A place to list and view lifelong friendships for all to enjoy!
See if you can spot the happiness and smiles that comes about with an exceptional friendship.
George Burns and Jack Benny
George Burns and Jack Benny shared a remarkable friendship that spanned over 50 years . From their days as touring vaudeville performers to their ventures in movies and beyond, they remained close pals throughout their lives12. It’s heartwarming to think about the enduring bond between these comedy superstars!
Amelia Earhart and Eleanor Roosevelt: The pioneering aviator Amelia Earhart and the First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt were close friends. They bonded over their shared passion for women’s rights and aviation.
Mark Twain and Nikola Tesla
The famous writer Mark Twain and the brilliant inventor Nikola Tesla were friends. They often spent time together discussing science, literature, and philosophy. Twain admired Tesla’s intellect and creativity, while Tesla appreciated Twain’s wit and humor. Their friendship transcended their respective fields and left a lasting impression on both men.
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Ben Franklin and Voltaire
Benjamin Franklin and Voltaire shared a remarkable friendship. Their encounter in 1778 at the Academy of Sciences in Paris was a pivotal moment, symbolizing Enlightenment ideals that transcended national boundaries. The two intellectual giants exchanged ideas, and Voltaire even bestowed his blessing upon Franklin’s young grandson with the words “God and Liberty.” Their connection remains an enduring testament to the power of intellectual camaraderie and shared values .
George Armstrong Custer
Thomas Rosser
Rosser and Custer were best friends at West Point. However, during the Civil War, they found themselves on opposing sides.
Despite their friendship, Custer knew that their old camaraderie wouldn’t earn him any sympathy during critical moments1.
Bing Crosby and Bob Hope shared a remarkable friendship that spanned several decades. They first met in 1933 when Bob Hope, an up-and-coming comedian, was invited to emcee one of Bing Crosby’s shows1. Their chemistry was evident from the start, and they quickly became a beloved duo in Hollywood.
They starred together in the famous “Road to…” series, which included seven comedy films starting with “Road to Singapore” in 19402. These films were known for their humor, adventure, and musical elements, with Bing often singing and Bob delivering witty remarks2.
Despite their different personalities—Bing being more reserved and Bob enjoying the limelight—they developed a deep bond. Their friendship truly blossomed during the filming of their last road comedy, “The Road to Hong Kong,” in 1962, when they lived together in the same house with their wives in London3. They enjoyed playing golf together and grew very close during this time1.
Bing passed away in 1977.
Bob Hope was 100 years old when he passed away on July 27, 2003
Paul English was not only Nelson’s drummer but also his confidant and enforcer. Their friendship spanned several decades, and Nelson even immortalized their bond in the song "Me and Paul"13. Paul English played a crucial role in Nelson’s life and career, making their friendship one of the most iconic in the music world.
Johnny Cash and Kris Kristofferson shared a deep and enduring friendship that significantly impacted both their lives and careers.
Their bond began in the late 1960s when Kristofferson, struggling to make a name for himself in the music industry, worked as a janitor at Columbia Records. Cash discovered Kristofferson’s talent and took a special liking to him, even refusing to go into a recording session unless Kristofferson was included1. This support and mentorship from Cash were pivotal in Kristofferson’s rise to fame.
Kristofferson’s career received a major boost after he appeared on “The Johnny Cash Show,” where he performed his song “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down.” Cash’s endorsement helped Kristofferson gain widespread recognition2.
Their friendship was further solidified when they, along with Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings, formed the country supergroup The Highwaymen in 1985. This collaboration not only showcased their musical synergy but also highlighted their camaraderie and mutual respect34.
Lindbergh had a long-term friendship with Henry Ford, the automobile pioneer.
Despite Ford’s controversial views, they shared mutual interests and often discussed various topics4.
Their paths crossed in 1927 when Lindbergh visited Ford Airport in Dearborn, Michigan. During this visit, Lindbergh gave Ford his first airplane ride in the Spirit of St.
Louis12. This meeting symbolized the intersection of automotive and aviation advancements during that era.
Admiral Chester Nimitz (CINCPAC) gives a dinner party in Hawaii for First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt on Sept. 22, 1943. From left: Rear Admiral Charles Lockwood, Roosevelt, Admiral Nimitz, Vice Admiral Raymond Spruance. (U.S. Navy photo)
Admiral Chester W. Nimitz had several close friends throughout his life and career. Some of his most notable friendships were with fellow admirals Raymond A. Spruance, Richmond K. Turner, and Charles A. Lockwood12. These friendships were so significant that they all arranged to be buried alongside each other and their wives at the Golden Gate National Cemetery1.
Friendship in death: The Nimitz Plot at Golden Gate National Cemetery - The Thunderbolt - Luke AFB (aerotechnews.com)
[Michael Phelps - The most decorated Olympian with 23 gold medals in swimming]
[Michael Phelps Q&A: A winning mindset, famous friends, chasing scratch (golf.com)]
(https://golf.com/news/michael-phelps-olympian-golf-obsessed-interview/)
Michael Jordan and Michael Phelps
Leon Redbone and Leo Kottke
Start at 0:18 Mark
David Letterman and Cher had a unique and memorable dynamic that evolved over the years. Their relationship began with a famously awkward interview in 1986, where Cher called Letterman a rude name on air1. Despite this rocky start, their interactions became a staple of Letterman’s shows, filled with playful banter and mutual teasing.
One of the most iconic moments of their friendship was when Sonny and Cher reunited on Letterman’s show in 1987 to perform "I Got You Babe"2. This performance highlighted the special connection between Cher and Letterman, as well as their ability to create memorable television moments together.
Their relationship was characterized by a mix of roasting and flirting, making their appearances together highly entertaining3. Over time, it became clear that there was a genuine affection and respect between them, despite the initial tension.
Telly Savalas, best known for his role as Kojak, had several notable friendships. One of his closest friends was actor John Aniston, who is also of Greek heritage. Savalas was even the godfather to Aniston’s daughter, Jennifer Aniston
John Aniston 1933 - 2022
Telly Savalas 1922 - 1994
