Scandals, drama, and intrigue—oh my! Today’s celebrities may have tons of drama, but this article will delve into the most notorious public relations disasters and scandals that rocked the classic Hollywood scene before 1970. This countdown features infamous tales involving legends who you may have never known lived such scandalous lives. Join us as we explore these sensational stories that captivated audiences of the past. Here are the top 10 biggest scandals of old Hollywood.
Jackie Coogan
Jackie Coogan, a child star alongside Charlie Chaplin, faced betrayal when his mother and stepfather squandered his fortune. After his father’s death, Coogan lost most of his earnings. Upon reaching adulthood, he sued, recovering only a fraction. This led to the Coogan Act, safeguarding young actors’ earnings from exploitation.
The Hollywood Ten
In the late 1940s, during the Red Scare, the House Un-American Activities Committee targeted Hollywood, accusing it of harboring Communists. Stars faced pressure to testify and incriminate peers. Ten writers and directors, refusing on constitutional grounds, were blacklisted, ending many of their careers. Although some eventually found work, their reputations were forever tarnished.
Lana Turner’s Daughter
Lana Turner, a striking actress of her era, became embroiled in a scandal in 1958 when her boyfriend, mob enforcer John Stompanato Jr., was found dead in her home. Her teenage daughter, Cheryl Crane, confessed to the stabbing, claiming self-defense for her mother. The case captivated the public, with theories suggesting Turner’s involvement. Despite Crane’s clearing, the incident continues to be one of Hollywood’s most dramatic real-life tales.
Fatty Arbuckle
In the early 1920s, comedian Roscoe “Fatty” Arbuckle faced scandal when actress Virginia Rappe died after falling ill at his San Francisco hotel party. Accused of manslaughter, Arbuckle underwent three trials before being acquitted. Despite his legal victory, the scandal fed into Hollywood’s reputation for excess and ultimately ruined his career, leaving the true events a mystery.
Alfred Hitchcock’s Leading Lady
Alfred Hitchcock’s fascination with cool blondes led him to Tippi Hedren, whom he cast in leading roles. Their relationship soured as Hedren accused Hitchcock of inappropriate and abusive behavior on the sets of “The Birds” and “Marnie.” Her rejection of his advances allegedly led him to undermine her career.
Tallulah Bankhead
Tallulah Bankhead, a trailblazer of her time, would be today’s ultimate tabloid star. Known for her boldness about sex and sexuality, she had numerous partners, including both men and women. She allegedly took a film role to pursue Gary Cooper and was investigated by MI5 for rumored ties with Eton students. Open about her substance use, Bankhead hailed from an esteemed Alabama political family, yet her rebellious spirit defined her legendary life.
Clark Gable’s Love Child
Loretta Young became pregnant while filming “Call of the Wild” with Clark Gable in 1935. As Gable was married, Young feared career repercussions. She disappeared, keeping the baby hidden for 19 months, then claimed adoption. The child bore a striking resemblance to Gable, even having her ears pinned back to disguise it. Years later, Young’s daughter-in-law revealed that Young realized the pregnancy resulted from a non-consensual encounter after watching a 1998 “Larry King Live” episode.
Peg Entwistle
In 1932, British actress Peg Entwistle tragically ended her life by jumping from the Hollywood sign. After her contract with RKO wasn’t renewed, she left a note and climbed the iconic landmark. Her body was discovered near personal belongings, including a note. Entwistle, initially a Broadway star, had moved to Los Angeles for roles in “The Mad Hopes” and “Thirteen Women,” with the latter being her posthumous film debut. She became known as the “Hollywood Sign Girl.”
Deadly Work
The film industry from 1925 to 1930 saw nearly 11,000 injuries, with 55 fatalities in California. Howard Hughes, while directing “Hell’s Angels” in 1930, sought realism in aerial scenes, risking millions and lives. Hughes, an aviation enthusiast, attempted a dangerous stunt himself, resulting in a fractured skull and surgery. Tragically, one mechanic and three stunt pilots lost their lives due to his ambitious vision.
George Reeves’ Death
The LAPD ruled “Superman” actor George Reeves’ death from a gunshot wound on June 16, 1959, a suicide. Despite the official ruling, rumors of foul play circulated. Some speculated that his fiancée, Leonore Lemmon, was responsible for the delay in calling the police. Others conjectured that Reeves’ alleged affair with Hollywood executive Eddie Mannix might have played a role. With no fingerprints on the gun, the circumstances of his death remain mysterious.
