In Memoriam: James Stewart's Tragic Cause Of Death

Born James Maitland Stewart on May 20, 1908, in Indiana, Pennsylvania, Stewart grew up in a middle-class family and attended Princeton University, where he studied architecture. Although he had initially planned to enter the field of architecture, his involvement in campus theater and a subsequent stint in acting led him to pursue a career in Hollywood.

Stewart's film career began in the 1930s, and he quickly established himself as a leading man with a series of successful films. His breakthrough role came with the 1938 film 'The Shop Around the Corner,' directed by Ernst Lubitsch, in which he played "James Stewart," a character that showcased his natural charm and relatability.

James Stewart's career took off in the 1940s with a series of critically acclaimed performances. He worked with some of the most prestigious directors of the time, including Frank Capra, who cast him in several notable films. His role as "Jefferson Smith" in 'Mr. Smith Goes to Washington' (1939) is one of his most celebrated performances, earning him widespread acclaim and an Academy Award nomination.

During World War II, Stewart served as a bomber pilot in the United States Army Air Corps, where he earned the rank of Brigadier General. His military service was a significant chapter in his life, and it added to his reputation as a man of integrity and dedication. After the war, Stewart returned to Hollywood and continued to build his impressive filmography.

James Stewart's film career is marked by a variety of iconic roles. In 1946, he starred in 'It’s a Wonderful Life,' directed by Frank Capra. In this beloved holiday classic, Stewart played "George Bailey," a character who contemplates the value of his life and is ultimately shown the impact he has had on others. The film has since become a perennial favorite and remains a testament to Stewart's ability to convey deep emotional truths with sincerity and warmth.

Another notable role was his portrayal of "Elwood P. Dowd" in the 1950 film 'Harvey,' directed by Henry Koster. Stewart’s performance as a gentle and kind-hearted man who believes he is friends with a giant invisible rabbit demonstrated his exceptional range and ability to blend humor with poignancy.

In the 1950s and 1960s, Stewart continued to work with prominent directors like Alfred Hitchcock. His roles in Hitchcock's 'Rear Window' (1954) and 'Vertigo' (1958) showcased his capacity to excel in suspense and psychological drama. In 'Rear Window,' Stewart played "L.B. Jeffries," a wheelchair-bound photographer who believes he has witnessed a murder, while in 'Vertigo,' he portrayed "Scottie Ferguson," a former police detective suffering from acrophobia.

James Stewart's personal life was characterized by a strong sense of humility and integrity. He married Gloria Hatrick McLean in 1949, and the couple had two daughters, Judy and Kelly. Stewart was known for his down-to-earth demeanor and was highly regarded for his professionalism and generosity.

Stewart's private life was marked by a commitment to family and a reluctance to seek the limelight. He was known for his modesty and reluctance to discuss his personal affairs publicly, preferring instead to let his work speak for itself.

In the final years of his life, James Stewart faced various health challenges. He had been largely out of the public eye, living quietly in his home in Los Angeles. His death on July 2, 1997, due to a pulmonary embolism, was met with an outpouring of grief from fans and colleagues. His contributions to film and his impact on the industry were widely acknowledged and celebrated.

James Stewart's legacy endures through his remarkable body of work and the timeless characters he portrayed. From his portrayal of "George Bailey" in 'It’s a Wonderful Life' to "Jeff Jefferson Smith" in 'Mr. Smith Goes to Washington,' Stewart’s performances captured the essence of the everyman hero and continue to resonate with audiences today. His career is a testament to his exceptional talent and the lasting impact he had on the world of cinema.