirements and punishments. And you really do need to have some acting talent in movies whereas a male model back then just really needed to have a good bod, a "look" that photographs well because not all great-looking people looked as good in photographs, and not much more. One didn't have to speak, learn lines, interact with others, follow strict contractual rules, or know how to successfully argue with the top boss (because the modelling agency took the lead on things like that). With Sterling, I always saw and heard a person who had no real ambition to be in movies or want to use his ability to learn more about acting and movie making, interact with others, be a member of the Hollywood social milieu, or successfully negotiate for his advancement in what parts he played. These factors probably contributed to his never playing a leading man in a big time expensive, loaded with big time STARS movie. His co-stars were good actors but they were not members of the top of the heap. Yes, I know Joan Crawford was at one time a "true star in heaven". But Johnny Guitar was not a class A picture and Sterling wasn't the romantic leading man to Joan - Mercedes McCambridge was. Hayden did know exactly what he wanted to do. And that and his choice, his obsession was very specific - sailing. Other actors had non-movie obsessions but they also wanted to be in the movies. He was a big good looking guy whose deep voice and chiseled face conveyed little emotion, some amount of cruelty,, and no compassion or vulnerability. Thinking back to his youth, he quit school at 16 and he didn't run to Hollywood as many youngsters did because they wanted to get their chance to be in movies ASAP. He ran to the sea to be a sailor. And, that is great! And so that led to Hollywood often having to talk him into coming back to make his next movie. And both Hayden and Hollywood got tired of that. I am glad that Hayden was able to finally live his life that he wanted.

[@lawrieflowers8314]

Fascinating story. I’m something of a latecomer to appreciating Sterling Hayden, but there’s just some indefinable something about him that sets him apart from so many other actors… (And have, of course, subscribed after seeing this)

[@jamietfranklin]

I love you for this. I am a massive Hayden fan. When will someone make his books into films?!

[@thruknobulaxii2020]

I already loved his work… You helped me to like the man too. In my opinion, in The Godfather, he played the best, most inventive _death by shooting scene_ in all of 20th century cinema.

[@kixigvak]

Excellent video. My only direct connection is I used to see the sailboat Wanderer in the harbor at Sausalito frequently. A very beautiful boat.

[@CinemaCities1978]

Very cool!

[@DanielOrme]

Whenever I think of Sterling Hayden, I think of what Elliot Gould's Philip Marlowe says about him in The Long Goodbye: "I never saw one like him before."

[@richardhoare9963]

A beautiful presentation. Thank you.

[@rbarnett3200]

The Long Goodbye is one of the best films ever made. Watching it is like being stoned. It's a weird fever dream of a film and beautiful for that. It's the only reason I actually know about Sterling Hayden. For a non-actor actor he was amazing in it and he really only has a secondary role. Elliott Gould's performance in it was also legendary. I highly recommend this film to anyone who hasn't seen it. The films of Paul Thomas Anderson are quite similar to this. The plot is largely inconsequential but just the coolness of what's going on is. Hard 8 or Liquorice Pizza are similar in this way. I'd also highly recommend both of them.

[@XrayxRich]

I think it was 1980 that I read his novel, Voyage (1976) It was really one of the best written fictions that I had read to that point. After his death became interested in him and his life. He hated Hollywood and really only worked in films to finance his love of seafaring. One should be so blessed to have lived such a free and adventurous life.

[@throckmorton3705]

i’ve read the first 100 pages twice … great stuff, but i never did finish it, but i always meant to. i will now, dammit. out of print though, ill have to buy used online or from the library. thanks for mentioning voyage.

[@CajunWolffe]

Great video; I learned a lot about Sterling; I'm surprised the wasn't more on his novel "Voyage." If one has never read it, I highly recommend you do. Talk about rich and deep characters, oh my! I have Wanderer too, and it's good, well, great, but Voyage is in a class of its own.

[@darganx]

Well thanks very much for this mini doc.. always heard the name but now I can put the face to him. What a truly interesting man, he was a hippie before there was a word for it, a free spirit in the age of conformity. Reminds me of guys like Lee Marvin and Robert Mitchum, for whom acting was a mere inconvenience - he only wanted to sail a boat! And the roles.. for someone who hated acting he got some great parts. A few I've seen before but never connected the name to the actor. Strangelove, The Long Goodbye.. and HE was the corrupt cop in the Godfather!! But the film that stuck in my mind was The Killing, which you cover briefly and the reason I clicked. Saw it first on TV last year but the part that stuck out for me was the final scene when the money is lost and the game is up. His fiancée is urging him to run, but instead of panic he realises that his fate is sealed as the cops close in on him. It's the quiet look of defeat he gives his girl that says a thousand things without speaking - not many method trained actors could have done that. Yes I definitely want to know more about Sterling Hayden now, a one-off!

[@novocain13]

Very nicely done portrait of Hayden. Thank you.

[@CinemaCities1978]

thank you for taking the time to watch.

[@timothykuring3016]

Hey, I recognize that guy, and he was one of those actors I always liked, but I never knew his name.

[@letemroll7871]

What a well of information! Great work!

[@CinemaCities1978]

Thanks so much! I'm glad you enjoyed it, it was a true labor of love!