Jean Harlow – Hold Your Man
Jean Harlow, often referred to as Hollywood’s first “Blonde Bombshell,” embodied the glamour of classic Tinseltown. With her platinum blonde curls, dramatic eyebrows, and signature cupid’s bow lips, she became a symbol of Hollywood allure. Harlow’s breakout role came in Hell’s Angels (1930), a film produced by Howard Hughes that garnered significant attention.
Following her success, Harlow appeared in numerous notable films, including Hold Your Man (1933), where she was paired with Clark Gable. In this candid backstage photo, she’s seen retouching her makeup between takes, offering a glimpse into the effortless beauty and professionalism that defined her legacy.
Audrey Hepburn – Funny Face
This behind-the-scenes photo from the set of Funny Face captures the playful side of Audrey Hepburn, one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars. In this moment, she’s seen laughing and interacting with some extras during a break in filming. Although Hepburn’s attire is modest—a simple trench coat—Funny Face was known for its high-fashion moments, thanks to the collaboration between the actress and legendary designer Hubert de Givenchy.
The 1956 musical was full of glamorous fashion choices that have continued to inspire, with Hepburn and Givenchy’s partnership becoming iconic in the fashion world.
Dorothy Dandridge – Carmen Jones
This behind-the-scenes shot shows actress Dorothy Dandridge, alongside co-star Harry Belafonte and director Otto Preminger, on the set of the 1954 musical Carmen Jones. The film was a groundbreaking moment in Hollywood, as it featured an all-Black cast and brought Dandridge widespread acclaim. Her powerful performance earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, making her the first African-American woman to be nominated in that category.
Carmen Jones also featured other prominent figures, such as Diahann Carroll and Pearl Bailey, and it played a key role in shaping Dandridge’s place in film history.
Julie Gibson
Julie Gibson, at 105 years old, remains a living legend of Hollywood’s Golden Era. She holds the title of the last surviving actress who worked alongside the Three Stooges. Having first appeared on screen over 80 years ago, Gibson’s career flourished in the 1940s, cementing her place in Hollywood history. Her real name, Gladys Camille Sorey, may not be widely known, but her contributions to the entertainment industry are undeniable.
Katharine Hepburn
Katharine Hepburn was a true Hollywood icon, known for her independent spirit and refusal to conform to the pressures of the industry. Though she was highly private about her personal life, Hepburn’s relationship with actor Spencer Tracy was widely publicized, and the two starred together in nine films. Her legacy is cemented by four Academy Award wins for Best Actress, a record unmatched by any other performer.
Eartha Kitt – Anna Lucasta
Eartha Kitt is captured in a rare moment of rest with co-star Sammy Davis Jr. on the set of the 1958 film Anna Lucasta. The film, a remake of the 1949 original, featured Kitt in a dramatic role alongside Davis, marking his first serious Hollywood role. In this behind-the-scenes photo, Kitt is seen massaging her leg, providing a rare glimpse into the more human side of these legendary stars during a demanding production schedule.
Marilyn Monroe – Bus Stop
Bus Stop (1956) marked a significant turning point in Marilyn Monroe’s career, showcasing her range as an actress in a more serious dramatic role. In this behind-the-scenes photo, Monroe is seen adjusting her makeup between takes, offering a candid moment from the set of what is considered one of her best performances. This film was a departure from the comedy and musical roles that had defined her earlier career, proving her versatility as an actress.
Laurence Olivier – Rebecca
Laurence Olivier, known for his Shakespearean roots and distinguished career in both British theater and Hollywood, is seen in a behind-the-scenes moment from the 1940 Alfred Hitchcock film Rebecca. In this photo, Olivier is being coached by Hitchcock alongside his co-star Joan Fontaine. Fontaine was chosen for the role of Mrs. de Winter, a part that had originally been considered for Olivier’s real-life partner, Vivien Leigh.
Diahann Carroll – The Eddie Fisher Show
Diahann Carroll, an iconic actress and singer, is photographed backstage at The Eddie Fisher Show in 1955. At this stage of her career, Carroll was gaining recognition, and her appearance on Fisher’s popular show was one of many that helped establish her as a leading figure in Hollywood. Posing with host Eddie Fisher, Carroll’s charisma and beauty shine through, even at the start of her storied career.
Audrey Hepburn – Mayerling
Audrey Hepburn’s grace and elegance are on full display in this behind-the-scenes shot from Mayerling (1957). Filmed live as part of NBC’s Producers’ Showcase, the movie was adapted from the original 1936 French film and showcased Hepburn’s ability to transform into different roles while maintaining her signature style. In this photo, she’s being prepped by hairstylists and makeup artists, providing a rare glimpse of the preparation that went into bringing her characters to life.
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