The life of JAWS star Robert Shaw

Robert Archibald Shaw entered the world on August 9, 1927, in Westhoughton, Lancashire, England. He was born to Doreen Nora (Avery), a nurse, and Thomas Archibald Shaw, a doctor. Shaw's lineage was diverse, with a Scottish grandfather from Argyll, and a mother hailing from Piggs Peak, Swaziland, who met his father while working as a nurse in Truro, Cornwall. Unfortunately, Shaw's childhood was marked by tragedy, as his father, plagued by alcoholism and manic depression, took his own life when Robert was just 12. He grew up alongside three sisters—Elisabeth, Joanna, and Wendy—and a brother, Alexander.

Despite his athletic prowess and initial interest in sports, Shaw declined a scholarship offer at 17, opting instead to pursue acting in London. Encouraged by a schoolmaster who instilled in him a love for literature, Shaw enrolled at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, thanks to a £1,000 inheritance from his grandmother. His journey in acting began with small roles and tours, eventually leading him to make his professional stage debut in 1949 and tour Australia with the Old Vic.

Shaw's career took off with notable performances in Shakespearean plays and a burgeoning interest in writing. His marriage to Jennifer Bourne, an actress he met while working at the Old Vic, marked a significant chapter in his personal life, resulting in the birth of four daughters. Amidst his acting endeavors, Shaw penned novels and scripts, showcasing his multifaceted talent.

Robert Shaw on the set of his most famous role as Quint in JAWS (1975)

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Shaw's career soared with memorable roles in films like "From Russia with Love" and "A Man for All Seasons." He gained international acclaim for his portrayal of Quint in "Jaws," solidifying his status as a Hollywood icon. However, behind the scenes, Shaw grappled with personal demons, including depression and the tragic loss of his first wife.

Despite facing adversity, Shaw remained dedicated to his craft, delivering standout performances in films like "The Sting" and "Black Sunday." His personal life saw a glimmer of hope with his marriage to Virginia Dewitt Jansen, with whom he found solace and happiness.

Robert Shaw in his final on-screen role in Avalanche Express (1979)

While residing in Ireland and enjoying a break from his professional engagements, Shaw embarked on a drive from Castlebar to his residence in Tourmakeady, Ireland, accompanied by his wife, Virginia, and their young son, Thomas. The day had been spent leisurely, with a round of golf among friends at a local course and some shopping in town. However, as they neared their cottage, Shaw began to experience chest pains, which he attributed to his earlier activities on the golf course. Though the discomfort momentarily eased, he decided to pull the car over a short distance from their home, intending to walk off the discomfort.

Regrettably, after taking only a few steps from the vehicle, Shaw collapsed at the roadside. Virginia, alarmed by the sudden turn of events, rushed to their cottage to seek assistance. Within fifteen minutes, an ambulance arrived, rushing Shaw to Mayo General Hospital in Castlebar. Tragically, despite efforts to save him, Shaw was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.

Words by Ross Williams

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