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35 Facts About Cheryl Crane

Melisse Lazarus

Written by Melisse Lazarus

Modified & Updated: 30 Sep 2024

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Source: Wikipedia.org

Who is Cheryl Crane? Cheryl Crane, born July 25, 1943, is the daughter of Hollywood legend Lana Turner and restaurateur Stephen Crane. Why is she famous? Cheryl gained notoriety at age 14 after fatally stabbing her mother's abusive boyfriend, Johnny Stompanato, in what was ruled a justifiable homicide. What else is she known for? Beyond that infamous incident, Cheryl has built a life as an author and real estate agent. Did you know? She penned a memoir, "Detour: A Hollywood Story," detailing her tumultuous upbringing and life in the shadow of her famous mother. Want more? Here are 35 intriguing facts about Cheryl Crane that will give you a deeper look into her life, career, and legacy.

Key Takeaways:

  • Cheryl Crane, daughter of Hollywood stars, overcame a traumatic event to lead a diverse and impactful life. Her resilience and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights continue to inspire many.
  • Despite a tumultuous past, Cheryl found success as an author, real estate agent, and advocate. Her story serves as a reminder of the complexities of growing up in the public eye.
Table of Contents
01Early Life and Family Background
02The Stabbing Incident
03Life After the Incident
04Relationships and Personal Life
05Career and Achievements
06Legacy and Impact
07Fun Facts and Trivia
08Cheryl Crane's Remarkable Life

Early Life and Family Background

Cheryl Crane, born into Hollywood royalty, has a fascinating life story. Her parents, both famous in their own right, set the stage for a life filled with drama and intrigue.

  1. Cheryl was born on July 25, 1943, in Los Angeles, California.
  2. Her mother, Lana Turner, was a renowned actress known for her roles in classic films like "The Postman Always Rings Twice."
  3. Cheryl's father, Stephen Crane, was a restaurateur and nightclub owner.
  4. She was named after Cheryl Walker, a close friend of her mother.
  5. Cheryl's parents divorced when she was just a baby.

The Stabbing Incident

One of the most shocking events in Cheryl's life occurred when she was a teenager. This incident would forever change her life and the lives of those around her.

  1. On April 4, 1958, Cheryl stabbed her mother's boyfriend, Johnny Stompanato, to death.
  2. Stompanato was a known mobster with ties to the Los Angeles underworld.
  3. Cheryl claimed she acted in self-defense to protect her mother from Stompanato's violent behavior.
  4. The incident was ruled a justifiable homicide, and Cheryl was not charged with any crime.
  5. The case received massive media attention, making Cheryl a household name overnight.

Life After the Incident

Despite the traumatic event, Cheryl managed to carve out a life for herself. She pursued various interests and found ways to cope with her past.

  1. Cheryl attended the University of Hawaii, where she studied art.
  2. She later worked as a model and real estate agent.
  3. In 1988, she published her autobiography, "Detour: A Hollywood Story."
  4. Cheryl has been open about her struggles with substance abuse and mental health issues.
  5. She has also been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, coming out as a lesbian in the 1980s.

Relationships and Personal Life

Cheryl's personal life has been as eventful as her public one. Her relationships and experiences have shaped who she is today.

  1. Cheryl has been in a long-term relationship with her partner, Joyce LeRoy, since the 1970s.
  2. The couple has lived together in Palm Springs, California, for many years.
  3. Cheryl and Joyce have been active in their local community, supporting various charitable causes.
  4. Cheryl has a close relationship with her mother, Lana Turner, despite their tumultuous past.
  5. She has also maintained a low profile, preferring to stay out of the limelight.

Career and Achievements

Cheryl has had a diverse career, dabbling in various fields and achieving success in many of them.

  1. Cheryl worked as a real estate agent in Beverly Hills for several years.
  2. She has also been a successful author, writing both fiction and non-fiction books.
  3. In addition to her autobiography, she has written a mystery novel titled "The Bad Always Die Twice."
  4. Cheryl has appeared on numerous talk shows and documentaries, sharing her life story with the world.
  5. She has been a guest speaker at various events, discussing topics such as mental health and LGBTQ+ rights.

