35 Facts About Porfirio Rubirosa

Who Was Porfirio Rubirosa?

Porfirio Rubirosa was a Dominican diplomat, race car driver, and international playboy. His life was filled with glamour, adventure, and intrigue. Here are some fascinating facts about this enigmatic figure.

1. Porfirio Rubirosa was born on January 22, 1909, in San Francisco de Macorís, Dominican Republic.

2. His father, Pedro María Rubirosa, was a prominent diplomat, which influenced Porfirio's career path.

3. Rubirosa attended the prestigious Lycée Janson de Sailly in Paris, France.

Diplomatic Career

Rubirosa's diplomatic career took him to various parts of the world, where he mingled with the elite and powerful.

4. He served as a diplomat for the Dominican Republic in countries like France, Argentina, and the United States.

5. Rubirosa was appointed as the Dominican Republic's ambassador to France in 1936.

6. He played a significant role in maintaining diplomatic relations between the Dominican Republic and other nations during his tenure.

Marriages and Relationships

Rubirosa's love life was as colorful as his career, with numerous high-profile marriages and relationships.

7. He married five times, with his first wife being Flor de Oro Trujillo, the daughter of Dominican dictator Rafael Trujillo.

8. His second wife was French actress Danielle Darrieux, whom he married in 1942.

9. Rubirosa's third marriage was to American heiress Doris Duke in 1947, making him one of the wealthiest men in the world at the time.

10. He married another American heiress, Barbara Hutton, in 1953.

11. His fifth and final marriage was to French actress Odile Rodin in 1956.

Lifestyle and Hobbies

Rubirosa's lifestyle was extravagant, and he had a passion for various hobbies.

12. He was an avid polo player and competed in numerous international tournaments.

13. Rubirosa was also a skilled race car driver, participating in events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

14. He had a penchant for fast cars and owned several luxury vehicles, including Ferraris and Maseratis.

15. Rubirosa was known for his impeccable fashion sense and was considered a style icon of his time.

Connections with Celebrities

Rubirosa's charm and charisma brought him into contact with many famous personalities.

16. He was friends with Hollywood stars like Frank Sinatra and Ava Gardner.

17. Rubirosa was often seen at glamorous parties and events, rubbing shoulders with the elite.

18. He had a close friendship with the Kennedy family, particularly with John F. Kennedy.

Controversies and Scandals

Rubirosa's life was not without its share of controversies and scandals.

19. His marriage to Doris Duke ended in a highly publicized divorce, with Duke accusing him of infidelity.

20. Rubirosa was rumored to have had affairs with numerous famous women, including Zsa Zsa Gabor and Marilyn Monroe.

21. He was once arrested in Paris for allegedly assaulting a police officer, though the charges were later dropped.

Legacy and Influence

Rubirosa's legacy continues to intrigue and inspire people around the world.

22. He is often cited as the inspiration for Ian Fleming's James Bond character.

23. Rubirosa's life has been the subject of numerous books and documentaries.

24. His charm, style, and adventurous spirit have made him a cultural icon.

Death and Aftermath

Rubirosa's life came to a tragic end, but his story lives on.

25. He died in a car crash on July 5, 1965, in Paris, France, while driving his Ferrari 250 GT.

26. Rubirosa was buried in the Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris, a resting place for many famous figures.

27. His death marked the end of an era, but his legend continues to captivate people.

Interesting Tidbits

Here are some lesser-known facts about Rubirosa that add to his mystique.

28. He was fluent in several languages, including Spanish, French, and English.

29. Rubirosa was known for his culinary skills and loved cooking for his friends.

30. He had a passion for flying and held a pilot's license.

31. Rubirosa was an accomplished equestrian and enjoyed horseback riding.

32. He was a talented musician and played the piano.

33. Rubirosa's charm and charisma were legendary, making him a favorite among women and men alike.

34. He was a philanthropist and supported various charitable causes throughout his life.

35. Rubirosa's life story continues to inspire books, movies, and documentaries, keeping his legacy alive.

The Legacy of Porfirio Rubirosa

Porfirio Rubirosa's life was anything but ordinary. Known for his charm, wealth, and adventurous spirit, he left a mark on history that continues to fascinate. From his diplomatic career to his high-profile marriages, Rubirosa embodied a lifestyle many only dream of. His connections with powerful figures and his passion for fast cars and polo added layers to his intriguing persona.

Rubirosa's legacy isn't just about his flamboyant lifestyle. He also played significant roles in international diplomacy and had a knack for navigating complex social circles. His story reminds us that history is filled with colorful characters who defy easy categorization.

Whether remembered as a playboy, a diplomat, or a sportsman, Rubirosa's life offers a glimpse into a world of glamour and intrigue. His story remains a testament to a bygone era of elegance and adventure.