Actors & Entertainers · 20th Century
John Wayne’s Last Words
“Of course I know who you are. You're my girl. I love you.”— John Wayne, June 11, 1979
Who Was John Wayne?
John Wayne was the iconic star of Western and war films, embodying American toughness and self-reliance in films like True Grit, The Searchers, and Stagecoach.
The Final Moments
Wayne's last words were spoken to his daughter Aissa, who asked if he knew who she was. He had been slipping in and out of consciousness at UCLA Medical Center.
Are These Words Verified?
Daughter Aissa Wayne documented these words in her memoir as a firsthand witness at his deathbed. Multiple family members and contemporary sources corroborate her account.
Sources
- firsthand Aissa Wayne memoir 'John Wayne: My Father'
- newspaper Contemporary news reports 1979
Legacy
John Wayne remains the quintessential American movie star. His name is synonymous with rugged individualism and the American West.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were John Wayne’s last words?
“Of course I know who you are. You're my girl. I love you.”
How did John Wayne die?
John Wayne died on June 11, 1979 at the age of 72. Cause of death: Stomach cancer.
Were John Wayne’s last words documented?
Daughter Aissa Wayne documented these words in her memoir as a firsthand witness at his deathbed. Multiple family members and contemporary sources corroborate her account.