Robert Theodore Rose, a celebrated and accomplished stuntman and actor, made his mark on the world of cinema on February 4, 1901, in the picturesque region of Jones County, Tennessee. Before venturing into the world of silent Westerns, Rose had already established himself as a talented and skilled horse jockey, a profession that would serve as the foundation for his future endeavors.
Noted for his extensive career as a double, Rose had the distinction of doubling for a diverse array of prominent actors and actresses, including the enigmatic Harry Houdini, the renowned silent film star Buster Keaton, the charismatic Chico Marx, the iconic Mary Pickford, the glamorous Jean Harlow, the rugged Buck Jones, the talented Barbara Stanwyck, the esteemed Richard Attenborough, the charismatic Eddie Cantor, the legendary Tom Mix, the captivating Fay Wray, and the lovely Maureen O'Sullivan.
Rose's remarkable repertoire of stunts was nothing short of extraordinary, featuring a wide range of death-defying feats, including being a licensed pilot, a car crasher, a daring wing walker, a high-flying high diver, a fearless parachutist, a skilled trick rider, and a daring barnstorming pilot.
Rose's profound impact on the stunt profession transcended his exceptional technical abilities, as he played a pivotal role in establishing both the Pilots Union and the Stuntmen's Association of Motion Pictures, two organizations that would go on to shape the industry's safety standards and professional practices. Throughout his illustrious career, Rose encountered numerous challenges that tested his mettle, including two particularly harrowing incidents that left an indelible mark on his life.
The first of these perilous events occurred during the filming of The Trail of '98 in 1928, when Rose was one of only two stuntmen who managed to avoid drowning in the treacherous Copper River rapids. This near-tragedy served as a sobering reminder of the risks involved in stunt work and the importance of caution and preparedness.
The second incident took place during the production of The Flight of the Phoenix in 1965, when Rose suffered a broken shoulder and cracked skull as a result of an airplane stunt gone wrong. This mishap was a stark reminder of the unpredictability of stunt work and the need for constant vigilance and attention to detail. Despite these challenges, Rose continued to push the boundaries of what was possible in stunt work, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and influence generations of stunt professionals.
Following his departure from the world of filmmaking, Rose relocated to his expansive ranch situated in the picturesque town of Corey, Colorado, where he spent his golden years surrounded by the serenity of the great outdoors.
As the years went by, Rose's life came full circle, and he eventually transitioned into the next phase of his journey, leaving behind a legacy that would be cherished by all who knew him.
On March 8, 1993, Rose's remarkable life came to a close at the ripe age of 92, as he peacefully passed away at a nursing home in Montrose, Colorado, surrounded by the comfort and care of those who loved him dearly.
