Hank Aaron was an American baseball player who is best known for breaking Babe Ruth’s home run record, his incredible career as an outfielder, and his remarkable achievements in Major League Baseball. His exceptional talent led him to become one of the greatest baseball players in history.
Personal and Family Life
Hank Aaron was born on February 5, 1934, in Mobile, Alabama, to Herbert and Estella Aaron. He was married twice; first to Barbara Lucas from 1953 until their divorce in 1971, with whom he had five children. He then married Billye Aaron in 1973, and they had one child together. Aaron shared a close bond with his brother Tommie Aaron, who also played in the major leagues.
Career Highlights
Aaron began his professional career in the Negro Leagues with the Indianapolis Clowns before joining the Milwaukee Braves in 1954. Over 23 years, he became known as a powerful hitter, leading the National League in home runs and winning numerous accolades, including the Most Valuable Player award in 1957. He faced significant racial adversity during his pursuit of Babe Ruth’s home run record, but his resilience and skill earned him admiration and respect.
Death and Legacy
Hank Aaron passed away on January 22, 2021, in Atlanta, Georgia, due to natural causes. He is remembered not only for his monumental achievements on the field but also for his impact on civil rights and sportsmanship. Aaron’s legacy lives on through his remarkable records and the inspiration he provided to aspiring athletes everywhere.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Fastball | 2016-03-25 | Self (archive footage) |
| Long Time Coming: A 1955 Baseball Story | 2017-08-01 | |
| The Incredible Ida Early | 1987-05-29 | Hank Aaron |
| The Journey of the African-American Athlete | 1996-02-12 | Self |
| Summer Catch | 2001-08-22 | Self |
| Jim Brown: All-American | 2002-03-22 | Self |
| Grand Slam! | 1988-01-17 | Self |
| Seaver | 2019-10-13 | |
| Night of 100 Stars III | 1990-05-21 | Self |
| Reggie | 2023-03-23 | Self |
| The Sensational Shocking Wonderful Wacky 70’s | 1980-01-04 | Self (archive footage) |
| It Ain’t Over | 2023-05-12 | Self (archive footage) |
| Super Stars of Sports: Baseball | 1991-01-01 | Self (archive footage) |
| 2021 World Series Champions: Atlanta Braves | 2021-11-30 | Himself (archive footage) |
| Believeland | 2016-05-14 | |
| The Record Breakers | 1991-01-01 | Self (archive footage) |
| The Ed Sullivan Show | 1948-06-20 | Self |
| Happy Days | 1974-01-15 | |
| Crazy Like a Fox | 1984-12-30 | |
| SportsCentury | 1999-01-21 | |
| The Steve Allen Show | 1956-06-24 | Self – Guest |
| Tony Orlando and Dawn | 1974-12-04 | Self |
| The Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts | 1973-09-14 | Self |
| Baseball | 1994-09-18 | Self |
| Futurama | 1999-03-28 | Hank Aaron (voice) |
| Home Run Derby | 1960-01-10 | Self |
| MLB: Baseball’s Seasons | 2009-01-07 | Himself (archive footage) |
| MacGyver | 1985-09-29 | Hank Aaron |