Ann Sothern: A Bio-Bibliography (Bio-Bibliographies in the Performing Arts)

ANN SOTHERN

ANN SOTHERN A Bio-Bibliography Margie Schultz

Bio-Bibliographies in the Performing Arts, Number 9 James Robert Parish, Series Adviser

Greenwood Press New York • Westport, Connecticut • London

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data Schultz, Margie. Ann Sothern : a bio-bibliography / Margie Schultz. p. cm. — (Bio-bibliographies in the performing arts, ISSN 0892-5550 ; no. 9) Filmography: p. Discography: p. Includes bibliographical references. ISBN 0-313-26463-5 (lib. bdg. : alk. paper) 1. Sothern, Ann, 1909- . 2. Sothern, Ann, 1909Bibliography. 3. Entertainers—United States—Biography. 4. Motion picture actors and actresses—United States—Biography. I. Title. II. Series. PN2287.S64S38 1990 791.43 '028 '092-dc20 89-25626 British Library Cataloguing in Publication Data is available. Copyright © 1990 by Margie Schultz All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be reproduced, by any process or technique, without the express written consent of the publisher. Library of Congress Catalog Card Number: 89-25626 ISBN: 0-313-26463-5 ISSN: 0892-5550 First published in 1990 Greenwood Press, Inc. 88 Post Road West, Westport, Connecticut 06881 Printed in the United States of America

The paper used in this book complies with the Permanent Paper Standard issued by the National Information Standards Organization (Z39.48-1984). 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Every reasonable effort has been made to trace owners of copyright materials in this book, but in some instances this has proven impossible. The publisher will be glad to receive information leading to more complete acknowledgments in subsequent printings of the book and in the meantime extends its apologies for any omissions.

Contents Preface Acknowledgments Biography

vii ix 1

Photographs

19

Filmography

35

Plays and Personal Appearances

99

Radio

117

Television

123

Discography

167

Awards and Honors

173

Annotated Bibliography

175

Appendix

249

Index

251

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Preface Ann Sothern often was quoted as saying she had played every venue in show business except fairs. This book is proof that her statement was not far from wrong. For over 60 years, she has demonstrated her talent on the stage, in film, radio and television, and as a recording artist. She has managed to combine her successful acting career with other business ventures, which include cattle breeding, a sewing center, music publishing, and two production companies. She is a fine composer and artist. Additionally, she produced a beautiful and talented daughter, Tisha Sterling, who has followed her into the acting profession. Despite serious illness and a debilitating back accident, Miss Sothern has continued to act, receiving her first Academy Award nomination in 1988 for her seventieth film. Ann Sothern began her career as Harriette Lake, playing small roles in motion pictures. After success in Broadway musicals, she returned to Hollywood where her name was changed to Ann Sothern. Few actresses have played such diverse roles, from ingenues to character parts, in comedies, musicals, and dramas. Despite her versatility, many people identify Miss Sothern with her three most popular roles: Maisie Ravier, the down-on-her-luck show girl whom she played in ten films and on two radio series; Susie MacNamara, the efficient-but-meddlesome secretary to a talent agent on TV's Private Secretary; and Katy O'Connor, the ever-helpful assistant manager of a luxury hotel on TV's The Ann Sothern Show. This book is intended as an overview of Miss Sothern's life and career. It does not purport to be an in-depth biography. This volume is divided into eight sections, as follows: (1) a brief biography; (2) a filmography of the movies in which Miss Sothern appeared. Each film listing is preceded by the letter "F." Entries are arranged chronologically by year of

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American release. Studio, year of release, production and cast credits, a short synopsis, and selected reviews are included for each film; (3) a listing of Miss Sothern's plays and personal appearances. This chapter includes plays performed on Broadway, on tour, and in summer stock, as well as vaudeville and nightclub appearances. Each listing is preceded by the letter "P." Cities played, dates of performances, production and cast credits, a short synopsis, and selected reviews are included when available; (4) a listing of Miss Sothern's national radio appearances. This chapter is divided into two sections dealing with Miss Sothern's series and guest appearances. The two series are preceded by the letters "RS;" listings of guest appearances are preceded by the letter "R." Each entry includes episode title, airdate, cast, and selected reviews; (5) a listing of Miss Sothern's national television appearances. This chapter is divided into two sections dealing with Miss Sothern's series and guest appearances. The series listings are preceded by the letters "TS." A further division is explained at the beginning of the television chapter. The guest appearance listings are preceded by the letter "T." Each entry includes episode title, airdate, cast, brief synopsis, and selected reviews. Telefilms listed in this chapter receive the same treatment as theatrical releases; (6) a discography of records made by Miss Sothern. Each listing is preceded by the letter "D." This chapter encompasses recordings of all speeds. Each entry includes record label, number, songs performed by Miss Sothern, and selected reviews; (7) a listing of awards and honors bestowed upon Miss Sothern. Each entry is preceded by the letter "A." Listings include the name of award and approximate year of receipt; (8) an annotated bibliography of writings by and about Miss Sothern. This chapter includes reviews, articles, and announcements from books, newspapers, magazines, tabloids, and trade papers, showing the diverse publications which have written about Miss Sothern's life and career. Each entry is preceded by the letter "B." In addition, the book contains an appendix listing products advertised by Miss Sothern. A complete index of names and titles concludes the volume; index references are to the entry numbers within the various section listings. The career and biographical information contained herein are correct as of July 15, 1989. Any additions or corrections for future editions may be sent to the author in care of Greenwood Press.

Acknowledgments This book could not have been written without the help and support of the many people who shared their research facilities and collections. I am especially grateful to my adviser, James Robert Parish, and my editor, Marilyn Brownstein, for their help and guidance. I appreciate the contributions of the colleagues of Ann Sothern who took time to reminisce about their work with her: Rod Amateau, Pat Carroll, Jeff Corey, Madelyn Davis, Marsha Hunt, Mike Kaplan, Leonard Maltin, Don Porter, Carl Reiner, Danny Simon, Jesse White, Monya Lee for Don Fedderson, and Anita Mykowsky for Red Skelton. Special thanks to Diana Mclnerney for sharing the experiences of her late sister, Susan Mclnerney. Several people went beyond the call of duty by sharing their expertise in certain areas: Connie Billips and Art Pierce, radio; Jim Gross of the Big Band Society of the Metroplex, Ray Ridge, and Leo Walker, music; Jim Davidson of Classic TV and Vincent Terrace, television; Sharon Lindy, theatre; and Carol Forsyth, photography. I appreciate the many librarians who took time to research reviews and articles on Ann Sothern's tours. They were Michael Cogswell, University of North Texas Music Library; Jeff Driggers, Jacksonville Public Library; Eleanor Gehres, Denver Public Library; Alex Gildzen, Kent State University Library; Steve Glatter, Miami Dade Public Library; Ruby Graise, St. Louis Public Library; Virginia Hasenstein, Minneapolis Public Library and Information Center; Nancy Perrin, Corning Area Public Library; Carla Rickerson, the University of Washington Library; Henry F. Scannell, Boston Public Library; Mary Schramm, Arlington Heights Municipal Library; and the staffs of the Cincinnati Public Library, the Hawaii State Library, the Milwaukee Public Library, the San Francisco Public Library, and the Santa Barbara Public Library. Of special mention are Thomas H. Gunn, Director of the Carl S. Swisher Library, Jacksonville University and Ginger Piotter of the Ketchum

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Community Library. Mr. Gunn eagerly shared information on the films Miss Sothern donated to the university and also investigated the seminars she taught in the 1970s. Ms. Piotter generously shared photographs from the library's Ann Sothern collection and helped discern the facts from recent articles on Miss Sothern. I am also grateful to the following people and institutions for their contributions: ABC; James Taylor Breen; Beverly Bare Buehrer; Ann Nelson and Ileane Harustak, CBS; Kirk Crivello; Lee Goldberg; Stanley Green; Ken Mandelbaum; Geri McNamara; Jim Meyer; Wayne Miller; Jerome Morissey; Lowell Accola and Lorene Springer, the Museum of Broadcasting; Nickelodeon; Paul A. Weber, General Manager of Paulist Productions; Bob Reed; Barbara Doran-Veevers, Administrative Director of the Santa Barbara International Film Festival; Kevin Sweeney; Gary Thomas; Sandy Weber; John Willis; and Reg Shrader, Wisconsin Center for Film and Theater Research. I could not have compiled such a diverse bibliography without the help of some of Ann Sothern's admirers. Thanks to the following people for opening up their collections: Kim Altana; Colin Briggs; Carol Hall; Allan Herzer; Brian Matteo; and Lisa Wade. Four people deserve special mention, for without them this book could not have been written. I am grateful to Betsy Schoellkopf for convincing me to watch Nickelodeon. Without her urging me to tune in My Three Sons, I would not have discovered The Ann Sothern Show. Additional thanks goes to Barry Rivadue, who not only helped with research, but offered encouragement and ideas for making this the best book possible. A final thanks to my parents, William and Margie, for their support and love.

ANN SOTHERN

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Biography Harriette Arlene Lake was born on January 22, 1910 in Valley City, North Dakota. Her mother, Annette Yde-Lake, was a concert singer who stopped touring long enough to have her first daughter in what was reported to be 40-below zero temperatures. Harriette claimed to have never seen her birthplace. Harriette's father was Walter J. Lake, variously reported as an itinerant thespian, a produce broker, a meat salesman, and an importer/exporter. Harriette's maternal grandfather was Danish violinist Hans Nilson. Her paternal grandfather was Simon Lake, inventor of the submarine. Harriette was the oldest of three daughters. Marion, born 18 months after Harriette, at one time worked as her sister's personal secretary. In later years Marion worked for Abigail Van Buren, better known as "Dear Abby." Bonnie, the youngest Lake daughter, was a singer and songwriter. She sang with her husband Jack Jenney's band, as well as that of Artie Shaw. Her compositions included "Man with a Horn," "St. Francis of Assisi," and "Wild Card.". She also wrote special material for her sister. Additionally, the Lakes had a half-sister, Sally. Harriette spent her childhood narrowly escaping serious injury in a series of accidents. She often recalled that she was run over by nearly every type of wheeled vehicle except a horse and buggy - and missed it only because they were obsolete. When she was about six years old, her nightgown caught on fire while she was playing with matches at her grandmother's house. According to Movie Mirror, Harriette's mother rolled her in a rug to extinguish the flames. It took months of skin grafts to repair the scars on young Harriette's arms, legs, and back (see B-473). Harriette was educated in public schools in Waterloo, Iowa, and Minneapolis, Minnesota. Her mother gave her a firm musical background, often letting young Harriette accompany her on concert tours. Harriette and Marion sometimes performed a sister act on tour until they reached

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school age. According to the Minneapolis Journal, Harriette studied piano with Sophie Skjerdtingstad-Dahl and Countess Moroztyn at the McPhail School of Music where her mother taught (B-200). Harriette showed early musical talent, mastering Beethoven and Brahms by age 11. At 13, her "Study in B" was performed by the Minneapolis Symphony (B-12). Backyard musicals earned Harriette her first fan letter from music critic E. Johann Egilsrud, houseguest of a neighbor. According to the Milwaukee Journal, Egilsrud not only praised her performance, but predicted a bright future for Harriette in the world of music and theatre (B193). By the time she graduated from Minneapolis's Central High School in 1926, Harriette had won a city-wide musical composition contest sponsored by the Minneapolis Journal for three consecutive years. According to the New York Herald Tribune, she represented her district at the National Music Supervisor's Conference in Detroit (B-320). The Lakes divorced in 1927. Annette moved to California where she worked as a vocal coach at Warner Bros. Walter moved his import/export business to Seattle. Harriette lived with her father while attending the University of Washington for one term during the 1928/29 academic year. In 1979 she told the Seattle Times that she was too young to enroll and therefore took only a few classes (B-182). A 1959 Coronet interview quoted her as saying, "I got good marks in everything but math" (B-226). Despite the fact that a 1935 issue of Movie Classic said she attended the University of Washington for three years, and other publications claim that she graduated, the University of Washington's records show Harriette enrolled for only one year (B-269). While visiting her mother in California in 1929, Harriette landed a role in the motion picture Show of Shows. She appeared in a musical sequence called "Meet My Sister" in which many real-life sisters sang and danced in costumes representing different countries. They included Loretta Young and Sally Blane, and Sally O'Neill and Molly O'Day. Harriette played Marion Byron's sister and wore an Italian costume. According to Movie Classic, it was studio worker Bill Koenig, a friend from Minneapolis, who was responsible for Harriette's first screen test (B-269). In addition to Show of Shows, she appeared in Hearts in Exile and Hold Everything at Warner Bros. Later MGM tested her and producer Paul Bern took her under his wing. She played a small role in Doughboys, falling off a motorcycle into a mud puddle. She also dubbed the bark for a dog in a Pete Smith short. Broadway Nights (1927) and Whoopee (1930) are sometimes listed in Harriette's early filmography, however most film historians do not include them in her credits. Harriette soon became frustrated with walk-on roles. She spent more time posing for publicity stills and appearing at special events than she did acting.

Biography

3

According to the Minneapolis Journal, Florenz Ziegfeld was in Hollywood working on Whoopee, an Eddie Cantor film, when he met Harriette at a party. One of the guests urged her to perform for the great showman. Ziegfeld offered her a job in one of his Broadway productions, and Harriette readily accepted, forgetting about her MGM contract. The studio did not renew her option after six months and Harriette headed east to accept Ziegfeld's offer (B-347) . Harriette was cast in Smiles, a musical starring Marilyn Miller, and Fred and Adele Astaire. As Glory, third female lead, Harriette initially had three songs: "Blue Bowery," "More Than Ever," and "Dance Wedding." She opened in Smiles at the Colonial Theatre in Boston on October 28, 1930. According to It Ain't Necessarily So, an autobiography by cast member Larry Adler, Harriette's "Blue Bowery" was a hit in Boston, causing some friction with the show's star. Adler said, "Marilyn Miller told Ziegfeld that she wanted Miss Lake out and out she was" (B-6). The show opened in New York on November 18, 1930 without Harriette. Within a few months Harriette made her Broadway debut in America's Sweetheart, a musical with songs by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart. She introduced "I've Got Five Dollars" with leading man Jack Whiting. The show lasted 135 performances. According to Rodgers and Hart, Rodgers did not want Harriette in the show, but producer Laurence Schwab insisted that she get the role of Geraldine. Harriette recalled her work in the production. "Actually, I can't speak with any authority about Rodgers and Hart because I was so young and under my mother's thumb. Everything was her decision...The only thing I can remember about the whole play is that in the first act they pushed me into a fountain, and I always had a wet fanny every night" (B-278). Harriette starred in a musical version of Up Pops the Devil called Everybody's Welcome in late 1931. Her co-stars were Oscar Shaw, Ann Pennington, and the Dorsey Brothers Orchestra. The show ran 139 performances. According to music expert Ray Ridge, Harriette was engaged to musician/arranger Mickey Bloom during this time. Bloom played trumpet with the Dorsey Brothers Orchestra and was later a sideman with the orchestras of Rudy Vallee, Hal Kemp, and Tommy Dorsey. Ridge, a long-time friend of Bloom, blamed the musician's infidelity for his breakup with Harriette. Harriette and Oscar Shaw were reunited in 1932 for the national tour of Of Thee I Sing. The Pulitzer-Prizewinning musical opened in Detroit on September 12, 1932 and toured successfully for seven months. After the tour, Harriette went to Chicago to rest. Three weeks later, general manager Max Siegel asked Harriette to replace Lois Moran in the Broadway company of Of Thee I Sing. The Broadway engagement had been extended for an indefinite run, however a heat wave hit New York, forcing many theatres to close for the summer. Harriette's Broadway run in Of Thee

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I Sing lasted one week. After Of Thee I Sing, Harriette decided to give Hollywood another try. She appeared in a beach scene in Broadway Thru a Keyhole with another aspiring starlet, Lucille Ball. The two became friends and their career paths continued to cross for the next 30 years. Harriette also appeared in the "Shanghai Lil" production number in Footlight Parade in 1933. According to Motion Picture, Columbia executive Harry Cohn was searching for a Scandanavian actress for the lead in Let's Fall in Love (B-164). He had seen Harriette on stage and decided she would fit the role. However, Cohn insisted that she change her name. In a 1987 interview on American Movie Classics cable, the actress told how she was transformed from Harriette Lake to Ann Sothern. "[Harry Cohn] said, 'Well, we can't have your name Lake because there are too many Lakes,'" Ann recalled, citing Arthur Lake and Alice Lake as examples. "He made out a list and he called me in," she continued. "On the list there were a lot of names there. Having been a good student of Shakespeare and that sort of thing, E. H. Sothern's name was there. I admired him because he was a very fine Shakespearean actor, so I took Sothern. My mother's name was Annette, so I took Ann. And that's how I became Ann Sothern" (T-56). In the same interview she stated that her real name had come from her father's best friend, Harry. Ann scored so well in her first featured role that she was immediatly signed to a long-term contract by Columbia. During her first fourteen months in Hollywood, she made nine films, many of which were on loan-out, including Kid Mil lions, Folies Bergere, and Bl^nd.._Date_. Ironically, she was cast in Eight Bells; she had performed a scene from the play for her screen test. Ann soon tired of her ingenue roles at Columbia. "I didn't appear in B or C pictures - I was in Z pictures," she recalled in a 1946 Movie Show interview (B-212). Unlike many young actresses who wanted glamorous roles and pretty wardrobes, Ann preferred parts with substance. In 1935 she told Motion Picture, "...character parts are what I want to play most of all. I'd trade a 'pretty girl' role any day in the week for that of an old hag, if the hag was a real character" (B-164). According to Filmograph, Ann asked Frank Capra to let her read for the role of the prostitute in Lost Horizon. "He just laughed and said I was too young and pretty," Ann recalled (B-80). She asked for her release and moved to RKO in 1936. During this period, Ann went through a variety of stages, trying to find the right look for the screen. She told Movie Mirror, "It wasn't until I had gone through an almost grotesque series of experiments on arching and straightening my eye brows, enlarging my mouth line, changing my hair from yellow-blonde to reddish-blonde to almost dark again that I realized the happy medium 'honey blonde' was the correct color and line for me!" (B-225).

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Although her appearance was changing, her roles were not. Ann had hoped RKO would give her more fulfilling parts. Instead, she found herself teamed with Gene Raymond in a series of low-budget romantic comedies. Columbia had first loaned Ann to RKO in 1935 for Hooray for Love with Raymond. With the pair under contract in 1936, RKO reteamed them in four pictures: Walking on Air, Smartest Girl in Town, There Goes My Girl, and She's Got Everything. RKO also loaned out Ann's services for a series of less-than-stellar films. Ann was growing more dissatisfied. When RKO wanted to cast her in a small role in Joy of Living, Ann finally asked to be released from her contract. RKO conceded in 1937. Ann took a year off from films, waiting for a quality script. She spent the time reorganizing her personal life and following her husband, Roger Pryor, a bandleader and actor whom she had married in 1936. Born in 1901, Roger was the son of Arthur Pryor, a renowned orchestra leader. Roger acted on stage and sporadically led an orchestra of his own. In 1928 he married Priscilla Mitchell. They had a daughter around 1931. In 1933 Roger left his family in New Jersey to pursue a movie career. Priscilla took up residence in Reno in 1934 in order to divorce him. However, she left before the six-week waiting period was over. Ann first met Roger in Chicago in 1932 while she was starring in Of Thee I Sing and he was appearing in Blessed Event. They met again in Hollywood when they co-starred in the film The Girl Friend in 1935. According to Screen Guide, Ann and Roger rekindled their romance in Hollywood, although he was only separated from his wife (B-312). Priscilla Pryor finally went through with divorce proceedings in 1936 and married again the day after receiving her decree. By this time, Roger had gone on the road with his band. He returned to California as Ann was finishing Smartest Girl in Town and told her he had signed a year's contract for his band at the College Inn in Chicago. Despite the known separation, Ann and Roger decided to get married immediatly. However, they forgot the mandatory three-day notice period. "Even when they remembered, they supposed that filing the intention to wed on Wednesday would allow them to marry on Saturday," Screen Guide reported. "And such would be the case - except the first day doesn't count" (B-312). With Roger due in Chicago for a band rehearsal, the only alternative to postponing the wedding was to marry after midnight. After four years of waiting, Ann and Roger were married at one minute after midnight on September 27, 1936 at the Hollywood Congregational Church. The ceremony was performed by the Reverend J. Hamilton Lash. Despite the fact that it was her first marriage, Ann wore a metallic blue gown designed by Irene because Roger had an aversion to brides in white. The Pryors spent their honeymoon in Chicago where Roger's band was playing. Ann made a personal appearance at

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the Palace Theatre during the week of October 16, reminding audiences that she began her career as a singer. After the working honeymoon, Ann returned to her studio obligations. The movie magazines had a field day reporting on her long distance marriage. In 1937 Ann told Photoplay, "...we married not to risk our love, but to save it. This way, we are continually working toward something, rather than away from it and everything we do is in anticipation of the few hours or days or weeks we can be together" (B-128). After Ann was released from her RKO contract, she held out for a role with substance. She traveled with Roger, often appearing with his band. In November, 1937, Roger was appearing at the Baker Hotel in Dallas. Ann came to visit him for Thanksgiving. While in Dallas, she befriended David Hobbs, a ten-year-old newsboy. David came from a large, poor family. Ann convinced his parents to allow him to go to California to live with her, hoping she could eventually adopt him. David resided with Ann and Roger for two years. During that time, Ann had his teeth straightened, gave him piano lessons, and provided a fine education. Despite the luxuries, David missed his family. When his parents visited Beverly Hills, David begged to join them on the central California ranch where his father was working. He left the Pryor home to live in a tent with his 11 siblings. According to the New York Herald Tribune, David said, "[Ann and Roger] were swell to me...but I just wanted to be home" (B-7). Waiting for a quality role proved to be the boost Ann's career needed. However, when producer Walter Wanger offered her a character part in Trade Winds, she was cautious. She told Motion Picture in 1940, "...I was so bent on making the right start again that I hesitated two weeks before signing for the role" (B-268). Although the film starred Joan Bennett and Fredric March, Ann was praised by the critics as a new discovery. She was offered a role in East Side of Heaven opposite Bing Crosby, but had to turn it down because she was under contract to Roger Pryor for a series of personal appearances. Instead, the role went to Joan Blondell, an actress whom many thought resembled Ann. Ann's next offer arrived at a more opportune time and it altered her career for the next 13 years. Producer J. Walter Ruben noticed Ann's superior work in Trade Winds and offered her the title role in MGM's Maisie. Maisie Ravier was a brassy Brooklyn showgirl who became involved in a series of adventures as she drifted from job to job. Based on the stories by Wilson Collison, the film had originally been intended as a vehicle for Jean Harlow. The script had been shelved after her death in 1937 because the studio could not find a suitable replacement. Ann's work in Trade Winds reminded Ruben of her sassiness in Folies Bergere. Ruben thought Ann would be the perfect Maisie. Despite the fact that Maisie was intended as a 'B' picture, Ruben had difficulty convincing the MGM executives

