Montgomery Clift, the talented actor with leading-man looks and a prosperous career, faced a lifelong struggle to find personal happiness while maintaining his true self in the face of Hollywood's expectations. Despite the tragic ending to his life in 1966, there was much more to his story than the tragedy often portrayed.

"Most people think of him as a self-loathing homosexual who destroyed his life from guilt over being gay. That is a big misconception," says Charles Casillo, author of "Elizabeth and Monty: The Untold Story of Their Intimate Friendship." Clift was more concerned with being genuine and not having to hide parts of his true identity.

Edward Montgomery Clift's early life was one of privilege and travel, but the 1929 stock market crash changed everything. At 13, after relocating to Florida, Clift discovered his passion and talent for acting. He debuted on Broadway at 15, and soon Hollywood offered him various roles, including the lead in Tom Sawyer, which he turned down. Clift sought to challenge the traditional Hollywood system, refusing to be restricted by the studios dictating his roles.

The actor also avoided signing contracts with morality clauses that could lead to his dismissal for being gay. His first films, 1948's The Search and Red River, were huge successes, made independently of any studio contracts. Casillo notes, "It was a terrible burden on him to be worshipped as a leading man all the while knowing that if his true nature were revealed, Hollywood and many of his fans would despise him."

Despite the need for secrecy, Clift was surrounded by a close circle of friends who knew and accepted him, including his A Place in the Sun co-star Elizabeth Taylor. His relationships with women were significant, but he was only interested in men as romantic partners. Casillo explains that the impossibility of a romantic relationship with Taylor created a great, unrequited love for both.

The turning point in Clift's life was a car accident in 1956 that left him disfigured and led to increased pill usage and alcoholism. Despite efforts to gain sobriety, his self-destructive nature persisted, though not because of his homosexuality.

In the final years of his life, Clift found some happiness with Lorenzo James. The two traveled, dined, and spent time together, providing Clift with companionship and support. Lorenzo was present when Clift passed away from a sudden heart attack in 1966.

Elizabeth Taylor later paid tribute to her beloved friend, saying, "I loved this man. Part of our friendship was our trust in each other and knowing that the secrets we shared were sacred."