Rock Brynner, the son of the iconic actor Yul Brynner, passed away at the age of 76 after battling complications of multiple myeloma. While many children of major celebrities struggle to escape their parents’ shadows, Rock Brynner embarked on a unique and multifaceted career that allowed him to carve his own path. From being a road manager for The Band to a novel writer and even a professor of constitutional history, Brynner’s life was filled with intriguing stints in various roles.
Rock Brynner attended prestigious institutions such as Yale, Trinity College Dublin, and Columbia, where he earned a doctorate in American history in 1993. Despite his academic achievements, Brynner’s true passion lied in the arts. In 1970, he wrote and performed a one-man play based on French playwright Jean Cocteau’s addiction memoir, “Opium,” on Broadway. This play was a reflection of Brynner’s personal struggles and experiences, as Cocteau happened to be his godfather. From there, Brynner traveled around Europe as a mime, immersing himself in the world of performance art while battling drug and alcohol addiction.
During his time in Europe, Brynner crossed paths with Muhammad Ali, who was stripped of his championship due to his antiwar stance. Although an unlikely pairing, Ali considered Brynner his “bodyguard,” and they formed a unique friendship. Brynner worked as Ali’s press liaison and used his connections in Dublin to organize a high-profile bout against Al “Blue” Lewis in 1972. This unexpected partnership showcased Brynner’s ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
Upon returning to the United States, Brynner befriended Robbie Robertson, the guitarist and chief songwriter for The Band. Brynner became an integral part of their entourage, often driving the group’s tour bus. It was through Brynner that Robertson was introduced to director Martin Scorsese, resulting in the creation of The Last Waltz, a celebrated concert documentary. Brynner’s connections within the music industry showcased his ability to bridge gaps and foster meaningful relationships.
Brynner’s multifaceted career even extended into the world of business. He met Isaac Tigrett, who had the idea for a rock ‘n’ roll-themed restaurant, and together, they became early investors in the now-famous Hard Rock Cafe. Brynner’s father also joined as an investor, further solidifying their commitment to this unique venture. Brynner took on the role of manager in the New York branch, where the restaurant quickly became a popular hotspot. Despite its initial success, Brynner’s time at the Hard Rock Cafe was short-lived, leading to his eventual return to his true passion: writing.
In the mid-1980s, Brynner refocused his energy on writing. He penned a biographical account of his father’s life titled “Yul: The Man Who Would Be King” in 1989. Simultaneously, he completed his doctorate in American history at Columbia, specializing in constitutional history. After receiving his doctorate, Brynner taught at Marist College and Western Connecticut State University, sharing his knowledge and passion for history with students.
Rock Brynner’s life was a testament to his determination to forge his own path independently of his legendary father. His multifaceted career spanned various industries and showcased his artistic, entrepreneurial, and scholarly talents. From performing on Broadway to befriending Muhammad Ali and spearheading investments in the culinary world, Brynner consistently defied expectations and left his mark on each endeavor. His legacy as a trailblazer in his own right will continue to inspire future generations to pursue their passions fearlessly.