Never obtained a formal education; educated through tutors.
Romantically linked with actresses Lana Turner, Ava Gardner, Dorothy Dandridge, June Allyson, Lee Remick, Kim Novak, Judy Holliday, Evelyn Keyes, and socialites Sharman Douglas and Melissa Weston.
Since he spent his early childhood in France, he spoke French before he spoke English. Later, he struggled to learn English.
Son of actor Sidney Lawford.
The producers of What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? (1962) originally wanted him to play Edwin Flagg. The role would eventually go to Victor Buono.
Uncle of Maria Shriver.
Was the first member of the Rat Pack to pass away. With the death of Joey Bishop in October, 2007, no surviving members of the Rat Pack remain.
When he was child he fell through a French door and cut his right arm very badly; consequently, he never regained full use of his right arm and hand. Thus, he was turned down as unfit for military duty and did not serve during World War II.
With Patricia Kennedy, 4 children: Christopher Lawford (b. 1955), Sydney Maleia Kennedy Lawford (b. 1956), Victoria Francis Lawford (b. 1958), and Robin Elizabeth Lawford (b. 1961).