There are certain people that we may see in movies and they are more than just familiar faces, they are absolutely iconic. Thinking back a number of years ago, you may recall Shirley Temple and as a child star, she was absolutely unforgettable. Between the sweet face, the beautiful little curls and the way that she was able to tap dance, she worked her way into our heart and continues to be loved by people down to this day. She even won awards for her awesome talents.
What you might not know about Shirley Temple was that she was also a businesswoman, a diplomat and she had three children. Unfortunately, she was 85 years old in 2014 when she passed away due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In the end, she had meant so much to so many people that she was surrounded by those who loved her as she passed away in California. This year, many fans have gathered together on what would have been her 90th birthday to pay tribute.
Her children are also coming forward to talk about what it was like to have Shirley Temple as a mother.
Shirley Temple Black is perhaps best known as an actress but she is also a dancer, businesswoman, diplomat and a singer. From 1935-1938, she starred in the number of iconic movies and she is one of the most recognized child actresses of all time.
She was only three years old when she got her start with an acting career. When she reached her adolescent years, her popularity began to go downhill and by the time she was 22, she retired. She returned to acting some eight years later.
As an activist and United States ambassador, she often traveled to Ghana and Czechoslovakia. She was also the Chief of Protocol of the United States.
Shirley Temple was married two times and had three children, Lori Black, Linda Susan Agar and Charles Alden Black Jr. Her daughter from the second marriage, Lori, became a heroin addict in the late 80s.
Lori, who is also known as Lorax is perhaps best known for her musical talents. She played bass for the Melvins. She pleaded guilty to drug possession at the age of 39 and was given two years probation, a fine and 120 hours of community service. She also attended drug therapy sessions.
Shirley was there for her to help her beat the addiction. The session was attended by the entire family so she would feel close to others.
Shirley’s family and fans have gathered together to celebrate her 90th birthday this year.
Charles Black remembers growing up with his mother fondly when he says: “The only time I noticed her star quality was when someone else would ask for her autograph. She was an amazing person. She was wonderful — and normal. We had dinner at the table every night all together.”
Susan Agar, her daughter, said: “She was devoted and generous, and she could be a little stern if we didn’t behave. But she was also a lot of fun. Very inventive and imaginative. She was all about her children and her husband.”
What an amazing woman who left behind a legacy that will be remembered for a very long time.