Clinton Eastwood Jr. is a renowned American actor and filmmaker. He gained international recognition for his roles as the "Man with No Name" in Sergio Leone's Dollars Trilogy and as Harry Callahan in the Dirty Harry films. These iconic roles established him as a symbol of masculinity in popular culture. Beyond acting, Eastwood served as the mayor of Carmel-by-the-Sea, California from 1986 to 1988.
1906: Birth of Clinton Eastwood Sr., Clint Eastwood's Father
Clinton Eastwood Sr., Clint Eastwood's father, was born in 1906.
1909: Birth of Ruth Runner, Clint Eastwood's Mother
Ruth Runner, Clint Eastwood's mother, was born in 1909.
1913: Birth of John Belden Wood, Clint Eastwood's Stepfather
John Belden Wood, who would become Clint Eastwood's stepfather after marrying his mother, Ruth, was born in 1913.
May 31, 1930: Birth of Clint Eastwood
On May 31, 1930, Clint Eastwood was born in San Francisco.
1934: Birth of Jeanne Bernhardt, Clint Eastwood's Sister
Jeanne Bernhardt, Clint Eastwood's younger sister, was born in 1934.
January 1945: Eastwood Attends Piedmont High School
Clint Eastwood attended Piedmont High School from January 1945.
January 1946: Eastwood Asked to Leave Piedmont High School
Clint Eastwood was asked to leave Piedmont High School around January 1946 due to disciplinary issues.
January 1949: Eastwood's Scheduled Graduation from Oakland Technical High School
Clint Eastwood was scheduled to graduate mid-year from Oakland Technical High School in January 1949, although it is unclear if he did.
1951: Eastwood Drafted into the Army
Clint Eastwood was drafted into the United States Army in 1951, during the Korean War.
February 1953: Eastwood Discharged from the Army
Clint Eastwood was discharged from the United States Army in February 1953, after serving during the Korean War.
December 1953: Eastwood Marries Margaret Neville Johnson
Clint Eastwood married Margaret Neville Johnson, a manufacturing secretary who later became a fitness instructor, in December 1953. The couple had met on a blind date the previous May.
1953: Shane released
The classic Western film "Shane," which later inspired Clint Eastwood's "Pale Rider" (1985), was released.
April 1954: Eastwood Signs with Universal-International
In April 1954, Clint Eastwood signed his initial contract with Universal-International, marking the beginning of his acting career.
May 1954: First Audition
Clint Eastwood pursued his acting aspirations in May 1954 by auditioning for "Six Bridges to Cross," although he faced rejection.
September 1954: Early Role in "Lady Godiva of Coventry"
In September 1954, Clint Eastwood secured a role in Arthur Lubin's "Lady Godiva of Coventry," contributing to his early film experience.
1954: Birth of Eastwood's Daughter, Laurie
In 1954, Laurie, Clint Eastwood's daughter, was born. She was later adopted by Clyde and Helen Warren of Seattle.
February 1955: Role in "Francis in the Navy"
Clint Eastwood secured a role as "Jonesy," a sailor in the film "Francis in the Navy," in February 1955, further building his acting portfolio.
May 1955: Uncredited Role in "Never Say Goodbye"
In May 1955, Clint Eastwood had a minor uncredited role in the film "Never Say Goodbye."
July 2, 1955: First Television Role
On July 2, 1955, Clint Eastwood landed his first television role on NBC's "Allen in Movieland," a significant step in his early career.
August 1955: First Western Role
Clint Eastwood's first western film role, albeit uncredited, was as a ranch hand in "Law Man" (also known as "Star in the Dust") in August 1955.
October 23, 1955: Universal Contract Termination
Despite showing progress as an actor, Clint Eastwood's contract with Universal was terminated on October 23, 1955.
1956: Joining Marsh Agency and New Roles
Clint Eastwood joined the Marsh Agency in 1956 and landed his biggest role up to that point in "The First Traveling Saleslady." He also took on small roles in television series like "Reader's Digest" and "Highway Patrol."
1956: The Searchers: A Western Classic
John Ford's "The Searchers" was released in 1956 and would later be considered a landmark Western film, influencing filmmakers like Clint Eastwood.
1957: Agency Switch and Television Roles
In 1957, Clint Eastwood switched to the Kumin-Olenick Agency and later to Mitchell Gertz. He appeared in television series like "West Point" and "Death Valley Days."
1958: Roles in "Navy Log," "Lafayette Escadrille," and "Ambush at Cimarron Pass"
Clint Eastwood took on roles in television and film in 1958, including appearing in "Navy Log," playing an aviator in "Lafayette Escadrille," and starring in "Ambush at Cimarron Pass," a film he later considered a low point in his career.
1958: Breakthrough Role in "Rawhide"
Clint Eastwood's career took a significant turn in 1958 when he was cast as Rowdy Yates in the CBS western series "Rawhide," marking his breakthrough role.
August 1959: Eastwood Featured in TV Guide
In August 1959, Clint Eastwood was featured in TV Guide, showcasing his commitment to health and fitness. He was photographed doing push-ups and offered advice on maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
1959: "Rawhide" Premieres
"Rawhide," the television series that would make Clint Eastwood a household name, premiered in 1959.
1959: Start of Eastwood's Liaison with Roxanne Tunis
Clint Eastwood began a liaison with stuntwoman Roxanne Tunis in 1959. The relationship, which lasted until 1973, resulted in the birth of their daughter, Kimber, in 1964.
1959: Production of "Cowboy Favorites" Album
In 1959, Clint Eastwood ventured into music production with his album "Cowboy Favorites," released under the Cameo label. The album featured a selection of classic tracks.
