Hiding the Pain
Often the butt of every joke, Curly warmed his way into audience’s hearts as the fan favorite of the trio. However, this lovable Stooge hid many insecurities including a dependency on food and alcohol and intense need for companionship. In 1945, he married Marion Buxbaum and entered into a unhealthy relationship where he attempted to earn her affection through expensive gifts. The two ended up divorcing nine months later in an extremely bitter legal battle. In his despair, Curly sought comfort in his old habits leading to weight gain, increased hypertension, retinal hemorrhages and ultimately a stroke.