Legacy and Impact

Cheryl's life has left a lasting impact on those who know her story. Her resilience and strength continue to inspire many.

  1. Cheryl's autobiography, "Detour: A Hollywood Story," has been praised for its honesty and insight.
  2. She has been an advocate for mental health awareness, sharing her own experiences to help others.
  3. Cheryl's story has been the subject of several documentaries and TV specials.
  4. She has been recognized for her contributions to the LGBTQ+ community.
  5. Cheryl's life serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges faced by those growing up in the public eye.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Beyond the headlines and drama, there are many interesting tidbits about Cheryl's life that are worth noting.

  1. Cheryl is an avid gardener and enjoys spending time tending to her plants.
  2. She has a passion for cooking and often hosts dinner parties for friends and family.
  3. Cheryl is a fan of classic Hollywood films, particularly those starring her mother.
  4. She has a collection of vintage clothing and accessories, many of which belonged to her mother.
  5. Cheryl enjoys traveling and has visited numerous countries around the world.

Cheryl Crane's Remarkable Life

Cheryl Crane's life is a tapestry of intriguing facts and unforgettable moments. From her early years as the daughter of Hollywood legend Lana Turner to her own notable achievements as an author and real estate agent, Cheryl's journey is nothing short of fascinating. Her resilience in the face of personal and public challenges showcases her strength and determination. Cheryl's story isn't just about her famous lineage; it's about carving out her own identity and making a mark in the world. Whether you're a fan of classic Hollywood or simply love a compelling life story, Cheryl Crane's life offers plenty to admire and learn from. Her experiences remind us that even in the shadow of fame, one can find their own light and path.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Cheryl Crane?
Cheryl Crane is the daughter of Hollywood legend Lana Turner. Born in 1943, her life took a dramatic turn when, at just 14 years old, she was involved in the stabbing death of her mother's boyfriend, Johnny Stompanato, claiming it was to protect her mother. This event thrust her into the spotlight, but there's much more to her story than this single incident.
What happened to Johnny Stompanato?
Johnny Stompanato, a known gangster and Lana Turner's lover, was fatally stabbed by Cheryl Crane in 1958. Crane stated she acted in defense of her mother during a violent altercation. The court later ruled the incident as justifiable homicide, meaning Crane was not held criminally responsible for his death.
Did Cheryl Crane write any books?
Yes, Cheryl Crane has penned several books. Among them are her memoirs, where she gives readers a glimpse into her tumultuous life, including her relationship with her famous mother and the aftermath of the Stompanato killing. She's also written novels, showcasing her talent extends beyond her own life story.
How did Cheryl Crane's life change after the incident?
After the incident, Cheryl Crane's life was forever altered. She faced intense public scrutiny and battled personal issues, including a stint in a reform school. Despite these challenges, she managed to carve out a successful real estate career and became an author, sharing her unique perspective through her writings.
Was Cheryl Crane involved in Hollywood?
While Cheryl Crane didn't pursue an acting career like her mother, Lana Turner, she certainly grew up in Hollywood's glare. Her firsthand experiences of its highs and lows, coupled with her personal struggles and triumphs, provide a fascinating insight into a life touched by fame but defined by resilience.
How is Cheryl Crane's relationship with her mother portrayed in her writings?
In her writings, Cheryl Crane offers a candid look at her complex relationship with her mother, Lana Turner. She speaks openly about the challenges they faced, the bond they shared, and how they navigated the ups and downs of life in the public eye. Her memoirs serve as a testament to their enduring connection despite the trials they endured.
What can readers learn from Cheryl Crane's story?
Readers can learn a great deal about resilience, forgiveness, and the power of moving forward from Cheryl Crane's story. Her life is a testament to overcoming adversity, finding one's path despite past traumas, and the importance of writing one's own narrative, no matter how the world may perceive you.

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