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that Ann was right for the role. When the film was released in 1939, it grossed more than three times its cost. MGM chief Louis B. Mayer insisted on signing Ann to a contract, guaranteeing a series of Maisie adventures. During the next thirteen years, Ann made nine more Maisie films and starred in two radio series based on the character. Ann also made Hotel for Women in 1939 for 20th Century-Fox. Her role was originally that of co-star with Linda Darnell, but the studio pared down Ann's part after the successful release of Maisie. They did not want to build up the career of an actress who had signed with a rival studio. Under her MGM contract, Ann made at least one Maisie feature a year. Although she often felt typecast, Ann used the Maisie film series as leverage to do pictures of her choice. She told Filmograph, "Every Maisie film cost under $500,000 and made two to three times that back. Sure, I felt she was a millstone around my neck at times. I'd tell Mr. Mayer to give me a musical and I'd do another Maisie. We'd bargain in that way" (B-80). In addition to her Maisie commitments, Ann played a variety of roles on screen and radio. She was cast as a series of dumb blondes in Joe and Ethel Turp Call on the President, Brother Orchid (on loan-out to Warner Bros.), and Dulcy. She returned to her musical roots in Lady Be Good and Panama Hattie. An emergency appendectomy on January 15, 1940 cost her the second lead in Waterloo Bridge, but she did a dramatic turn in Cry Havoc in 1943. Time announced Ann would also star in Du Barry Was a Lady, Come and Get It with Clark Gable, and an unnamed film with Spencer Tracy, however none of the projects materialized with Ann as the star ("The New Pictures." Time. August 18, 1941.) Fred Stanley said she was also mentioned for The Female of the Species, a film loosely based on the career of pioneer newswoman Nellie Bly ("Hollywood Turns to Inspirationsl Films." New York Times. December 19, 1943.). During the late 1930s and early 1940s, Ann made several appearances on radio anthologies like Lux Radio Theatre, Silver Theatre, and Screen Guild Theatre, which was hosted by Roger Pryor. Despite the diversity of her roles, the public identified her only as Maisie. MGM was proud to publicize the fact that fans demanded Ann sign her autograph as Maisie and that fan letters came addressed simply "Maisie, U.S.A." Despite Ann's success on screen, her private life was less than idyllic. On July 7, 1939, Roger filed for bankruptcy. A smoldering cigarette destroyed the guest room Ann was decorating for Roger's daughter. In 1941, $7,000 worth of jewelry was stolen from Ann's home. That September, Ann and Roger announced a trial separation. Ann filed for divorce on April 14, 1942, on the grounds of "great and grievous cruelty." She received her interlocutory decree on May 8, after telling Judge Harry R.

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Archbald that Roger's insistence on flying constituted cruelty. She said, "[Roger] took up flying three years ago. I am terribly frightened by airplanes and begged him not to fly....Sometimes he would go away in his plane and I wouldn't know where he was for a week at a time" (B-138). The decree became final on May 17, 1943. Six days later, Ann married Robert Sterling. Roger later gave up his acting career and turned to advertising. Despite their divorce, Ann and Roger remained friends until his death on January 31, 1974 at the age of 72. Ann met Bob Sterling while they were co-starring in Ringside Maisie in 1941. Born William John Hart on November 11, 1917, he was the son of baseball player Walter S. Hart. As Robert Sterling, he made his film debut in 1939. Like Ann, he was under contract to MGM where he played a series of handsome-but-unchallenging leading man roles. During her separation from Roger, Ann ran into Bob while she was visiting his neighbor, Hedy Lamarr. They began dating, starting months of speculation in the fan magazines about the possibility of marriage. Bob enlisted in the Army Air Corp in 1942 and was stationed at Thunderbird Field in Phoenix. He and Ann decided to marry after her divorce was final and he finished his primary training. An emergency appendectomy gave Bob an unexpected two weeks leave. Since he did not know when he would get home again, Bob and Ann decided to marry immediatly at the Ventura Community Church. The trip to Ventura sounded like the adventures of Maisie; Ann lost her ring and Bob forgot the marriage license. Despite the false starts, they were married May 23, 1943 by the Reverend Theodore Henderson. Ann wore a navy suit and fuschia gloves. Agent Henry Willson was best man; Ann's best friend, Muriel "Mai" Milland, was matron of honor. Mai's husband, actor Ray Mi 11 and, could not attend the wedding because he was home preparing punch for the Sterlings's reception. The honeymoon was brief, as Ann was in the midst of shooting Cry Havoc. During World War II, Ann showed her patriotism by touring camps and hospitals, as well as appearing at the Hollywood Canteen. She was so popular with the enlisted men that one wartime air unit named its plane "Sothern Comfort" in her honor. At MGM she did her part by appearing in the studio's wartime spectacular Thousands Cheer. Ann, Lucille Ball, and Marsha Hunt played prospective WAVEs in a comedy sketch with Frank Morgan. Ann also appeared in an eight-minute film short for the Department of War Information entitled You, John Jones. Ann had to turn down a role in The Harvey Girls because she was pregnant. The role went to Angela Lansbury, and Patricia Ann Sterling was born December 10, 1944. Ann was sure the baby was a boy and planned to name him Timothy Hart Sterling. Certain of a girl, Bob chose the name Patricia Ann. The Sterlings gave their daughter the

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nickname Tisha because they felt Pat did not suit her personality. Her godparents were director Walter Lang and Mai Milland. Ann was not content with one child. In 1945 she told Louella Parsons that she planned to retire in a few years to be a full-time wife and mother (B-339). Although Ann did not have any more children, she was active in the Foster Parents Program. In 1949 she sponsored a Greek war orphan and encouraged other film personalities, as well as her fans, to help the cause. In 1946, Ann and Bob separated. Louella Parsons insisted it was just a trial parting; like many wartime marriages, the Sterlings had to adjust when Bob was discharged (B-341). They separated again in November, 1947. Ann received an interlocutory decree of divorce on January 2, 1948, claiming Bob had caused her "grievous mental suffering." The divorce became final on March 8, 1949. According to the New York Times, Bob agreed to pay $200.00 a month child support (B-31). Many hinted that it was Ann's successful career and the seven-year age difference that led to the marriage's demise. Bob married actress Anne Jeffreys in 1951 and had three sons. Despite success on television in Topper with his second wife, he left acting and went into the computer business. Ann's MGM contract was not renewed in 1947. She freelanced, making April Showers for Warner Bros., The Judge Steps Out for RKO, and A Letter to Three Wives for 20th Century-Fox. The latter, which won Academy Awards for Joseph Mankiewicz's script and direction, was Ann's most acclaimed film. She played a radio writer whose salary was larger than her English teacher husband's. She returned to MGM for a bit in Words and Music, and leads in Nancy Goes to Rio and Shadow on the Wall. During a 1949 trip to England for a Command Performance of That Forsyte Woman, Ann received an impure serum shot which gave her infectious hepatitis and kept her off the screen for three years. Forced to stay in bed, Ann's only work during this time were her Maisie radio broadcasts which were recorded in her home. At times, her eyes were so sensitive to light that the room had to be blackened. Ann credited her illness with helping to restore her faith. In 1952 she converted to Catholicism with the help of her friend Richard Egan. They were rumored to be engaged, but Ann refused to marry the devout Catholic because she had been divorced (B-463). After Ann recovered, she set about proving that she had the strength to work again. She starred on stage in the comedy Faithfully Yours with Robert Cummings in 1951. During the pre-Broadway tryouts, there was a disagreement about billing. Producer Richard Krakeur had promised both stars top billing, an impossibility in both print advertising and the marquee. Ann and Cummings agreed to alternate positions in newspaper ads and split the other promotional material equally. The play lasted only 68 performances on Broadway.

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Ann Sothern

Returning to California, Ann appeared in The Blue Gardenia, her first film in three years. Critics welcomed her back, claiming audiences broke into applause when she appeared on screen. Despite the warm reception, Ann's role was one of support. She decided to concentrate on the new medium of television. Ann made her television debut on The Fred Waring Show on December 16, 1951. It was followed soon after by a dramatic role in "Lady with a Will" on Schlitz Playhouse of Stars in 1952. She appeared on Hollywood Opening Night later that year in "Let George Do It." Her performances led to several series offers; Ann finally settled on Private Secretary. The show debuted on CBS on February 1, 1953. Sponsored by Lucky Strike, Private Secretary alternated its Sunday evening spot with The Jack Benny Show. During the first two seasons, Private Secretary was rerun on NBC during the summers under the title Susie. When the series went into syndication, it kept the title Susie. Ann starred as Susan Camille MacNamara, secretary to talent agent Peter Sands. She liked the elastic format that the agency allowed, making it natural for her to go hunting for talent, and for famous guest stars to appear. Despite Ann's protests, Susie was often compared to Maisie. Although Ann admitted both had a penchant for playing "Miss Fix-it," she insisted Susie was better dressed and better educated than her predecessor. Susie proved to be so popular with the nation's secretaries that Ann was named "Favorite Private Secretary of the Year" by the Los Angeles Chapter of the National Secretaries Association in 1954. She was awarded a bronze shorthand book. Ironically, the favorite secretary did not know how to type. Ann told TV Guide that she had to remove most of the typewriter's works in order to keep the keys from jamming while she typed on the show (B-391). The series's popularity was not limited to secretaries. Fashion tie-ins allowed all women to dress like Susie. In 1954, three Private Secretary franchises were announced: Kay Windsor Frocks, manufacturer of popular priced dresses, Ernest Donath of Boston, producer of skirts and sportswear, and Flairspecs, an optical frame specialist who promised to produce a Private Secretary style of the month. Ann's use of different frames to express Susie's mood made wearing glasses chic. During the run of Private Secretary, Ann made several appearances which showed her new legion of fans that she could sing and dance. Ann starred in a nightclub act in Reno, Las Vegas, and Chicago during the summer of 1954. She displayed her musical and comic talents in a series of numbers, including take-offs on Susie and Maisie. That fall she starred in the television adaptation of the musical Lady in the Dark on NBC. Produced by Max Liebman as his second color spectacular, most critics praised Ann's performance, as well as the show's use of color. During the mid 1950s she made appearances on The Milton Berle Show

Biography

11

and The Red Skelton Show, as well as substituting for an ailing Loretta Young as the hostess of her program. During Private Secretary's fifth season, producer Jack Chertok sold the rights to the series to Television Programs of America (TPA). Ann's five-year contract with Chertok stipulated that she owned 25% of the series for the first three years and 42% for the fourth year. Since she felt TPA had purchased a hit property, Ann wanted a new deal negotiated on her fifth-year option. Although she praised TPA's distribution of Private Secretary reruns, she refused to film any additional episodes until a settlement was reached. Variety reported Ann wanted to produce the series herself under the new agreement (B-59). Although she was involved in a $93,000 lawsuit over the distribution of profits with Chertok, she said she would not mind if he were named producer. She told Variety, "He's done a very creditable job....All he needs is a new accounting department" (B-59). June Allyson and Penny Singleton were rumored to take Ann's place on Private Secretary for TPA, but the show ended its original run on March 17, 1957 with Ann's 104th episode. While settling her differences with Chertok and TPA out of court, Ann made a series of guest appearances, including variety shows like Washington Square, The Steve Allen Show, and The Perry Como Show. She hosted the musical special Holiday in Las Vegas and recreated her Susie MacNamara role on The Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Show. Ann's interests were not limited to her acting career. In 1953 she formed Vincent Productions, named for her patron saint, to handle financial matters for Private Secretary, and to manage the careers of two discoveries, Ginny Saturday and Tony Ramo. She started the A-Bar-S Cattle Ranch in 1953 as a recreation for her retired father and ended up selling over 1,200 head of cattle. In 1956 she opened the Ann Sothern Sewing Center in Sun Valley, Idaho. While visiting her home in Sun Valley, Ann decided she wanted to sew but could not find a shop that carried patterns and materials. She opened her own shop a few weeks later. Ann formed the A-Bar-S Music Company while she was looking for songs to record for her Sothern Exposure album in 1958. She liked a new song by Ian Bernard called "Another Year," but could not include it unless it had a publisher. When Ann learned that publishers earn royalties on performances and sheet music, she entered the music publishing business. In 1958 Ann formed Anso Productions to handle her new series, The Ann Sothern Show. Originally titled Career Girl, The Ann Sothern Show cast Ann as Katy O'Connor, the assistant manager of a luxurious New York hotel. In addition to her role as Katy, Ann produced the series with Desi Arnaz, and wrote the theme song with her sister, Bonnie. Like Private Secretary, The Ann Sothern Show had a format which allowed famous guest stars to appear as themselves. And like Susie, Katy was an independent, single woman who had a penchant for

12

Ann Sothern

interfering. Even the cast was familiar. Ann Tyrrell, who played switchboard operator Violet Praskins on Private Secretary, joined The Ann Sothern Show as Olive Smith, Katy's secretary and roommate. As time passed, the second series began to resemble the first more closely. Katy's boss, Ernest Truex, was replaced during the middle of the first season by Don Porter as James Devery, the new hotel manager. At the end of the second season, Jesse White joined the cast as Oscar Pudney, a character not unlike his Cagey Calhoun role on Private Secretary. Gladys Hurlbut, a frequent guest star on Private Secretary, had a recurring role on The Ann Sothern Show as Olive's future mother-in-law. Redecoration of Mr. Devery's office made it look like the office of Susie's boss, Peter Sands. The Ann Sothern Show was successful until it was scheduled opposite The Untouchables. It went off the air in 1961 with Mr. Devery proposing to Katy on the last episode. Ann and Don Porter's cat-and-mouse chemistry was part of the reason for its popularity. The last episode was both delightful and frustrating to the show's fans. According to Don Porter, they purposely ended the series without a wedding, leaving it open for the series to return with Katy and Mr. Devery still playing games. After the cancellation of The Ann Sothern Show, Ann moved to New York so Tisha could attend several finishing schools. Ann spoke of starting a business to merchandise cuffs and collars, as well as a fashion business with designer Moss Mabry. Ann also talked about producing a television series. Instead, she attended Stella Adler's acting class, hoping to broaden her background to get more dramatic parts. She had previously studied with drama coach Phyllis Laughton during the 1930s. In 1959 Ann filed a protest against a government claim that she owed $722,322.44 in income taxes from 1953-56. The taxes represented her profits from the sale of Private Secretary and losses she claimed from her cattle ranch. The case was settled in 1960 with Ann paying $99,000. She was later given the Treasury Department Award. Ann had further legal troubles when her mother sued her for support in 1961. Annette Yde-Lake, 76 and suffering from advanced arteriosclerosis, demanded that Ann pay her $500 medical bills and $1,200 in monthly support. Ann insisted that she had been the sole support of her mother for years. Ann refused to continue that support when Annette left the hospital to move in with her daughter, Bonnie, and Bonnie tried to become Annette's guardian. When Ann petitioned to become her mother's guardian, Annette objected that Ann had a conflict of interest since Ann was involved in the support suit. Annette also objected to her daughter, Marion, being named guardian since Marion worked for Ann. Annette eventually dropped the support suit and Marion was named her guardian. Annette died December 12, 1962.

Biography

13

In September, 1962, Ann filmed a pilot for a series called Atta Boy, Mama. Aimed at the 1963-64 season, the pilot cast Ann as the widow of a small-town mayor. The pilot was written by Mac Benoff and directed by Ida Lupino. It was produced by Mark Goodson and Bill Todman in association with NBC at Metro studios. When the series could not find a sponsor, Ann decided to return to the stage. When Atta Boy, Mama was first mentioned in July, 1962, Ann was already looking toward a Broadway comeback. God Bless Our Bank, a Theatre Guild production, was scheduled to open in November, 1962 after a three-city try-out. With a script by Mac Benoff, a Goodson and Todman producer and the creator of Atta Boy, Mama, God Bless Our Bank promised to bring Ann back to the stage in triumph. The show was postponed until the summer of 1963 when Ann starred in a seven-week tour, now produced by Zev Bufman and Stan Seiden. Director Abe Burrows viewed the play in Westport to examine its Broadway possibilities. According to the New York Times, Ann agreed to star in the Broadway production if she liked the revisions made by Benoff and Burrows (B-476). Co-star Jeff Corey surmised that audiences did not really enjoy the play, despite their laughter at the one-liners. The play never opened in New York; Ann returned to the movies. Ann fulfilled her desire to be cast in character parts with her 1960s film roles. In Lady in a Cage she played an aging prostitute. She told Filmograph that a debate over the film's sadism ruined her chances of receiving an Oscar nomination, however she was recognized by the Foreign Press Association with a Golden Globe nomination for her role (B-80). Ann was cast as a bossy political chairwoman in The Best Man and a blowsy arcade cashier in Sylvia. Ann's most unusual role came about in 1965 when she was cast as the title character on the NBC series My Mother the Car. Often cited as one of the worst shows in television history, My Mother the Car was about a lawyer who discovers his mother has been reincarnated as a 1928 Porter. The Porter was really an antique fliver with the license plate PZR 317. Producer Rod Amateau, a director of The Ann Sothern Show, said the car was named after Don Porter, Ann's co-star on her other successful series. My Mother the Car lasted one season. Don Porter faired just as poorly with Gidget, his entry in the 1965-66 TV season. Despite introducing Sally Field to a generation of TV viewers, Gidget produced only thirty-two episodes, two more than My Mother the Car. Although Ann later regretted doing My Mother the Car, she was realistic about her motives in 1965. When the Columbus Citizen-Journal asked why she accepted the role of a talking car, she cited two reasons. "One, I like to make and spend money. I couldn't think of an easier way to make some," she said. "Two, I enjoy character roles and have no make-up problems, no hairdresser woes, or camera

14

Ann Sothern

angles to worry about. It's like acting on radio for a TV star's pay" (B-366). Ann never saw any of the other actors. She recorded her scenes in a booth, several episodes at a time. While working on My Mother the Car, Ann was faced with a more fulfilling acting assignment. Lucille Ball asked her to make several guest appearances on The Lucy Show. Ann played Lucy's old friend, Rosie Harrigan, now a destitute countess. Ann and Lucy's friendship dated back to their work as girls on the beach in Broadway Thru a Keyhole. They were under contract to RKO and MGM together. While Ann was starring in The Ann Sothern Show, she told several reporters, "Lucy used to complain she got all the parts I turned down. Now I produce the show and she owns the studio. I guess that settles that." Despite Ann and Lucy's chemistry and friendship, Ann did not want to be tied down to another series so she did not become a regular on The Lucy Show. The seven episodes were the last time the comediennes worked together. In 1966 Ann announced she would make a pilot for Desi Arnaz's new production company. The situation comedy was to be written by I Love Lucy's Madelyn Davis and Bob Carroll, Jr. According to Davis, Ann changed her mind about the pilot, which became the series The Mothers-in-law with Eve Arden and Kaye Ballard. Meanwhile, Tisha was carving out a career of her own. She made her television debut on an episode of The Ann Sothern Show in 1960. During the late 1960s she was part of Universal Studio's training program for young actors. Her work included guest appearances on The Donna Reed Show, Get Smart, and Batman, as well as many telefilms. Her greatest acclaim came from the features Norwood and Coogan's Bluff. But Ann was most proud when Tisha made her debut at the International Debutante Ball at New York's Astor Hotel in 1962. Tisha married actor and realtor Lai Baum in Las Vegas on July 24, 1966. Although Ann claimed she approved of the marriage, she did not attend the ceremony because she was working. The Baums had a daughter, Heidi, and were later divorced. Although Ann had told many reporters that she was anxious for Tisha to marry and give her grandchildren, Tisha told TV Guide that Ann did not let Heidi call her grandmother ("An Only Child Grows Up." TV Guide. June 22, 1968.). Through the years, Ann juggled TV assignments with theatre roles. In addition to such diverse series as The Legend of Jesse James, Family Affair, and Love American Style, Ann toured in many plays. She was reunited with Jesse White in a 1965 summer production of The Solid Gold Cadillac. According to Films in Review, the director of The Glass Menagerie called Ann "the best Amanda ever" (B-99). Although she turned down the role of Mame on Broadway, Ann starred in the musical in Hawaii to much acclaim.