1959: Guest Appearance on "Maverick"
In early 1959, Clint Eastwood made a notable guest appearance as Red Hardigan in the television series "Maverick," showcasing his acting range.
October 1960: "Rawhide" Reaches Peak Ratings
Clint Eastwood's television series "Rawhide" achieved peak ratings, reaching number six from October 1960 to April 1961, solidifying his status in the industry.
April 1961: End of "Rawhide" Peak Ratings Period
The period of peak ratings for "Rawhide" ended in April 1961, although the show continued to be a success.
1962: Real-life Alcatraz escape
In 1962, Frank Lee Morris, along with John and Clarence Anglin, pulled off a notorious escape from Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary, an event later depicted in the film "Escape from Alcatraz."
1962: Rodeo and Fair Tour with Paul Brinegar and Sheb Wooley
Clint Eastwood, alongside Paul Brinegar and occasionally Sheb Wooley, embarked on a tour of rodeos, state fairs, and festivals in 1962. Their act, billed as the "Amusement Business Cavalcade of Fairs," proved to be lucrative, earning them up to $15,000 per performance.
1963: "Rawhide" Starts to Decline
By late 1963, "Rawhide" began to experience a decline in ratings, signaling a potential shift in Clint Eastwood's career trajectory.
1963: Cameo Producer's Assessment of Eastwood's Singing Career
In 1963, Clint Eastwood received feedback from Cameo producer Kal Mann, who suggested that he did not have a promising future as a singer. Despite this, Eastwood continued to pursue music on a smaller scale.
1963: Turning Point with "A Fistful of Dollars"
In late 1963, Clint Eastwood's career took a significant turn when he accepted the lead role in Sergio Leone's "A Fistful of Dollars" (1964), a spaghetti western that would redefine his career.
1964: Release of "A Fistful of Dollars"
"A Fistful of Dollars" was released in 1964, marking a turning point in Clint Eastwood's career and introducing the iconic "Man with No Name" character.
1964: Birth of Eastwood's Daughter, Kimber
Clint Eastwood and Roxanne Tunis welcomed their daughter, Kimber, in 1964.
1965: "Rawhide" Cancellation
"Rawhide" was canceled in the middle of the 1965-1966 season, prompting Clint Eastwood to explore new opportunities.
1965: "For a Few Dollars More" Released
Clint Eastwood's second film in the Dollars trilogy, "For a Few Dollars More," was released in 1965, further solidifying his stardom in Europe.
January 1966: Meeting with Dino De Laurentiis
In January 1966, Clint Eastwood met with producer Dino De Laurentiis, leading to his casting in the anthology film "The Witches" (1967).
1966: Completion of the Dollars Trilogy
The release of "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly" in 1966 marked the completion of the Dollars trilogy, a landmark achievement in Clint Eastwood's career and the spaghetti western genre.
June 1967: Inspiration for "Joe Kidd" Character
The character of Joe Kidd, played by Clint Eastwood in the 1972 Western of the same name, was inspired by Reies Lopez Tijerina. Tijerina, a land rights activist, led a raid on a courthouse in Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico in June 1967, an event that likely influenced the film's themes of land disputes and vigilantism.
November 1967: Start of Filming for "Coogan's Bluff"
In November 1967, Clint Eastwood began filming "Coogan's Bluff," a crime thriller that marked the beginning of his long-lasting and successful partnership with director Don Siegel. The film, known for its violence and gritty realism, was a hit and further solidified Eastwood's star power.
December 24, 1967: Eastwood Purchases Land Near Malpaso Creek
On December 24, 1967, fueled by his growing acting career income, Clint Eastwood purchased a significant 283-acre property near Malpaso Creek from Charles Sawyer. This land acquisition, situated along Highway 1 south of the Carmel Highlands, demonstrated his early interest in the Carmel area.
1967: Founding of Malpaso Productions
In 1967, Clint Eastwood established his own production company, Malpaso Productions, which would go on to produce most of his American films.
1967: Appearance in "The Witches"
Clint Eastwood appeared in the anthology film "The Witches" in 1967, although his performance received mixed reviews.
1967: Dollars Trilogy Released in the United States
The Dollars trilogy, which had already garnered success in Europe, was released in the United States in 1967, propelling Clint Eastwood to superstardom.
1967: Sondra Locke Marries Gordon Leigh Anderson
Sondra Locke entered into a marriage of convenience with Gordon Leigh Anderson, an unemployed homosexual man, in 1967. This marriage lasted until Locke's death in 2018.
May 1968: Eastwood and James Garner Purchase Carmel Valley Property
In May 1968, Clint Eastwood and actor James Garner partnered to buy a 340-acre property in Carmel Valley from the Howard Hattan estate.
July 1968: Relatively Unknown Leading to "Hang 'Em High" Release
In July 1968, just a month before the release of his breakthrough Western "Hang 'Em High," Clint Eastwood was still relatively unknown to the general public. Syndicated columnist Dorothy Manners even mentioned in a news item that people were still asking, "Who's Clint Eastwood?"
August 1968: Release and Success of "Hang 'Em High"
"Hang 'Em High," a Western starring Clint Eastwood, was released in August 1968 and became a major hit. The film, about a man seeking revenge after being lynched, marked a turning point in Eastwood's career, establishing him as a bankable star and allowing him to establish his own production company, Malpaso Productions.
1968: Collaboration with Lalo Schifrin on "Coogan's Bluff"
"Coogan's Bluff" in 1968 marked the beginning of Clint Eastwood's collaboration with Argentine composer Lalo Schifrin. Schifrin would go on to compose the scores for several Eastwood films, notably the "Dirty Harry" series, creating memorable soundtracks that added to the films' atmosphere and impact.
