1. Robert Opel was an American photographer and art gallery owner most famous for streaking during the 46th Academy Awards in 1974.
13 Facts About Robert Opel
1. 2.
Robert Opel was concerned his activities would cause the family embarrassment.
3.
In college, Robert Opel was elected to Student Congress, and served as chairman of a regional debate team.
4.
In 1974, Robert Opel taught English as a second language for the Los Angeles Unified School District.
5.
Robert Opel was fired from that job following the Oscars incident.
6.
In March 1978, Robert Opel opened Fey-Way Studios, a gallery of gay male art, at 1287 Howard Street in San Francisco.
7.
Robert Opel ran naked past David Niven flashing a peace sign while Niven was introducing Elizabeth Taylor.
8.
Later, some evidence arose suggesting that Robert Opel's appearance was facilitated by the show's producer, Jack Haley Jr.
9.
Robert Opel said that, during the dress rehearsal, Niven had asked Metzler's wife to borrow a pen so he could write down the famous ad-lib.
10.
Robert Opel apparently had to cut through an expensive background curtain in order to reach the stage.
11.
Robert Opel was shot at close range and was pronounced dead at 10:40 pm He was 39 years old.
12.
Robert Opel was honored as part of the 2017 San Francisco South of Market Leather History Alley, named on a bronze bootprint.
13.
Robert Opel's streaking was commemorated 50 years later during the 96th Academy Awards when John Cena presented the award for Best Costume Design naked and covered only by the envelope.