Biography

15

During the late 1960s and early 1970s, Ann's film roles were diverse. On television, she was an over-protective mother in Congratulations, It's a Boy!, an old maid aunt in The Great Man's Whiskers, and a sympathetic Mother Superior in The Weekend Nun. In 1971 she got the opportunity to work with her daughter, Tisha, in the telefilm A Death of Innocence. Ann was called in to replace Kim Stanley on one day's notice when the actress broke her ankle. Ann played a drunken mother and won praise for a dramatic scene with co-star Shelley Winters. Critics also admired Ann's performance as a rapist's mother in the 1973 theatrical release The Killing Kind. Its limited release prevented Ann from being considered for an Oscar nomination. In 1973 Ann was appearing at the Thunderbird Dinner Theatre in Jacksonville, Florida when an accident occurred which would alter the rest of her career. During the opening night performance of Everybody Loves Opal, a piece of scenery fell on Ann, fracturing a lumbar vertebra and shattering the nerves in her legs. She finished the show and the play's run, despite her pain. In 1975 she sued the then-bankrupt Thunderbird Dinner Theatre. Ann was awarded $200,000 in 1977, but has been plagued with pain ever since the accident. Despite the fact that doctors told her she would never walk again, Ann maneuvers with the help of a cane, although she and has no feeling in her feet. In addition to her own health problems, Ann was worried about Tisha. After Tisha had a mole removed from her neck in 1976, skin cancer was discovered. According to the Chicago Tribune, a melanoma specialist from the University of California operated and a plastic surgeon repaired the damage (B-474). Completely recovered, Tisha resumed her acting career. Ann said, "We are what are known as survivors. Between my back and her cancer, we've learned that you can surmount just about anything" (B-474). Since the accident, Ann has been select in chosing her film roles. She told Filmograph that she accepted the part of a mahjong parlor hostess in The Golden Needles in order to see her friend Burgess Meredith and to receive a trip to Hong Kong (B-80). Crazy Mama allowed Ann to work with Tisha again; Tisha played her mother's character as a young woman in a flashback sequence. Ann turned down appearances on The Love Boat and Fantasy Island, as well as a role in a film about a grandmother who urges her daughter into prostitution. A television remake of A Letter to Three Wives cast Ann as Ma Finney, the supporting role originally played by Connie Gilchrist. According to the New York Times, the producer of the telefilm thought it would be a great marketing ploy to get one of the original stars for his remake (B-196). In 1987 Ann told the Idaho Statesman that she was also offered the role of the maid, created by Thelma Ritter. She claimed she told the producer, "I'll have to take the mother 'cause I can't carry a bloody tray"

16

Ann Sothern

(B-417). A Letter to Three Wives marked the beginning of a resurgence in Ann's career. On January 5, 1987 the cable television station Nickelodeon began reruning The Ann Sothern Show in its "Nick at Nite" lineup. The station catered to baby-boomers with its nostalgic, seldom-seen series like The Donna Reed Show and My Three Sons. This was the first time Ann's shows had been aired with any regularity in most parts of the country for many years. During the 1960s, Ann's series were syndicated by Metromedia Producers Corp., but the shows had not been distributed widely. In 1986, 20th Century-Fox Television acquired The Ann Sothern Show and Private Secretary/Susie, and licensed them to Nickelodeon. After The Ann Sothern Show had finished its initial run, Nickelodeon aired Susie. Since then, the series have been alternating, bringing Ann a new generation of fans who are too young to remember the shows's original runs. Director Lindsay Anderson saw Ann in the remake of A Letter to' Three Wives in 1985 and thought of her for his theatrical film, The Whales of August. Producer Mike Kaplan was hesitant to offer her the part because of her immobility, but he said he and Anderson "devised various ways of shooting the sequences so that it would be of no great concern." Kaplan recalled, "She said, 'I can do anything except run' - and she can!" Ann thought it was fate that she take the part since the character's name was Tisha. Shot off the coast of Maine in 1986, The Whales of August brought together screen legends Bette Davis, Lillian Gish, and Vincent Price. Tisha Sterling played her mother's character in a flashback sequence. Despite a clash of egos between Gish and Davis, Ann refused to get caught in the middle. Lindsay Anderson credited Ann with lessening the tension. He told People Weekly, "When Ann appeared on the set, the whole atmosphere lightened up. She brought her own poker chips and played cards with the crew" (B-415). Mike Kaplan recalled that Ann and Anderson, a film buff who had been charmed by Ann's performances in Lady Be Good and Words and Music, would often sing together on the set. Ann's work in The Whales of August earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress in 1988. Although she lost to Olympia Dukakis, Ann received some of the best reviews of her career. Even critics who did not like the film praised Ann's characterization of the nosey neighbor. On March 4, 1988, Ann was honored at the Santa Barbara Film Festival with a retrospective of her career. The tribute included a showing of the original A Letter to Three Wives, as well as clips from her film and TV work. In attendance were Mike Kaplan, Mary Steenburgen, Malcolm McDowell, Leonard Maltin, and designer Jean-Louis, as well as Ann's granddaughter, Heidi, and her sister, Marion. Despite the acclaim brought by The Whales of August and her Oscar nomination, Ann has been plagued by personal

Biography

17

tragedy. She told People Weekly that 1987 was the worst year of her life (B-415). In May, Ann underwent abdominal surgery for a blocked intestine. On August 11, her granddaughter's husband, Mark Bates, was killed in a motorcycle accident. Heidi and Mark had been married in April, 1986. Ann gave the eulogy at his funeral. She told the Hollywood Reporter, "You have to look for something positive out of a terrible thing like this. At least through his death, three other lives will be saved. They were able to donate Mark's kidneys and liver to the UCLA Medical Center to help someone else" (B-324). Heidi's father, Lai Baum, died of cancer just 21 days before. Ann has lost many friends in recent years, including Ray Milland and Richard Egan. According to Colin Briggs, the 1988 death of her sister, Marion, was a terrible shock. Since October, 1984, Ann has lived in Ketchum, Idaho. She first went to Sun Valley in 1948, and fell in love with the area and its people. Through the years, she spent her vacations in Idaho and her working months in a series of homes which included a 17-room Bel Air mansion, a suite at New York's Hotel Plaza, and a Beverly Hills townhouse. Ann told the Idaho Mountain Express that she returned to Ketchum because the area had not changed in almost 40 years (B-126). Tisha also settled nearby. Ann quickly became a part of the community, paying for the decoration of a room at Moritz Hospital, and donating books and her script from The Whales of August to the Ketchum Community Library. She told the Idaho Statesman that she wanted to help create a theatre in Ketchum. She also planned to teach seminars on dramatics at a nearby college, as she had at Jacksonville University in 1974 (B-417). For a while in 1988, Ann was rumored to be in the running for the film version of Driving Miss Daisy, but the role went to Jessica Tandy. Ann has continued her interest in composition. In addition to "Katy," the theme for The Ann Sothern Show, she composed "Thanks for Everything," "Chicken Cacciatore," and other songs for her series. In December, 1987, her granddaughter, Heidi, recorded two of Ann's compositions, "Peace and Love" and "Children All Are We." According to Ginger Piotter of the Ketchum Community Library, the demonstration records were not released. Ann's interest in art began in the 1930s when she studied painting and drawing at Choinard's School in Los Angeles. During the 1950s Ann studied painting in Idaho with Robert Peter Max. A rumored 1989 art show was to benefit a Sun Valley charity. Talk of an autobiography or an inspirational book has been going on since the mid 1970s, with George Eel Is and David Chandler mentioned as collaborators. In 1989 USA Weekend reported that Ann had turned down offers from several publishers because they wanted a book full of scandal (B-137). When asked about their association with Ann, her colleagues had nothing but praise for her professionalism

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Ann Sothern

and generosity. Jesse White recalled her eagerness to share the laughs with her co-stars. Unlike other performers who wanted to be the star of their shows, Ann let her supporting cast shine. According to People Weekly, Jack Wrangler recalled appearing with Ann in Glad Tidings during a Chicago blizzard in 1968. When only 25 people showed up, Ann cancelled the performance, and took the audience and cast to dinner (B-415). Pat Carroll mentioned Ann's generosity in sharing her knowledge of the technical aspects of the profession. Carroll said, "One day, while shooting the pilot 'Pandora and Friends,' she was discussing readjustment of some light with the lighting director. I asked her how she knew all that -- her answer? 'After 40 years in the industry, if you DON'T know, you're in trouble!'" Colleagues also praised Ann's talent and personality. Marsha Hunt said, "I admired her talent for comedy immensely, I felt that her lovely singing voice was under-rated, and thought her one of the most beautiful women I'd ever seen." She added, "[Ann] struck me as the thorough professional, well prepared for the day's scenes, and she had a relaxed manner on the set...and a good sense of humor." Anita Mykowsky, secretary to Red Skelton, said that her boss confessed he had a secret crush on Ann during their years at MGM. Jeff Corey also admitted he had a high school crush long before he co-starred with Ann on stage and screen. He is still a fan, as well as a friend. He said, "When I see those amazing black and white reruns and watch her work, I find she invariably delights me. She loves to perform. She was a part of that amazing generation of stars - they had a sense of who they were." Don Fedderson, producer of Family Affair, and Carl Reiner, both called Ann one of their favorite actresses. Mike Kaplan called Ann "a consumate actress" and "a thorough professional." He recalled the joy and exuberance she brought to the shooting of The Whales of August and longed to work with her again. The most fitting tribute came from Don Porter, a testament to Ann's professionalism and personality. He said his chemistry with Ann was the result of similar styles and approaches, as well as a mutual respect. He added, "I guess the pay off on the chemistry was that we remain friends after working together for seven years - many don't."

Harriette Lake and her sister, Marion, circa 1914. (Photograph courtesy of the Wisconsin Center for Film and Theater Research)

Harriette Lake, circa 1931.

20

Ann Sothern's first leading film role was in Let's Fall in Love in 1934.

21

Ann Sothern married Roger Pryor on September 27, 1936.

22

Ann Sothern met her second husband, Robert Sterling, while filming Ringside Maisie.

Joseph Mankiewicz won two Academy Awards for his work on A Letter to Three Wives. Kirk Douglas and Ann Sothern played husband and wife.

Ann Sothern and daughter Tisha Sterling at a Sun Valley ice rink in the early 1950s. (Photograph courtesy of the Sothern Collection, Community Library, Ketchum, ID)

25

Ann Sothern paid tribute to Maisie in her 1950s nightclub act.

26

Ann Sothern's Sewing Center. (Photograph courtesy of the Sothern Collection, Community Library, Ketchum, ID)

27

Ann Sothern played the assistant manager of a hotel on The Ann Sothern Show. Critics praised her chemistry with co-star Don Porter. (Photograph courtesy of Nickelodeon)

28

A 1963 tour of God Z?/ess Owr Bank was headed for Broadway. Co-star Jeff Corey said audiences disliked the play, despite the star's credible performance. (Photograph courtesy of Jeff Corey)

Ann Sothern and Brian Keith appeared in "Boss Toad," a 1964 episode of Insight. (Photograph courtesy of Paulist Productions)

Ann Sothern furnished a room in Sun Valley's Moritz Hospital. (Photograph courtesy of the Sothern Collection, Community Library, Ketchum, ID)

31

Three generations in Sun Valley: Ann Sothern, daughter Tisha Sterling, and granddaughter Heidi Baum, circa 1970. (Photograph courtesy of the Sothern Collection, Community Library, Ketchum, ID)

32

Ann Sothern was nominated for an Academy Award for her performance in The Whales of August.

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Filmography This chapter lists credits for all films made as Harriette Lake and Ann Sothern. Radio appearances made to promote the films are cross referenced. Additional reviews found in the bibliography and recordings found in the discography are also noted. When no reviews mention Miss Sothern, general reviews of the film are given. All films are in black and white unless noted. FILMS AS HARRIETTE LAKE F-l

Show of Shows (Warner Bros., 1929) Technicolor and black and white

124 minutes

Production supervisors: J.L. Warner and Darryl F. Zanuck. Director: John Adolfi. Choreographers: Jack Haskell and Larry Ceballos. Special material: Frank Fay and J. Keirn Brennan. Photography: Bernard McGill. Songs: J. Keirn Brennan, M.K. Jerome, Herman Ruby, Al Dubin, Joe Burke, Ray Perkins, Ned Washington, Herb Magidson, Michael H. Cleary, Al Bryan, Eddie Ward, Perry Bradford, Jimmy Johnson, Joe Goddwin, Gus Edwards, Arthur Freed, Nacio Herb Brown, Joe Young, Sam Lewis, Jean Schwartz, Bernie Seaman, Marvin Smolev, and Rube Bloom. Musical director: Louis Silvers. Set: Max Parker. Costumes: Earl Luick. Sound: George R. Groves. CAST: Frank Fay (Master of Ceremonies), William Courtenay (The minister), H.B. Warner (The Victim), Hobart Bosworth (The executioner), Marian Nixon, Sally O'Neill, Myrna Loy, Alice Day, Patsy Ruth Miller (Floradora Sextette), Ben Turpin (Waiter), Heinie Conklin (Ice man), Lupino Lane (Street cleaner), Lee Moran (Plumber), Bert Roach (Father), Lloyd Hamilton (Hansom cabbie), Noah Beery, Tully Marshall, Wheeler Oakman, Bull Montana, Kalla Pasha, Anders Randolf,

36

Ann Sothern Philo McCullough, Otto Matiesen, Jack Curtis (Pirates), Johnny Arthur (Hero), Carmel Myers, Ruth Clifford, Sally Eilers, Viola Dana, Shirley Mason, Ethlyne Clair, Frances Lee, Julanne Johnston (Ladies), Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. (Ambrose), Chester Conklin (Traffic cop), Grant Withers, William Collier, Jr,, Jack Mulhall, Chester Morris, William Bakewell (Boys), Lois Wilson, Gertrude Olmstead, Pauline Garon, Edna Murphy, Jacqueline Logan (Girls), Monte Blue (Condemned man), Albert Gran, Noah Beery, Lloyd Hamilton, Tully Marshall, Kalla Pasha, Lee Moran (Soldiers), Armida, John Barrymore, Richard Barthelmess, Sally Blane, Irene Bordoni, Anthony Bushell, Marion Byron, Georges Carpentier, James Clemmons, Betty Compson, Dolores Costello, Helene Costello, Marceline Day, Louise Fazenda, Alexander Gray, Harriette Lake, Lila Lee, Ted Lewis, Winnie Lightner, Beatrice Lillie, Nick Lucas, Molly O'Day, E. J. Radcliffe, Rin-Tin-Tin, Sid Silvers, Sojin, Ada Mae Vaughn, Lola Vendrill, Ted Williams' Adagio Dancers, Alice White, Loretta Young (Specialities).

SYNOPSIS: Master of ceremonies Frank Fay introduces a wide variety of acts in this musical revue. Highlights include John Barrymore in a scene from Henry VI, ten composers accompanying Irene Bordoni while she sings their successes, Myrna Loy and Nick Lucas in an Oriental production number, and Beatrice Lillie in a comedy sketch. Harriette Lake appears with eight sets of starlets in "Meet My Sister," a production number displaying costumes from various countries. When the film was originally released, only 21 minutes were without color. REVIEWS: Variety. 11.27.29: "It's doubtful if Dolores Costello did herself any good by joining Helene to be one of a string of family 'sister acts' leading chorus groups of 12 representing various countries." Outlook, 12.11.29: "One scene is devoted to real-life 'sister acts,' girls who have reached prominence on the screen as individuals, but are sisters in private: these include the Costello girls, Dolores and Helene; the Day sisters, Alice and Marceline; Loretta Young and Sally Blane; Sally O'Neill and Molly O'Day; Viola Dana and Shirley Mason, and others less impressive." NOTE: Despite the fact that the "Meet My Sister" number boasted eight sister acts, Harriette Lake and her film "sister," Marion Byron, were not related. F-2

Hearts in Exile Director:

(Warner Bros., 1929)

Michael Curtiz.

Screenplay:

82 minutes Harvey Gates.

Filmography Based on a play by John Oxenham. Photography: Rees. Song: Joe Burke and Al Dubin. Editor: Pratt.

37

Bill Thomas

CAST: Dolores Costello (Vera Ivanova), Grant Withers (Paul Pavloff), James R. Kirkwood (Baron Serge Palma), George Fawcett (Dmitri Ivanova), David Torrence (Governor), Olive Tell (Anna Rascova), William Irving (Rat catcher), Tom Dugan (Soldier), Rose Dione (Maid), Lee Moran (Professor Rooster), Carrie Daumery (Baroness Veimar). Harriette Lake is unbilled. SYNOPSIS: Vera Ivanova is a Moscow fisherman's daughter who loves Paul Pavloff, a poor student. When Paul neglects Vera and his studies to drink and gamble, she marries Baron Serge Palma. Paul and the Baron meet years later when both are exiled to Siberia. Because he feels sorry for Vera and her child, Paul offers to exchange his two-year sentence for the Baron's twenty-year exile. Vera follows her husband to Siberia, losing her child to exposure along the way. When she arrives, she lives with Paul until her husband comes to help them escape. The Baron sees that Vera and Paul are in love and commits suicide, allowing the lovers to remain together. Two endings were filmed. In one, the lovers escape to freedom; in the other, they are captured and sent back to finish their exile. REVIEWS: New York Times, 11.29.29: "Garnished with lavish and attractive settings, competent actors and a passable, if implausible, story, Hearts in Exile...is acceptable entertainment." Variety, 12.4.29: F-3

"As a programmer, not half bad."

Hold Everything

(Warner Bros., 1929)

78 minutes

Director: Roy Del Ruth. Choreographer: Larry Ceballos. Screenplay: Robert Lord. Based on a musical by Buddy DeSylva, John McGowan, Ray Henderson, and Lew Brown. Photography: Dev Jennings. Songs: Al Dubin, Ray Henderson, Lew Brown, and Lew Burke. Editor: William Holmes. CAST: Joe E. Brown (Gink Schiner), Winnie Lightner (Toots Breen), Georges Carpentier (Georges LaVerne), Sally O'Neill (Sue Burke), Edmund Breese (Pop O'Keefe), Bert Roach (Nosey Bartlett), Dorothy Revier (Norine Lloyd), Jack Curtis (Murph Levy), Tony Stabeneau (Bob Morgan), Lew Harvey (Dan Larkin), Jimmie Quinn (The Kicker). Harriette Lake is unbilled. SYNOPSIS: Gink Schiner is a second-rate fighter with pretensions of higher glory. He is scheduled to fight a

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Ann Sothern

preliminary before the big bout between Georges LaVerne and Bob Morgan. After LaVerne's manager refuses to fix the fight, Morgan's manager tries to incapacitate LaVerne with a knockout pill. Gink switches the drink and saves the fight. On the romance angle, Toots Breen is Gink's longtime sweetheart, Sue Burke is LaVerne's childhood playmate, and Norine Lloyd is a society girl who pursues him. REVIEW: Variety, 3.26.30: "Probably the best comedy picture Warners has turned out since talkers came in. Certainly the best musical comedy for laughs to date." F-4

Doughboys

(MGM, 1930)

80 minutes

Director: Edward Sedgwick. Choreographer: Sammy Lee. Screenplay: Al Boasberg, Sidney Lazarus, and Richard Schuyer. Based on a story by Al Boasberg amd Richard Lazarus. Photography: Leonard Smith. Songs: Edward Sedgwick, Howard Johnson, and Joseph Mayer. Art director: Cedric Gibbons. Editor: William LeVanway. Costumes: Vivian Baer. Sound: Karl E. Zint and Douglas Shearer. CAST: Buster Keaton (Elmer Stuyvesant), Sally Eilers (Mary), Cliff Edwards (Nescopeck), Edward Brophy (Sergeant Brophy), Victor Potel (Svendenburg), Arnold Korff (Gustave), Frank Mayo (Captain Scott), Pitzy Katz (Abie Cohn), William Steele (Lieutenant Randolph), Sidney Bracy (Recruiter). Harriette Lake is unbilled. SYNOPSIS: While trying to hire a new chauffeur, wealthy Elmer Stuyvesant accidently enlists in the Army. Tough Sergeant Brophy soon flattens the aristocratic soldier. Elmer finds comfort in the arms of the canteen girl, Mary. He accidently becomes a hero when he discovers a German map. After the war, Elmer employs his fellow soldiers; the doughboys have desk jobs and the sergeant is the porter. REVIEWS; Variety, 9.24.30: "Picture is a burlesquey low comedy on the Army during the war, possessing a pretty consistent stream of fun and releasing many hard-hitting laugh moments along the way." Life, 10.3.30: "The dialog [sic] is the same trite stuff you have been hearing in soldier comedies ever since there was a war of any kind, and except for a brief giggle or two, there is little amusement to be gleaned from the frenzied manner in which Buster and his buddies toss themselves about in the mud holes of sunny France." F-5

Footlight Parade

(Warner Bros., 1933)

102 minutes

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Producer: Darryl F. Zanuck. Directors: Lloyd Bacon, William Keighley, and Busby Berkeley. Choreographer: Busby Berkeley. Screenplay: Manuel Seff and James Seymour. Photography: George Barnes. Songs: Harry Warren, Al Dubin, Sammy Fain, and Irving Kahal. Musical director: Leo F. Forbstein. Editor: George Amy. Art director: Anton Grot. Costumes: Milo Anderson. Makeup: Perc Westmore. CAST: James Cagney (Chester Kent), Joan Blondell (Nan Prescott), Ruby Keeler (Bea Thorn), Dick Powell (Scotty Blair), Guy Kibbee (Silas Gould), Ruth Donnelly (Harriet Bowers Gould), Claire Dodd (Vivian Rich), Hugh Herbert (Charles Bowers), Frank McHugh (Francis), Arthur Hohl (Al Frazer), Gordon Westcott (Harry Thompson), Renee Whitney (Cynthia Kent), Philip Faversham (Joe Farrington), Juliet Ware (Miss Smythe), Herman Bing (Fralick), Paul Porcasi (George Appolinaris), William Granger (Doorman), Charles C. Wilson (Cop), Barbara Rogers (Gracie), Billy Taft (Specialty dancer), Marjean Rogers, Pat Wing, Donna La Barr, Mario Dwyer, Donna Mae Roberts (Chorus girls), Dave O'Brien (Chorus boy), George Chandler (Drugstore attendant), Hobart Cavanaugh (Title creator), William V. Mong (Auditor), Lee Moran (Lee the dance director), Billy Barty (Mouse in "Sittin' on the Backyard Fence," little boy in "Honeymoon Hotel"), Sam McDaniel (Porter), Fred Kelsey (Hotel detective), Jimmy Conlin (Uncle), Roger Gray, John Garfield, Duke York (Sailors in "Shanghai Lil"), Dorothy Lamour, Harriette Lake (unbilled chorus girls). SYNOPSIS: With the advent of talking pictures, theatrical producer Chester Kent finds himself unemployed. He convinces his backers to allow him to stage elaborate musical prologues to precede the films. When Chester learns a rival producer is stealing his ideas, Chester secludes his cast until opening night. Chester must go on in place of the juvenile when the actor gets drunk. An exhibitor is impressed by the production numbers, too elaborate for any real stage: "Honeymoon Hotel," "By a Waterfall," and "Shanghai Lil." Chester wins a contract to produce prologues for a large theatre chain and realizes his romantic feelings for his loyal secretary, Nan. REVIEWS: New York Times, 10.7.33: "The stars that hang high over Shanghai, lighting James Cagney's sultry search for Shanghai Lil, also reveal one more side of his astonishing versatility. For Mr. Cagney, who used to be a gentleman of the ensemble himself, has not forgotten all he learned in the chorus...His song-and-dance number in the closing minutes...is almost the solo compensation for a dull and turgid musical film."

