Vintage B&W press photograph.

Subject: José Ramón Gil Samaniego (February 6, 1899 – October 30, 1968), known professionally as Ramon Novarro, was a Mexican-American actor. He began his career in silent films in 1917 and eventually became a leading man and one of the top box-office attractions of the 1920s and early 1930s. Novarro was promoted by MGM as a "Latin lover" and became known as a sex symbol after the death of Rudolph Valentino. He is recognized as the first Latin American actor to succeed in Hollywood. Novarro was murdered on October 30, 1968, by brothers Paul and Tom Ferguson.

Although not “openly” gay at a time when homosexuality was seen as a perversion and gay sex acts were against the law throughout the United States, as a young man Novarro seems to have been able to make peace between his devout Catholic faith and his sexual orientation.

He attended gay director F.W. Murnau’s gatherings, refused to get married or date women for appearances’ sake, and began a relationship with top Hollywood columnist Herbert Howe, who, during their time together, also acted as his (unofficial) publicist. (Following their split, however, Howe wrote a scathing article – an extreme rarity during that period – about his former lover.)

Measurements:

5.5” x 3.5”

Postcard is in good antique condition with some light wear. Please see photos.

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