Clark Gable's Off-Duty Life on His Encino Ranch

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Clark Gable, the iconic Hollywood actor known as the "King of Hollywood," spent much of his free time tending to his longtime ranch in Encino, California, where he lived from 1939 until his death in 1960. Away from the glitz and glamour of the movie industry, Gable enjoyed more humble pursuits like gardening, fishing, and hunting on his private estate.

Why it matters

These rare, behind-the-scenes photos offer a unique window into Gable's private life and passions outside of his legendary acting career. They provide insight into how the famous leading man spent his downtime and maintained a sense of normalcy amidst the demands of Hollywood stardom.

The details

Gable, the son of an Ohio oil driller, had humble beginnings before becoming one of the most famous actors of Hollywood's golden age. After seeing a production of "Bird of Paradise" at age 17, he was inspired to pursue acting, eventually moving to Hollywood in 1924 with his first wife and manager, Josephine Dillon. Gable went on to sign a long-term contract with MGM and starred in iconic films like "Gone With the Wind." But when he wasn't on set, Gable retreated to his private ranch in Encino, where he indulged in more rustic hobbies like gardening, fishing, and hunting.

• Gable was born in 1901 in Ohio.
• He saw the play "Bird of Paradise" and was inspired to become an actor at age 17.
• Gable moved to Hollywood with his first wife, Josephine Dillon, in 1924.
• Gable signed a long-term contract with MGM in 1930.
• Gable lived on his Encino ranch from 1939 until his death in 1960.