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Ann Sothern

Variety, 10.10.33: "Then the wow finish with the three flash units as the Greek exhibitor reviews the tabs which mean a route, or else. 'Honeymoon Hotel,1 'By a Waterfall,' and 'Shanghai Lilf are the numbers, the latter including an American flag finale, a flash of President Roosevelt and everything but the NRA." NOTE: According to The Busby Berkeley Book, Harriette Lake appeared in the "Shanghai Lil" production number (B-438). F-6

Broadway Thru a Keyhole (20th Century/United Artists, 1933) 90 minutes Associate producers: William Goetz and Raymond Griffith. Director: Lowell Sherman. Choreographer: Jack Haskell. Screenplay: Gene Towne and Graham Baker. Based on a story by Walter Winchell. Photography: Barney McGill. Songs: Mack Gordon and Harry Revel. Musical director: Alfred Newman. Editor: Maurice Wright. CAST: Constance Cummings (Joan Whelan), Russ Columbo (Clark Brian), Paul Kelly (Frank Rocci), Blossom Seeley (Sybil Smith), Gregory Ratoff (Max Mefoofski), Texas Guinan (Tex Kaley), Hugh O'Connell (Chuck Haskins), Hobart Cavanaugh (Peanuts Dinwiddie), C. Henry Gordon (Tim Crowley), William Burress (Thomas Barum), Helen Jerome Eddy (Esther), Lucille Ball, Harriette Lake (Girls at the beach), Eddie Foy, Jr., Abe Lyman and his Orchestra, Frances William (Specialties).

SYNOPSIS: Frank Rocci is a smalltime racketeer who helps an old friend, Joan Whelan, get a job as a chorus girl. Falling in love with Joan, Rocci buys the club and makes her its star. When a rival gangster threatens him, Rocci sends Joan to Florida for her protection. In Florida, Joan falls in love with Clark Brian, a crooner. Rocci unselfishly gives her up. On Joan's wedding day, Rocci's rival tries to kidnap her. Rocci saves Joan, but gets shot. Lying in the hospital, he listens to a Walter Winchell broadcast that labels Rocci a hero and announces the death of the kidnapper. REVIEWS: Variety, 11.7.33: "Not a big picture, but it's good entertainment, and the chances for performance in terms of gross appear reasonably bright." Newsweek, 11.11.33: "Broadway Thru a Keyhole is a passable example of a familiar type. It is one of those pictures which ask audiences to believe big-shot criminals install little girls in sumptuous apartments, expecting to get nothing but a kind word in return."

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FILMS AS ANN SOTHERN F-7

Let's Fall in Love

(Columbia, 1934)

64 minutes

Associate producer: Felix Young. Director: David Burton. Assistant director: Arthur Black. Screenplay: Herbert Fields. Photography: Benjamin Kline. Songs: Harold Arlen and Ted Koehler. Musical director: Constantin Bakaleinikoff. Editor: Gene Milford. Sound: George Cooper. CAST: Edmund Lowe (Ken), Ann Sothern (Jean), Miriam Jordan (Gerry), Gregory Ratoff (Max), Greta Meyer (Lisa), Tala Birell (Forsell), Arthur Jarrett (Composer), Marjorie Gateson (Agatha), Betty Furness (Linda), Ruth Warren, Kane Richmond, John Qualen, Selmer Jackson, Niles Welch, Consuelo Baker, Sven Borg. SYNOPSIS: When his Swedish leading lady quits, film producer Max must find a replacement. Ken, his director, meets Jean, a sideshow performer who is adept at accents, and suggests her to his boss. Max promotes Jean as his new Swedish discovery, Sigrid Lund. During the filming, Ken and Jean fall in love. When Max learns Sigrid is a phony, he inisists on Ken's resignation. The publicity about Sigrid mushrooms and exhibitors demand the release of the film. Ken finds Jean back at the circus. He admits he loves her and she agrees to return to Hollywood. REVIEWS: New York Times, 1.22.34: "On the romantic side a newcomer, Ann Sothern, who used to be Harriet [sic] Lake, reveals personal charm and a pretty voice." Variety, 1.23.34: "It should be a handy item to have around, same going for Miss Sothern." See also D-2 NOTE: Ann Sothern sang "Let's Fall in Love" and "Love Is Love Anywhere." F-8

Melody in Spring

(Paramount, 1934)

75 minutes

Producer: Douglas MacLean. Director: Norman Z. McLeod. Screenplay: Benn W. Levy. Based on a story by Frank Leon Smith. Photography: Henry Sharp. Songs: Harlan Thompson and Lewis Gensler. Editor: Richard Currier. CAST: Lanny Ross (John Craddock), Ann Sothern (Jane Blodgett), Mary Boland (Mrs. Mary Blodgett), Charlie Ruggles (Warren Blodgett), George Meeker (Wesley Prebble), Herman Bing (Wirt), Joan Gale (Suzan), Jane

42

Ann Sothern Gale (Suzanna), June Gale (Suzette), Norma Mitchell (Mrs. Shorter), Wade Boteler (Anton), William J. Irving (Second guide), Helen Lynd (Blonde), Thomas Jackson (House detective), Wilfred Hari (Suzuki).

SYNOPSIS: Crooner John Craddock tries to convince eccentric collector Warrren Blodgett to let him sing on a radio program sponsored by Blodgett. In order to prevent Craddock from marrying his daughter, Jane, Blodgett takes her to Switzerland. Craddock follows and croons from every alp. He tries to win Jane's hand by showing her father a new way to pocket souvenirs. When Blodgett is arrested, Craddock admits he stole the souvenir to impress the sponsor. Jane gets herself arrested so she can join Craddock in jail. REVIEWS: New York Times, 3.31.34: "The daughter in the case is Ann Sothern, an ingenue who made a reputation earlier in the season in Let's Fall in Love." Variety, 4.3.34: "...the three Gale girls and Ann Sothern are effective in support along with the principal trio." F-9

The Hell Cat

(Columbia, 1934)

70 minutes

Director: Albert Rogell. Screenplay: Fred Niblo, Jr. and Joel Sayre. Based on a story by Adele Buffington. Photography: Benjamin Kline. Editor: John Rawlins. CAST: Robert Armstrong (Dan Collins), Ann Sothern (Geraldine Sloane), Benny Baker (Snapper Dugan), Minna Gombell (Pauline McCoy), Purnell Pratt (Butler), Charles Wilson (Graham), J. Carrol Naish (Joe Morgan), Irving Bacon (Regan), Henry Kolker (Sloane), Guy Usher (Gillette), Joseph Crehan (Captain Barnett), Huey White, Nick Copeland, Richard Heming, A.R. Haysel. SYNOPSIS: Tough reporter Dan Collins is working on an expose of a gambling ring when his editor sends him to photograph Geraldine Sloane, a spitfire heiress. Geraldine and Dan get into a fight. To get even, Geraldine dons a blonde wig and gets a job on the newspaper. While following a dangerous racketeer, Dan learns that Geraldine's father's yacht is being used to smuggle Chinese into the United States, unbeknownst to the Sloanes. Dan and Geraldine break the gambling ring and realize they are in love. REVIEW: New York Times, 7.7.34: "Unoriginal as the story may be, its action is rapid and there are a few laughs of the rowdier sort. Miss Sothern is equally attractive as blonde or brunette." F-10 Blind Date

(Columbia, 1934)

71 minutes

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Director: Roy William Neill. Screenplay: Art Black. Based on a story by Vida Hurst and Ethel Hill. Photography: Al Seigler. CAST: Ann Sothern (Kitty Taylor), Neil Hamilton (Bob Hartwell), Paul Kelly (Bill), Mickey Rooney (Freddy), Spencer Charters (Pa Taylor), Jane Darwell (Ma Taylor) Joan Gale (Flora), Geneva Mitchell (Dot), Theodore Newton (Tom), Tyler Brooke (Emy), Henry Kolker (Hartwell, S r . ) , Ben Hendricks, Jr. (Burt S t e a m s ) Mary Forbes (Mrs. Hartwell), Billy Seward (Barbara Hartwell). SYNOPSIS: The Taylors are a poor family headed by a gambling father and an over-protective mother. Oldest daughter Kitty is engaged to Bill, the owner of a garage When they have a fight, Kitty gets a job as a department store model and falls for the owner's son, Bob Hartwell. Kitty returns to Bill after Bob makes a dishonorable proposition. Suspicious that she still loves Bob, Bill picks a fight with Kitty and she returns to her wealthy suitor. It is intimated that Bill will console himself with Kitty's younger sister. REVIEWS: New York Times, 9.1.34: "Ann Sothern, a handsome and pleasing young actress, is as adequate as possible in the feminine lead..." Variety, 9.4.34: "...there's a hint that [Bill] consoles himself with the younger sister. He gets the best of the deal, at that, for Miss Sothern makes her shop girl very irritating." F-ll The Party's Over

(Columbia, 1934)

63 minutes

Director: Walter Lang. Screenplay: S.K. Lauren. Based on a play by Daniel Kussell. Photography: Benjamin Kline. Editor: Viola Lawrence. CAST: Stuart Erwin (Bruce), Ann Sothern (Ruth), Arline Judge (Phyllis), Chick Chandler (Martin), Patsy Kelly (Mabel), Catharine Doucet (Sarah), Marjorie Lytell (Betty), Henry Travers (Theodore), William Bakewell (Clay), Esther Muir (Tillie), Rollo Lloyd (Fred). SYNOPSIS: Bruce is a young accountant who is forced to support his lazy family. When the leaches try to interfere with his romance with Ruth, Bruce abandons the family to live his own life. REVIEW: Variety, 10.16.34: "Ann Sothern is opposite [Stuart Erwin] and does well enough."

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Ann Sothern

F-12 Kid Millions (United Artists, 1934) 90 minutes Black and white with Technicolor finale Producer: Samuel Goldwyn. Directors: Roy Del Ruth (black and white) and Willy Pogany (Technicolor). Choreographer: Seymour Felix. Screenplay: Arthur Sheekman, Nat Perrin, and Nunnally Johnson. Photography: Ray June (black and white) and Ray Rennahan (Technicolor). Songs: Walter Donaldson, Gus Kahn, Irving Berlin, Harold Adamson, and Burton Lane. Musical director: Alfred Newman. Art director: Richard Day. Editor: Stuart Heisler. Costumes: Omar Kiam. CAST: Eddie Cantor (Eddie Wilson, J r . ) , Ann Sothern (Joan Larrabee), Ethel Merman (Dot Clark), George Murphy (Jerry Lane), Jesse Block (Ben Ali), Eve Sully (Fanya), Berton Churchill (Colonel Larrrabee), Warren Hymer (Louie the Lug), Paul Harvey (Shiek Mulhulla), Otto Hoffman (Khoot), Doris Davenport (Toots), Edgar Kennedy (Herman), Stanley Fields (Oscar), Jack Kennedy (Pop), John Kelly (Adolph), Guy Usher (William Slade), Nicholas Brothers (Specialty), Matthew Beard (Stymie), Henry Kolker (Attorney), Tommy Bond (Tommy), Leonard Kibrick (Leonard), William Arnold (Steward), Harry C. Bradley (Bartender), Edward Peil, Sr. (Assistant bartender), Harry Ernest (Page boy), Eddie Arden (Busboy), Ed Mortimer (Ship's officer), Zack Williams Everett Brown (Slaves), Fred Warren, Harrison Greene (Spielers), George Regas, Noble Johnson (Attendants), Lon Poff (Recorder), Constantine Romanoff, Tor Johnson (Torturers), Ivan Linow, Lalo Encinas, Bud Fine, Leo Willis, Larry Fisher (Warriors), Sam Hayes (Eddie's announcer), Malcolm Waite, Bob Reeves (Trumpeteers), Clarence Muse (Colonel Witherspoon), Steve Clemento, Art Mix, Silver Harr, M. Rourie, Bob Kortman, Robert Ellis (Desert riders), Louise Carver (Native woman), Theodore Lorch (Native Fakir), Bobbie LaManche (Native boy), Bobby Jordan (Tourist), J. Macher, John Dowd, Charles Hall (Natives), Mickey Rentschler, Jacqueline Taylor, Carmencita Johnson, Patricia Ann Rambeau, Ada Mae Bender, Billy Seay, John Collum, Wally Albright (Children on tug), Lucille Ball, Irene Bentley, Dudone Blumier, Mary Jane Carey, Lynne Carver, Mary Lou Dix, Bonnie Bannon, Helen Ferguson, Gail Goodson, Jane Hamilton, Betty-Joy Howard, Vivian Keiffer, Caryl Lincoln, Mary Lange, Janice Jarratt, Ruth Moody, Barbara Pepper, Wanda Perry, Charlotte Russell, Virginia Reed, Gwen Seager, Helen Wood (1934 Goldwyn Girls). SYNOPSIS: When Eddie Wilson, Jr. inherits $77 million from the archaeologist-father he never knew, Eddie heads for Egypt to claim his fortune. On the boat he finds he is not

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the only one with a claim to the treasure. Song-plugger Dot Clark pretends to be Eddie's step-mother; Colonel Larrabee insists on a share for financing Eddie's father's dig. Larrabee's niece, Joan, has a rocky romance with Jerry Lane, a naive lawyer out to help Eddie. In Egypt, Eddie finds himself being chased by the lovesick Fanya. When her father the sheik learns that Eddie is heir to the man who stole the sheik's treasure, he sentences Eddie to death. Eddie escapes with the treasure and returns to New York. He reunites with his girl friend, Toots, and opens an ice cream factory for his poor childhood pals. REVIEW: New York Times, 11.12.34: "Ann Sothern and George Murphy form a pleasant romantic team in Kid Mil lions. . ." See also D-3, D-4 NOTES: Ann Sothern sang "Your Head on My Shoulder" and "Mandy." The ice cream factory finale was filmed in Technicolor. F-13 Folies Bergere 83 minutes

(20th Century/United Artists, 1935)

Producer: Darryl F. Zanuck. Associate producers: William Goetz and Raymond Griffith. Director: Roy Del Ruth. Choreographer: Dave Gould. Screenplay: Bess Meredyth and Hal Long. Based on the play The Red Cat by Hans Adler and Rudolph Lothar. Photography: Barney McGill and Peverell Marley. Songs: Jack Meskill, Jack Stern, Burton Lane, Harold Adamson, Victor Young, Ned Washington, Bing Crosby, Andre Christian, Albert Willemetz, and Herbert Reynolds. Musical director: Alfred Newman. Art director: William Darling. Editors: Allen McNeill and Sherman Todd. Costumes: Albert M. Levy and Omar Kiam. CAST: Maurice Chevalier (Eugene Charlier/Fernand, the Baron Cassini), Merle Oberon (Baroness Genevieve Cassini), Ann Sothern (Mimi), Walter Byron (Rene), Lumsden Hare (Gustave), Robert Grieg (Henri), Eric Blore (Francois), Halliwell Hobbes (Paulet), Philip Dare (Victor), Frank McGlynn, Sr. (Joseph), Ferdinand Munier (Morizet), Ferdinand Gottschalk (Perishot), Barbara Leonard (Josephine), Georges Renaveat (Premier), Olin Howland (Stage manager), Sailor Vincent (Rubber), Robert Graves (Doorman), Paul Kruger (Second doorman), Olga Borget, Irene Bentley, Vivian Martin, Jenny Gray, Doris Morton (Usherettes), Joseph E. Bernard (Butler), Albert Pollet (Male secretary), Perry Ivins (Airport official), Mario Dominici (Doctor), Paul Tolen (Page boy), Lew Hicks, Leon Baron (Attendants), Nam Dibot (Ticket m a n ) , Harry Holman (Cafe waiter),

46

Ann Sothern Leonard Walker (Assistant stage manager), Albert Pollet, Max Barwyn (Waiters in box), Ed Reinach, Joe Mack, Pop Garson, Bruce Covington, Charles Hagen, Adolph Faylaver, Harry Milton, Conrad Seidermann, Austin Browne (Bearded m e n ) , Marbeth Wright, Lucille Lund, Jeanne Hart, Joan Woodbury, Bernadene Hayes, Marie Wells, Fay Worth, Maryan Dowling (Girls in bar), Pauline Rosebrook, Shirley Hughes, Dixie McKinley, Libby Marks, Rosa Milano, Zandra Dvorak (Girl models), Roy Seagus, Eugene Beday, Harry Semek, Hans Schumm, Alex Chevron, Luis Hanore, Rene Mimieux, Dick Allen, Henri Runique (Bartenders), Bob Von Dobeneck, Al Mazzola, Bill O'Brien, Al Constance, Jack Raymond, Boris Fedotoff (Waiters), Audrey Hall, Pokey Champion, Rita Dunn, Claudia Fargo, Myra Jones, Billie Lee, Mary Jane Hodge (Girls in shell), Helen Mann, Joan Sheldon, Jill Evans, Barbara Roberts, Angela Blue, Nell Rhoades, June Gale, Mae Madison (Girls in secretary number), Jenny Gray, Thaya Foster, Ruth Day, Barbara Beall, Gail Goodson, Virginia Dabney (Girls in hat store), Wedgewood Nowell, Barlowe Borland, Anders Van Haden, John Ince, Wilson Millar, Yorke Sherwood, Cyril Thornton, Vesey O'Davoren, Robert Cody (Principals in montage).

SYNOPSIS: Baron Cassini is having problems with his finances and his love life. He is estranged from his wife, Genevieve, and trying to romance Mimi, a performer in the Folies Bergere. When his financial worries force him to be in two places at once, the Baron's assistants hire Eugene Charlier, a Folies Bergere performer, to impersonate him. While impersonating the Baron, Charlier charms Mimi and Genevieve, and accidently solves the Baron's financial problems. When the Baron returns, he is surprised by Genevieve's attentions. He tests her fidelity by pretending to be Charlier. The Cassinis reconcile while Charlier and Mimi entertain at the Folies Bergere. REVIEWS: New York Times, 2.25.35: "As the cabaret grisette, Miss Sothern displays a neat and captivating talent for the song and dance..." Variety, 2.27.35: "Ann Sothern as Charlier's wife [sic] is pretty and effective. She sings and dances with Chevalier and makes a definite sock impression." See also D-5, B-263 NOTES: Ann Sothern sang "Singing a Happy Song" and "Rhythm of the Rain." A French version of the film was shot concurrently by director Roy Del Ruth. Maurice Chevalier starred with Natalie Paley and Sim Viva in the roles played by Merle Oberon and Ann Sothern. A clip of Ann Sothern and

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Maurice Chevalier performing "Singing a Happy Song" was used in the telefeature compilation Fred Astaire Salutes the Fox Musicals (1974). A 1982 HBO history of musical films entitled Gotta Dance, Gotta Sing included a clip of Ann and Chevalier performing "Rhythm of the Rain." Dance director Dave Gould won an Academy Award for his staging of the musical numbers in Folies Bergere. F-14 Eight Bells

(Columbia, 1935)

69 minutes

Producer: J. G. Bachman. Director: Roy William Neill. Screenplay: Ethel Hill and Bruce Manning. Based on the play by Percy G. Mandley. Photography: Joseph August. Editor: Gene Havlick. CAST: Ann Sothern (Marg Walker), Ralph Bellamy (Steve Andrews), John Buckler (Roy Dale), Catharine Doucet (Aunt Susan), Arthur Hohl (Williams), Charley Grapewin (Grayson), Franklin Pangborn (Finch), John Darrow (Carl). SYNOPSIS: Marg Walker stows away on her father's freighter so she can be with her fiance, Roy Dale, the ship's captain. En route to Shanghai, the boat runs into a typhoon. Roy suggests he flee with the women in the only lifeboat. Marg insists on staying with Steve Andrews, the first officer who wants to get the vessel to port on time so it will not be fined. After they reach Shanghai on time, Marg breaks her engagement to Roy so that she can marry Steve. REVIEW: Photoplay, 7.35: "Just 'medium well done' as they say in the better restaurants. But you'll find it worth an evening's entertainment." NOTE: Ann Sothern's screen test for her Columbia contract was a scene from Eight Bells (B-122). F-15 Hooray for Love

(RKO, 1935)

75 minutes

Associate producer: Felix Young. Director: Walter Lang. Choreographer: Sammy Lee. Screenplay: Lawrence Hazard and Ray Harris. Based on a story by Marc Lachmann. Photography: Lucien Andriot. Songs: Dorothy Fields and Jimmy McHugh. Musical director: Alberto Colombo. Editor: George Crone. CAST: Ann Sothern (Pat), Gene Raymond (Doug), Bill Robinson (Bill), Thurston Hall (Commodore), Pert Kelton (Trixie), Georgia Caine (Duchess), Lionel Stander (Chowsky), Etienne Girardot (Judge), Harry Kernel 1 (Regan), Sam Hardy (Ganz), Eddie Kane (Grady), Maria Gambarelli, "Fats" Waller, Jeni LeGon (Specialties).

