Personal life of Gene Roddenberry

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Overview of the personal life of Gene Roddenberry

Gene Roddenberry

Name	Gene Roddenberry
Birth name
Birth date	August 19, 1921
Birth place	El Paso, Texas, U.S.
Death date	October 24, 1991(1991-10-24) (aged 70)
Death place	Santa Monica, California, U.S.
Alma mater
Occupation	Television screenwriter, producer
Years active	1951–1991
Organization
Known for
Notable works
Spouse(s)	Eileen-Anita Rexroat (m. 1942; div. 1969) Majel Barrett (m. 1969; his death 1991)
Website

Gene Roddenberry was an American television screenwriter and producer, best known for creating the Star Trek franchise. This article focuses on his personal life, including his family, relationships, and interests outside of his professional career.

Early Life

Gene Roddenberry was born Eugene Wesley Roddenberry on August 19, 1921, in El Paso, Texas. He was the son of Eugene Edward Roddenberry and Caroline "Glen" Roddenberry. The family moved to Los Angeles, California, where Gene spent most of his childhood.

Family and Relationships

Roddenberry married Eileen-Anita Rexroat in 1942. The couple had two daughters, Darleen Anita and Dawn Allison. However, their marriage ended in divorce in 1969.

In the same year, Roddenberry married Majel Barrett, an actress who appeared in various roles in the Star Trek series. They had one son, Rod Roddenberry, who later became a television producer and the CEO of Roddenberry Entertainment.

Interests and Hobbies

Outside of his work in television, Roddenberry had a keen interest in aviation. He served as a pilot in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II and later worked as a commercial pilot for Pan American World Airways.

Roddenberry was also known for his humanist beliefs. He was a member of the American Humanist Association and often incorporated themes of humanism and social justice into his work.

Health and Death

In the late 1980s, Roddenberry's health began to decline. He suffered from cerebrovascular disease and diabetes. Gene Roddenberry passed away on October 24, 1991, in Santa Monica, California, at the age of 70.

Legacy

Roddenberry's personal life and professional achievements have left a lasting impact on popular culture. His vision of a future where humanity has overcome its differences continues to inspire fans around the world.

See Also

• Star Trek
• Majel Barrett
• Rod Roddenberry
• American Humanist Association