Anthony Dion Fay: The Adoptive Son Of Barbara Stanwyck
Anthony Dion Fay is the adoptive son of the renowned American actress, model, and dancer Barbara Stanwyck and her husband Frank Fay.
Barbara Stanwyck, celebrated for her authentic screen performances and wide-ranging talent, enjoyed a prosperous career across stage, television, and film, spanning more than six decades.
In this article, Let’s explore the life and experiences of her adoptive son, Anthony Dion Fay.
Quick Bio
| Name | Anthony Dion Fay |
| Birth Name | John Charles Greene |
| Gender | Male |
| Famous as | Barbara Stanwyck’s son |
| Date of Birth | February 5, 1932 |
| Place of Birth | Los Angeles, California, United States |
| Date of Death | May 17, 2006 |
| Age (at the time of death) | 74 years |
| Parents | Frank Fay and Barbara Stanwyck |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Spouse | N/A |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Zodiac Sign | Aquarius |
Early Life and Struggles
Anthony Dion Fay’s life began with hardship, as his biological mother left him for adoption shortly after his birth.
Born in Los Angeles on February 5, 1932, Anthony found a new family when Hollywood starlet Barbara Stanwyck became his adoptive mother.
However, Barbara’s decision to adopt Anthony was not rooted in a desire for motherhood; rather, it was an attempt to save her troubled marriage to Frank Fay.
When Anthony entered the lives of Barbara and Frank, his adoptive father, their marriage was already strained.
Frank’s reported abusive behavior towards Barbara was coupled with his struggles with alcohol abuse.
Barbara saw bringing Anthony into their family as a potential remedy for their troubled relationship.
However, his presence failed to save their union, which continued to deteriorate over time. Sadly, Anthony experienced the harsh consequences of Frank’s alcohol-fueled outbursts.
Eventually, Barbara made the difficult decision to file for divorce. Despite Barbara gaining custody of Anthony after her divorce from Frank, Anthony’s challenges were far from over.
His Mother: Barbara Stanwyck
Barbara Stanwyck, originally named Ruby Catherine Stevens, was born on July 16, 1907, in Brooklyn, New York.
She emerged as an iconic American actress celebrated for her versatile and resolute portrayals of women across more than 80 films.
Stanwyck’s early years were marked by adversity, as she became an orphan at the tender age of four and endured a challenging upbringing, spending time in foster homes.
Her journey into the spotlight commenced at the age of 16 when she joined the Ziegfeld Follies as a chorus girl, eventually transitioning to Broadway.
Stanwyck’s breakout moment arrived with her lead role in the Broadway production of ‘Burlesque’ in 1927.
This paved the way for her transition to Hollywood in the late 1920s, where she rapidly ascended to stardom.
Throughout her illustrious film career spanning 38 years, Stanwyck appeared in 85 films, earning her first Academy Award nomination for her role in ‘Stella Dallas’ in 1937.
By 1944, she had become the highest-paid actress in Hollywood. Among her many acclaimed performances, her role in the noir classic ‘Double Indemnity’ stands out.
Beyond the silver screen, Stanwyck made a significant impact on television, winning three Emmy Awards for her work.
Her contributions to the entertainment industry were recognized with an Honorary Oscar in 1982 and the Golden Globe Cecil B. DeMille Award in 1986.
Despite her immense talent and critical acclaim, Stanwyck never received an Academy Award despite being nominated four times.
Personally, she was married twice, first to comedian Frank Fay and later to actor Robert Taylor.
Barbara Stanwyck’s remarkable journey came to an end on January 20, 1990, but her legacy as a pioneering actress and resilient woman endures, leaving a significant mark on the world of entertainment.
His Father: Frank Fay
Frank Fay, originally named Francis Anthony Donner, was born on November 17, 1891, in San Francisco, California.
He emerged as a pioneering figure in American comedy, earning recognition as the first stand-up comedian.
Fay’s wit and charisma propelled him to success, establishing him as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
Throughout his career, Fay showcased his talents not only as a comedian but also as an actor and writer.
He was known for his sharp humor and confident style, often proclaiming himself as the greatest comedian in the world.
Fay’s personal life was marked by multiple marriages, including his union with actress Barbara Stanwyck from August 26, 1928, to December 30, 1935.
