You Must Remember This 81: The Blacklist Part 11: Born Yesterday: Judy Holliday
May 3, 2016
Judy Holliday's rise to fame is a captivating tale of authenticity in a conformist era. She won an Oscar for her debut role, yet faced scrutiny during the anti-communist hysteria of the 1950s. Her experiences reveal the intersection of Hollywood, racism, and politics, as she navigated a challenging landscape. Despite being supported by her studio, she ultimately faced the harsh realities of a declining career. The podcast highlights her significant contributions and personal struggles, painting a vivid portrait of a unique star.
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McCarran's Law And Political Motives
- Senator Pat McCarran turned Cold War paranoia into law with the Internal Security Act and a committee to hunt 'subversives.'
- His focus on immigrants and entertainers exposed anti-Semitic and nativist motives behind investigations.
From Queens Cabaret To Born Yesterday
- Judy Holliday rose from Queens and the Village Vanguard cabaret to Broadway stardom after replacing Gene Arthur in Born Yesterday.
- She stayed with the Broadway run over three years and insisted her collaborators get work when offered a Hollywood contract.
Authenticity Over Hollywood Glamour
- Born Yesterday made Judy Holliday a star by showcasing her unique, vanity-free persona rather than conventional Hollywood glamour.
- Columbia tried to sanitize her but ultimately exploited her authenticity as the film's appeal.
