Aaron Spelling Biography

Recognised by The Guinness Book of World Records as the most prolific television producer of all time.

Also jokingly known as: the ‘Sultan of Schlock’, the ‘Phineas T Barnum of television’ (by Joan Collins) and the ‘Abominable Showman’.

Appeared in 50 television shows and 12 films, as an actor.

Had a fear of flying.

Was a cheerleader whilst at school.

Took on the name ‘Jerry Lane’ during the Second World War.

‘Thorns in the Road’, his first play, was based on his horrific World War II experiences.

His first wife, American actress Carolyn Jones, is best remembered for her role of Morticia Addams in television series ‘The Addams Family’ (1964).

Lived with his second wife, Candy, in a 123-roomed mansion, called ‘The Manor’ in Holmby Hills, outside Los Angeles, which he bought in 1983. The largest private residence in California, tabloids dubbed it ‘Candy’s Castle’, with the master bedroom the size of a basketball court and two rooms reserved solely for gift wrapping. Other features included a screening room, swimming pool, tennis court, gymnasium, bowling alley, and four two-car garages.

For many years he gave his date of birth as 1928, when in fact it is 1923.

1971 - named ‘Man of the Year’ by the Publicists Guild of America.

1972 and 1985 - named ‘Man of the Year’ by the Beverly Hills chapter of B’Nai B’rith (a Jewish community service organisation).

1993 - named ‘Man of the Year’ by the Scopus organisation.