In December 1979, shortly after completing The Hunter, he was diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma, a rare and almost always fatal form of lung cancer associated with inhalation of asbestos fibres.
Vreeland, she took a job as a stylist to one of the premiere fashion photographers at the time, Melvin Sokolsky, where she remained for over six years.
For years, as his career failed to ignite, he leeched off a successful dancer called Neile Adams — spending her earnings on new cars, drugs and other women.
All the incredible classic cars and motorcycles he collected and then raced became just as synonymous with his style as the garments he wore while doing it.