1968: Eastwood's Uncredited Production Role
Although uncredited, Eastwood began functioning as a producer on his Malpaso Company films, starting with "Hang 'Em High" in 1968.
1968: Eastwood Enters Top Ten Money Making Stars
Clint Eastwood's success with the Dollars trilogy led to him being ranked for the first time on Quigley's Top Ten Money Making Stars Poll in 1968, showcasing his box office draw.
1968: Eastwood in "Where Eagles Dare" and "Batman" Offer
In 1968, Clint Eastwood starred in the World War II epic "Where Eagles Dare" alongside Richard Burton, further cementing his action star status. He was also offered the role of Two-Face in the "Batman" television series, but the show was canceled before filming began.
1968: Birth of Eastwood's Son, Kyle
Kyle, Clint Eastwood and Margaret Neville Johnson's first son, was born in 1968.
July 1969: Filming Begins for "Kelly's Heroes"
Filming for "Kelly's Heroes," a World War II film starring Clint Eastwood, Donald Sutherland, and Telly Savalas, commenced in July 1969. The film, known for its anti-war sentiments and action sequences, was a critical and commercial success, becoming a cult classic over the years. This was the last film Eastwood starred in that wasn't produced by Malpaso Productions.
1969: Eastwood Stars in Only Musical, "Paint Your Wagon"
In 1969, Clint Eastwood stepped outside his usual genre to star in "Paint Your Wagon," the only musical of his career. Despite a star-studded cast and a large budget, the film was neither a critical nor a commercial success, though it did receive a Golden Globe nomination for Best Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy.
September 1970: Eastwood Makes Directorial Debut with "Play Misty for Me"
In September 1970, Clint Eastwood began directing "Play Misty for Me," a thriller that marked his directorial debut. The film, starring Eastwood as a jazz DJ stalked by an obsessed fan (Jessica Walter), was a critical and commercial success and showcased Eastwood's talent behind the camera.
1970: Eastwood in Two Westerns: "Two Mules for Sister Sara" and "Kelly's Heroes"
1970 saw Clint Eastwood star in two contrasting Westerns. "Two Mules for Sister Sara," directed by Don Siegel, paired him with Shirley MacLaine in a story set during the French Intervention in Mexico. "Kelly's Heroes" was a World War II adventure comedy set against the backdrop of the European theater.
1970: Death of Eastwood's Father
Clint Eastwood's father died from a heart attack at the age of 64 in 1970. This event profoundly impacted Eastwood, leading to increased productivity in his work and a more disciplined approach to health.
1970: Clint Eastwood's Directorial Debut and Development of His Filmmaking Style
Clint Eastwood, drawing on his experiences as an actor, began directing in 1970. His directing style, known for efficiency and minimal takes, was influenced by his dislike for excessive re-shoots. He prioritized completing scenes quickly and favored simplicity in storytelling to engage the audience's imagination.
1970: Death of Clinton Eastwood Sr., Clint Eastwood's Father
Clinton Eastwood Sr., Clint Eastwood's father, died in 1970.
December 1971: Release of "Dirty Harry" and Birth of a Cultural Phenomenon
December 1971 saw the release of "Dirty Harry," a crime thriller that would become one of Clint Eastwood's most iconic films. The film, about a San Francisco police inspector's pursuit of a serial killer, was a massive box office success and spawned several sequels, establishing Eastwood as a cultural icon and solidifying the "loose-cannon cop" genre in cinema.
1971: Eastwood Opens the Hog's Breath Inn
Clint Eastwood opened the Hog's Breath Inn, an old English-inspired pub, in Carmel-by-the-Sea in 1971. Despite abstaining from hard liquor, he ran the pub until selling it in 1999.
1971: Eastwood Begins Directing
Clint Eastwood embarked on his directing career in 1971.
1971: Release and Critical Reception of "The Beguiled"
"The Beguiled," a Southern Gothic thriller directed by Don Siegel and starring Clint Eastwood and Geraldine Page, was released in 1971. While not initially a box office success, the film, about a wounded Union soldier held captive in a Confederate girls' school, garnered significant critical acclaim in France and is now considered one of Eastwood's most intriguing works.
1971: Critical Acclaim and Recognition for "Play Misty for Me"
"Play Misty for Me" was released in 1971 to critical acclaim, with praise directed at Eastwood's directing and performance, as well as Jessica Walter's chilling portrayal of the obsessed fan. The film's success solidified Eastwood's status as a multi-talented filmmaker.
1972: Eastwood Stars in "Joe Kidd," a Western with Mixed Reception
"Joe Kidd," a Western starring Clint Eastwood, was released in 1972 to mixed reviews. The film, about a man caught between a ruthless land baron and a group of Mexican revolutionaries, dealt with themes of land rights and social justice but failed to achieve the critical acclaim of some of Eastwood's other Westerns.
1972: Publication of The Outlaw Josey Wales Novel
Asa Carter publishes the novel "The Outlaw Josey Wales." This novel would later serve as the inspiration for the 1976 Clint Eastwood film of the same name.
1972: Birth of Eastwood's Daughter, Alison
Clint Eastwood and Margaret Neville Johnson welcomed their daughter, Alison, in 1972.
1972: Eastwood Tops Quigley's Money Making Stars Poll
Clint Eastwood's popularity soared in 1972 as he topped the Quigley's Top Ten Money Making Stars Poll for the first time, a testament to his box office draw and the success of "Dirty Harry." This marked the beginning of Eastwood's reign as one of Hollywood's most bankable stars.
1973: Eastwood Expresses Atheist Views
In a 1973 interview with film critic Gene Siskel, Clint Eastwood expressed his atheist beliefs, stating, "No, I don't believe in God."
