Did Clifford Irving cheat?

Short Presentation

Clifford Irving was an American investigative reporter and novelist best known for his involvement in a literary scandal in the 1970s. His most infamous work was a fraudulent autobiography of billionaire Howard Hughes, which led to significant legal consequences and public notoriety.

Early Life

Born on November 5, 1930, in New York City, Clifford Michael Irving grew up in a literary environment, with his father being a writer and his mother a magazine editor. He attended Cornell University, where he developed his writing skills and passion for literature.

Personal Life

Irving's personal life was as tumultuous as his professional career. He was married several times, with his relationships often making headlines. His most notable marriage was to Edith Sommer, with whom he had two children.

Professional Life

Clifford Irving authored several novels throughout his career, but he is best remembered for the sensational hoax involving Howard Hughes. He claimed to have co-written Hughes's autobiography, which was later exposed as entirely fabricated, resulting in his imprisonment and widespread media coverage.

What Were Clifford Irving's Notable Achievements?

Despite the scandal, Irving wrote several successful novels, including "Fake!" which delves into the world of art forgeries. His investigative work and storytelling prowess earned him a place in literary history.

How Did the Howard Hughes Hoax Impact Clifford Irving's Career?

The Howard Hughes hoax severely impacted Irving's career, leading to a prison sentence and a damaged reputation. However, it also brought him significant notoriety, making his name synonymous with one of the most famous literary frauds of the 20th century.