McQueen's rise to fame was accompanied by a series of tumultuous relationships and encounters with violence. His conquests were numerous, often intertwined with his on-screen partners. His first wife, Neile Adams, played a crucial role in his career, supporting him during his early struggles in the industry. However, their relationship was marred by instances of abuse and domestic violence. McQueen's fits of anger would escalate into shouting matches and physical altercations. Ironically, despite his own infidelity, he became consumed by jealousy, leading to a vicious cycle of mistrust and aggression. The turbulent nature of their relationship eventually led to its demise, with McQueen resorting to extreme measures such as holding a gun to his wife's temple to extract a confession of infidelity before subjecting her to a brutal beating.
During the peak of his fame, McQueen embarked on a passionate affair with Ali MacGraw, who had gained prominence through her role in "Love Story." Their relationship, publicly hailed as a fairytale romance, concealed a darker reality. McQueen's possessiveness and chauvinistic views dictated that MacGraw abandon her acting career and remain confined to their home. However, these restrictions did not apply to McQueen himself, who continued to engage in extramarital affairs. MacGraw later revealed that McQueen was under the influence of drugs throughout their relationship, which contributed to their constant conflicts and instances of abuse. Despite the toxicity, their magnetic attraction kept them tethered together for several years, until MacGraw finally decided to pursue a job opportunity. McQueen, desperate to dissuade her, resorted to physical violence when his efforts proved fruitless.
McQueen's relationships with his partners were not isolated incidents; they were marked by a recurring pattern of violence. Each of his former partners, years later, came forward to recount their experiences of abuse. This disturbing behavior painted a troubling picture of the actor behind the legendary persona.
In 1969, a fortuitous turn of events spared McQueen from being present at Sharon Tate's house on the day of the Manson Clan murders. This incident heightened his paranoia, leading him to carry a gun with him at all times. The trauma of narrowly escaping such a horrific fate left an indelible mark on his psyche.
While McQueen's acting career flourished, his love for speed and racing cars became his true passion. Early in his career, he made more money racing motorcycles than he did through acting. His extensive collection of classic cars and motorcycles earned him admiration from specialists and enthusiasts alike. Whenever possible, he sought opportunities to compete and experience the exhilaration of speed firsthand. However, his desire to perform his own stunts in movies posed a significant challenge for producers and insurers. Recognizing the inherent risks involved, they enlisted professional stuntman Bud Ekins to replace McQueen in the daring motorcycle scenes and epic chases in films like "Bullitt" and "The Great Escape." The famous motorcycle jump in "The Great Escape" remains one of the most treacherous and demanding stunts ever filmed. McQueen and Ekins developed a lasting friendship, inspiring Quentin Tarantino's portrayal of their bond in "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood."
In addition to the films he starred in, McQueen's career can also be defined by the projects he rejected. Due to his challenging personality, his demands and insecurities often led to missed opportunities. One notable rivalry was with fellow actor Paul Newman, as they vied for the title of the ultimate leading man. Roles that were offered to one often found their way to the other. In the case of "Butch Cassidy & The Sundance Kid," McQueen negotiated to be paid more than Newman, insisted on being credited first, and even attempted to alter the film's title to ensure his character received top billing. Despite their shared presence in "The Towering Inferno," their collaboration did not result in the harmonious partnership they both desired. McQueen's meticulous attention to script details and insistence on equal screen time further strained their relationship.
McQueen's refusal to accept certain roles extended to acclaimed directors as well. He turned down Francis Ford Coppola's offer to portray Captain Willard in "Apocalypse Now," fearing it would keep him away from Ali MacGraw for an extended period. His jealousy and possessiveness prevented him from committing to projects that would have propelled his career to new heights. Even Steven Spielberg's invitation to join "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" was met with rejection. McQueen's career choices were often driven by his complex emotions and desire to maintain control.
In 1978, McQueen received a devastating diagnosis of lung cancer. Conventional treatments offered little hope, prompting him to seek alternative methods. He journeyed to Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, where he encountered Dr. William Kelley, an unconventional practitioner whose unorthodox techniques defied conventional medical practices. Despite having his dental license revoked for malpractice, Dr. Kelley became McQueen's last hope. Tragically, on November 7, 1980, shortly after celebrating his 50th birthday, Steve McQueen succumbed to a heart attack following surgery in Mexico.
McQueen's untimely death left his legions of fans around the world grieving for the loss of a true Hollywood legend. At the pinnacle of his career, he had captivated audiences with his mesmerizing performances. Over the years, the veil surrounding his life gradually lifted as those who knew him shared details and completed the story of this enigmatic figure. While he may have been haunted by personal demons, there is no denying the lasting impact he made on the world of cinema. Steve McQueen's name will forever be associated with his unforgettable performances and his relentless pursuit of speed and adventure.