Biografia

On December 23, 1980, he suffered a heart attack at age 49 while skiing in Taos, New Mexico. In March 1991, he suffered a stroke. He recovered from both.

Following the likes of Richard Chamberlain, Tab released his tell-all 2005 memoir revealing his homosexuality. The book entitled "Tab Hunter Confidential: The Making of a Movie Star" outlines a late 1950s relationship with actor Anthony Perkins that lasted several years. Other briefer flings mentioned included dancer Rudolf Nureyev, actor Scott Marlowe and ice-skater Ronnie Robertson. The book was actually written in 2003 but held in release for two years.

He was the younger of two boys. His brother, Walter John Gelien (born August 18, 1930), was killed in action in Vietnam on October 28, 1965, leaving behind a wife and seven children. Hunter learned of his older brother's death a few days later when a messenger from the US War Department approached Hunter while he was performing in a rodeo and, after addressing him by his real name (Arthur Kelm), the messenger handed Hunter the envelope confirming his brother's death.

The name "Tab Hunter" came from agent Henry Willson who wanted to "tab" the actor wannabe with a catchy new name. "Hunter" came from his skills as a horseman who rode hunters and jumpers. Willson was also well known for coming up with Rock Hudson's name.

Was Warner Bros. Records' first signee.

[in a 1971 interview] The star thing is over. I've knocked around quite a bit in the past few years and now I'm just another actor looking for work. Acting is what I know and what I do best . . . I'm trying to find a new niche . . . something to help erase that bland image the studios gave me in the Fifties. I'm looking for roles that will establish me as a more mature actor.

[about his love for Montecito, California] It's like the French Riveria without the French. I thank God every day I'm able to be there.

[on Gary Cooper] Coop was a lovely guy. His sense of humor was kind of within. He'd do something he knew was funny. He laughed inwardly. It was a delight! He's say things, then chuckle within himself. He was wonderful, low-key, like Fred Astaire, an absolute gentleman. These are quality, quality people. They have their own atmosphere about them. Coop's was very laid-back and easy.

I still don't look at it as if I've come out. Coming out, what does that mean? What I'm concerned about is people as human beings. Are you a decent human being? What are you contributing? That's important.

I think marriage is just between two people and their maker, period. Doesn't concern any of us, whether it be a woman and a woman, a man and a man, or a man and a woman, I don't care.