Robert DeLeon was a producer and managing editor of Jet magazine, who was best known for being the husband of the legendary actress, singer, model, and activist, Diahann Carroll. He died in a car crash in 1977, at the age of 26, leaving behind a grieving widow and a mystery about his final moments. What was the cause of his death? Was it an accident or a suicide? Here is what we know.
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A Brief Biography of Robert DeLeon
Robert DeLeon was born on October 14, 1950, in California, United States. He started his career as a journalist and worked for various publications, including Ebony and Jet. He became the managing editor of Jet magazine, which was a weekly magazine that focused on African-American news, culture, and entertainment. He was also a producer and worked on several documentaries and TV shows, such as The Black Woman, The Black Family, and The Black Athlete.
His Marriage to Diahann Carroll
Robert DeLeon met Diahann Carroll for the first time when he was assigned to cover a story on Carroll’s 1975 Oscar nomination for the film, Claudine. He was immediately smitten by her beauty and charisma, and pursued her relentlessly. Carroll, who was 17 years older than him, and had been married three times before, was initially reluctant to get involved with him, but eventually fell in love with him. They got married on May 25, 1975, in a lavish ceremony in Los Angeles. They seemed to be a happy couple, despite the age difference and the media scrutiny.
The Circumstances of His Death
On March 31, 1977, Robert DeLeon was driving his Porsche 911 on a highway near San Diego, when he lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a guardrail. He was pronounced dead at the scene, while his passenger, a female friend, survived with minor injuries. The police ruled his death as an accident, but some sources claimed that he committed suicide. According to them, he was depressed and unhappy with his marriage, and wanted to end his life. They also alleged that he was involved in drugs and alcohol, and that he was living a fast life after marrying Carroll. Carroll, who was in New York at the time of the crash, was devastated by the news of his death. She later said that she never believed that he killed himself, and that he was a loving and caring husband.
His Legacy and Impact
Robert DeLeon left behind a legacy of excellence and innovation in journalism and production. He was one of the first African-American editors and producers in the industry, and he championed the causes and issues of the black community. He also left behind a widow, who never remarried, and a son from his previous marriage. Diahann Carroll, who died in 2019, at the age of 84, always remembered him as her soulmate and the love of her life. She said that he was the only man who made her feel complete and happy. She also said that he was a brilliant and talented man, who had a lot to offer to the world. Robert DeLeon cause of death may remain a mystery, but his life and achievements will always be remembered and celebrated.