1973: Breezy Released
In 1973, Eastwood directed "Breezy," a film about a middle-aged man and a teenage girl who fall in love. During casting, he met Sondra Locke, who would become a significant figure in his personal and professional life. Though completed under budget and ahead of schedule, the film was not a critical or commercial success.
1973: Release of High Plains Drifter
In 1973, Clint Eastwood directed and starred in the Western film "High Plains Drifter." The film, with its moral and supernatural themes, follows a mysterious stranger who arrives in a town and is hired to protect them from criminals. The film was a box-office success, but received a mixed reception from critics.
1973: Magnum Force Released
Eastwood reprised his role as Callahan in "Magnum Force" (1973), a sequel to "Dirty Harry." Despite its commercial success, the film received criticism for its contradictory moral themes and formulaic plot.
1973: End of Eastwood's Liaison with Roxanne Tunis
Clint Eastwood's liaison with Roxanne Tunis ended in 1973. However, they maintained a cordial relationship until her death in 2023.
1973: High Plains Drifter released
Clint Eastwood's Western film "High Plains Drifter," noted for its themes of morality and justice, was released in 1973. These themes would later be explored in his 1985 film "Pale Rider."
1973: Eastwood Repeats as Top Money Making Star
Clint Eastwood continued his reign at the box office in 1973, topping the Quigley's Top Ten Money Making Stars Poll for the second consecutive year. This further cemented his status as a major Hollywood star and reflected the continued success of his films, particularly the impact of the "Dirty Harry" franchise.
August 12, 1974: Filming Begins for The Eiger Sanction
Filming for Eastwood's "The Eiger Sanction" began on August 12, 1974, in Grindelwald, Switzerland. Eastwood insisted on performing his own climbing and stunts, leading to a number of accidents on set.
1974: Release of Thunderbolt and Lightfoot
In 1974, Eastwood starred alongside Jeff Bridges in "Thunderbolt and Lightfoot." Eastwood was reportedly disappointed by the lack of Academy Award recognition for his performance.
May 1975: The Eiger Sanction Released
"The Eiger Sanction" was released in May 1975 to mixed reviews and moderate commercial success. Eastwood attributed the film's performance to poor promotion by Universal Studios, leading him to sign a deal with Warner Bros.
1975: Eastwood and Sondra Locke Begin Living Together
Clint Eastwood began living with actress and director Sondra Locke in 1975. Locke was in a marriage of convenience with Gordon Leigh Anderson, an unemployed homosexual, since 1967.
1975: Eastwood Publicly Discusses Transcendental Meditation Practice
During a 1975 appearance on "The Merv Griffin Show" with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the founder of Transcendental Meditation, Clint Eastwood shared his practice of the technique, emphasizing his commitment to daily meditation for many years.
1975: Publication of the Novel "Cry Macho"
The novel "Cry Macho," which would later be adapted into a Clint Eastwood film, was originally published.
1976: Early Scripts for Unforgiven
Scripts for "Unforgiven" existed as early as 1976, originally titled "The Cut-Whore Killings" and "The William Munny Killings." Eastwood waited until he felt he was the right age to portray the lead character.
1976: Release of The Enforcer
Eastwood starred in the third Dirty Harry film, "The Enforcer" (1976). Despite being shorter than the previous films, "The Enforcer" was a commercial success, becoming Eastwood's highest-grossing film at that point.
1976: The Outlaw Josey Wales
In 1976, Eastwood directed and starred in "The Outlaw Josey Wales," a Western film based on Asa Carter's novel. The film was critically acclaimed, with Eastwood's performance as Josey Wales being lauded for its iconic nature and connection to American history.
1977: Firefox novel published
Craig Thomas's novel "Firefox," which later inspired Clint Eastwood's 1982 film of the same name, was published.
1977: Release of The Gauntlet
Eastwood directed and starred alongside Sondra Locke in "The Gauntlet" (1977). The film received mixed reviews, with some critics finding its violence excessive.
1978: Every Which Way but Loose Released
Eastwood starred in the offbeat comedy "Every Which Way but Loose" (1978). The film was a huge commercial success, becoming Eastwood's highest-grossing film to that point, but was panned by critics.
October 1, 1979: Filming begins for Bronco Billy
On October 1, 1979, Clint Eastwood began filming "Bronco Billy" in the Boise metropolitan area. The film, directed by and starring Eastwood, was completed in five and a half weeks with a budget of $5 million.
1979: Escape from Alcatraz released
In 1979, Clint Eastwood starred in "Escape from Alcatraz," his last film directed by Don Siegel. The film, a critical and commercial success, depicted the true story of Frank Lee Morris and the Anglin brothers' escape from Alcatraz in 1962.
1980: Bronco Billy and Any Which Way You Can Released
Clint Eastwood directed and starred in two films released in 1980: "Bronco Billy," a commercial disappointment despite positive critical reception, and "Any Which Way You Can," a sequel to "Every Which Way but Loose" that achieved major box office success despite mixed reviews.
1982: Eastwood's Debut as a Credited Producer
Eastwood formally took on the role of producer with the film "Firefox" in 1982.
November 1983: Eastwood and Garner Donate Land for Senior Housing
In November 1983, Eastwood and Garner donated the Carmel Valley property to the Housing Authority of Monterey County, with the stipulation that part of it be used for senior housing.
1983: Sudden Impact released
Clint Eastwood directed and starred in "Sudden Impact," the fourth Dirty Harry film, released in 1983. The film, known for its dark tone and the iconic line "Go ahead, make my day," was a commercial success and sparked discussions about its feminist themes related to rape.
