Cary Elwes' Parents' Scandalous Elopement

Cary Elwes, beloved for his role as Westley in 'The Princess Bride,' hails from a family with a dramatic history. His parents, artist Dominick Elwes and interior designer Tessa Kennedy, eloped to Cuba in the 1950s after Tessa's parents objected to their marriage. They later obtained a marriage certificate in New York, but Dominick faced jail time in the UK for contempt of court. Their marriage was dissolved in 1969.

Dominick Elwes was a celebrated portrait painter, known for capturing likenesses of notable figures. He battled manic depression and died by suicide in 1975 at the age of 44. Cary was 13 at the time. Tessa Kennedy, now 87, has built a successful career as an interior designer, with prestigious projects including the Grosvenor House Hotel and clients like King Hussein of Jordan.

Cary's older brothers have also achieved success in creative fields. Cassian Elwes is a prominent film producer, having worked on films like 'The Butler' and 'Dallas Buyers Club.' Damian Elwes followed in his father's artistic footsteps, creating notable works such as a series of paintings depicting Pablo Picasso's former home. He found renewed artistic inspiration after a chance encounter with Keith Haring.