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Ann Sothern

SYNOPSIS: The Commodore convinces Doug, a recent college graduate, to invest his savings in a show starring the Commodore's daughter, Pat. Doug sells his family home to back the show because he loves Pat. When phony producers abscond with the funds, Doug ends up in jail. The show goes on when the Commodore marries a wealthy widow. REVIEWS: New York Times, 7.13.35: "If Mr. Raymond and Miss Sothern had acted well, they could have given freshness and reality to the material. But instead they walk through their parts. She pouts and he alternately smiles and looks serious, but neither of them betrays an ounce of real humanity." Modern Screen, 8.35: "Ann looks like a million and acts when she gets the chance." See also B-216, B-217 NOTE: Ann Sothern sang "I'm in Love All Over Again," "Palsie Walsie," "You're an Angel," and "Hooray for Love." F-16 The Girl Friend

(Columbia, 1935)

67 minutes

Producer: Samuel Briskin. Director: Edward Buzzell. Assistant director: A.S. Black. Choreographer: Seymour Felix. Screenplay: Gertrude Purcell and Benny Rubin. Based on a story by Gene Towne and Graham Baker. Photography: Joseph Walker. Songs: Arthur Johnson and Gus Kahn. Editor: John Rawlins. Sound: Glen Rominger. CAST: Ann Sothern (Linda), Jack Haley (Henry), Roger Pryor (George), Thurston Hall (Harmon), Victor Kilian (Sunshine), Ray Walker (Doc), Margaret Seddon (Grandma), Inez Courtney (Hilda), Geneva Mitchell, Lee Kohlmar, Victor Potel, John T. Murray. SYNOPSIS: When a producer rejects George's play, the producer accidently includes a rejection for another playwright, Henry, who had invited the producer to his farm. In order to keep themselves from starving, George and his songwriting friends go to the farm, pretending to be producers. They rehearse Henry's melodrama about Napoleon in the barn. George falls in love with Henry's sister, Linda, an aspiring actress. When George learns that Henry's grandmother has mortgaged the farm to finance the show, George and the songwriters really go to work, turning the melodrama into a hit musical. A real producer sees the show and purchases the package for Broadway. REVIEWS: New York Times, 9.28.35: "A minor lark, designed for the assassination of empty hours in the shopper's schedule, it

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is happy in the presence of the comical Jack Haley and the entirely lovely Ann Sothern." Variety, 10.2.35: "Miss Sothern has less to do than the other principals although she again looks well and also sings nicely....So far as story is concerned Miss Sothern just walks through." NOTE:

Ann Sothern sang "Two Together."

F-17 Grand Exit

(Columbia, 1935)

68 minutes

Director: Erie Kenton. Screenplay: Bruce Manning and Lionel Houser. Based on a story by Gene Towne and Graham Baker. Photography: Henry Freulich. Editor: Gene Milford. CAST: Edmund Lowe (Tom Fletcher), Ann Sothern (Adrienne Martin), Onslow Stevens (John Grayson), Robert Middlemass (Fire Chief Mulligan), Wiley Birch (Warden), Selmer Jackson (District Attorney Cope), Guy Usher (Police Chief Roberts), Miki Morita (Noah), Arthur Rankin (Dave), Russell Hicks (Drake), Edward Van Sloan (Klorer). SYNOPSIS: Tom Fletcher, a fire insurance investigator, is trying to solve a series of mysterious blazes. He meets Adrienne Martin, the daughter of a supposed suicide who swore revenge on Tom's company when they refused his nowextinct business a loan. Tom is suspicious that Adrienne is her father's accomplice in revenge when she appears at several blaze sights. After Tom has Adrienne confined to an observation ward, her father helps her escape and clear her name. With the arsonist caught, Adrienne admits she loves Tom. REVIEWS: New York Times, 11.4.35: nicely..."

"Ann Sothern handles her part

Variety, 11.13.35: "Aside from the all-around superb performance by Edmund Lowe, Ann Sothern and Onslow Stevens chip in with two excellent jobs. Miss Sothern, providing the romantic interest, handles two or three dramatic scenes with restraint and poise." F-18 You May Be Next

(Columbia, 1936)

67 minutes

Director: Albert S. Rogell. Screenplay: Fred Niblo, Jr. and Ferdinand Reyher. Based on story by Henry Wales and Ferdinand Reyher. Photography: Allen G. Seigler. Editor: John Rawlins. Costumes: Samuel Lange.

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Ann Sothern CAST: Ann Sothern (Fay Stevens), Lloyd Nolan (Neil Bennett), Douglass Dumbrille (Beau Gardner), John Arledge (Eddie House), Berton Churchill (J.J. Held), Nana Bryant (Miss Abbott), Robert Middlemass (Dan McMahon), George McKay (Mitch Cook), Gene Morgan (Ted Lane), Clyde Dilson (Nick Barrow).

SYNOPSIS: Gangster Beau Gardner tries to blackmail a radio station by using a high frequency transmitter to jam the station's frequency. He kidnaps Neil Bennett, an innocent radio engineer, to divert suspicion. Fay Stevens, a singer in Beau's cafe, helps Neil escape. With the aid of the Navy, Neil breaks the gangster's racket. REVIEWS: New York Times, 2.24.36: "[Lloyd Nolan] is ably seconded by Anne [sic] Sothern, who has the part of the night club entertainer. Incidently, their unobtrusive romance blends nicely with the main theme." Variety, 3.4.36: "Ann Sothern, cast as the balladist in the gangster's roadhouse, is more fetching than ever, but gets little chance to handle other than routine lines." F-19 Don't Gamble with Love 65 minutes

(Columbia, 1936)

Director: Dudley Murphy. Screenplay: Lee Loeb and Harold Buchman. Photography: Henry Freulich. Editor: James Sweeney. CAST: Ann Sothern (Ann Edwards), Bruce Cabot (Jerry Edwards), Irving Pichel (Rick Collins), Ian Keith (John Crane), Thurston Hall (Martin Gage), George McKay (Dan), Elisabeth Risdon (Grace), Clifford Jones (Bob), Franklin Pangborn (Salesman), Richard Livernoin (Baby). SYNOPSIS: Jerry Edwards operates an honest gambling house. His wife, Ann, urges him to give it up and join a legitimate business for the sake of their baby. Jerry is swindled in his new business. Bitter that honesty does not pay, he opens a crooked gambling house. Ann leaves him and starts a successful dress business. Rival racketeers are upset by Jerry's success and threaten to kill him. Ann comes to the opening of Jerry's new club and exposes the fixed roulette wheels. The customers wreck the place. The racketeers feel Jerry is no longer a threat and call off their hit squad. Jerry returns to his family. REVIEWS: New York Times, 3.2.36: "The angular and somewhat Lombroso features of Bruce Cabot have a perverse charm when lit with the glow of fatherly pride, and those of Miss Sothern would be acceptable in any given situation, even

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one involving maternity." Variety, 3.4.36: "Ann Sothern and Bruce Cabot are well enough cast and turn in steady performances, but they aren't more than moderate lure at the ticket windows. F-20 Hell-Ship Morgan

(Columbia, 1936)

64 minutes

Producer: Irving Briskin. Director: Ross Lederman. Screenplay: Harold Schumate. Photography: Henry Freulich. Editor: Otto Meyer. CAST: Ann Sothern (Mary), George Bancroft (Morgan), Victor Jory (Jim), George Regas (Covanci), Howard Hickman (Cabot), Ralph Byrd (Dale), Rollo Lloyd (Hawkins), Snowflake (Pittsburgh). SYNOPSIS: Morgan and Jim are two fishermen who have been burned at love. Both take a "love them and leave them" attitude until Morgan weds Mary. While on their honeymoon on the fishing boat, Mary falls for the more refined first mate, Jim. Morgan learns of his wife's preference as a typhoon begins. He sends Jim overboard to make repairs, risking his rival's life. Feeling guilty, Morgan rescues Jim and breaks his own back in the process. Realizing he is crippled, Morgan throws himself overboard so Jim and Mary can find happiness. REVIEWS: Variety, 3.11.36: "Ann Sothern brings [a] touch of wistful sincerity to the role of the down-and-out Mary. thespian effort is far above story and direction."

Her

Movie Classic, 5.36: "Ann Sothern, George Bancroft and Victor Jory are excellent, the story is convincing if melodramatic and the picture, as a whole, is one of the best of its type." F-21 My American Wife

(Paramount, 1936)

65 minutes

Producer: Albert Lewis. Director: Harold Young. Screenplay: Virginia Van Upp and Edith Fitzgerald. Based on a story by Elmer Davis. Photography: Harry Fischbeck. Musical director: Boris Morros. Editor: Paul Weatherwax. Costumes: Travis Banton. CAST: Francis Lederer (Count Ferdinand von und Reidenach), Ann Sothern (Mary Cantillon), Fred Stone (Lafe Cantillon), Billie Burke (Mrs. Robert Cantillon), Ernest Cossart (Adolph), Grant Mitchell (Robert Cantillon), Hal K. Dawson (Vincent), Adrian Morris (Stephen), Dora Clement (Agnes), Montague Shaw. SYNOPSIS:

Lafe Cantillon, first citizen of Smelter City, is

52

Ann Sothern

a former cowpuncher and prospector. He is outraged when his ambitious daughter-in-law marries off his granddaughter to a foreign count. When Lafe learns the count can bust broncos and hold his own in a barroom brawl, Lafe welcomes him to the family. REVIEWS: New York Times, 8.21.36: "The producers smooth matters out rather cutely at the end, but not until Miss Sothern has had the opportunity of displaying wardrobe after wardrobe of marvelous clothes." Variety, 8.26.36: suits."

"Miss Sothern isn't very big-time, but

NOTE: Ann Sothern and Francis Lederer performed a scene from the film on Hollywood Hotel, June 26, 1936 (R-4). F-22 Walking on Air

(RKO, 1936)

70 minutes

Producer: Edward Kaufman. Director: Joe Santley. Screenplay: Bert Kalmar, Harry Ruby, Viola Brothers Shore, and Rian James. Based on a story by Francis M. Cockrell. Photography: J. Roy Hunt. Songs: Bert Kalmar, Harry Ruby, and Sid Silvers. Editor: George Hively. Costumes: Bernard Newman. CAST: Gene Raymond (Pete Quinlan), Ann Sothern (Kit Bennett), Jessie Ralph (Evelyn Bennett), Henry Stephenson (Mr. Bennett), Gordon Jones (Joe), George Meeker (Tom Quinlan), Maxine Jennings (Flo Quinlan), Alan Curtis (Fred Randolph), Anita Colby (Ex-Mrs. Randolph), Patricia Wilder (Reception girl), George Andre Beranger (Albert), Charles Coleman (Butler), A.S. Byron, Frank Jenks, Manny Harmon, Arthur Hoyt, Robert Graves, J. Maurice Sullivan, Jack Rice, Fred Stanley. SYNOPSIS: When Kit Bennett's family disapproves of her recently-divorced boy friend, she hires singer Pete Quinlan to change their minds. She convinces Pete to pose as an obnoxious French count, reasoning that her family will embrace her real love over the rude Pete. During the charade, Kit falls in love with Pete and dumps her gold-digging former boy friend. REVIEWS: New York Times, 9.12.36: "Directed with considerable finesse by Joseph Santley from an adroitly contrived screen play and engagingly performed by Gene Raymond, Ann Sothern, Jessie Randolph and Henry Stephenson, Walking on Air...is a gay, frothy comedy with a sprinkling of tuneful songs." Variety, 9.16.36: good."

"The leads do well and the support is

Filmography

53

NOTES: Ann Sothern sang "Let's Make a Wish." Before release, the film was titled Count Pete. According to American Movie Classics host Bob Dorian, Ann did several of her own driving stunts in the film. Ann Sothern and Gene Raymond appeared on Hollywood Hotel on August 14, 1936 in a scene from the film (R-6). F-23 Smartest Girl in Town

(RKO, 1936)

58 minutes

Producer: Edward Kaufman. Director: Joseph Santley. Screenplay: Viola Brothers Shore. Based on a story by Muriel Scheck and H.S. Kraft. Photography: J. Roy Hunt. Song: Gene Raymond. Editor: Jack Hively. CAST: Gene Raymond (Dick Smith), Ann Sothern (Frances Cooke), Helen Broderick (Gwen), Eric Blore (Philbean), Erik Rhodes (Torine), Harry Jans (Terry), Frank Jenks, Alan Curtis, Edward Price, Rolfe Sedan. SYNOPSIS: Model Frances Cooke is searching for a wealthy suitor. While on assignment aboard a yacht, she mistakes its wealthy owner, Dick Smith, for a fellow model. Dick has his butler pose as an advertising agency executive so that Dick can be near Frances. He conceals his wealth, wanting her to like him for himself. It takes a fake suicide attempt to make Frances admit her love for Dick. REVIEWS: Variety, 11.25.36: "Flip comedy in which Ann Sothern, in her first starring venture, shares billing with Gene Raymond, but film hasn't enough substance to be anything beyond the duals." Screen.JPJLay, 1.37: "Ann Sothern and Gene Raymond top their last performances together in this frothy, delightful and sparkling comedy of a photographer's model with heart set on marrying riches." NOTE: According to American Movie Classics host Bob Dorian, it took 12 hours to film the hair-washing scene in the film. Director Joseph Santley insisted the suds fall in a certain spot, therefore the scene had to keep being reshot with time out for Gene Raymond's hair to dry. F-24 Dangerous Number

(MGM, 1937)

71 minutes

Director: Richard Thorpe. Screenplay: Carey Wilson. Based on a story by Leona Dalrymple. Photography: Leonard Smith. Editor: Blanche Sewall. CAST: Robert Young (Hank), Ann Sothern (Elinor), Reginald Owen (Cousin William), Cora Witherspoon (Gypsy), Dean Jagger (Dillman), Maria Shelton (Vera), Barnett Parker (Minehardi), Charles Trowbridge (Hotel

54

Ann Sothern manager), Franklin Pangborn (Desk clerk), Spencer Charters.

SYNOPSIS: When wealthy silk manufacturer Hank returns to New York, he finds his girl friend, a show girl, is about to marry another man. Hank interrupts the wedding and marries Elinor himself, despite their differing backgrounds. Hank regrets the marriage when Elinor's show business friends keep interfering. Conservative Hank cannot understand the actors's affection for mere acquaintances. When an acrobat shows up, claiming he is Elinor's husband, Hank thinks he has a way out of his wacky marriage. Hank learns his marriage is legal and realizes he loves Elinor. She promises to give up her career and the two head for a second honeymoon. REVIEWS: Variety, 3.10.37: "Young is the lad who can't avoid the pretty show girl and marries her. She's Ann Sothern, who poses prettily at moments." New York Times, 3.12.37: "The charming Ann Sothern,... though she works overtime bailing out all the dialogue and superfluous business that swamps the picture shortly after it is launched, can do no more than go down with the vessel, her pretty marcel gallantly flying." F-25 Fifty Roads to Town 80 minutes

(20th Century-Fox, 1937)

Producer: Raymond Griffith. Director: Norman Taurog. Screenplay: George Marion, Jr. and William Conselman. Based on a story by Louis Frederick Nebel. Photography: Joseph H. August. Songs: Mack Gordon and Harry Revel. Musical director: David Buttolph. Art director: Rudolph Sternad. Editor: Hansen Fritch. CAST: Don Ameche (Peter Nostrand), Ann Sothern (Millicent Kendall), Slim Summerville (Edwin Henry), Jane Darwell (Mr. Henry), John Qualen (Sheriff Daw), Douglas Fowley (Dutch Nelson), Allan Lane (Leroy Smedley), Alan Dinehart (Tycoon Jerome Q. Kendall), Stepin Fetchit (Percy), Paul Hurst (Tom), Spencer Charters (George Hession), De Witt Jennings (Captain Galloway), Bradley Page (Pinelli), Oscar Apfel (Smorgen), John Hamilton, Russell Hicks, Arthur Aylesworth, Jim Toney. SYNOPSIS: Millicent Kendall is runing away from her father so she can elope. Peter Nostrand is fleeing to avoid testifying in a friend's messy divorce case. Dutch Nelson is a gangster escaping the law. Millicent and Peter end up snowbound in a cabin with one bed and a can of caviar.

Filmography

55

Peter mistakes Millicent for a process server; she mistakes Peter for Dutch until the real gangster arrives. The sheriff traps Dutch, and Peter and Millicent begin a romance. REVIEWS: Variety, 6.9.37: "Miss Sothern has an abundance of good looks, has made progress and now qualifies for good comedy leads." Film Fun, 7.37: "Don Ameche and Ann Sothern go to town in a slightly mad, nonsensical farce which kids the crook mellers and is jammed with laughs." See also D-22 NOTES: Ann Sothern sang "Never in a Million Years." The May, 1937 issue of Motion Picture reported a practical joke that the crew pulled on Ann during the filming. She spent much of the movie in a coral lace nightgown, even wearing it to work in the morning since she put on her makeup at home. As a gag, the crew gave her a flannel nightgown for her birthday during the filming. Ann Sothern and Don Ameche performed a scene from Fifty Roads to Town on The Chase and Sanborn Hour on July 18, 1937 (R-10). F-26 There Goes My Girl

(RKO, 1937)

74 minutes

Producer: William Sistrom. Director: Ben Holmes. Screenplay: Harry Segal 1. Based on the story "Women Are Poison" by George Beck. Photography: Joseph H. August. Editor: Desmond Marquette. Special effects: Vernon L. Walker. CAST: Gene Raymond (Jerry Martin), Ann Sothern (Connie Taylor), Gordon Jones (Dunn), Richard Lane (T.J. "Tim" Whalen), Frank Jenks (Tate), Bradley Page (Joe Rethburn), Joan Woodbury (Margot Whitney), Maria Shelton (Mrs. Grace Andrews), Alec Craig (Bum), Joseph Crehan (Sargent Wood), William Corson (Dan Curtis), Maxine Jennings (Actress), Clyde Dilson (Actor), Charles Coleman (Faraday), George Davis (Waiter), Irving Bacon, Edgar Dearing (Cops), Roy James, Harry Worth, Chester Clute, Dorothy Vaughn. SYNOPSIS: Tim Whalen is the managing editor of a newspaper who will stop at nothing to prevent his star reporter, Connie Taylor, from marrying Jerry Martin, a rival newspaperman. In the process, Connie gets shot and solves two murders. When the couple finally makes it to the altar, Connie leaves to get a scoop. REVIEWS: Variety, 6.16.37:

"If nothing else, Miss Sothern is

56

Ann Sothern

given an extremely good wardrobe and some beautiful living quarters." Modern Screen, 8.37: assignment..." F-27 Super-Sleuth

"Ann Sothern does well with her (RKO, 1937)

75 minutes

Producer: Edward Small. Director: Ben Stoloff. Screenplay: Gertrude Purcell and Ernest Pagano. Based on a play by Harry Segal 1. Photography: Joseph H. August. Art director: Van Nest Polglase. Editor: William Hamilton. Special effects: Vernon L. Walker. CAST: Jack Oakie (Willard "Bill" Martin), Ann Sothern (Mary Strand), Eduardo Ciannelli (Professor Horman), Alan Bruce (Larry Frank), Edgar Kennedy (Lieutenant Garrison), Joan Woodbury (Doris Dunne), Bradley Page (Ralph Waring), Paul Guilfoyle (Gibbons), Willie Best (Warts), William Corson (Beckett), Alec Craig (Eddie the doorman), Richard Lane (Barker), Paul Hurst (Motorcycle cop), George Rosener (Policeman), Fred Kelsey (Jailer), Robert E. O'Connor (Casey), Philip Morris (Sullivan), Dick Rush (Grimes), Dewey Robinson (Film gangster). SYNOPSIS: Bill Martin is a movie detective who lets his on-screen abilities go to his head. Much to the alarm of the police and his studio, Bill tries to solve a blackmail/murder case. He enlists the aid of murder expert Professor Horman, unaware that Horman is the criminal he's chasing. Despite Bill's wacky antics, he catches Horman and wins the admiration of Mary Strand, the studio publicity head who tries to keep Bill out of trouble. REVIEWS: Variety, 7.14.37: "Ann Sothern adds another performance to her recent screenings. She plays a straight role here as the studio publicity head, whose job is to trail Oakie and get him back to picture making." Modern Screen, 10.37: "Ann Sothern is attractive and capable in the feminine lead..." See also B-421, B-422 F-28 Ali Baba Goes to Town 80 minutes

(20th Century-Fox, 1937)

Producer: Darryl F. Zanuck. Director: David Butler. Screenplay: Harry Tugend and Jack Yellen. Based on a story by Gene Towne, Gene Fowler, and Graham Baker. Photography: Ernest Palmer. Songs: Mack Gordon, Harry Revel, and Raymond Scott. Art director: Bernard

Filmography Herzburn. Costumes:

Editor: Irene Morra. Gwen Wakeley.

Set:

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Thomas Little.