1983: US invasion of Grenada
The United States invaded Grenada in 1983. This event later served as the historical backdrop for Clint Eastwood's 1986 film "Heartbreak Ridge."
August 22, 1984: Eastwood Honored at Grauman's Chinese Theater
Clint Eastwood was honored with a ceremony at Grauman's Chinese Theater on August 22, 1984, to immortalize his hand and footprints in cement.
1984: Sudden Impact's cultural impact
In 1984, a line from Clint Eastwood's 1983 film "Sudden Impact" -- "Go ahead, make my day" -- gained significant cultural traction. President Ronald Reagan even quoted the line in a speech to Congress, and it was later used during the 1984 presidential elections.
1984: Eastwood Divorces Margaret Neville Johnson
After years of an open marriage, Clint Eastwood and Margaret Neville Johnson officially divorced in 1984. Despite the unconventional arrangement, they had two children together.
1984: Tightrope and City Heat released
Clint Eastwood starred in two films released in 1984: "Tightrope," a thriller inspired by real-life events, and "City Heat," a crime comedy co-starring Burt Reynolds. Both films performed well commercially, with "Tightrope" becoming one of the highest-grossing R-rated films of the year.
1985: Eastwood's Spiritual Connection with Nature
Clint Eastwood, though not adhering to any specific religion, has expressed finding spirituality in nature, particularly referencing his 1985 Western film, "Pale Rider." He has described feeling a profound connection when witnessing the grandeur of nature, such as the Grand Canyon.
1985: Vanessa in the Garden and Pale Rider released
In 1985, Clint Eastwood directed an episode of "Amazing Stories" titled "Vanessa in the Garden," marking his first collaboration with Steven Spielberg. That same year, Eastwood directed and starred in "Pale Rider," a Western inspired by the classic film "Shane." The film earned critical acclaim, with many praising its exploration of morality, justice, and the supernatural.
April 1986: Clint Eastwood's Election as Mayor of Carmel-by-the-Sea
In April 1986, Clint Eastwood was elected as the mayor of Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. During his two-year term, he made notable contributions, including legalizing ice cream consumption on city streets and overseeing the addition of public restrooms and a library annex.
1986: Heartbreak Ridge released
"Heartbreak Ridge," a military drama starring and directed by Clint Eastwood, was released in 1986. Set against the backdrop of the 1983 US invasion of Grenada, the film explores themes of aging, military service, and the changing landscape of warfare.
1986: Eastwood Elected Mayor of Carmel-by-the-Sea
In 1986, Clint Eastwood entered politics and was elected mayor of Carmel-by-the-Sea, California.
1986: Birth of Eastwood's Son, Scott
Scott, Clint Eastwood's son with Jacelyn Reeves, was born in 1986.
1988: Bird: A Jazz Biopic
In 1988, Clint Eastwood directed "Bird," a biopic about the life of jazz musician Charlie "Bird" Parker, starring Forest Whitaker. The film received mixed reviews, with some critics, including Jackie McLean and Spike Lee, criticizing the portrayal of Parker. Despite this, Eastwood won two Golden Globes for the film, including the Cecil B. DeMille Award for his lifelong contribution to the film industry.
1988: Birth of Eastwood's Daughter, Kathryn
Kathryn, Clint Eastwood's daughter with Jacelyn Reeves, was born in 1988.
1988: The Dead Pool released
Clint Eastwood starred in "The Dead Pool," the fifth and final installment in the Dirty Harry franchise, released in 1988. The film, while commercially successful, received mixed reviews and is generally considered the weakest entry in the series.
1989: Pink Cadillac: A Career Low Point
Eastwood starred in the comedy "Pink Cadillac" alongside Jim Carrey in 1989. The film, about a bounty hunter and white supremacists pursuing an innocent woman, was a critical and commercial failure, marking a low point in Eastwood's career.
1989: Filming White Hunter Black Heart in Zimbabwe
During the summer of 1989, Clint Eastwood filmed "White Hunter Black Heart" in Zimbabwe. The film, based on Peter Viertel's roman à clef about John Huston, received some critical acclaim but had a limited release.
1989: Eastwood and Sondra Locke Separate
Clint Eastwood and Sondra Locke's relationship ended in 1989, leading to palimony and fraud lawsuits filed by Locke, which were eventually settled.
December 1990: The Rookie: A Buddy Cop Action Film
Eastwood directed and starred alongside Charlie Sheen in the buddy cop action film "The Rookie," released in December 1990. While critics praised the action sequences, they found the plot and characters lacking.
1991: Legal Troubles and Cinematic Absence
Eastwood faced legal issues in 1991 stemming from an alleged car-ramming incident. This lawsuit prevented his films from being shown in theaters that year. Eastwood ultimately won the lawsuit.
1992: A Return to Westerns with Unforgiven
After a period of smaller projects, Eastwood returned to the Western genre in 1992 with "Unforgiven." He directed and starred in the film as an aging ex-gunfighter. "Unforgiven" was a critical and commercial success, earning Eastwood four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.
1992: Unforgiven: A Critical and Commercial Triumph
Eastwood's "Unforgiven" was released in 1992 to both critical and commercial success. The film, a Western examining themes of age and violence, was lauded by critics like Jack Mathews of the Los Angeles Times. It garnered nine Academy Award nominations and won four, including Best Picture and Best Director for Eastwood.
1993: Birth of Eastwood's Daughter, Francesca
Clint Eastwood and actress Frances Fisher welcomed their daughter, Francesca, in 1993 during their relationship in the early-to-mid-1990s.
