Hunter S. Thompson

Date of Birth: July 18, 1937

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: February 20, 2005

Biography

Hunter S. Thompson was an American journalist and author best known for establishing the Gonzo journalism movement, a style of journalism where reporters involve themselves in the action to such a degree that they become central figures of their stories. Born in Louisville, Kentucky, Thompson’s early years were marred by juvenile delinquency and a brief stint in prison, which halted his formal education. Despite this, he developed a keen interest in writing and went on to contribute to various publications, eventually gaining fame with his book “Hell’s Angels: The Strange and Terrible Saga of the Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs” in 1967. Thompson’s most notable work, “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas,” was published in 1971 and later adapted into a film starring Johnny Depp. His unique, immersive style of journalism and his willingness to push boundaries made him a counterculture icon. Thompson’s life was as colorful and controversial as his work, marked by his outspoken views, heavy drug use, and a love for firearms. He continued to write and influence journalism until his death in 2005. Thompson’s legacy endures through his extensive body of work, which continues to inspire new generations of writers and journalists.

5 Interesting Facts about Hunter S. Thompson

1. Hunter S. Thompson ran for sheriff of Pitkin County, Colorado, in 1970 on the Freak Power ticket but lost.

2. He was a close friend of the artist Ralph Steadman, who illustrated many of his books and articles.

3. Thompson was an avid gun enthusiast and kept a vast collection of firearms.

4. He was a major influence on the character of Uncle Duke in Garry Trudeau’s comic strip “Doonesbury.”

5. Thompson’s ashes were fired out of a cannon as per his wishes in a ceremony funded by Johnny Depp.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Hunter S. Thompson

1. “I hate to advocate drugs, alcohol, violence, or insanity to anyone, but they’ve always worked for me.”

2. “Buy the ticket, take the ride.”

3. “The Edge… there is no honest way to explain it because the only people who really know where it is are the ones who have gone over.”

4. “When the going gets weird, the weird turn pro.”

5. “Freedom is something that dies unless it’s used.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the time of his death, Hunter S. Thompson’s net worth was estimated to be around $5 million.

Children

Hunter S. Thompson had one son, Juan Fitzgerald Thompson, who was born on March 23, 1964. Juan is a writer and has contributed to preserving and promoting his father’s legacy.