Mickey Rooney

Mickey Rooney

The Eternal Boy

Mickey Rooney was a prolific actor whose career spanned over nine decades. Starting in vaudeville, he transitioned to film with the "Mickey McGuire" series and gained fame with the "Andy Hardy" films.

Notable works include "Babes in Arms," "The Human Comedy," and "The Black Stallion." Rooney received two honorary Oscars, an Emmy, and a Golden Globe.

Known for his versatility and energy, he remained active in entertainment until his death on April 6, 2014.

Related

Babes on Broadway - 1941

Breakfast at Tiffany's - 1961

Mickey Rooney (1920 – 2014)

Biography, Career and Movies

Joseph Yule Jr., known professionally as Mickey Rooney, was born on September 23, 1920, in Brooklyn, New York, to a vaudevillian family. His parents were Nellie W. Carter, a chorus girl, and Joe Yule, a Scottish-born vaudevillian. Rooney began performing in his parents' vaudeville act as a toddler, which marked the beginning of a career in show business that spanned nearly his entire life.

Career Beginnings: Rooney's first film role was in the silent short film "Not to Be Trusted" in 1926. His breakthrough came in 1937 when he was cast as Andy Hardy in "A Family Affair." The character became so popular that it led to a long-running series of Andy Hardy films that made Rooney a household name.

Hollywood Stardom: During the late 1930s and early 1940s, Rooney was one of the most popular actors in Hollywood. He received an Academy Juvenile Award in 1939 and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in "Babes in Arms" (1939). Rooney's collaborations with Judy Garland in musicals such as "Babes on Broadway" (1941) were particularly beloved by audiences.

Military Service: Rooney served in the U.S. Army during World War II, entertaining the troops and contributing to the war effort through performances and radio broadcasts.

Post-War Career: After the war, Rooney continued to act in both film and television. He received critical acclaim for his role in "The Bold and the Brave" (1956) and a Golden Globe for his performance in "The Black Stallion" (1979). He also appeared in numerous TV shows, earning an Emmy Award for his performance in "Bill" (1981).

Personal Life: Rooney's personal life was as eventful as his professional one. He was married eight times and had a total of 11 children. His marriages included high-profile unions with actresses Ava Gardner and Martha Vickers. His longest marriage was to Jan Chamberlin, although they separated in 2012.

Later Years and Legacy: In his later years, Rooney remained active in the entertainment industry, appearing in films such as "Night at the Museum" (2006). He also became an advocate for elder rights, testifying before Congress about elder abuse in 2011. Mickey Rooney passed away on April 6, 2014, at the age of 93. He was buried at Hollywood Forever Cemetery in Los Angeles, California.

Rooney's career, which spanned over nine decades, is a testament to his versatility and enduring appeal as an entertainer. His contributions to the film industry, particularly during the Golden Age of Hollywood, have left an indelible mark on the history of American cinema.

Mickey Rooney and his Women:

Versatile Acting Style of Mickey Rooney:

Mickey Rooney's acting style was marked by a remarkable versatility and energy that allowed him to excel in a wide range of roles over his long career. He was known for his natural charm and expressive face, which made him particularly effective in comedic and light-hearted roles. However, he also possessed a depth and intensity that lent credibility to dramatic performances.

Rooney's early career in vaudeville and silent films honed his ability to convey emotions physically, a skill that served him well throughout his career. His performances were often characterized by a kinetic physicality and a dynamic presence that commanded attention. Whether playing the lovable Andy Hardy, a downtrodden boxer in "The Human Comedy," or an eccentric race car driver in "The Big Wheel," Rooney brought a genuine and often exuberant energy to his roles.

In musical films, his vibrant singing and dancing showcased his versatility as an entertainer. His partnership with Judy Garland in films like "Babes in Arms" highlighted his ability to connect with audiences through musical performances.

Rooney's dramatic roles demonstrated his capacity for emotional depth and complexity. His portrayal of emotionally and psychologically challenging characters, such as in "The Bold and the Brave" and "The Black Stallion," earned him critical acclaim and demonstrated his range as an actor.

Overall, Rooney's acting style was a blend of exuberant showmanship, physical expressiveness, and emotional authenticity, making him one of the most enduring and beloved figures in Hollywood history.

Iconic Partnership and Friendship with Judy Garland:

Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland's collaboration was one of the most iconic partnerships in Hollywood's Golden Age. They first teamed up in "Thoroughbreds Don't Cry" (1937) and went on to star in several successful films, including "Babes in Arms" (1939), "Strike Up the Band" (1940), "Babes on Broadway" (1941), and "Girl Crazy" (1943).

Their chemistry was electric, combining Rooney's energetic charisma with Garland's exceptional singing talent. Together, they created a series of beloved musical films that showcased their dynamic performances and solidified their places as major stars of their era. Their partnership remains a defining example of classic Hollywood duos.

Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland shared a deep and enduring friendship that began in their teens when they were both rising stars at MGM. Their bond was built on mutual respect and shared experiences as child actors navigating Hollywood's pressures.

They supported each other through personal and professional challenges, often collaborating on films that highlighted their chemistry and talents. Garland once described Rooney as the best partner anyone could have, and Rooney frequently spoke fondly of Garland, expressing admiration for her talent and resilience. Their friendship remains a cherished part of Hollywood history.

Personal Quotes from Mickey Rooney:

• "You always pass failure on the way to success."
• "I always say, 'Don't die with your music still in you.'"
• "I've been through so many different circumstances, good and bad, that I'm even surprised that I still have all my wits about me."
• "The best time in the world is when you're in love."
• "When I say I do, the justice of the peace replies, 'I know, I know.'"

What Others Said about Mickey Rooney:

Judy Garland (co-star in many films):

"He was the best partner anyone could ever have. He was the light of my life, the funniest person I ever met, and the greatest entertainer I ever knew."

Elizabeth Taylor (co-star in "National Velvet"):

"Mickey was somebody I grew up with. He was one of the greatest talents in showbiz, and nobody else could have played those parts. He was an icon."

Ava Gardner (ex-wife):

"He was talented, had a boundless energy, and a heart bigger than the universe."

Liza Minnelli (daughter of Judy Garland):

"Mickey Rooney was a dynamo, a powerhouse of talent, and an unforgettable friend to my mother and me. His legacy will live on forever."

Dick Van Dyke (fellow actor):

"Mickey was one of the most talented, energetic, and versatile actors of his generation. His work inspired me and so many others."

Awards and Recognition:

Academy Awards

Nominations:

1939: Academy Juvenile Award (Special Award)

1940: Best Actor for Babes in Arms

1944: Best Actor for The Human Comedy

1957: Best Supporting Actor for The Bold and the Brave

1980: Best Supporting Actor for The Black Stallion

Golden Globe Awards

Wins:

1982: Best Actor in a Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television for Bill

Nominations:

1964: Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy for It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World

1982: Best Actor in a Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television for Bill: On His Own

Emmy Awards

Wins:

1982: Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or a Special for Bill

Nominations:

1955: Best Actor – Single Performance for Playhouse 90 episode "The Comedian"

1984: Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or a Special for Bill: On His Own

1991: Outstanding Lead Actor in a Miniseries or a Special for The Black Stallion

Tony Awards

Nominations:

1980: Best Actor in a Musical for Sugar Babies

Other Awards

• Honorary Awards:

1983: Academy Honorary Award for lifetime achievement

1983: Motion Picture & Television Fund Foundation Golden Boot Award
 

• BAFTA Nominations:

1979: Best Supporting Actor for The Black Stallion
 

• Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards:

1997: Life Achievement Award
 

Movies featuring Mickey Rooney:

1927

• Not to Be Trusted: Rooney’s film debut in a minor role.
• Orchids and Ermine: A silent comedy film.

1928

• Sin Town: A short film appearance.

1929

• The Beast of the City: Rooney's role as a child actor.

1931

• The Life of Jimmy Dolan: A drama featuring Rooney in a supporting role.

1932

• Mickey's Rebellion: Part of the Mickey McGuire series where he played the lead character.

1933

• The Big Cage: An adventure film featuring Rooney in a minor role.

1934

• Love Birds: A short film from the Mickey McGuire series.

1935

• A Midsummer Night’s Dream: Rooney as Puck in this film adaptation of Shakespeare's play.

1936

• The Devil Is a Sissy: A comedy-drama film featuring Rooney as a child actor.

1937

• A Family Affair: Rooney’s first appearance as Andy Hardy, leading to the famous series.

1938

• Love Finds Andy Hardy: Part of the Andy Hardy series, showcasing his popularity.

1939

• Babes in Arms: Rooney starred alongside Judy Garland in this musical, earning an Academy Award nomination.

1940

• Strike Up the Band: Another musical with Judy Garland, demonstrating their on-screen chemistry.

1941

• Men of Boys Town: A sequel to Boys Town, a significant role for Rooney.

1942

• The Courtship of Andy Hardy: One of the many Andy Hardy series films.

1943

• The Human Comedy: A war drama film that earned Rooney an Oscar nomination.

1944

• National Velvet: Rooney played a key role alongside Elizabeth Taylor.

1945

• The Clock: A romantic drama featuring Rooney and Judy Garland.

1946

• Love Laughs at Andy Hardy: One of the final films in the Andy Hardy series.

1947

• Killer McCoy: A boxing drama film starring Rooney.

1948

• Words and Music: A musical biopic featuring Rooney.