1993: In the Line of Fire and A Perfect World: Box Office and Critical Success
In 1993, Eastwood starred in Wolfgang Petersen's thriller, "In the Line of Fire," playing a Secret Service agent haunted by his past. The film was a box office hit, and Eastwood was voted number one on Quigley's Top Ten Money Making Stars Poll. Later that year, he directed and co-starred with Kevin Costner in "A Perfect World," a critically acclaimed film set in the 1960s. Critics like Janet Maslin praised Eastwood's direction, and the film is often cited as one of his most underrated.
1994: Flooding Impacts Eastwood's Properties
In 1994, both the Mission Ranch resort, owned by Clint Eastwood, and the nearby Mission Fields neighborhood experienced flooding.
March 27, 1995: Receiving the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award
On March 27, 1995, Clint Eastwood was awarded the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award at the 67th Academy Awards. This prestigious award recognizes creative producers whose bodies of work reflect a consistently high quality of motion picture production.
1995: South African Rugby Team's Journey to the World Cup
The South African rugby team participated in the 1995 Rugby World Cup, a significant event depicted in Clint Eastwood's film Invictus.
1995: Eastwood Sells and Buys Land, Protecting Carmel River
In 1995, Monterey County purchased the Malpaso land from Eastwood, placing a permanent conservation easement on it. Using the proceeds, Eastwood bought the Odello Ranch. He also financed the lowering of levees along the Carmel River, protecting the Mission Ranch resort and Mission Fields residential neighborhood, which had flooded in 1994.
1996: Eastwood Marries Dina Ruiz
Clint Eastwood married news anchor Dina Ruiz in 1996. The same year, they welcomed their daughter, Morgan.
1996: Eastwood Receives AFI Life Achievement Award
Eastwood received the prestigious AFI Life Achievement Award in 1996, acknowledging his significant contributions to the film industry.
1996: Eastwood Hosts Jazz Concert at Carnegie Hall
In 1996, Clint Eastwood hosted a jazz concert at Carnegie Hall, showcasing his passion for music. The concert, titled "Eastwood after Hours – Live at Carnegie Hall," was recorded and released as an album under his own record label, Malpaso Records.
1996: The 1996 Olympic Bombing
The 1996 Olympic bombing, a significant event in Richard Jewell's life and the focus of Clint Eastwood's film about him, took place. Jewell, a security guard, was wrongly suspected of involvement in the bombing.
1997: Eastwood Donates Portion of Odello Ranch
Eastwood, in conjunction with his former wife Maggie Johnson acting as the Eastwood Trust, donated 49 acres of the Odello Ranch, along with its water rights, to the Big Sur Land Trust in 1997.
1997: Political Thriller and Southern Gothic
Eastwood directed and starred in the political thriller "Absolute Power" in 1997, acting alongside Gene Hackman. The film received mixed reviews. Later that year, he directed "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil," a film adaptation of John Berendt's novel, starring John Cusack, Kevin Spacey, and Jude Law. This film also received a mixed response from critics.
1998: Michael Connelly's Blood Work Novel Published
Michael Connelly published his novel "Blood Work" in 1998, which would later be adapted into a film directed by and starring Clint Eastwood.
1999: True Crime: Exploring Justice and Morality
In 1999, Eastwood directed and starred in "True Crime," a film that follows a journalist covering an execution. While the film explores themes of justice, morality, and redemption, it received a mixed reception from critics and underperformed at the box office.
1999: Eastwood Sells the Hog's Breath Inn
In 1999, Clint Eastwood sold the Hog's Breath Inn, the pub he had opened in Carmel-by-the-Sea in 1971. He currently owns the Mission Ranch Hotel and Restaurant in the same town.
1999: Eastwood Collaborates with Linda Thompson and Carole Bayer Sager
Clint Eastwood collaborated with songwriters Linda Thompson and Carole Bayer Sager in 1999 to co-write the song "Why Should I Care." The song was recorded by renowned jazz vocalist Diana Krall.
2000: Space Cowboys: A Return to Space
In 2000, Eastwood directed and starred in "Space Cowboys," joining Tommy Lee Jones, Donald Sutherland, and James Garner as a group of veteran pilots sent on a space mission. The film, noted for its humor and Eastwood's own musical score, was well-received and a box-office success.
2001: Appointment to the California State Park and Recreation Commission
Governor Gray Davis appointed Clint Eastwood to the California State Park and Recreation Commission in 2001. In this role, Eastwood actively opposed a proposed extension of the California State Route 241 toll road that would impact San Onofre State Beach.
2002: Blood Work: A Thriller with Mixed Reception
Eastwood directed and starred in the thriller "Blood Work" in 2002, based on the novel by Michael Connelly. He played an ex-FBI agent pursuing a serial killer. Despite a strong cast and Eastwood's direction, the film received mixed reviews and was a commercial disappointment.
2003: Mystic River Release and Accolades
In 2003, Clint Eastwood directed and scored the crime drama Mystic River, starring Sean Penn, Kevin Bacon, and Tim Robbins. The film, exploring themes of murder, vigilantism, and abuse, received critical acclaim and won two Academy Awards. Eastwood received nominations for Best Director and Best Picture. He was also named Best Director of the Year by the National Society of Film Critics.
2004: Death of John Belden Wood, Clint Eastwood's Stepfather
John Belden Wood, Clint Eastwood's stepfather, passed away in 2004.
February 27, 2005: Eastwood Joins Elite Group of Directors
On February 27, 2005, Eastwood joined a select group of living directors, including Miloš Forman and Francis Ford Coppola, who had directed two Best Picture winners.
2005: Million Dollar Baby Success
Clint Eastwood's film Million Dollar Baby, a boxing drama, won four Academy Awards in 2005, including Best Picture and Best Director. Eastwood became the oldest director to have directed two Best Picture winners. He was also nominated for Best Actor and Best Score for the film.
