John Paul Getty, Jr., American-English philanthropist (b. 1932)

Sir Paul Getty, born Eugene Paul Getty on September 7, 1932, and passing away on April 17, 2003, was a prominent British figure widely known as John Paul Getty Jr. Throughout his remarkable life, he distinguished himself not only as a dedicated philanthropist but also as an avid and discerning book collector. His story is inextricably linked to one of the twentieth century's most prodigious fortunes, a legacy that began with the oil ventures of his grandfather.

As the third of five sons born to the immensely wealthy J. Paul Getty (1892–1976), who was at one point considered among the richest men in the world, Paul Getty Jr. was destined to live a life under the spotlight of immense privilege and, at times, significant personal challenge. His mother was Ann Rork, the fourth wife of his father. The foundation of the family's vast wealth was the robust oil business originally established by George Franklin Getty, an enterprise that blossomed into a global empire, shaping the economic landscape for generations of the Getty family.

A Name Through the Years

Born Eugene Paul Getty, he would, over the course of his life, adopt several variations of his name, reflecting perhaps different phases or aspects of his identity. These included simply Paul Getty, John Paul Getty, Jean Paul Getty Jr., and John Paul Getty II. Each iteration offered a subtle shift from his birth name, a personal evolution that culminated in a formal change later in life. This fluidity in his naming convention became a distinctive characteristic of his public persona, often leading to occasional confusion but always marking a progression.

The Shadow of a Ransom: The 1973 Kidnapping

One of the most harrowing and widely publicized events in the Getty family history involved his son, John Paul Getty III. In 1973, while living in Italy, John Paul Getty III was tragically kidnapped. This event garnered international headlines, not least because of the shocking initial refusal of the elder J. Paul Getty to pay the demanded ransom. This stark decision, rooted in his distrust of potential future kidnappings, led to a prolonged and agonizing period for the family, highlighting the complex and often harsh realities that can accompany extreme wealth. The ordeal eventually saw the payment of a reduced ransom, but not before severe consequences were inflicted upon the young Getty.

A Philanthropic Heart and an Honorary Knighthood

Paul Getty Jr. spent much of his adult life as a devoted Anglophile, developing a deep affection for Britain and its cultural heritage. His profound commitment to philanthropy became a hallmark of his public life. In recognition of his extensive contributions to a diverse array of causes—ranging from the beloved sport of cricket, to the support of various arts institutions, and even to political engagement with the Conservative Party—he was awarded an honorary knighthood in 1986. This was a significant tribute to his generosity and his impact on British society, cementing his place as a benefactor of considerable renown.

From Honorary to Sir Paul Getty

The distinction of an honorary knighthood, while prestigious, typically applies to non-British citizens. For Paul Getty Jr., however, this status was a prelude to a more profound recognition. Driven by his long-standing admiration for Britain, he formally acquired British citizenship in 1997. This pivotal step allowed his honorary knighthood to become substantive, a rare and highly respected transition. Following this, in 1998, he legally changed his name by deed poll, formally renouncing his birth name, Eugene, and declaring his wish to be known as Sir Paul Getty, KBE. This final change cemented his chosen identity and reflected his deep integration into British life.

A Lasting Legacy

Beyond his personal journey, Sir Paul Getty's family continued to make its mark in diverse fields. His son, Mark Getty, notably co-founded Getty Images, a global visual media company that has become a ubiquitous name in photography and digital imagery, further extending the family's influence into the modern era. Sir Paul Getty’s life, marked by immense wealth, personal tragedy, and profound generosity, concluded on April 17, 2003, leaving behind a legacy of cultural enrichment and philanthropic endeavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sir Paul Getty

Who was Sir Paul Getty?

Sir Paul Getty, born Eugene Paul Getty, was a British philanthropist and esteemed book collector. He was known for his extensive charitable contributions, particularly in the United Kingdom, and for being a member of the prominent Getty family.

What was his connection to the Getty family's wealth?

He was the grandson of George Franklin Getty, who founded the family's oil business, and the third son of J. Paul Getty, who was one of the richest men in the world. His life was deeply influenced by this immense family fortune.

Why did his name change multiple times?

Born Eugene Paul Getty, he adopted several names throughout his life, including John Paul Getty Jr., reflecting different personal stages. He formally changed his name by deed poll in 1998 to Sir Paul Getty, KBE, after becoming a British citizen and receiving a substantive knighthood, renouncing his birth name, Eugene.

What was the significance of his knighthood?

He was awarded an honorary knighthood in 1986 for his significant philanthropic services to causes such as cricket, art, and the Conservative Party in the UK. This knighthood became substantive in 1997 when he acquired British citizenship, a unique progression that underscored his deep commitment to Britain.

What happened to his son, John Paul Getty III?

In 1973, his son, John Paul Getty III, was kidnapped in Italy. The incident gained global attention due to the initial refusal of the elder J. Paul Getty (Paul Jr.'s father) to pay the ransom, leading to a traumatic ordeal for the family.

Was he related to Getty Images?

Yes, his son, Mark Getty, co-founded Getty Images, a major global visual media company. This demonstrates a continuation of the family's entrepreneurial spirit into new industries.