Dorothy Stratten was a Canadian actress and model who was brutally murdered at the age of 20 by her estranged husband, Paul Snider. Her death shocked the world and her story has been the subject of many books, films, and documentaries.
Who was Dorothy Stratten?
Dorothy Stratten was born on February 28, 1960, in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. She was a shy and introverted child who dreamed of becoming a veterinarian. However, when she was 17, she was discovered by Paul Snider, a small-time promoter who convinced her to pose for Playboy magazine.
After the shoot, Dorothy moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in modeling and acting. She quickly became a rising star in the industry, and in 1980, she was named Playmate of the Year.
The Tragic End of Dorothy Stratten
In August 1980, Dorothy's estranged husband, Paul Snider, shot and killed her in their home in Los Angeles. He then turned the gun on himself and committed suicide. Dorothy was just 20 years old at the time of her death.
The murder of Dorothy Stratten shocked the world and raised questions about domestic violence and the objectification of women in the entertainment industry. It also brought attention to the dangers that many young women face in pursuit of fame and success.
The Trial of Paul Snider
Paul Snider's trial for the murder of Dorothy Stratten was highly publicized and garnered a lot of media attention. He was represented by prominent defense attorney Leslie Abramson.
During the trial, it was revealed that Snider was jealous and controlling of Stratten, and that he had become increasingly abusive towards her in the months leading up to her death. The prosecution argued that Snider had killed Stratten out of jealousy and rage.
In the end, Snider was found guilty of second-degree murder and was sentenced to 12 years in prison. He served just over one year before he committed suicide in his cell.
The Legacy of Dorothy Stratten
Despite her short life, Dorothy Stratten's legacy lives on. She is remembered for her beauty, talent, and the tragic circumstances of her death. Her story has been the subject of several books, including "The Killing of the Unicorn" by Peter Bogdanovich, who was her boyfriend at the time of her death.
In addition to books, Dorothy's life has been the subject of several films and documentaries, including the 1983 film "Star 80," which was directed by Bogdanovich.
Conclusion
The murder of Dorothy Stratten was a tragic event that shook the world. Her story has become a cautionary tale about the dangers of domestic violence and the objectification of women in the entertainment industry. While her life was cut short, her legacy lives on through the books, films, and documentaries that have been inspired by her story.