December 6, 2006: Eastwood Inducted into California Hall of Fame
On December 6, 2006, Eastwood's contributions to the arts were recognized when he was inducted into the California Hall of Fame by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and First Lady Maria Shriver.
2006: World War II Films Release
In 2006, Clint Eastwood directed Flags of Our Fathers and Letters from Iwo Jima, two films about the Battle of Iwo Jima during World War II. Letters from Iwo Jima was notable for presenting the battle from the perspective of Japanese soldiers. Both films received critical acclaim and multiple Academy Award nominations.
2006: Eastwood Awarded Honorary Degree from University of the Pacific
In 2006, Eastwood received an honorary degree from the University of the Pacific, highlighting his impact on the world of film and beyond.
2006: Death of Ruth Wood, Clint Eastwood's Mother
Ruth Wood, Clint Eastwood's mother, passed away in 2006.
May 27, 2007: Eastwood Receives Honorary Doctorate from USC
In recognition of his contributions to the arts, Clint Eastwood was awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from the University of Southern California on May 27, 2007.
September 22, 2007: Eastwood Receives Honorary Doctorate in Music
On September 22, 2007, Clint Eastwood was awarded an honorary Doctor of Music degree from the Berklee College of Music during the Monterey Jazz Festival. Eastwood, an active board member of the festival, expressed deep honor upon receiving the award.
2007: Eastwood Awarded Légion d'honneur
Eastwood received France's highest civilian honor, the Légion d'honneur, in early 2007 at a ceremony in Paris where French President Jacques Chirac hailed him as the embodiment of "the best of Hollywood."
2008: Eastwood Returns to Acting in Gran Torino
Clint Eastwood returned to acting after a four-year hiatus with Gran Torino in 2008, a film he also directed, produced, and scored. The film was a commercial and critical success, becoming Eastwood's highest-grossing film at the time.
2008: Changeling Release
Clint Eastwood directed Changeling in 2008, a film based on a true story from the 1920s. The film starred Angelina Jolie and received critical acclaim for its direction and emotional impact. Eastwood received nominations for Best Original Score and Best Direction for the film.
January 2009: Gran Torino Breaks Records
Clint Eastwood's Gran Torino premiered in January 2009 and became his highest-grossing opening weekend film.
February 26, 2009: Eastwood Receives Honorary Golden Palm Award
Eastwood's cinematic achievements were celebrated at the Cannes Film Festival on February 26, 2009, where he was presented with the Honorary Golden Palm Award during a grand ceremony in Paris.
October 2009: Eastwood Honored with Lumière Award
In October 2009, Eastwood received the Lumière Award at the inaugural Lumière Film Festival in Lyon, France, a testament to his illustrious career and lasting impact on cinema.
2009: Invictus Release
Clint Eastwood directed Invictus, released in 2009, a film about the South African rugby team during the 1995 Rugby World Cup. The film, starring Morgan Freeman as Nelson Mandela and Matt Damon as the rugby team captain, was praised for its emotional impact and historical context.
2009: Eastwood Receives Honorary Degree from AFI
In 2009, the American Film Institute awarded Eastwood an honorary degree, further solidifying his standing in the world of film.
February 2010: Eastwood Receives Arts and Humanities Award from President Obama
In February 2010, President Barack Obama bestowed upon Clint Eastwood an arts and humanities award, recognizing the profound impact of Eastwood's films on American culture. Obama praised his work as "essays in individuality, hard truths, and the essence of what it means to be American."
September 12, 2010: Hereafter Premiere
Clint Eastwood's film Hereafter, starring Matt Damon, premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 12, 2010.
2010: Eastwood Builds Carmel-by-the-Sea Compound
At the age of 80, Eastwood invested approximately $20 million to build a 15,949-square-foot compound in Carmel-by-the-Sea in 2010.
2011: J. Edgar Release
Clint Eastwood directed J. Edgar, a biopic about FBI director J. Edgar Hoover, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, in 2011. The film received mixed reviews but was praised for DiCaprio's performance.
2012: Endorsement of Mitt Romney and Republican National Convention Speech
Clint Eastwood endorsed Mitt Romney for the 2012 presidential election and delivered a speech at the Republican National Convention. His address, which included a conversation with an empty chair representing President Barack Obama, drew significant attention and later became a source of regret for Eastwood.
2012: Trouble with the Curve Release
Clint Eastwood starred in the baseball drama Trouble with the Curve in 2012, directed by Robert Lorenz, his frequent collaborator.
2012: Release of "Trouble with the Curve"
Clint Eastwood's film "Trouble with the Curve" was released in 2012, marking his last acting role before a break from appearing on screen.
2012: "Halftime in America" Super Bowl Ad
During Super Bowl XLVI in 2012, Clint Eastwood narrated a Chrysler advertisement titled "Halftime in America," which sparked controversy for its perceived political message. Eastwood clarified that the ad was intended to be about job growth and American spirit, not a political endorsement.
2012: Eastwood's Kihei Estate Featured on Reality TV
In 2012, an episode of the reality show "Mrs. Eastwood & Company" showcased Eastwood's oceanfront manor in Kihei, Hawaii.
2013: Eastwood Wins Golden Pine Lifetime Achievement Award
In 2013, Clint Eastwood received the Golden Pine lifetime achievement award at the International Samobor Film Music Festival, sharing the honor with Ryuichi Sakamoto and Gerald Fried.
December 25, 2014: Release of "American Sniper"
On December 25, 2014, Clint Eastwood released his film "American Sniper," an adaptation of Chris Kyle's memoir. The film was a major commercial success, becoming one of Eastwood's highest-grossing movies.
