Linda Susan Agar, the only daughter of Hollywood legend Shirley Temple and her first husband, John Agar, led a life that was both private and impactful. While she was born into a famous family, Linda chose a path away from the limelight, dedicating herself to public service and a life of privacy. This article delves into her early life, family relationships, career, and lasting legacy.
Early Years and Upbringing
Birth and Family Background:Linda Susan Agar was born on January 30, 1948, in Santa Monica, California, to Shirley Temple, one of Hollywood’s most famous child stars, and John Agar, an actor known for his roles in science fiction and Western films. Her birth was widely reported due to her parents’ celebrity status.
Early Life and Parental Influence:When Linda was just two years old, her parents divorced in 1950. Shirley Temple remarried shortly thereafter, to businessman Charles Alden Black, and raised Linda with her two half-siblings, Charles Alden Black Jr. and Lori Black, in a more private setting than her earlier years had been. Despite her famous family, Linda’s upbringing was shielded from excessive media scrutiny.
Parental Relationships and Influence
Shirley Temple and John Agar’s Marriage:Shirley Temple and John Agar met in 1943 when Shirley was only 15 and John was serving in the Army Air Forces. Their marriage in 1945 was highly publicized, but it ended in divorce in 1950 due to personal and professional challenges. After their split, both Shirley and John continued to pursue successful careers, with Shirley transitioning into public service.
Siblings and Stepparents:Following her divorce from John Agar, Shirley Temple married Charles Alden Black, and together they had two children, Lori Black and Charles Alden Black Jr. Linda also had step-siblings from her father’s second marriage to Loretta Barnett Combs: Martin Agar and John G. Agar III. One of Linda’s half-siblings, Lori Black, later became known for her role as a bassist in the band Melvins.
Personal Life and Family
Marriage and Children:Linda Susan Agar married Burton James Tidwell, and together they had a daughter, Teresa Caltabiano. Despite her connection to some of the most famous names in Hollywood and government, Linda chose to live a relatively secluded life. She kept her personal life largely out of the public eye, focusing on family and privacy.
Bond with Shirley Temple:Linda’s relationship with her mother, Shirley Temple, was incredibly close. Shirley had a significant influence on Linda’s principles and personal choices. Linda’s preference for a private life and her commitment to dignity were reflective of the values her mother instilled in her.
Career and Accomplishments
Acting Career:In the late 1950s, Linda Susan Agar made a few brief appearances in films and television. Her credits include minor roles in films such as The Bachelor Party (1957), Fort Apache (1948), and Reform School Girl (1957). She also appeared in the TV series Shirley Temple’s Storybook (1958), which was part of her brief foray into acting.
Public Service Career:After her short acting stint, Linda Susan Agar shifted her focus to public service. She became the U.S. Chief of Protocol under President George H. W. Bush, serving from 1989 to 1993. In this role, she was responsible for organizing state functions and managing diplomatic relations. Later, she was appointed U.S. Ambassador to the Czech Republic, serving from 2003 to 2006. Her work in government showcased her dedication to public service and diplomacy.
Later Life and Passing
Retirement and Privacy:After retiring from her distinguished career in public service, Linda Susan Agar led a private life, spending her time with her family and engaging in personal interests. She avoided the public eye and remained out of the media spotlight, in line with her desire for seclusion.
Death:Linda Susan Agar passed away in California in 2000. The cause of her death was kept private, reflecting her lifelong commitment to privacy and discretion. Despite her famous lineage, she lived a life that prioritized her family and her own values over the public spotlight.
Legacy
Impact and Contributions:Linda Susan Agar’s legacy is defined by her dedication to public service. While her brief acting career is remembered, it is her work in diplomacy and government that has left a lasting mark. She served her country with distinction, first as U.S. Chief of Protocol and later as U.S. Ambassador to the Czech Republic, roles that displayed her professionalism and commitment to international relations.
Family Legacy:The influence of Shirley Temple on Linda’s life was profound. Linda carried forward her mother’s values of dignity, humility, and privacy. Linda’s daughter, Teresa Caltabiano, and her grandchildren continue to uphold the Agar family name, honoring the legacy of both Linda and Shirley Temple.
Conclusion
Linda Susan Agar’s life was marked by both a rich family history and a remarkable career in public service. Although born into Hollywood royalty, she carved her own path, choosing a life of dignity and public service. Her story is a reminder of the importance of family, the value of privacy, and the impact of public service. Through her roles in government and her steadfast commitment to her family, Linda Susan Agar’s legacy continues to inspire.
FAQs
Q: Who was Linda Susan Agar?
Linda Susan Agar was the daughter of Shirley Temple and her first husband, John Agar. Born on January 30, 1948, in Santa Monica, California, she led a life dedicated to privacy and public service.
Q: Who were Linda Susan Agar’s parents?
Linda Susan Agar’s parents were Shirley Temple, the famous child actor and diplomat, and John Agar, an actor known for his roles in science fiction and Westerns. They married in 1945 and divorced in 1950.
Q: What was Linda Susan Agar’s career?
Linda Susan Agar briefly pursued acting but later found her calling in public service. She served as the U.S. Chief of Protocol from 1989 to 1993 and as U.S. Ambassador to the Czech Republic from 2003 to 2006.
Q: Who were Linda Susan Agar’s siblings?
Linda Susan Agar had two younger half-siblings from her mother’s second marriage: Charles Alden Black Jr. and Lori Black. She also had two step-siblings, Martin Agar and John G. Agar III, from her father’s second marriage.
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