The Rise of Leslie Howard: From Stockbroker to Screen Icon

The Early Years

Leslie Howard, born as the son of a stockbroker, didn't show much inclination towards the acting profession during his early life. His nursery toys were more aligned with the interests of stockbrokers' children—toy bulls and teddy bears—than romantic movies. However, this all changed when Howard attended Dulwich College, a school founded three centuries ago by Edward Alleyn, a renowned actor. It's likely that Alleyn's spirit influenced Howard's desire to pursue acting.

The Red Dressing Gown and Hollywood

Howard's luck seemed to turn when he moved to Hollywood. In the very first week, he purchased a red dressing gown, which would later become almost as iconic as Howard himself. This garment played a significant role in his acting career. He wore it during rehearsals for every film, both in Hollywood and the United Kingdom. Such an eccentric but persistent choice suggests that the garment might have been a subtle charm or a lucky charm for Howard.

From Cricketer to Actor

Howard's ambitions were initially set on cricket and writing. However, he chose to follow banking, an unusual choice for an aspiring actor. It’s intriguing to note how many famous film stars, including Leslie Howard, began their career as bank clerks. After the war, Howard turned to acting, defying the warnings from theatrical agencies that he wouldn't be useful on stage. He eventually got his chance through the Peg O' My Heart tour, where he earned a mere ￡5 per week. His journey, however, eventually led him to Hollywood, where his exceptional talents surfaced.

The Golden Years in Hollywood

Howard’s performances in films such as 'Outward Bound' and 'Never The Twain Shall Meet' catapulted him into the limelight. His talent for playing complex characters with charm and ease soon made him an institution on both sides of the Atlantic. From the charming young American in 'Never the Twain Shall Meet' to the unshaven and under-nourished Tom Prior in 'Outward Bound', Howard exhibited versatility and skill that left Hollywood and Broadway audiences captivated. His acting prowess was such that Howard received a salary of ￡500 a week at Elstree—a testament to his growing prominence in the film industry.

The Intersection of Stage and Screen

Howard's dual career in film and theater allowed him to maintain a balance between the two, each enhancing the other. His rich experiences on the stage and screen contributed to his overall charisma and appeal. Despite his love for the stage, Howard found the studio environment challenging. The structured and often repetitive nature of film production, with its emphasis on preparation and multiple takes, was not for him. His preference for the unpredictable and spontaneous nature of live performances is a testament to his passion for the craft.

Family Life and Hollywood Success

Leslie Howard's personal life, including his family and career challenges, added layers to his story. He had two children, Ronald and a girl named after his father. Howard was proud to talk about his children, particularly Ronald, who would soon join a prestigious public school. Howard’s love for his family, especially his children, is evident in his openness about them. His perfection in skin tone and physical attributes also set him apart, contributing to his success. Howard refused to part with his famous red dressing gown, a symbol of his enduring luck and success.

Howard’s journey from a stockbroker to an internationally renowned actor is a tale of perseverance, talent, and a touch of luck. Whether his success was due to hard work, ability, or a lucky charm in the form of his beloved red dressing gown, there's no denying that Leslie Howard has left a lasting legacy in both British and American cinema.