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The glamorous world of Hollywood has long been known for its tales of rivalry and discord among its most celebrated stars. These conflicts often extend beyond personal disputes, reflecting broader themes within the entertainment industry and society at large. One of the most infamous rivalries is the alleged feud between Joan Crawford and Bette Davis, which has intrigued audiences for generations. In examining the complexities of celebrity rivalries, we reveal the fascinating interplay of myth and reality that drives these stories.
Understanding the Crawford-Davis dynamic
The narrative surrounding Joan Crawford and Bette Davis is often characterized by perceptions of animosity, especially during the production of the iconic film, What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? Many portray this relationship as a bitter feud; however, this depiction may not fully reflect the truth. Crawford herself expressed confusion regarding the enduring legend of their feud, stating, “There was never a feud; because it takes two to tango, and I refuse to fight.” This perspective is supported by Scott Eyman in his biography, Joan Crawford: A Woman’s Face, which indicates that much of the perceived tension was amplified by Hollywood’s gossip culture.
The backdrop of their collaboration
In the summer of 1962, both actresses faced considerable challenges in their careers. The film’s production struggled to secure financing, largely due to the prevailing view that Crawford and Davis were viewed as box-office poison. After several major studios rejected the project, producer Eliot Hyman’s company ultimately agreed to fund it. The film was completed in just six weeks, allowing little time for the rumored conflicts and disruptions that gossip columns often reported.
The reality of their working relationship
The perceived animosity between the two actresses appears to be more of a facade than an actual conflict. Director Robert Aldrich observed that although they may have \”detested each other,\” they maintained a professional demeanor on set. He stated, \”They behaved absolutely perfectly. No upstaging, not an abrasive word in public.\” This statement indicates that the rivalry, as presented by the media, was likely exaggerated for entertainment purposes.
Contrasting personalities and work styles
Davis often embraced dramatic flair, delivering her performances with remarkable intensity, even during rehearsals. In contrast, Crawford chose to conserve her energy until the cameras began rolling. This difference in approach occasionally created tension on set. For example, when Crawford requested a brief break, Davis remarked, “You’d think by now we’d all be troupers.” Despite these moments of friction, they rarely escalated into the turmoil that tabloids would later depict.
The aftermath and the Academy Awards incident
The rivalry between Bette Davis and Joan Crawford reached a critical moment during the 1963 Academy Awards. Davis earned a nomination for Best Actress for her performance in Baby Jane, while Crawford did not receive a nomination. In a move that many interpreted as a slight against Davis, Crawford offered to accept the award on behalf of any nominee who was absent. When Anne Bancroft was announced as the winner, Crawford took to the stage to accept the award for her, which further fueled speculation about the nature of their relationship. This incident created significant turmoil within the studio, dividing loyalties among colleagues and intensifying the narrative surrounding their legendary feud.
Legacy beyond the rivalry
The collaboration between Joan Crawford and Bette Davis marked a significant turning point in their careers. What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? not only revitalized their professional trajectories but also received critical acclaim, generating over $9 million in box office rentals. In subsequent years, Davis publicly expressed her gratitude toward Crawford for the opportunity to portray such a complex character. This acknowledgment suggests that their relationship was more nuanced than often depicted by the media.
This examination of celebrity rivalries, particularly that of Crawford and Davis, highlights how myths can overshadow reality. The appeal of a contentious feud captivates audiences, yet the underlying truths often reveal a more intricate relationship. Such narratives serve as a reminder of the complex dynamics within Hollywood, where the distinction between entertainment and reality frequently becomes blurred.