Kirk Kerkorian transitioned from a commercial pilot delivering military aircraft during World War II to a dominant financier who redefined the landscape of Las Vegas. Through his private holding company, Tracinda Corporation, he orchestrated massive corporate acquisitions and constructed the world's largest hotels three separate times, fundamentally shifting the city’s capacity for tourism and large-scale entertainment.
Aviation and Early Ventures
Born in 1917 in Fresno, California, Kerkorian began his career as an amateur boxer before learning to fly at the Happy Bottom Riding Club. During World War II, he served as a pilot for the Royal Air Force Ferry Command, delivering 33 aircraft across the North Atlantic. After the war, he entered the aviation industry by trading aircraft and founding Los Angeles Air Service. His transition to jet aircraft with the purchase of a Douglas DC-8 in 1962 proved highly profitable, leading to a series of successful sales that generated his first substantial fortune.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →The Mega-Resort Architect
Kerkorian entered the Las Vegas market in 1962 by purchasing 80 acres near the Flamingo. He later partnered with architect Martin Stern Jr. to develop the International Hotel, which opened in 1969 as the largest hotel in the world. He repeated this scale of development with the original MGM Grand Hotel in 1973. Despite the tragic 1980 fire at the MGM Grand that resulted in 87 fatalities, he continued to shape the hospitality industry, opening a new version of the MGM Grand in 1993.
Corporate Finance and Philanthropy
In 1969, Kerkorian acquired the film studio Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. He maintained his business interests through Tracinda Corporation, based in Beverly Hills. Beyond his corporate career, he was a significant benefactor to Armenia, particularly following the 1988 earthquake. He established the Lincy Foundation in 1989 and provided over $1 billion for charitable efforts. In recognition of these contributions, he was named a National Hero of Armenia and received the Order of St. Mesrop Mashtots.
Fast facts
- Born: 1917, Fresno, California
- Died: 2015, Los Angeles
- Primary holding company: Tracinda Corporation
- Notable role: Film producer
- National Hero of Armenia: 2004
- Burial site: Inglewood Park Cemetery
- First aircraft purchase: Cessna for $5,000
Questions readers ask
What was the significance of the Lincy Foundation?
Established in 1989, the foundation provided over $1 billion to charitable causes in Armenia, including reconstruction efforts after the 1988 earthquake.
Which hotels did Kirk Kerkorian build?
He developed the International Hotel, the original MGM Grand, and the subsequent 1993 MGM Grand, all of which were the world's largest hotels at their respective times.
Achievements
- Affiliated with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer and Tracinda Corporation
- Worked as aircraft pilot, entrepreneur and financier
.jpg)