Gig Young

Project: Blazing Saddles

These days, only a few people would remember actor Gig Young, but four decades ago he was one of the biggest names in Hollywood. In fact, he was a former Oscar-winner whose career went into a decline and never quite recovered from it. During his peak, he was often cast in the role of charming gentlemen and frequently received lead roles. Needless to say, he was well-loved within the industry and also had many fans who followed his projects. His performances received plenty of praise and he even got credit as a host for Warner Bros. Presents.

However, his colorful onscreen image was disguising something far darker. Eventually, reports surfaced about the struggles he was facing personally. Things came to a head when he fainted on the set of Mel Brooks’ Blazing Saddles due to his issues with alcohol. Young was fired from the film and never really quite recovered the brilliance of his earlier career.