2014: Initial Plans for "Richard Jewell" with Different Director and Actors
In 2014, the film "Richard Jewell" was initially planned with Paul Greengrass as director and Jonah Hill and Leonardo DiCaprio as potential stars. However, the project evolved, with Eastwood taking over as director and DiCaprio and Hill becoming producers.
2014: Eastwood and Dina Ruiz Divorce
Clint Eastwood and Dina Ruiz's marriage ended in divorce in 2014 after 18 years together.
2014: Eastwood Begins Relationship with Christina Sandera
Clint Eastwood began a relationship with restaurant hostess Christina Sandera in 2014. Though never publicly confirmed, their association was widely observed.
2015: Release of "The 15:17 to Paris"
In 2015, Clint Eastwood directed the biographical thriller "The 15:17 to Paris." The film recounted the events of the 2015 Thalys train attack, featuring the real-life heroes Spencer Stone, Anthony Sadler, and Alek Skarlatos playing themselves.
June 28, 2016: Eastwood Donates Odello East Land
On June 28, 2016, Eastwood finalized the donation of his remaining Odello East land.
September 2016: Release of "Sully"
Clint Eastwood's film "Sully," starring Tom Hanks as Chesley Sullenberger, was released in September 2016. The film, depicting the emergency landing of US Airways Flight 1549 on the Hudson River, achieved both commercial success and critical acclaim.
December 2018: Release of "The Mule" and Return to Acting
December 2018 saw Clint Eastwood both starring in and directing "The Mule." This marked his return to acting after a six-year hiatus since "Trouble with the Curve" in 2012. In the film, Eastwood portrayed Earl Stone, an elderly drug smuggler.
2018: Death of Sondra Locke
Sondra Locke, a significant figure in Clint Eastwood's life, passed away in 2018. Despite their relationship ending in legal disputes, Eastwood reportedly considered her the love of his life but has remained silent about her passing.
May 2019: Announcement of "The Ballad of Richard Jewell"
In May 2019, it was announced that Clint Eastwood would be directing "The Ballad of Richard Jewell," later retitled "Richard Jewell." The film, centered around the life of security guard Richard Jewell, marked another collaboration between Eastwood and Warner Bros.
June 24, 2019: Start of Filming for "Richard Jewell"
Clint Eastwood began filming "Richard Jewell" on June 24, 2019. The film, marking his tenth collaboration with Warner Bros., tells the story of Richard Jewell, a security guard wrongly suspected in the 1996 Olympic bombing.
December 13, 2019: Release of "Richard Jewell"
On December 13, 2019, Clint Eastwood's film "Richard Jewell" was released in theaters. The film, initially planned with different actors and director, was directed and produced by Eastwood, starring Paul Walter Hauser as Richard Jewell.
February 22, 2020: Endorsement of Michael Bloomberg
On February 22, 2020, Clint Eastwood publicly endorsed Democrat Michael Bloomberg for the 2020 presidential election. In his statement, Eastwood expressed his desire for a more traditional approach to the presidency, suggesting that President Trump should conduct himself with more decorum.
October 2020: Announcement of "Cry Macho"
Clint Eastwood's involvement in "Cry Macho" was announced in October 2020. Eastwood took on multiple roles for the film, including directing, producing, and starring in the adaptation of the 1975 novel.
December 2020: Completion of "Cry Macho" Filming
After filming in New Mexico throughout November and December 2020, production for "Cry Macho" concluded in December.
September 17, 2021: Release of "Cry Macho"
"Cry Macho," directed by and starring Clint Eastwood, premiered on September 17, 2021. Despite being an adaptation of a 1975 novel, the film received mixed reviews and did not perform well commercially.
April 2023: Reports of Clint Eastwood's Final Film, "Juror No. 2"
Reports circulated in April 2023 that Clint Eastwood would be directing and producing "Juror No. 2," a film speculated to be his last. With a screenplay by Jonathan Abrams, the movie was set to star Nicholas Hoult, Toni Collette, Zoey Deutch, and Kiefer Sutherland.
June 2023: Start of Production for "Juror No. 2" and SAG-AFTRA Strike Disruption
Production on Clint Eastwood's "Juror No. 2" commenced in June 2023. However, the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike led to a temporary halt in filming.
November 2023: Resumption of "Juror No. 2" Filming
Following a pause due to the SAG-AFTRA strike, production for Clint Eastwood's "Juror No. 2" resumed in November 2023.
2023: Kathryn Eastwood Confirms Family's Lack of Religious Belief
In 2023, Clint Eastwood's daughter, Kathryn, confirmed the family's general lack of religious belief. She stated that most of them either lack faith or reject the God of the Bible.
2023: Death of Roxanne Tunis
Roxanne Tunis, with whom Clint Eastwood had a long-term relationship and a daughter, passed away in 2023. Eastwood and Tunis had maintained a positive connection until her death.
July 19, 2024: Death of Christina Sandera
On July 19, 2024, Clint Eastwood released a statement mourning the passing of Christina Sandera, his partner since 2014. He expressed deep sadness and stated that he would miss her dearly.
June 2008: Unforgiven Ranked Among Top Westerns
In June 2008, the American Film Institute (AFI) released its "AFI's 10 Top 10" list, ranking the top ten films in ten classic American film genres. "Unforgiven" was ranked as the fourth best American Western, following "Shane," "High Noon," and "The Searchers."
May 1994: Honored at Cannes Film Festival
Eastwood received France's Ordre des Arts et des Lettres medal at the Cannes Film Festival in May 1994, recognizing his significant contributions to the arts.