1949

• The Big Wheel: Rooney starred as a race car driver in this sports drama.

1950

• Quicksand: A film noir where Rooney played a mechanic entangled in crime.

1951

• My Outlaw Brother: Rooney starred as a New Yorker searching for his outlaw brother.

1952

• Sound Off: A military comedy film featuring Rooney.

1953

• Off Limits: A comedy film starring Rooney as a boxing manager.

1954

• Drive a Crooked Road: Rooney played a race car driver involved in a heist.

1955

• The Bridges at Toko-Ri: Rooney in a supporting role in this war film.

1956

• The Bold and the Brave: Rooney earned an Oscar nomination for his role.

1957

• Operation Mad Ball: Rooney starred in this military comedy.

1958

• Andy Hardy Comes Home: Rooney reprised his role as Andy Hardy.

1959

• The Last Mile: Rooney played an inmate in this prison drama.

1960

• The Private Lives of Adam and Eve: Rooney starred in this comedy film.

1961

• Breakfast at Tiffany’s: Rooney played the controversial role of Mr. Yunioshi.

1962

• Requiem for a Heavyweight: Rooney in a supporting role in this boxing drama.

1963

• It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World: Rooney played one of the treasure hunters in this comedy epic.

1964

• The Secret Invasion: A World War II film featuring Rooney.

1965

• How to Stuff a Wild Bikini: A beach party film with Rooney.

1966

• Ambush Bay: A war film where Rooney played a sergeant.

1968

• Skidoo: A comedy film with Rooney in a supporting role.

1969

• The Extraordinary Seaman: Rooney starred in this war comedy.

1970

• The Cockeyed Cowboys of Calico County: Rooney in a comedic Western.

1971

• Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town: Rooney voiced Santa Claus in this TV movie.

1972

• Evil Roy Slade: A TV comedy film featuring Rooney.

1973

• The Godmothers: Rooney starred in this crime comedy.

1974

• The Year Without a Santa Claus: Rooney voiced Santa Claus in this TV special.

1975

• Ace of Hearts: Rooney in a drama film.

1976

• Find the Lady: A comedy caper with Rooney.

1977

• Pete's Dragon: Rooney played Lampie in this Disney musical.

1978

• The Magic of Lassie: A family film featuring Rooney.

1979

• The Black Stallion: Rooney's acclaimed performance as horse trainer Henry Dailey.

1980

• Rudolph and Frosty's Christmas in July: Rooney voiced Santa Claus.

1981

• Bill: A TV movie where Rooney played a mentally challenged man, winning an Emmy.

1982

• Odyssey of the Pacific: Rooney in a drama film.

1983

• Bill: On His Own: A sequel to the previous TV movie, again earning Rooney acclaim.

1984

• It Came Upon the Midnight Clear: A Christmas TV movie with Rooney.

1985

• The Care Bears Movie: Rooney voiced Mr. Cherrywood.

1986

• Little Spies: Rooney in a TV movie.

1987

• Bluegrass: A TV miniseries featuring Rooney.

1988

• Little Nemo: Adventures in Slumberland: Rooney voiced Flip.

1989

• Erik the Viking: Rooney in a supporting role.

1990

• Home For Christmas: A TV movie featuring Rooney.

1991

• My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys: Rooney in a drama film.

1992

• The Legend of Wolf Mountain: Rooney in a family adventure film.

1993

• The Milky Life: Rooney starred in this comedy.

1994

• Revenge of the Red Baron: Rooney played a supporting role.

1995

• Outlaws: The Legend of O.B. Taggart: Rooney in a Western.

1996

• Killing Midnight: A thriller featuring Rooney.

1997

• Michael Kael vs. The World News Company: Rooney in a comedy film.

1998

• Babe: Pig in the City: Rooney played Fugly Floom.

1999

• Holy Hollywood: Rooney in a comedy film.

2000

• Internet Love: A romance film featuring Rooney.

2001

• Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure: Rooney voiced Sparkey.

2002

• Topa Topa Bluffs: Rooney in a Western film.

2003

• Illusion Infinity: Rooney in a drama film.

2004

• To Kill a Mockumentary: A comedy film featuring Rooney.

2005

• The Last Confederate: Rooney in a historical drama.

2006

• Night at the Museum: Rooney played Gus.

2007

• A Christmas Too Many: A holiday comedy featuring Rooney.

2008

• Lost Stallions: The Journey Home: Rooney in a family drama.

2009

• Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian: Rooney’s scenes were deleted.

2010

• Now Here: A drama film featuring Rooney.

2011

• Night Club: A drama film with Rooney.

2012

• The Woods: Rooney in a thriller film.

2013

• The Voices from Beyond: A horror film featuring Rooney.

2014

• Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb: Rooney's final film appearance.