CAST: Eddie Cantor (Aloysius Babson/Ali Baba), Tony Martin (Yusuf), Roland Young (Sultan), June Lang (Princess Miriam), Louise Hovick [Gypsy Rose Lee] (Sultana), John Carradine (Ishak), Virginia Field (Dinah), Alan Dinehart (Boland), Douglas Dumbrille (Prince Musah), Raymond Scott Quintet (Themselves), Pearl Twins, Peters Sisters, Jeni Le Gon (Specialties) Maurice Cass (Omar the rug maker), Warren Hymer, Stanley Fields, John George, Merrill McCormick (Tramps), Paul Hurst (Captain), Sam Hayes (Radio announcer), Douglas Wood (Selim), Sidney Fields (Assistant director), Ferdinand Gottschalk (Chief councilor), Charles Lane (Doctor), John Berkes (Arab peasant), John Bipson (Movie Arab), Jim Pierce (Captain of the guards), John Rutherford, Herbert Ashley (Sentries), Sam Hayes (Radio announcer), Eddie Collins (Wife-beating Arab), Marjorie Weaver (Beaten wife), Francis McDonald (Peasant ringleader), Hank Mann (Arab with cigar/gas station attendant), Douglas Fairbanks, Lady Sylvia Ashley, the Ritz Brothers, Ann Sothern, Victor McLaglen, Phyllis Brooks, Michael Whalen, Cesar Romero, Tyrone Power, Sonja Henie, Shirley Temple, Dolores Del Rio, Eddie Cantor (Celebrities at premiere). SYNOPSIS: Aloysius Babson is a star-struck autograph hunter. En route to Hollywood, he finds a movie crew shooting an Arabian film in the desert. Aloysius becomes an extra, then falls asleep on the set. He dreams he is in the Bagdad of 937 where he meets Sultan Abdullah and his 365 wives. The Sultan is having marital problems, as well as troubles with the city's budget. Aloysius, now known as Ali Baba, uses ideas from Franklin Roosevelt's New Deal, including taxing the rich and work projects for the poor, to get Bagdad back on its feet. Ali plays matchmaker for the Sultan's daughter and Yusef, a common crooner. The Sultan decides to run for president with Ali as his opponent. Despite campaigns against himself, Ali wins by a landslide. When Ali's enemies try to kill him, he escapes on a magic carpet before waking up from his dream. He goes to Hollywood for the film's premiere and tries to get the stars's autographs. REVIEWS: Variety, 10.20.37: "Assuming that the mass population of America which patronizes the picture theatres is ready to laugh at recent and current nipups in Washington, then ALL.. Baba is due for a smashing domestic boxoffice career." New York Times, 10.23.37: "A gay and quippish musical, topical as a fireside chat and lighter than a magic carpet,

58

Ann Sothern

Eddie Cantor's Ali Baba Goes to Town emerged...as one of the better entertainment risks of the season." NOTE: Ann Sothern appeared as herself in a sequence showing celebrities at a Hollywood premiere. Her escort was Cesar Romero. F-29 Danger - Love at Work 81 minutes

(20th Century-Fox, 1937)

Producer: Harold Wilson. Director: Otto Preminger. Screenplay: James Edward Grant and Ben Markson. Photography: Virgil Miller. Songs: Mack Gordon and Harry Revel. Musical director: David Buttolph. Art director: Duncan Cramer. Editor: Jack Murray. CAST: Ann Sothern (Toni Pemberton), Jack Haley (Henry MacMorrow), Mary Boland (Mrs. Alice Pemberton), Edward Everett Horton (Howard Rogers), John Carradine (Herbert Pemberton), Walter Catlett (Uncle Alan), Bennie Bartlett (Junior Pemberton), Maurice Cass (Uncle Goliath), Alan Dinehart (Allan Duncan), Etienne Girardot (Albert Pemberton), E.E. Clive (Wilbur), Margaret McWade (Aunt Patty), Margaret Seddon (Aunt Pitty), Elisha Cook, Jr. (Chemist), Hilda Vaughn (Pembertons's maid), Charles Coleman (Henry's butler), George Chandler (Attendant), Spencer Charters (Hick), Hal K. Dawson (Chauffeur), Stanley Fields (Thug), Paul Hurst (Police officer), Claude Allister (Salesman), Jonathan Hale (Parsons), Charles Lane (Gilroy), Paul Stanton (Hilton). SYNOPSIS: Lawyer Henry MacMorrow is sent to a small town to buy a piece of property from the Pemberton clan. When he is invited to dine and be an overnight guest, Henry thinks getting the five signatures he needs will be no problem. He changes his mind as he meets the Pembertons. Patriarch Albert is an absent-minded professor; Uncle Goliath lives in a cave. The sons include a surrealist painter and a ten-year-old prodigy. Daughter Toni brings home a new fiance every week. Henry leaves town without his signatures. Toni brings the family to New York to sign so Henry won't lose his job. Grateful and in love, Henry marries Toni. REVIEWS: Time, 11.15.37: "Amicably following the established formula for stories about crazy families, Danger - Love at Work is unpretentious, well paced and often very funny." New York Times, 12.11.37: "The Pembertons are amusing folk. For this we are grateful to Mary Boland, Jack Haley, Edward Everett Horton, Ann Southern [sic] and ten-year-old Bennie Bartlett, who is skilled in the art of tormenting

Filmography

59

his elders." NOTE:

Ann Sothern sang "Danger - Love at Work."

F-30 There Goes the Groom

(RKO, 1937)

64 minutes

Producer: Albert Lewis. Director: Joseph Santley. Screenplay: S.K. Lauren, Dorothy Yost, and Harold Kussell. Based on a story by David Garth. Photography: Milton Krasner. Editor: Jack Hively. CAST: Ann Sothern (Betty Russell), Burgess Meredith (Dick Mathews), Mary Boland (Mrs. Russell), Onslow Stevens (Dr. Becker), William Brisbane (Potter Russell), Louise Henry (Janet Russell), Roger Imhof (Hank), Sumner Getchell (Billy Rapp), George Irving (Yacht captain), Leona Roberts (Martha), Adrian Morris (Eddie the intern). SYNOPSIS: Dick Mathews returns from the Klondike with a yacht and a fortune, ready to marry Janet, his fiancee of three years. Although Janet is now in love with a psychiatrist, her financially-strapped family urges her to marry Dick. Betty, Janet's younger sister, loves Dick for himself, not his money. After being caught in a compromising situation, Dick agrees to marry Betty. Dick's friend, Hank, a fellow prospector, warns Dick that the family wants his money. Dick feigns amnesia to stop the wedding. When he learns that Betty is not a gold digger, Dick stops his amnesia act and agrees to marry her. REVIEWS: Variety./ 10.13.37: "Entertaining farce, well and intelligently trouped by Burgess Meredith, Ann Southern [sic], Mary Boland." New York Times, 12.25.37: "The story of There_Goes„the_ Qxoom is quaint and probably would be downright archaic except for the comic by-play by Miss Boland, Roger Imhof and Ann Sothern." F-31 She's Got Everything

(RKO, 1938)

72 minutes

Producer: Albert Lewis. Director: Joseph Santley. Screenplay: Joseph Hoffman and Monroe Shaff. Based on a story by Harry Segal 1 and Maxwell Shane. Photography: Jack McKenzie. Song: Leon and Otis Rene. Editor: Frederic Knudtson. CAST: Gene Raymond (Fuller Partridge), Ann Sothern (Carol Rogers), Victor Moore (Waldo Eddington), Helen Broderick (Aunt Jane), Parkyakarkus (Nick), Billy Gilbert (Chaffee), William Brisbane (Roger), Herbert Clifton (Watkins), Alan Bruce (Courtland), Solly Ward

60

Ann Sothern (Corrio the hypnotist), Alec Craig (Justice of the peace), Fred Santley (Reporter), Richard Tucker (Dr. Bricker), George Irving (Doctor), Jack Carson (Ransome), Paul Guilfoyle (Hotel manager), Al Hill (Cab driver), Pat Flaherty (Van driver).

SYNOPSIS: When Carol Rogers's father leaves her with a mountain of debts, she takes a job as secretary in a coffee packing plant. Carol soon falls in love with Fuller Partridge, the wealthy plant owner, much to the delight of her creditors. When Fuller discovers her financial problems, he thinks Carol is marrying him for his money and he breaks the engagement. Waldo, a friend and creditor, convinces Fuller that Carol loves him, and they marry aboard a careening coffee truck. REVIEWS: Vajriety, 12.29.37: "Players put up a strenuous struggle with the script but their efforts avail them little." New York Times, 1.14.38: "Miss Sothern wears many fine clothes, like the graceful manikin [sic] that she is, and sings one song, 'It's Sleepy Time in Hawaii,' like the vocalist that she isn't." NOTES: Ann Sothern sang "It's Sleepy Time in Hawaii." Ann Sothern, Gene Raymond, and Victor Moore appeared in a scene from the film on Hollywood Hotel on December 31, 1937 (R-ll). She's Got Everything was the last film in which Ann Sothern and Gene Raymond were teamed. Although both had roles in The Best Man in 1964, they did not appear in scenes together. F-32 Trade Winds

(United Artists, 1938)

93 minutes

Producer: Walter Wanger. Director: Tay Garnett. Screenplay: Dorothy Parker, Alan Campbell, and Frank R. Adams. Based on a story by Tay Garnett. Photography: Rudolph Mate. Music: Alfred Newman. Musical director: Alfred Newman. Art directors: Alexander Toluboff and Alexander Golitzen. Editors: Dororthy Spencer, Otho Lovering, and Walt Reynolds. Costumes: Irene and Helen Taylor. CAST: Fredric March (Sam Wye), Joan Bennett (Kay Kerrigan), Ralph Bellamy (Ben Blodgett), Ann Sothern (Jean Livingstone), Sidney Blackmer (Thomas Bruhm II ) Thomas Mitchell (Chief of detectives), Robert Elliott (Detective George Faulkner), Richard Tucker (John Johnson), Joyce Compton (Mrs. Johnson), Patricia Farr (Peggy), Wilma Francis (Judy), Phyllis Barry (Ruth), Dorothy Tree (Clara), Kay Linaker (Grace), Dorothy Comingore (Ann), Walter Byron (Bob), Wilson Benge (Martin the butler), Harry Paine (Captain), Hooper

Filmography

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Atchley, Lee Phelps, Franklin Parker, John Webb Dillon, Dick Rush, Jack Baxley (Detective squad), Mrs. Sojin (Patron), Princess Luana, Marie de Forest (Hawaiian hairdressers), Beryl Wallace, Paulita Arvizu (Hawaiian girls), Aiko Magara (Proprietress of tea house), Suzanne Kaaren (Russian girl), Gloria Youngblood (Jinrickisha girl), Lotus Liu (Shanghai clerk), Ethelreda Leopold (Ethel), Dick Botiller (Bombay carriage driver), Charlie Williams (Reporter Jones), Tom Quinn (Reporter), Betty Roadman (Matron), Harry Barris (Pianist), Cyril Ring, Brooks Benedict (Party guests), Art Baker (Voices of various radio police announcers), Harry Bernard (Sound man), Beal Wong (Shanghai cigarette customer). SYNOPSIS: Kay Kerrigan sets out for revenge after her sister commits suicide over a man. When Kay finds the boy friend already dead, she fakes her own suicide and leaves the country. She stops off in Japan to have her hair dyed black, then heads for the Far East. Detectives Sam Wye and Ben Blodgett pursue Kay across the globe. Sam's secretary, Jean Livingstone, joins the chase, in an effort to get the $100,000 reward. Sam falls in love with Kay and helps prove that it was another jilted lover who shot her sister's boy friend. REVIEWS: Variety,/ 12.21.38: "Greatest surprise of the picture is the acting of Ann Sothern, as March's tough, acquisitive, amorous secretary. Completely reversing the romantic roles she usually plays, Miss Sothern gives by far the most plausible performance of her career. She catches the proper combination of hardness and sentimentality in the character and gets every ounce of its humor across." New York Times, 1.13.39: "Ann Sothern is surprisingly successful as the leech on the bloodhound." See also B-471 NOTES: Director Tay Garnett wrote a story to utilize film he shot while vacationing in Japan, Indo-China, Singapore, Bombay, and Laccadives. The footage was used as background in Trade Winds. In his autobiography, Garnett said, "How often do you get a chance to take your own boat around the world, tax deductible?" (B-179). Trade Winds marked blonde Joan Bennett's screen debut as a brunette. Her new look proved so successful that she remained a brunette for the rest of her career. According to Silver Screen, Ann Sothern won her role after a game of "Quotations" at the home of Joan Bennett (B-434). Ann's characterization led to her being cast as Maisie Ravier in Maisie. F-33 Maisie

(MGM, 1939)

72 minutes

62

Ann Sothern Producer: J. Walter Ruben. Director: Edwin L. Marin. Screenplay: Mary C. McCall, Jr. Based on the novel Dark Dame by Wilson Collison. Photography: Leonard Smith. Art directors: Cedric Gibbons and Malcolm Brown. Editor: Frederick Y. Smith. Set: Edwin B. Willis. Costumes: Dolly Tree. CAST: Robert Young (Slim Martin), Ann Sothern (Maisie Ravier), Ruth Hussey (Sybil Ames), Ian Hunter (Clifford Ames), Cliff Edwards (Shorty), Anthony Allan [John Hubbard] (Richard Raymond), Art Mix (Red), George Tobias (Rico), Richard Carle (Roger Bannerman), Minor Watson (Prosecuting attorney), Harlan Briggs (Deputy sheriff), Paul Everton (Judge), Joseph Crehan (Wilcox), Frank Puglia (Ernie), Willie Rung (Lee), Emmett Vogan (Court clerk), Mary Foy (Sheriff's wife), C.L. Sherwood (Drunk), Robert Middlemass.

SYNOPSIS: Showgirl Maisie Ravier finds herself stranded in Wyoming when her show folds. She meets Slim Martin and tries to get a job on the ranch he manages. Slim dislikes Maisie and refuses. When the ranch owner, Clifford Ames, arrives, Maisie convinces him to hire her as a maid for his wife. While working for Sybil Ames, Maisie learns her employer is cheating on her husband. Maisie tries to solve the Ames's marital problems, but to no avail. Meanwhile Maisie has romantic troubles of her own. Her relationship with Slim has turned to love. They are ready to marry when they have a spat and Maisie leaves town. Maisie returns when she learns Slim is on trial for Clifford's murder. Maisie proves that Clifford committed suicide when faced with his wife's infidelity. Maisie inherits the ranch and reconciles with Slim. REVIEWS: Variety, 6.7.39: "Ann Sothern stands out prominently in the title role as a small-time showgirl stranded in a Wyoming cow-town. She's sexy, smart, and resourceful - and decidedly likeable throughout." Time, 7.3.39: "Cinemadicts know curvilinear Ann Sothern as a glamor girl, and as a glamor girl she has endured all the familiar permutations...As Maisie, she is a healthier Jean Harlow, an untarnished Mae West. Whether she can keep her natural pewter shine is a question." See also B-125, B-270, B-273 NOTES: Maisie had originally been intended for Jean Harlow, but she died before the film was made. Despite objections from MGM executives, Ann was cast. The film proved so popular, it spawned nine sequals, as well as two radio series starring Ann Sothern. She also tried to bring the character to television, but could not obtain the

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rights. CBS made a pilot with Janis Paige in 1960, but a Maisie TV series never aired. Ann Sothern became so identified with the role that many magazines reported that she received fan mail addressed simply "Maisie, USA." Ann acknowledged the character's popularity by performing a Maisie number in her 1950s nightclub act. F-34 Hotel for Women 83 minutes

(20th Century-Fox, 1939)

Producer: Darryl F. Zanuck. Director: Gregory Ratoff. Screenplay: Kathryn Scola and Darrell Ware. Based on a story by Elsa Maxwell and Kathryn Scola. Photography: Peverell Marley. Songs: Elsa Maxwell. Musical director: David Buttolph. Editor: Louis Loeffler. CAST: Ann Sothern (Eileen Connelly), Linda Darnell (Marcia Bromley), James Ellison (Jeff Buchanan), Jean Rogers (Nancy Prescott), Lynn Bari (Barbara Hunter), June Gale (Joan Mitchell), Joyce Compton (Emeline Thomas), Elsa Maxwell (herself), John Halliday (John Craig), Katharine Aldridge (Melinda Craig), Alan Dinehart (Stephen Gates), Sidney Blackmer (McNeil), Chick Chandler (Ben Ritchie), Gregory Gaye (Fernando Manfredi), Charles Wilson (Albert), Herbert Ashley (Butch), Ivan Lebedeff (Galdos), Helen Ericson (Miss Collins), Dorothy Dearing (Miss Wilson), Barnett Parker, Arthur Rankin (Photographers), Amanda Duff (Receptionist), Virginia Brissac (Woman), Edward Earle (Man), Bess Flowers (Bit), Allen Wood (Taxi driver), Kay Griffith (Model), Russell Lee (Elevator boy), Russel Hicks (Van Ellis). SYNOPSIS: Marcia Bromley comes to New York to visit her boy friend, Jeff Buchanan, a successful architect. Disappointed to find him involved with his boss's daughter, Marcia moves into a women's hotel to get her life in order. The other guests urge her to become a success so Jeff will regret leaving her. Marcia becomes a top photographer's model. She is wined and dined by an array of tycoons, including Jeff's boss. When the boss is shot by a former lover, Jeff and Marcia reconcile, disillusioned by life in the big city. REVIEWS: Variety, 8.2.39: "Picture is fluffed up with...some incidental comedy and smart cracks by Ann Sothern....Ann Sothern carries bulk of picture's interest with her flippant, quick-witted and expected wisecracks of a gal who has been around." New York Times, 8.26.39: "...Ann Sothern, as another inmate, handles her too-few comedy line with an ease that demonstrates again that she is Hollywood's best least-

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Ann Sothern

recognized comedienne. Some day a script, a director and Miss Sothern are going to meet and bring the house down." NOTES: Ann Sothern originally had a larger part in Hotel for Women, but after Maisie was released, 20th CenturyFox did not want to build the career of a rival studio's star. When Ann Sothern signed an MGM contract, 20th Century-Fox cut many of her scenes from the film. Hotel for Women is also known as Elsa Maxwell's Hotel for W omen. F-35 Fast and_Furious Producer: Berkeley. Ray June.

(MGM, 1939)

70 minutes

Frederick Stephani. Director: Busby Screenplay: Harry Kurnitz. Photography: Editor: Elmo Veron.

CAST: Franchot Tone (Joel Sloane), Ann Sothern (Garda Sloane), Ruth Hussey (Lily Cole), Lee Bowman (Mike Stevens), Allyn Joslyn (Ted Bentley), John Miljan (Eric Bartell), Bernard Nedell (Ed Connors), Mary Beth Hughes (Jerry Lawrence), Cliff Clark (Sam Travers), James Burke (Clancy), Frank Orth (Captain Joe Burke), Margaret Roach (Emmy Lou), Gladys Blake (Miss Brooklyn), Granville Bates (Chief Miller). SYNOPSIS: Joe and Garda Sloane are antique book dealers and amateur detectives. The Sloanes get involved in a shady beauty contest when Joel is asked to be a judge. A friend is arrested for murder and the Sloanes try to catch the real killer. Another murder takes place. The Sloanes finally catch the killer, an obvious suspect that leaves the audience kicking themselves for not guessing sooner. REVIEWS: New ._Yp_rk_. Times, 10.12.39: "Mr. Tone and Miss Sothern banter through it in the manner of third-string substitutes who know that the game is hopelessly lost." Variety, 10.18.39: "Tone and Miss Sothern are splendid bulwarks to the story, too. With their flair for light comedy lines and nonchalance, it's a happy combination. NOTES: In 1938 MGM began a mystery series not unlike their Thin Man films, which starred William Powell and Myrna Loy as Nick and Nora Charles. The new series dealt with Joel and Garda Sloane, owners of a rare book shop who solved mysteries on the side. The Sloanes were played by Melvyn Douglas and Florence Rice in Fast Company, the first installment. Fast and Loose (193 9) starred Reginald Owen and Rosalind Russell. Fast and Furious was the third and final Sloane mystery. Editor Elmo Veron later worked on

private secretary

Filmography F-3 6 Joe and Ethel Turp Call on the President 1939) 70 minutes

65

(MGM,

Producer: Edgar Selwyn. Director: Robert B. Sinclair. Screenplay: Melville Baker. Based on the story "A Call on the President" by Damon Runyon. Photography: Leonard Smith. Editor: Gene Ruggiero. CAST: Ann Sothern (Ethel Turp), Lewis Stone (The President), Walter Brennan (Jim), William Gargan (Joe Turp), Marsha Hunt (Kitty Crusper), Tom Neal (Johnny Crusper), James Bush (Henry Crusper), Don Costello (Fred), Muriel Hutchinson (Francine LaVaughn), Jack Norton (Parker), Aldrich Bowker (Mike O'Brien), Frederick Burton (Bishop Bannon), Al Shean (Father Reicher), Robert Emmett O'Connor (Pat Donegan), Cliff Clark (Garage owner), Russell Hicks (Mr. Graves), Paul Everton (Senator), Charles Trowbridge (Cabinet member), Louis Jean Heydt (Dr. Standish), Ann Teeman (Mrs. Standish), Mary Gordon (Mrs. O'Leary). SYNOPSIS: A Brooklyn neighborhood is up in arms when its mailman, Jim, is suspended. The neighbors come to his defense when they learn he wanted to protect his former sweetheart, Kitty Crusper, from unhappiness. Joe and Ethel Turp are so disturbed over Jim's suspension that they decide to take up the matter before the President of the United States. After hearing Jim's story, the President reinstates him. REVIEWS: Variety/ 12.6.39: "Ann Sothern and William Gargan are neatly cast as the 'dense, dem and dose' couple from the Flatbush out lands." Time, 1.22.40: "Ann Sothern rattles Ethel Turp's tongue and one little brain cell in Joan Blondell style." NOTE: Ann Sothern and William Gargan recreated their Turp characters on Good News of 1940^ on January 4, 1940 (R-16). F-3 7 Congo Maisie

(MGM, 19 40)

70 minutes

Producer: J. Walter Ruben. Director: Henry Potter. Screenplay: Mary C. McCall, Jr. Based on the book Congo Landing by Wilson Collison. Photography: Charles Lawton. Music: Edward Ward. Art director: Cedric Gibbons. Editor: Frederick Y. Smith. CAST: Ann Sothern (Maisie Ravier), John Carroll (Dr. Michael Shane), Rita Johnson (Kay McWade), Shepperd Strudwick (Dr. John McWade), J.M. Kerrigan (Captain Finch), E.E. Clive (Horace Snell), Everett Brown

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Ann Sothern (Jallah), Tom Fadden (Nelson), Lionel Pape (British consul), Nathan Curry (Luemba), Leonard Mudie (Farley), Martin Wilkins (Zia), Ernest Whitman (Varnai).

