The question of whether John Wayne was left-handed has persisted for years, fueled by occasional observations and speculation among fans. However, the overwhelming evidence points to a definitive answer: no, John Wayne was right-handed.
While there might be instances in films or photographs where he appears to be using his left hand for certain actions, these are likely due to cinematic techniques, the demands of a particular scene, or simply coincidental positioning. Let's delve into why the myth persists and why the truth remains firmly in the right-handed camp.
The Evidence Against Left-Handedness
Several lines of evidence strongly suggest John Wayne's right-handedness:
-
Personal Accounts: Biographers, friends, and family members who knew John Wayne intimately have never reported him as being left-handed. Such a prominent detail about a public figure would likely have been documented if true.
-
Film Analysis: While he may have occasionally used his left hand in specific scenes, a careful examination of his many films shows a consistent preference for using his right hand in everyday actions like drawing a gun, holding a cigarette, or shaking hands. These seemingly small details offer significant insight into his natural hand preference.
-
Photographs: Thousands of photographs exist documenting John Wayne's life. While some may appear ambiguous, the majority show him clearly favoring his right hand for a variety of tasks.
-
Lack of Contemporary Reports: Had John Wayne been left-handed, it's highly likely that the fact would have been mentioned in contemporary news articles, interviews, or other media of the time. No such documentation exists.
Why the Myth Persists
The persistence of the myth likely stems from a few factors:
-
Ambiguous On-Screen Actions: As mentioned earlier, some scenes might show him using his left hand, creating confusion. The demands of a fight scene or a particular camera angle could easily lead to such instances.
-
Misinterpretations of Photographs: Certain poses or positions in photographs can be misleading, leading viewers to incorrectly assume left-handedness.
-
Internet Rumor and Speculation: Once a rumor takes hold online, it's easily perpetuated, regardless of factual basis.
Conclusion: Settling the Debate
The weight of evidence firmly concludes that John Wayne was right-handed. While anecdotal evidence and ambiguous scenes might create confusion, comprehensive analysis of his life and career shows no credible support for the notion of left-handedness. The myth, therefore, should be laid to rest.
