Peter Sydney Ernest Lawford, born on September 7, 1923, in London, England, was an English-American actor known for his charm and debonair roles in Hollywood. He was the only child of Lieutenant General Sir Sydney Turing Barlow Lawford and May Sommerville Bunny. Due to his family's aristocratic connections and frequent travels, Lawford was educated by governesses and tutors, focusing on subjects like languages and music, which prepared him for a career in the arts.

Lawford began his acting career at a young age, making his debut in the English film "Poor Old Bill" around 1930. His career took off in the 1940s, with notable roles in films such as "A Yank at Eton" (1942) and "Good News" (1947), where he played the lead role of Tommy Marlowe. His performances in these films established him as a leading man in Hollywood.

In 1954, Lawford married Patricia Kennedy, sister of then-senator John F. Kennedy, aligning him with one of America's most prominent families. The couple had four children before divorcing in 1966. Lawford became a U.S. citizen in 1960, which allowed him to vote for his brother-in-law during the presidential election.

Lawford was also a member of the Rat Pack, a group of entertainers that included Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. He appeared in films like "Ocean's Eleven" (1960) and "Sergeants 3" (1962) alongside his Rat Pack colleagues. Despite his professional success, Lawford struggled with substance abuse, which overshadowed his later years and led to his financial downfall.

He married three more times after his divorce from Patricia Kennedy, and his personal life was marred by reports of alcoholism and extramarital affairs. Lawford's health deteriorated due to his lifestyle, and he died on December 24, 1984, in Los Angeles, California, from cardiac arrest complicated by kidney and liver failure. His ashes were scattered into the Pacific Ocean in 1988. Despite his tragic end, Lawford is remembered for his contributions to film and his charismatic presence both on and off the screen.