SYNOPSIS: Broke and jobless in West Africa, Maisie Ravier is being held until she can pay her hotel bill. She escapes and stows away on a steamer. Maisie has trouble getting along with the only other passenger, Michael Shane, a rubber plantation owner who gave up a medical career to make more money. When the steamer breaks down, Maisie and Michael are forced to stay in the jungle with Dr. John McWade and his wife. Kay McWade is unhappy in the jungle and tries to run away with Michael. Maisie saves the McWades's marriage by convincing them to return to the United States. After Michael is forced to perform an emergency appendectomy on John, Maisie realizes his heart is still in medicine. She convinces him to take over John's jungle hospital. Maisie also prevents a native uprising by performing her magic act. Michael realizes he loves Maisie and asks her to stay in the jungle. REVIEWS: Variety/ 1.17.40: "With sagging sequences and inept direction, picture depends entirely on the antics and spontaneous dialog [sic] of Miss Sothern to lift it into the mildly amusing groove." New_York_Times, 2.8.40: "And Ann Sothern, well heeled with gags, plays the bedizened Maisie with just enough flounce and impudence to keep her fixit role from going gummy. Altogether this corner sees it as a nice bit of harmless fun." See also B-118, B-119 NOTES: Ann Sothern sang an acappella rendition of "St. Louis Blues." Ann recreated her role on Screen Guild Theatre on May 29, 1944 with John Hodiak (R-30). Congo Maisie was a remake of Red Dust (1932). It was later remade as Mogambo (1953). Ann Sothern appeared in the Screen Guild Theatre production of Red Dust with Clark Gable on October 6, 1940 (R-18, D-19, D-20). F-38 Brother Orchid

(Warner Bros., 1940)

91 minutes

Producers: Hal Wallis and Mark Hellinger. Director: Lloyd Bacon. Screenplay: Earl Baldwin. Based on a ColIier^s._Maga_zine article by Richard Connell. Photography: Tony Gaudio. Music: Heinz Roemheld. Art director: Max Parker. Editor: William Holmes. Costumes: Howard Shoup. Special effects: Byron Haskin. CAST:

Edward G. Robinson (Little John Sarto), Ann

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Sothern (Flo Addams), Humphrey Bogart (Jack Buck), Donald Crisp (Brother Superior), Ralph Bellamy (Clarence Fletcher), Allen Jenkins (Willie the Knife), Charles D. Brown (Brother Wren), Cecil Kellaway (Brother Goodwin), Morgan Conway (Phi 1idelphia Powell), Richard Lane (Mugsy O'Day), Paul Guilfoyle (Red Martin), John Ridgely (Texas Pearson), Joseph Crehan (Brother MacEwen), Wilfred Lucas (Brother MacDonald), Tom Tyler (Curley Matthews), Dick Wessell (Buffalo Burns), Granville Bates (Pattonsvi11e superintendent), Paul Phillips (French Frank), Don Rowan (Al Muller), Nanette Vallon (Fifi), Tim Ryan (Turkey Malone), Joe Caites (Handsome Harry), Pat Gleason (Dopey Perkins), Tommy Baker (Joseph). SYNOPSIS: Gangster kingpin Little John Sarto leaves the rackets to find culture in Europe. When he returns five years later to resume his career, he finds Jack Buck has taken over his empire. Sarto tries to oust Buck and gets shot. Wounded, Sarto collapses near a monastery. Recognizing it as the perfect hideout while he plots revenge on Buck, Sarto pretends to train as a monk. His work in the flower garden earns him the name Brother Orchid. When Sarto learns that Buck's racketeers have taken over the flower market where the monks sell their plants, Sarto vows revenge. With the help of Sarto's former girl friend's new beau and his rancher friends, Sarto breaks up the gang and kills Buck. Sarto then returns to the monastery, the only place he knows genuine peace. REVIEWS: Variety, 5.29.40: "Interwoven, in major importance, is Ann Sothern as Robinson's dazzlingly dizzy girl friend, loving him deeply but never successful in steering him to hitching post... Standout is monolog [sic] by Miss Sothern simulating inebriation in a phone conversation, which is an excellent presentation of comic delivery and facial expression." New York Times, 6.8.40: "Ann Sothern, as the dizzy doll whom Little John lightly loved in his worldly days, is excel 1ent." F-39 Gold Rush Maisie

(MGM, 1940)

84 minutes

Producer: J. Walter Ruben. Director: Edwin L. Marin. Screenplay: Betty Reinhardt and Mary C. McCall, Jr. Based on a story by Wilson Collison. Photography: Charles Lawton. Editor: Frederick Y. Smith. CAST: Ann Sothern (Maisie Ravier), Lee Bowman (Bill Anders), Virginia Weidler (Jubie Davis), John F. Hamilton (Bert Davis), Mary Nash (Sarah Davis), Slim Summerville (Fred Gubbine), Scotty Beckett (Harold

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Ann Sothern Davis), Irving Bacon (Harry Gilpin), Louis Mason (Elmo Beecher), Victor Kilian, Jr. (Ned Sullivan), Wallace Reid, Jr. (Matt Sullivan), Clem Bevans (Graybeard), John Sheehan (Drunk), Charles Judels (Greek cafe owner), Virginia Sale (Harry's wife), Eldy Waller (Ben Hartley), Kathryn Sheldon (Mrs. Sullivan), Frank Orth (Harris).

SYNOPSIS: When Maisie Ravier's car breaks down in gold rush territory, she decides to find a job there entertaining the miners. Her plans change when she learns that the miners are former dustbowl farmers, looking to feed their families rather than strike it rich. Maisie befriends the Davis family and helps them hunt for gold. When the miners learn their gold is nearly worthless, they all start for places unknown, hoping to find another way to survive. Maisie convinces wealthy Bill Anders to let the former farmers work his land, securing jobs for the miners, and friends for the lonely Anders. Maisie heads on her way, looking for furtheradventures . REVIEWS: Y_ariety_/ 7.31.40: "Ann Sothern ably carries the burden of the title role, providing plenty of explosive dialog [sic] lines along the way. Her one scene, in which she becomes drunk on one swig, and tells off Lee Bowman, is one of the best and well-timed episodes of its kind to hit the screen." New York Times, 9.2.40: "...[Maisie] comes magnificently to life for a few brief minutes in an hilarious scene that Miss Sothern plays to perfection with Lee Bowman." See also B-183 F-40 Dulcy

(MGM, 1940)

67 minutes

Producer: Edgar Selwyn. Director: S. Sylvan Simon. Screenplay: Albert Mannheimer, Jerome Chodorov, and Joseph A. Fields. Based on the play by George S. Kaufman and Marc Connelly. Photography: Charles Lawton. Music: Bronislau Kaper. Art director: Cedric Gibbons. Editor: Frank E. Hull. CAST: Ann Sothern (Dulcy Ward), Ian Hunter (Gordon Daly), Roland Young (Roger Forbes), Reginald Gardiner (Schuyler Van Dyke), Billie Burke (Eleanor Forbes), Lynne Carver (Angela Forbes), Dan Dailey, Jr. (Bill Ward), Donald Hule ("Sneezy"), Jonathan Hale (Homer Patterson), Guinn "Big Boy" Williams (Henry), Hans Conried (Vincent Leach). SYNOPSIS: While vacationing in a mountain cabin, scatterbrained Dulcy Ward meets Gordon Daly, the inventor of a new carburetor for airplane engines. Dulcy convinces her

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brother to invite his girl friend, Angela Forbes, and her family to the cabin so Gordon can show her father his invention. Dulcy's antics almost blow the deal with Roger Forbes. When the eccentric Schuyler Van Dyke tries to buy the invention, Roger beats his competition and purchases the patent. Dulcy and Gordon head for the the justice of the peace. REVIEWS: Variety, 10.2.40: "Ann Sothern is an excellent choice for the title spot, competently handling the assignment of the nitwit dame whose efforts to be helpful continually backfire with disasterous results." New York Times, 11.28.40: "Ann Sothern must be awfully tired of displaying her particular talent for acting nit-wit dames, especially in second-rate films...Such crack-brained low comedy is only amusing when done with nimble zest. And this isn't." NOTE: Dulcy had been filmed twice before, in 1923 with Constance Talmadge, and in 1929 with Marion Davies. F-41 Maisie Was a Lady

(MGM, 1941)

76 minutes

Producer: J. Walter Ruben. Director: Edwin L. Marin. Screenplay: Betty Reinhardt and Mary C. McCall, Jr. Based on a story by Betty Reinhardt and Myles Connolly from a character created by Wilson Collison. Photography: Charles Lawton. Editor: Frederick Y. Smith. CAST: Ann Sothern (Maisie Ravier), Lew Ayres (Bob Rawlston), Maureen O'Sullivan (Abigail Rawlston), C. Aubrey Smith (Walpole), Edward Ashley (Link Phillips) Joan Perry (Diana Webley), Paul Cavanagh (Cap Rawlston), William Wright (Judge), Edgar Dearing (Cop), Charles D. Brown (Doctor), Joe Yule (Barker), Hans Conried (Guest), Hillary Brooke (Guest). SYNOPSIS: When inebriated Bob Rawlston gets Maisie Ravier fired from her carnival job, the judge orders him to find her other employment. Bob hires Maisie as a maid at his family mansion. Maisie soon learns that the wealthy Rawlstons are unhappy. Patriarch Cap Rawlston spends his time traveling, substituting gifts for affection. Son Bob drinks because his father failed to congratulate him on a scholastic prize. Daughter Abigail falls for a fortune hunter because she is desperate for attention. When the gigolo is exposed, Abigail takes poison. The doctor revives her and Maisie reunites the family. Despite the Rawlstons's pleas for her to join them on a vacation, Maisie leaves the family manse. A reformed Bob pursues her and proposes.

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REVIEWS: Variety, 1.15.41: "Miss Sothern provides her usual fine characterization of the wisecracking showgirl to give upgrade impetus to popularity of Maisie with picture audiences." New York Times, 1.15.41: "...Ann Sothern...has abundant opportunity to sniff contemptuously and crack wise..." NOTE: Ann Sothern, Lew Ayres, and Maureen O'Sullivan recreated their roles on Lux Radio Theatre on November 24, 1941 (R-22). F-42 Ringside Maisie

(MGM, 1941)

96 minutes

Producer: J. Walter Ruben. Director: Edwin L. Marin. Screenplay: Mary C. McCall, Jr. Based on a character created by Wilson Collison. Photography: Charles Lawton. Music: David Snell. Editor: Frederick Y. Smith. Costumes: Robert Kalloch. CAST: Ann Sothern (Maisie Ravier), George Murphy (Skeets Maguire), Robert Sterling (Terry Dolan), Natalie Thompson (Cecelia Reardon), Maxie Rosenbloom (Chotsie), Margaret Moffat (Mrs. Dolan), John Indrisano (Peaches), Virginia O'Brien (Specialty), Eddie Simms (Jacky-Boy Duffy), Jack LaRue (Ricky DuPrez), Purnell Pratt (Dr. Taylor), May McAvoy (Day nurse), Tom Dugan (Checker), Jonathan Hale (Dr. Kramer), Roy Lester (Jitterbug), Oscar O'Shea (Conductor), Rags Ragland (Vic). SYNOPSIS: Maisie Ravier wanders into a boxing camp where Terry Dolan is training for a big fight. She learns that Terry dislikes boxing; he wants to quit and open a grocery store. Maisie tries to convince Terry's money-mad manager, Skeets Maguire, to let Terry retire. When Skeets threatens a lawsuit, Terry goes through with the fight. Terry is knocked out and temporarily blinded. Maisie blames Skeets, but forgives him when he pays for a surgeon to restore Terry's sight. REVIEWS: Variety, 7.30.41: "Miss Sothern is a capable comedienne, distinctly pleasant to gaze upon, and talented far beyond the material handed to her in the current release...In a costume cut much lower than kindly nature demands, Miss Sothern strives valiantly with some slangy line to gain a few chuckles." New York Times, 8.1.41: "As the little lady who brightens things up, Ann Sothern still makes a fettlesome Maisie." NOTE:

Ann Sothern met her second husband, Robert Sterling,

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while filming Ringside Maisie. F-43 Lady Be Good

(MGM, 1941)

110 minutes

Producer: Arthur Freed. Director: Norman Z. McLeod. Choreographer: Busby Berkeley. Screenplay: Jack McGowan, Kay Van Riper, John McClain, and [uncredited] Ralph Spence, Arnold Auerbach, Herman Wouk, Robert McGunigle, and Vincente Minnelli. Based on a story by Jack McGowan. Photography: George Folsey and Oliver T. Marsh. Songs: Jerome Kern, Oscar Hammerstein II, George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin, Roger Edens, Arthur Freed, and Nacio Herb Brown. Musical director: George Stoll. Art director: Cedric Gibbons. Editor: Frederick Y. Smith. Sets: Edwin B. Willis. Costumes: Adrian. CAST: Eleanor Powell (Marilyn Marsh), Ann Sothern (Dixie Donegan), Robert Young (Eddie Crane), Lionel Barrymore (Judge Murdock), John Carroll (Buddy Crawford), Red Skelton (Joe "Red" Willet), Virginia O'Brien (Lull), Tom Conway (Mr. Blanton), Dan Dailey, Jr. (Bill Pattison), Reginald Owen (Max Milton), Rose Hobart (Mrs. Carter Wardley), Phil Silvers (M.C.), Warren Berry, Nyas Berry (Berry Brothers), Connie Russell (Singer), Doris Day (Debutante), Edward Gargan (Pol iceman). SYNOPSIS: Dixie Donegan and Eddie Crane are a successful married songwriting team. When Eddie begins hobnobbing with society instead of working, Dixie divorces him. Both find that they cannot write without the other, so Dixie and Eddie collaborate on another hit tune. Musical success leads to remarriage, but soon Eddie is back to his old ways. Dixie tries to divorce him again, but the judge refuses. Thinking they are divorced, Eddie tries to rekindle the partnership and the romance. Dixie decides to keep up the illusion, realizing that is the only way she and Eddie can live and work together. REVIEWS: Variety, 7.16.41: "Miss Sothern, who looks gorgeous per usual, and Young do as well as possible with their impossible situations. It's ludicrous, for instance, to have Miss Sothern picking the lyric for 'Lady Be Good' out of the air within a couple of minutes...Miss Sothern... carries the brunt of the singing and her stage experience stands her in good stead." Time, 9.29.41: "Ann Sothern turns in a heroic performance. Separated from her accustomed role as heroine of MGM's Maisie series, blonde, shapely Trouper Sothern almost saves the show. Her singing of 'The Last Time I Saw Paris' is a model of how to put across that over-bleated

72

Ann Sothern

dirge. And her version of 'Lady Be Good' should please even a Prime Minister." See also D-6, D-7, D-21, B-87, B-250, B-251, B-252, B-277 NOTES: Ann Sothern sang "You'll Never Know," "Lady Be Good," "Your Words and My Music," and "The Last Time I Saw Paris." Although Lady Be Good borrowed the title and some Gershwin songs from a Broadway musical, the film story was entirely new. There was a great controversey when Kern and Hammerstein's "The Last Time I Saw Paris" won the Academy Award for best song. Although it had never been in a film, the song was not written specifically for Lady Be Good. According to Hollywood Studio Magazine, Eleanor Powell believed Ann Sothern's singing was promoted at her expense because the addition of "The Last Time I Saw Paris" necessitated in the removal of one of Eleanor's dances. Colin Briggs wrote, "Sadly, what had started out as a strong friendship between the girls developed into a long time feud as far as Eleanor was concerned" (B-96). Hugh Fordin said that Busby Berkeley was originally scheduled to direct Lady Be Good, however Ann Sothern and Eleanor Powell were against it (B-170). A clip of Ann Sothern singing "The Last Time I Saw Paris" was shown on MGM Parade (ABC, November 9, 1955). The scene in which Ann Sothern and Robert Young wrote "Lady Be Good" was used in the film That's Entertainment, Part Two (MGM, 197 6). F-44 Maisie Gets Her Man

(MGM, 1942)

85 minutes

Producer: J. Walter Ruben. Director: Roy Del Ruth. Choreographer: Danny Dare. Screenplay: Betty Reinhardt and Mary C. McCall, Jr. Based on a story by Betty Reinhardt and Ethel Hill from a character created by Wilson Collison. Photographer: Harry Stradling. Music: Lennie Hayton. Song: Roger Edens and Lennie Hayton. Art director: Cedric Gibbons. Editor: Frederick Y. Smith CAST: Ann Sothern (Maisie Ravier), Red Skelton (Hap Hixby), Allen Jenkins (Pappy Goodring), Donald Meek (Mr. Stickwell), Lloyd Corrigan (Mr. Denningham), Fritz Feld (Professor Oreo), Walter Catlett (Jasper), Leo Gorcey (Cecil), Ben Weldon (Percy Podd), Rags Ragland (Ears Cofflin), Frank Jenks (Art Giffman), Florence Shirley (Mrs. Taylor), Pamela Blake (Elsie). SYNOPSIS: Maisie Ravier is stranded in Chicago after her knife-throwing partner takes out his aggressions on her. Maisie gets a job in a theatrical building where she meets Hap Hixby, a stagestruck ex-druggist. Hap and Maisie try a stage act, but it proves unsuccessful. Hap innocently gets involved with a con man and ends up in jail. Maisie testifies and saves Hap. After going their separate ways,

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Hap and Maisie meet again at a USO show where she is entertaining. Maisie invites the soldier to join her on stage, implying that love has come to Maisie and Hap. REVIEWS: Variety., 5.27.42: "The starred pair give fine performances, particularly Miss Sothern, whose consistently good portrayals in the Maisie pictures rate her better stories. However, she appears a little more plumpish than usual." New_YorJk Times, 7.16.42: "As a little girl looking for a break, Maisie, or rather Ann Sothern, is still waiting at the end of Maisie Gets Her Man." NOTE: Ann Sothern sang "Cookin* with Gas," a song intended for P_anama_.Hattie., but cut from its release print. F-4 5 Panama Hattie

(MGM, 19 42)

79 minutes

Producer: Arthur Freed. Directors: Norman Z. McLeod and (uncredited) Roy Del Ruth. Choreographers: Danny Dare and Vincente Minnelli. Screenplay: Jack McGowan, Wilkie Mahoney, and (uncredited) Lillie Messinger, Mary C. McCall, Jr., Joseph Schrank, Fred Finklehoffe, and Vincente Minnelli. Based on the play by Herbert Fields, B.G. DeSylva, and Cole Porter. Photography: George Folsey. Songs: Cole Porter, Roger Edens, Burton Lane, E.Y. Harburg, Walter Donaldson, Phil Moore, J. Le Gon, Alex Hyde, Sir Arthur Sullivan, and Theodore F. Morse. Musical director: George Stoll. Art director: Cedric Gibbons. Editor: Blanche Sewell. Set: Edwin B. Willis and Hugh Hunt. Costumes: Kalloch. CAST: Ann Sothern (Hattie Maloney), Red Skelton (Red), Marsha Hunt (Leila Tree), Rags Ragland (Rags), Dan Dailey, Jr. (Dick Bulliett), Ben Blue (Rowdy), Virginia O'Brien (Flo Foster), Alan Mowbray (Jay Jerkins), Jackie Horner (Geraldine Bulliett), Carl Esmond (Lucas Kefler), Pierre Watkin (Admiral Tree), Stanley Andrews (Colonel John Briggs), Lena H o m e , the Berry Brothers (Specialties), George Watts (Mac the bartender), Lucien Prival (Hans), Joe Yule (Waiter), Duke York (Bruno), Fred Graham (Naval policeman), Roger Moore (Spy), Max Wagner (Guard), Grant Withers (Shore patrol). SYNOPSIS: Flamboyant Hattie Maloney performs in a nightclub in Panama. She is engaged to Dick Bulliett, a wealthy divorcee. When Dick's daughter, Gerladine, makes fun of Hattie's clothes and manners, Hattie's three sailor pals cheer her. The admiral's niece tries to steal Dick, but Hattie makes up with Geraldine and marries her father. The

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sailors are heroes when they accidently catch some spies in the canal zone. Everyone celebrates the marriage and the heroism with a patriotic finale. REVIEWS: Commonweal, 9.25.42: "We still have big-hearted, diamond-in-the-rough Hattie (turned out with appropriate slang, cheap jewelry and gew-gews by Ann Sothern, who plays her as a continuation of her Maisie roles)." New York Times, 10.2.42: "Panama Hattie was finished last Fall. At several sneak previews, it cast a great pall. Metro revised it, with scissors and pen, but it couldn't pull Panama Hattie together again....For even the blithesome Ann Sothern, who should have been sharp in the title role, is virtually placed in quarantine after briefly singing two songs." See also D-8, D-9, D-10, D-ll, B-329 NOTES: According to Hugh Fordin's The World of Entertainment, MGM paid $140,000 for the rights to the Broadway musical Panama Hattie. Despite the show's success on Broadway, most of the original score was cut from the film. George Murphy and Shirley Temple were originally mentioned for the roles played by Dan Dailey and Jackie Horner. Panama Hattie was previewed November 15, 1941. According to Fordin, producer Arthur Freed and MGM chief Louis B. Mayer thought the film lacked vitality and delayed the release. After viewing Ann Sothern's work under director Roy Del Ruth in Maisie Gets Her Man, Freed hired Del Ruth to direct new scenes in Panama Hattie. In the revised version, the musical numbers are emphasised over the plot. Although Cole Porter's "I've Still Got My Health" was put back into the score, Ann Sothern lost three numbers: "Salome," "I'd Do Anything for You," and "Cookin' with Gas." The latter was added to Maisie Gets Her Man; Virginia O'Brien sang "Salome" in DuBarry Was a Lady. Panama Hattie was released on September 18, 1942. In the final version Ann Sothern sang "I've Still Got My Health," "Let's Be Buddies," and "The Son of a Gun Who Picks on Uncle Sam." Despite the fact that the film grossed over $4 million, Fordin said, "Artistically, this picture was unquestionably one of the low points in Freed's otherwise sure-fire career" (B-170). F-4 6 You, John Jones

(MGM, 1942)

8 minutes

Producer: Carey Wilson. Director: Screenplay: Carey Wilson.

Mervyn LeRoy.

CAST: James Cagney (John Jones), Ann Sothern (Mary Jones), Margaret O'Brien (Daughter).