Despite initially aiding Stanwyck’s film career, their relationship deteriorated as Fay’s own career declined while Stanwyck’s soared. Together, they adopted Anthony Dion in 1932.
Struggles with alcoholism and personal challenges posed obstacles in Fay’s career, but he experienced a resurgence in the 1940s with his acclaimed role in the play “Harvey.”
Frank Fay passed away on September 25, 1961, in Santa Monica, California, at the age of 69.
Educational Journey
Anthony Dion Fay’s educational path was marked with difficulties.
In a 1960 interview, he candidly acknowledged his shortcomings as a student, admitting to a lack of commitment to his studies.
Despite Barbara Stanwyck’s encouragement for him to prioritize education, Anthony struggled academically and failed to capitalize on the opportunities afforded to him.
He took responsibility for his academic shortcomings, expressing regret for not fully embracing the educational opportunities presented to him.
He recognized that the responsibility for his lack of academic achievement lay more with himself than with Barbara.
Throughout his educational journey, personal challenges and a strained relationship with his adoptive mother cast a shadow over his pursuit of learning.
Professional Career
Anthony Dion Fay’s profession is not widely documented.
He was known to have been adopted by Barbara Stanwyck and Frank Fay, both prominent figures in the entertainment industry.
However, there is limited information available about Anthony Dion Fay’s career or profession.
In 1960, at the age of 28, Anthony found himself entangled in legal trouble, having been arrested for selling pornographic literature to teenagers.
Despite being married at the time and being a father to a son, he led a modest life, working at a motel to make ends meet.
Anthony Dion Fay’s Marital Life
Limited information is available regarding Anthony Dion Fay’s family life, as he maintained a private existence.
However, according to some sources, Anthony Dion Fay married Rose Bywalski on January 7, 1968, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Although Barbara Stanwyck, his adoptive mother, did not attend his wedding, she did gift the newlyweds with a bathroom set.
Anthony expressed disappointment that Barbara did not attend his wedding, despite sending an invitation.
Similarly, when he and his wife welcomed their son, Barbara sent them baby furniture and $100, yet Anthony remained saddened by her absence, as she never met her only grandson.
Anthony Had an Estranged Relationship With His Mother, Barbara Stanwyck
Barbara Stanwyck hoped that by bringing Anthony into her family, it might mend her strained relationship with Frank.
Unfortunately, Anthony’s presence did not repair their union; instead, it continued to deteriorate over time.
Like his mother, Anthony suffered from Frank’s alcohol-fueled outbursts until Barbara eventually filed for divorce.
Barbara’s lack of experience with children, coupled with her own abandonment issues, led to a noticeable absence of affection toward Anthony as he grew older.
This lack of connection became more apparent over the years, with Barbara failing to develop a relationship with her adoptive son.
As Anthony matured, his behavior reportedly became troublesome, causing further strain in the household. His mother’s remarriage to Robert Taylor was also disrupted by Anthony’s alleged interference.
Despite Robert’s acknowledgment that Anthony wasn’t a “bad kid,” his academic performance suffered.
When Anthony faced a severe injury at age 12, Barbara failed to visit him in the hospital or respond to the doctor’s calls. This lack of maternal concern deeply affected Anthony.
As Anthony’s lawless behavior escalated, Barbara and Robert confronted him about his future.
Despite Barbara keeping a photo of Anthony, her affection remained minimal, with Anthony recalling their distant interactions. Even in their final encounter, Barbara made it clear she wanted no involvement with Anthony.
This sentiment persisted until her death, as she instructed that he was not permitted to see her under any circumstances.
Despite Anthony’s hopes for reconciliation, Barbara’s passing marked the end of any chance for closure.
Barbara Stanwyck passed away in January 1990, leaving behind a legacy as a self-reliant and gutsy woman, despite Anthony never experiencing her love.
Anthony Dion Fay’s Net Worth
As of now, specific information about Anthony Dion Fay’s net worth is not readily available.
However, it’s worth noting that his mother, Barbara Stanwyck’s net worth at the time of her death was reported to be $10 million.
Reports suggest that Anthony received a portion of money from Stanwyck’s estate, although it was under the condition that he never publicly discuss her.
Anthony Dion Fay’s Death
Anthony passed away in Van Nuys, located in Los Angeles County, on May 17, 2006, at the age of 74.
However, details regarding the cause of his death and his burial arrangements remain undisclosed.