Hollywood Exiles 3. The case against Charlie Chaplin
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Feb 5, 2024 Charlie Chaplin's tumultuous personal life takes center stage as legal troubles ensue. The gossip queen Hedda Hopper targets him, deeming him 'un-American.' His scandalous affair with Joan Barry spirals into a sensational court case that intertwines love, betrayal, and political intrigue. Hoover's FBI closely monitors Chaplin, creating a chilling atmosphere for artists during the Red Scare. The clash between celebrity and power reveals the darker side of Hollywood amidst its glamorous facade.
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Chaplin and Barry's Affair
- Charlie Chaplin's relationship with Joan Barry began after she came to Hollywood seeking stardom.
- The affair ended badly, with accusations of Chaplin pressuring Barry into an abortion and disputes over the nature of their interactions.
Hedda Hopper's Influence
- Hedda Hopper, a powerful Hollywood gossip columnist, used her platform to target Chaplin.
- She criticized his movies, his politics, and his treatment of women.
Hopper's Contradictory Views
- Hedda Hopper held seemingly contradictory views, supporting women's rights while also holding deeply conservative values.
- This duality fueled her attacks on artists with liberal politics, including Chaplin.