Well, I Laughed 113: Famous Feuds pt.2: Queens of Mean
Jul 9, 2025
Dive into the dramatic world of Hollywood's original gossip queens, Hedda Hopper and Elda Furry. Explore their fierce rivalry, how they shaped celebrity culture, and the scandals that defined their careers. Delve into the cutthroat dynamics of tabloid journalism and the profound impact of McCarthyism on the entertainment industry. Uncover the secrets behind their legacies while enjoying humorous anecdotes that keep the discussion lively. It's a captivating blend of history, drama, and delightful banter!
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Hearst's Media Powerover Gossip
- William Randolph Hearst's media empire heavily influenced Hollywood gossip through Luella Parsons. - Gossip columns were powerful tools used to control and promote actors in the studio system.
Hedda Hopper's Illiteracy and Power
- Hedda Hopper was illiterate and had to dictate her column. - Despite this, she became a dominant Hollywood gossip figure with a trademark hat and powerful influence.
Feud Fueled by Studios
- Hedda Hopper and Luella Parsons had a famous public feud fueled by studios backing each side. - Their rivalry helped sell newspapers and was a mix of genuine animosity and business strategy.
