Ava et Elizabeth

James Dean with his Siamese kitten, Marcus, in 1955. Photos by Sanford Roth. James received Marcus as a gift from Elizabeth Taylor, who he became good friends with while making “Giant” that same year.

In late September of 1955, James was to attend a racing competition in Salinas. The night before he left, he brought Marcus over to his close friend and former girlfriend Jeanette Doty’s place so she could care for him in James’ absence. Along with the cat, James brought Jeanette a list with detailed instructions for Marcus’ care (pictured.)

James would never return to pick Marcus up as he tragically died in a car wreck on his way to Salinas.

James Dean photographed with his cat, Marcus, by Sanford Roth.

Marcus was a gift from Elizabeth Taylor.

Elizabeth Taylor and James Dean.

Giant (1956) dir. George Stevens

James Dean with his cat which is a gift from Liz Taylor.

James Dean and Elizabeth Taylor on the set of “Giant”, 1955.

Elizabeth Taylor and James Dean photographed during a break from filming Giant by Richard C. Miller, 1955.

James Dean and Elizabeth Taylor on the set of “Giant”, 1955.

James Dean with Marcus, a Siamese cat who was a gift from Elizabeth Taylor.

Behind the scenes of “Giant” in 1955.