Meaning: The quote "George Raft may or may not have gone both ways, but he was very sensitive to what they said about him, and it was one factor why he decided to play all those gangsters in the movies" is a statement made by Cesar Romero, an actor known for his role as the Joker in the 1960s Batman television series. The quote refers to George Raft, a popular actor and dancer from the 1920s to the 1950s, who was often typecast as a gangster in Hollywood films.

George Raft's career was closely associated with his portrayal of tough, street-smart gangster characters in numerous films throughout the 1930s and 1940s. He became known for his distinctive on-screen persona, often playing characters involved in organized crime, with his roles in films such as "Scarface" and "Each Dawn I Die" solidifying his image as a tough and ruthless gangster. However, the quote suggests that there may have been a personal motivation behind Raft's decision to consistently take on these types of roles.

The phrase "may or may not have gone both ways" in the quote is a reference to rumors and speculation surrounding George Raft's sexual orientation. It is well-documented that Raft's personal life was the subject of much gossip and scrutiny during his time in Hollywood. While there is no definitive evidence to confirm or refute these rumors, the quote implies that Raft was sensitive to the public perception of him and may have chosen to embrace the gangster image as a way to deflect attention from his personal life.

The notion of actors being typecast in certain roles due to public perception and personal sensitivities is not uncommon in the entertainment industry. In the case of George Raft, the quote suggests that his decision to play gangster characters may have been influenced by a desire to control the narrative surrounding his public image. By embracing and embodying the tough, streetwise persona on screen, Raft may have sought to project a certain image to the public, one that would distract from or counteract the rumors and scrutiny directed at his personal life.

Additionally, the quote alludes to the idea that actors, like George Raft, often have to navigate the complexities of public perception and personal identity in their careers. The entertainment industry has historically been rife with stereotypes, assumptions, and prejudices, and actors frequently face pressure to conform to certain expectations based on societal norms and audience perceptions.

Cesar Romero's statement sheds light on the multifaceted nature of actors' decisions and the intricate relationship between personal identity, public image, and professional choices. It suggests that George Raft's sensitivity to public opinion may have played a role in shaping his career trajectory and the types of roles he embraced, ultimately contributing to his enduring legacy as a quintessential Hollywood gangster.

In conclusion, the quote by Cesar Romero provides insight into the complexities of George Raft's career and personal life, touching on the interplay between public perception, personal sensitivities, and professional choices. It offers a glimpse into the nuanced dynamics that actors navigate in the entertainment industry, shedding light on the motivations behind their career decisions and the impact of public scrutiny on their professional personas.