Duke Kahanamoku was an American actor and Olympic swimmer, best known for his roles in movies like “Wake of the Red Witch,” “Mister Roberts,” and “Adventure.” He was born on August 24, 1890, in Honolulu, Hawaii, and became a legendary figure in sports and entertainment.
Personal and Family Life
Duke Kahanamoku was married to Nadine Alexander from August 2, 1940, until his death on January 22, 1968. He served as the sheriff of Honolulu for twenty years, balancing his law enforcement duties with his passion for swimming and acting. Duke had a close relationship with his brother, Sam, who was also a notable swimmer.
Athletic Career
Duke was one of the greatest Olympic champions, winning three gold medals and two silver medals across four Olympic Games. He first gained fame at the 1912 Stockholm Olympics, winning the Men’s 100-Meter Freestyle. He continued to compete, garnering further accolades at the 1920 and 1924 Olympics, making him a symbol of Olympic greatness and heroism.
Death and Legacy
Duke Kahanamoku passed away from a heart attack on January 22, 1968, in Honolulu, Hawaii. He left behind a lasting legacy, being celebrated not only for his athletic achievements but also for his contributions to the film industry. His beachfront bar and restaurant, “Duke’s,” remains a popular tourist spot in Honolulu, showcasing his impact on Hawaiian culture.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Wake of the Red Witch | 1948-12-30 | Ua Nuke |
| Girl of the Port | 1930-02-02 | Kalita |
| Adventure | 1925-04-26 | Noah Noa |
| No Father to Guide Him | 1925-09-05 | The Lifeguard |
| Isle of Sunken Gold | 1927-08-31 | The Devil-Ape |
| The Pony Express | 1925-09-03 | Indian Chief |
| Old Ironsides | 1926-12-06 | Pirate Captain (uncredited) |
| Around the World with Douglas Fairbanks | 1931-11-19 | Self |
| Mister Roberts | 1955-07-10 | Native Chief |
| Woman Wise | 1928-01-08 | Guard |
| Waterman | 2022-04-01 | Self (archive footage) |
| Isle of Escape | 1930-03-01 | Manua |
| Hula | 1927-08-28 | Hawaiian Boy (uncredited) |
| Where East Is East | 1929-05-04 | Wild Animal Trapper (uncredited) |
| Sons of the Surf | 1926-10-03 | |
| Lord Jim | 1925-11-15 | Tamb Itam |