Barbara Stanwyck was one of Hollywood’s most iconic actresses, known for her fierce independence and unforgettable performances. However, her personal life—especially her relationship with her adopted son, Dion Gilyard—was marked by tragedy and controversy. This article explores the heartbreaking story of Barbara Stanwyck and Dion Gilyard, along with key facts about her marriages, career, and legacy.
What Happened Between Barbara Stanwyck and Her Son?
Barbara Stanwyck adopted Dion Anthony Gilyard in 1937 with her then-husband, actor Robert Taylor. However, their relationship was strained for decades.
- Early Years: Stanwyck was reportedly a strict and emotionally distant mother.
- Teenage Rebellion: Dion struggled with behavioral issues and was sent to military school.
- Estrangement: By adulthood, they were completely estranged. Dion later claimed he was “disowned” and received no financial support from Stanwyck.
Despite rumors of a reconciliation before her death, they never fully repaired their relationship.
How Many Times Did Barbara Stanwyck Marry?
Stanwyck married twice:
- Frank Fay (1928–1935)
- A vaudeville performer, their marriage was volatile and ended in divorce.
- Allegedly abusive, which contributed to Stanwyck’s tough persona.
- Robert Taylor (1939–1951)
- A Hollywood heartthrob, their marriage was highly publicized.
- Divorced due to Taylor’s infidelity and Stanwyck’s focus on her career.
She never remarried, saying:
“I’ve had two great loves in my life—Frank Fay and Robert Taylor—and both were mistakes.”
How Old Was Barbara Stanwyck When She Was Doing The Big Valley?
Stanwyck starred as Victoria Barkley in the Western TV series The Big Valley (1965–1969).
- Age at premiere: 58 years old (born July 16, 1907).
- Legacy: The role earned her an Emmy Award, proving her enduring star power.
What Happened to Barbara Stanwyck and Robert Taylor?
Their marriage was Hollywood’s golden couple, but it ended bitterly:
- Affairs: Taylor had multiple affairs, including with Ava Gardner.
- Divorce (1951): Stanwyck filed, citing “mental cruelty.”
- Later Years: They reportedly never spoke again, though Taylor expressed regret before his death.
What Did Barbara Stanwyck Die Of?
Stanwyck passed away on January 20, 1990, at 82 years old.
- Cause of Death: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and congestive heart failure.
- Final Resting Place: Cremated, ashes scattered at Lone Pine, California (a favorite filming location).
Barbara Stanwyck Movies and TV Shows
Iconic Films:
- Double Indemnity (1944) – Classic film noir.
- Stella Dallas (1937) – Oscar-nominated role.
- The Lady Eve (1941) – Screwball comedy gem.
Notable TV Roles:
- The Big Valley (1965–1969) – Emmy-winning performance.
- The Thorn Birds (1983) – Memorable miniseries role.
Who Inherited Barbara Stanwyck’s Estate?
Stanwyck left an estimated $10 million fortune (equivalent to ~$20M today).
- Primary Beneficiary: Her brother, Byron Stevens, received most of her estate.
- Dion Gilyard: Reportedly excluded from her will, reinforcing their estrangement.
What Did Barbara Stanwyck’s Son Die Of?
Dion Gilyard died in 2006 at 69 years old.
- Cause of Death: Heart attack (after years of health struggles).
- Final Years: Lived in quiet obscurity, never reconciling with Stanwyck.
Did Barbara Stanwyck Have Grandchildren?
No. Dion Gilyard never married or had children, leaving no direct descendants.
Barbara Stanwyck Movies in Order
Early Career Highlights:
- Night Nurse (1931)
- Stella Dallas (1937)
- The Lady Eve (1941)
Later Classics:
- Double Indemnity (1944)
- Sorry, Wrong Number (1948)
- Executive Suite (1954)
TV Era:
- The Big Valley (1965–1969)
- The Thorn Birds (1983)
Barbara Stanwyck Net Worth at Death
- Estimated Net Worth: $10 million (adjusted for inflation: ~$20M today).
- Earnings Source: Films, TV, and savvy real estate investments.
Final Thoughts: A Complicated Legacy
Barbara Stanwyck was a trailblazing actress, but her personal life—especially her troubled relationship with Dion Gilyard—remains a poignant footnote in her story. While she left behind an unmatched film legacy, her estrangement from her son serves as a reminder of the sacrifices behind Hollywood glamour.
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