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Rock Hudson dies of AIDS

In the early 1980s doctors began noticing rare cancers and infections striking otherwise healthy young gay men. Something was destroying their immune systems — something fatal and possibly contagious. At first it was called the 'gay plague.' Then others began dying: Haitians, intravenous drug users, hemophiliacs and heterosexuals. Fear, confusion and prejudice reigned as the disease eventually known as AIDS grew from a mystery to an epidemic. This topic contains discussion of a sexual nature. The medical information in the clips was believed accurate at the time of broadcast, but may have changed.

Director Arthur Hiller reflects on the life and death of the matinee idol who brought attention to the disease.

Director Arthur Hiller reflects on the life and death of the matinee idol who brought attention to the disease.
Medium: Radio
Program: As It Happens
Broadcast Date: Oct. 2, 1985
Guest(s): Arthur Hiller
Host: Alan Maitland, Dennis Trudeau
Duration: 5:57

Last updated: December 3, 2012

Page consulted on March 27, 2013

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