Paul Newman liked to joke about his trademark blue eyes, musing that if they turned brown his career might be in jeopardy, and was delighted to learn he was on Richard Nixon's enemies list, the Academy Award-winning actor's daughter said Monday.
Nell Newman, whose father died a year ago at age 83, gave a rare glimpse into the actor's life in an interview with The Associated Press. She said her father considered himself lucky and wanted to give back, leading to his passion for philanthropy.
"He always used to joke if his eyes turned brown, what would happen to his career," she said. "He always felt he was just really lucky."
The Hollywood star won an Oscar and took home two honorary ones, and had major roles in more than 50 motion pictures, including "Cool Hand Luke," "Exodus" and "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid." The actor also saved a document that showed he had turned up on President Nixon's enemies' list.
"He was tickled pink and framed it," Newman said.