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While on air raid duty, John Jones imagines his daughter living in England, Greece, China, Yugoslavia, France, Australia, and Czechoslovakia during World War II. He realizes how lucky he is to be an American. NOTE: This short was made by the Department of War Information to promote patriotism during World War II. F-47 Three Hearts for Julia

(MGM, 1943)

89 minutes

Producer: John W. Considine, Jr. Director: Richard Thorpe. Screenplay: Lionel Houser. Photography: George Folsey. Music: Herbert Stothart. Art directors: Cedric Gibbons and Howard Campbell. Editor: Irvine Warburton. CAST: Ann Sothern (Julia Seabrook), Melvyn Douglas (Jeff Seabrook), Lee Bowman (David Torrance), Felix Bressart (Mr. Anton Ottoway), Reginald Owen (John Girard), Richard Ainley (Philip Barrows), Marta Linden (May Elton), Jacqueline White (Kay), Kay Medford (Thelma), Ann Richards (Clara), Elvia Allman (Miss Stickney), Marietta Canty (Mattie), Charles LaTorre (Bureau clerk), Marek Windheim (Perfume clerk), Bill Lally (Customs m a n ) , William Tannen, Rudolph Cameron, Hooper Atchley, Art Belasco, George Lollier, Anthony Warde, Estelle Etterre (Reporters), Phyllis Cook (Western Union girl), Oscar O'Shea (Doorman), Frank Faylen (Meek gateman), Dick Rich (Mug attendant), Joe Yule (Cab driver), Fred Rapport, Bill Dill (Waiters), Dick Elliott (Smith), Ernie Alexander (Johnson), Russell Gleason (Jones), Max Willenz (Bartender), Robert Greig (Cairns), Nell Craig (Maid), Howard Hickman (Mr. Doran), James Warren (Program vendor), Bert Hicks (Usher), Russell Hicks (Colonel Martin), Hans Von Morhart, John Van Eyck, Curt Furberg, Nicholas Vehr, Jack Deery (Nazis), Dick Wessel (Soldier), Mary Field, Eve Whitney, Marie Windsor, Mary Benoit, Natalie Draper (Musicians). SYNOPSIS: Returning war correspondent Jeff Seabrook is suprised to find his wife, Julia, has resumed her musical career and is concert master of a female orchestra. He is even more startled when he learns that Julia wants a divorce and is being pursued by two gentlemen. Julia asks Jeff to help her chose between the suitors since she considers her husband her best friend. Jeff pits his competitors against one another and wins back his wife. REVIEWS: Variety, 1.6.43: "Miss Sothern is handicapped with the material provided... New York Times, 5.21.43:

"Miss Sothern and Mr. Douglas

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try hard - you can say that much for them..." NOTE: Ann Sothern and Melvyn Douglas previewed Three Hearts for Julia on the military radio program Mai_l___CalJL (R-42,"D-23). F-48 Swing Shift Maisie

(MGM, 1943)

87 minutes

Producer: George Haight. Director: Norman Z. McLeod. Screenplay: Mary C. McCall, Jr. and Robert Raiff. Based on the character created by Wilson Collison. Photography: Harry Stradling. Music: Lennie Hayton. Art director: Cedric Gibbons. Editor: Elmo Veron. CAST: Ann Sothern (Maisie Ravier), James Craig (Breezy McLaughlin), Jean Rogers (Iris Reid), Connie Gilchrist (Maw Lustvogel), John Qualen (Horatio Curley), Fred Brady (Judd Evans), Marta Linden (Emmy Lou Grogan), Donald Curtis (Joe Peterson), Celia Travers (Helen Johnson), Pierre Watkin (Judge), Lillian Yarbo (Myrtle Lea), Wiere Brothers (Schmitt Brothers), Pamela Blake (Billie), Jacqueline White (Grace), Betty Jaynes (Ruth), Kay Medford (Ann), Katharine Booth (Louise), John Hodiak (Clerk), Rose Hobart (Lead woman), Jack Mulhall (Doctor), William Bishop (Flier), James Davis (Detective). SYNOPSIS: Maisie Ravier ge"ts a job in an aircraft ;pi ant. Because she doesn't have a birth certificate, she convinces to 1 ie that he 's known her all f her life. an riend actor Maisie fal Is in love with B:treezy McLaughlin, a test pilot at the factor y. Breezy 's feel:ing s are mutual until Ma isie's roommate, Iris Reed, steals hi s heart. When Maisie realizes that Iris is only using Breezy , she tries to warn him and stop their elopement Iris re ports Maisie as a sab oteur, using her lack of a birth cert ificate as evidence. Maisie is release d in time to stop th e wedding. With Iris 's true colors revealed, Breezy and Ma isie reconcile. REVIEWS: Variety, 5.5.43: "Miss Sothern is her customary zestful self, working overtime to breathe some reality into the over-worked situations." Time, 10.18.43: "Swing Shift Maisie is one of those B-budget marrow bones which are tossed to the simple appetites of the sticks, but which many a choosy cinemaddict prefers to the average A-budget epic. In part this is due to cinemactress Ann Sothern, one of the smartest comediennes in the business." NOTES: Ann Sothern sang "The Girl Behind the Boy Behind the Gun." Lion's Roar, MGM's in-house magazine, reported that Ann spent a day at a defense plant, researching her role

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and learning to rivet (B-13). F-4 9 Th^usands__Cjieer Technicolor

(MGM, 1943)

12 6 minutes

Producer: Joe Pasternak. Director: George Sidney. Screenplay: Paul Jarrico and Richard Collins. Based on the story "Private Miss Jones" by Paul Jarrico and Richard Collins. Photography: George Folsey. Music: Herbert Stothart. Songs: Roger Edens, Ralph Blane, Hugh Martin, Zequinha Abreu, Fats Waller, Andy Razaf, Mabel Wayne, Joe Young, Sam M. Lewis, Ferde Grofe, Harold Adamson, Walter Jurmann, Paul Francis Webster, Earl Brent, E.Y. Harburg, Dimitri Shostakovich, Harold Rome, Herbert Stothart, Guiseppe Verdi, Ralph Freed, Burton Lane, Lew Brown, Leo Friedman, Beth S. Whitson, Walter Ruick, George R. Brown, Nacio Herb Brown, ArthurFreed, and E.H. Meacham. Musical director: Herbert Stothart. Art directors: Cedric Gibbons and Daniel B. Cathcart. Editor: George Boemler. Set: Edwin B. Willis and Jacques Mesereau. Costumes: Irene. CAST: Kathryn Grayson (Kathryn Jones), Gene Kelly (Eddy Marsh), Mary Astor (Hyllary Jones), Jose Iturbi (Himself), John Boles (Colonel William Jones), Dick Simmons (Captain Fred Avery), Ben Blue (Chuck Polansky), Frank Jenks (Sergeant Koslack), Frank Sully (Alan), Wally Cassell (Jack), Ben Lessy (Silent Monk), Frances Rafferty (Marie Corbino), Odette Myrtil (Mama Corbino), Will Kaufman (Papa Corbino), Sig Arno (Uncle Algy), Connie Gilchrist (Taxicab driver), Bea Nigro (Woman), Daisy Buford (Maid), Pierre Watkin (Alex), Peggy Remington, Ed Mortimer (Guests), Ray Teal (Ringmaster), Carl Saxe (Sergeant Major), Bryant Washburn, Jr. (Lieutenant Colonel Brand), Harry Strang (Captain Haines), James Millican (Sergeant Carrington Major), William Tannen (Prison Sergeant), Florence Turner (Mother at station), Linda Landi (Polish girl at station), Eileen Coghlan, Eve Whitney, Aileen Haley, Betty Haynes, Natalie Draper (Girls at station), Myron Healey, Cliff Danielson, James Warren, Don Taylor (Soldiers at station), Lionel Barrymore (Announcer), Mickey Rooney, Judy Garland, Red Skelton, Eleanor Powell, Ann Sothern, Lucille Ball, Virginia O'Brien, Lena H o m e , Marsha Hunt, Marilyn Maxwell, Donna Reed, Margaret O'Brien, June Allyson, Gloria DeHaven, Sara Haden, Frank Morgan, Kay Kyser and His Orchestra, Bob Crosby and His Orchestra, Chorus of United Nations, Benny Carter and His Orchestra, Don Loper, Maxine Barrrat (Guest stars), Paul Speer (Specialty dancer), Marta Linden (Skit nurse), John Conte (Skit doctor). SYNOPSIS: Opera singer Kathryn Jones goes to live with her father on an Army base during World War II. Because her

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parents are estranged, Kathryn wants to make a home for her father before he goes overseas. En route to the base, Kathryn meets Eddy Marsh, an ex-circus performer who hates the discipline of the Army. When he learns Kathryn is the Colonel's daughter, he courts her so that she will pull strings to get Eddy transferred to the Air Corps. Despite his initial ulterior motive, Eddy falls in love with Kathryn and introduces her to his family of aerialists. In an effort to reunite her parents, Kathryn convinces her mother that she is about to elope, knowing Mrs. Jones will come to the base. Mrs. Jones arrives and wants to take Kathryn back to New York. Afraid that Kathryn will listen to her mother, Eddy deserts his post to talk to her. Eddy is sent to his barracks, but is allowed to appear in the Army show that Kathryn has produced. The show is an all-star spectacular, featuring songs and skits by many MGM personalties. While doing his trapeze act, Eddy's family teaches him the importance of teamwork, both on the high wires and in the Army. After the show, Eddy and Colonel Jones are shipped out. Kathryn and her mother promise to wait for them. REVIEWS: New York Times, 9.14.43: "While on the subject of bouquets, toss a couple of deserved ones to...Doctor Frank Morgan's examination of a trio of prospecitve WAVES Lucille Ball, Ann Sothern and Marsha Hunt..." Commonweal, 10.8.43: "...Frank Morgan appears with Ann Sothern, Lucille Ball and Marsha Hunt in a pointless and tasteless skit..." See also D-12, B-442, B-443 F-50 Cry Havoc

(MGM, 1943)

96 minutes

Producer: Edwin Knopf. Director: Richard Thorpe. Screenplay: Paul Osborne. Based on the play Proof Thro' the Night by Allen R. Kenward. Photography: Karl Freund. Music: Daniele Amphitheatrof. Art directors: Cedric Gibbons and Stephen Goosson. Editor: Ralph E. Winters. Set: Edwin B. Willis and Glen Barner. CAST: Margaret Sullavan (Lientenant Smith), Ann Sothern (Pat), Joan Blondell (Grace), Fay Bainter (Captain Marsh), Marsha Hunt (Flo Norris), Ella Raines (Connie), Frances Gifford (Helen), Diana Lewis (Nydia), Heather Angel (Andra), Dorothy Morris (Sue), Connie Gilchrist (Sadie), Gloria Grafton (Steve), Fely Franquelli (Luisita). SYNOPSIS: Lieutenant Smith is an Army nurse in a field hospital in Bataan during World War II. With a shortage of nurses and an increased number of wounded soldiers, she

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recruits nine volunteer nurses who are being evacuated from Manila because of the Japanese invasion. The volunteers are a mixed lot, including a Southern belle, a burlesque queen, and two British sisters. Pat, a waitress, and Lieutenant Smith clash immediatly when they go after the same man. Pat learns that Lieutenant Smith has malignant malaria and has refused treatment so she can be near the lieutenant to whom she is secretly married. When the Japanese arrive and capture the women, Pat admits that the flirtation with Lieutenant Smith's husband was strictly one-sided. Facing death, the women become friends. REVIEWS: New York Times, 11.24.43: "But Ann Sothern is just a wan and wistful Maisie as a hard-boiled ex-waitress with a heart. . ." Commonweal, 12.10.43: "...Margaret Sullavan, Joan Blondell, Ann Sothern, Ella Raines, to mention only a few of the thirteen actresses involved, manage to give moving performances." NOTES: Despite the fact that all of the leading roles in Cry Havoc were played by women, there were reportedly no problems with egos. Movies credited director Richard Thorpe for instilling a camaraderie early in shooting (B-296). The fact that the women all wore coveralls and simple hairstyles prevented any petty squabbles. During the filming, Ann Sothern married Robert Sterling on May 23, 1943. Her co-stars gave Ann a ration shower the day she returned to the set. Although critics had often noted a resemblence between Ann and Joan Blondell, Ann told Hollywood Studio Magazine, "...when we appeared side by side there was no need for either of us to change hair color or make-up as we weren't alike at all" (B-97). Joan Blondell disagreed about the similarity. When film historian John Kobal asked about her return to the screen after being absent during her marriage to Mike Todd, Blondell replied, "My friends told me Ann Sothern had forgotten how to do me" (People Wi11 Talk. Alfred A. Knopf. New York. 1985. p. 181.). F-51 Maisie Goes to Reno

(MGM, 1944)

90 minutes

Producer: George Haight. Director: Harry Beaumont. Screenplay: Mary C. McCall, Jr. Based on a story by Harry Ruby and James O'Hanlon from a character created by Wilson Collison. Photography: Robert Planck. Music: David Snell. Song: Sammy Fain and Ralph Freed. Art directors: Cedric Gibbons and Howard Campbell. Editor: Frank E. Hull. Set: Edwin B. Willis and Helen Conway. CAST:

Ann Sothern (Maisie Ravier), John Hodiak (Flip

80

Ann Sothern Hennahan), Tom Drake (Bill Fullerton), Marta Linden (Winifred Ashbourne), Paul Cavanagh (Roger Pelham), Ava Gardner (Gloria Fullerton), Bernard Nedell (J.E. Clave), Roland Dupree (Jerry), Chick Chandler (Tommy Cutter), Bunny Waters (Elaine), Donald Meek (Parsons) James Warren (Dr. Hanley Fleeson), Douglas Morrow (M.C.), William Tannen (Lead m a n ) , Edward Earle (Clerk), Byron Foulger (Dr. Cummings), Leon Tyler (Boy), Noreen Nash (Good-looking girl), Dallas Worth, Lynn Arlen, Ethel Tobin, Elizabeth Dailey, Katharine [Karin] Booth (Girls at party).

SYNOPSIS: When Maisie Ravier collapses from overwork at the defense plant, the doctor orders a vacation. An old friend asks her to sing with his band in Reno, promising her plenty of time for relaxation during the day. En route to Reno, Maisie meets Bill Fullerton, a soldier whose wife is divorcing him. Bill convinces Maisie to deliver a note to his wife, Gloria, to prevent the divorce. Maisie carries out Bill's orders, but later learns she delivered the note to an imposter. A forger and his partners want the Fullertons's divorce to go through so they can steal Gloria's money. Maisie enlists the help of Flip Hennahan, a handsome blackjack dealer she is romancing. In the ensuing chaos, Flip thinks Maisie is crazy and Maisie is suspicious that Flip is an accomplice of the crooks. Maisie proves that the forgers want Gloria's money and reunites the Fullertons. REVIEWS: Variety , 8.16.44: "Miss Sothern's dumb-but-smart, 1ovable-but-ri1eable, nosey-but-pensive characterization of a fair-sex riveter, who gets in all sorts of mix-ups, is thoroughly likeable." ^ojOQmonweai, 10.13.44: "...Ann Sothern's port ray 1 of the little blonde with the heart of gold has a fresh quality that remains constant in spite of the oft repeated characterization." NOTE:

Ann Sothern sang "Pan Handle Pete."

F-52 Up Goes Maisie

(MGM, 1946)

89 minutes

Producer: George Haight. Director: Harry Beaumont. Screenplay: Thelma Robinson. Based on the charactercreated by Wilson Collison. Photography: Robert Planck. Music: David Snell. Art directors: Cedric Gibbons and Richard Luce. Editor: Irvine Warburton. Costumes: Irene. Special effects: A. Arnold Gi11espie. CAST: Ann Sothern (Maisie Ravier), George Murphy (Joseph Morton), Hillary Brooke (Barbara Nuboult)

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Horace [Stephen] McNally (Tim Kingby), Ray Collins (Mr. Henderickson), Jeff York (Elmer Saunders), Paul Harvey (Mr. J.G. Nuboult), Murry Alper (Mitch), Lewis Howard (Bill Stuart), Jack Davis (Jonathan Marbey), Gloria Grafton (Miss Wolfe), John Eldredge (Benson), Lee Phelps (First cop), Glenn Strange (Second cop), James Davis (Businessman), Connie Gilchrist (Woman in window). SYNOPSIS: With the end of World War II, Maisie Ravier searches for a civilian job. She is hired as secretary to inventor Joseph Morton, but soon finds her riveting skills put to work on his new helicopter. On the night before Joe is scheduled to show his invention to a wealthy industrialist, a mysterious fire destroys the helicopter. Maisie discovers that Joe's partner has built a copy and is working for a rival plane company. Maisie steals the copy and pilots it to the Rose Bowl where Joe and the industrialist are waiting for a demonstration. Her piloting and salesmanship convince the industrialist to invest in the he1icopter. REVIEWS: Variety, 1.2.46: "Continuing the screen adventures of Maisie, Metro's comedy character portrayed by Ann Sothern, film hits consistent pace throughout most of its footage and averages out as excellent chuckled material." New York Times, 1.25.46: "...it's nice to have Maisie arrive again, even if it's in a slightly incredible vehicle." F-53 Undercover Maisie

(MGM, 1947)

90 minutes

Producer: George Haight. Director: Harry Beaumont. Screenplay: Thelma Robinson. Based on a character created by Wilson Collison. Photography: Charles Salerno. Music: David Snell. Art directors: Cedric Gibbons and Gabriel Scognamillo. Editor: Ben Lewis. Costumes: Irene. CAST: Ann Sothern (Maisie Ravier), Barry Nelson (Lieutenant Paul Scott), Mark Daniels (Chip Dolan), Leon Ames (Amor [Willis F a m e s ] ) , Clinton Sundberg (Guy Canford), Dick Simmons (Gilfred I. Rogers), Charles D. Brown (Captain Mead), Gloria Holden (Mrs. Guy Canford), Douglas Fowley (Daniels), Nella Walker (Mrs. Andrew Lorrison), Gene Roberts (Viola Trengham), Celia Travers (Isabelle), Morris Ankrum (Parker). SYNOPSIS: En route to a job in New York, a conwoman steals Maisie Ravier's belongings. When Maisie reports the theft to the police, Lieutenant Paul Scott convinces her to join the force as an undercover agent. First on her list is

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Ann Sothern

Amor, a phony mystic who dupes women out of their fortunes. When Amor and his partners realize Maisie is on to their racket, they kidnap her. Maisie helps the police find her and capture the criminals, winning the admiration of Paul. She also helps Chip Dolan, a fellow officer, get reinstated on the detective squad. REVIEW: Variety, 3.5.47: "Ann Sothern gives the title role plenty of bounce and furnishes marquee draw for general situations...Miss Sothern sparks proceedings in her usual deft, flippant style. Dialog [sic] has plenty of snap and she makes the most of the line." NOTES: This was the final film in the Maisie series. According to the pressbook for the film, Ann Sothern spent several days training at the Los Angeles Police Academy to prepare for her role. Although she was not seriously hurt, Ann was sent to bed after hitting her head on an auto and falling during the filming of a jiu-jitsu throw with Clinton Sundberg. The pressbook said Ann considered going brunette for non-Maisie roles after she donned a wig for a scene in Undercover Maisie. F-54 April Showers

(Warner Bros., 1948)

93 minutes

Producer: William Jacobs. Director: James V. Kern. Screenplay: Peter Milne. Based on the story "Barbary Coast" by Joe Laurie, Jr. Photography: Carl Guthrie. Music: Ray Heindorf. Songs: Kim Gannon, Ted Fetter, Walter Kent, Jack Scholl, Ray Heindorf, Dave Radford, Richard Whiting, B.G. DeSylva, Louis Silvers, Gus Kahn and Walter Donaldson. Editor: Thomas Reilly. CAST: Jack Carson (Joe Tyme), Ann Sothern (June Tyme) Robert Alda (Billy Shay), S.Z. Sakall (Mr. Curly) Robert Ellis (Buster Tyme), Richard Rober (Al Wilson), Joseph Crehan (Mr. Barnes), Ray Walker (Mr. Barclay) John Gallaudet (Mr. Gordon), Phillip van Zandt (Mr. Swift), Billy Curtis (Vanderhouten). SYNOPSIS: Joe and June Tyme are struggling vaudevilleans known as the Happy Tymes. Their son, Buster, runs away from military school to join the act. With him, the Tymes are a big success and head for New York. The Gerry Society forbids children under age 16 from appearing on stage, so the Tymes return west. Frustrated by the act's progress, Joe turns to drink. When he misses a performance, he gets blackballed from vaudeville. June and Buster team up with Billy Shay, a performer and agent. Joe continues to drink and is estranged from his family. When Joe learns that Billy has hit Buster, Joe sobers up and beats Billy. The Three Happy Tymes are reunited on stage and score a big success.

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REVIEWS: Variety, 3.10.48: "Miss Sothern displays just about the most shapely gams in films and appeals otherwise as the patient wife and mother." New York Times, 3.27.48: "...Miss Sothern, who obviously knows it's useless to intrude, just stands around and clucks." See also B-98 NOTES: Ann Sothern sang "April Showers," "Carolina in the Morning," "Mr. Lovejoy and Mr. Gay," and "While Strolling through the Park One Day." James V. Kern was a director on The Ann Sothern Show. F-55 Words and Music Technicolor

(MGM, 1948)

119 minutes

Producer: Arthur Freed. Director: Norman Taurog. Choreographer: Robert Alton. Screenplay: Fred Finklehoffe and Ben Feiner, Jr. Based on a story by Guy Bolton and Jean Holloway, adapted by Ben Feiner, Jr., Jean Holloway, Isabel Lennart, and Jack Mintz. Photography: Charles Rosher and Harry Stradling. Songs: Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart. Musical director: Lennie Hayton. Art directors: Cedric Gibbons and Jack Martin Smith. Editors: Albert Akst and Ferris Webster. Set: Edwin B. Willis and Richard A. Pefferle. Costumes: Helen Rose and Valles. Special effects: Warren Newcombe. Makeup: Jack Dawn. CAST: Perry Como (Eddie Lorrison Anders), Mickey Rooney (Lorenz "Larry" Hart), Ann Sothern (Joyce Harmon), Tom Drake (Richard "Dick" Rodgers), Betty Garrett (Peggy Lorgan McNeil), Janet Leigh (Dorothy Feiner), Marshall Thompson (Herbert Fields), Jeanette Nolan (Mrs. Hart), Richard Quine (Ben Feiner, J r . ) , Clinton Sundberg (Shoe clerk), Harry Antrim (Dr. Rodgers), Ilka Gruning (Mrs. Rodgers), Emory Parnell (Mr. Feiner), Helen Spring (Mrs. Feiner), Edward Earle (James Fernby Kelly), Cyd Charisse (Margo Grant), Judy Garland, June Allyson, the Blackburn Twins, Gene Kelly, Vera-Ellen, Mel Torme, Allyn Ann McLerie, John Butler, Dee Turnell, Sid Frohlich (Guest stars). SYNOPSIS: Composer Richard Rodgers and lyricist Lorenz Hart meet in the 1920s. Despite an initial dislike for one another, they collaborate on a song and are soon churning out hits for the stage and screen. Romance enters in the form of Joyce Harmon, a star in a Rodgers and Hart musical, and Peggy Lorgan McNeil, an aspiring singer. When Joyce spurns Rodgers's advances, he turns to Dorothy Feiner; when Peggy rejects Hart, he turns to the bottle. Hart abuses

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Ann Sothern

his health and dies at the height of his career. marries Dorothy and continues to compose.

Rodgers

REVIEWS: Variety, 12.8.48: "Betty Garrett.. .makes little out of the role of the gal Hart can't win, Ann Sothern doesn't score much better as the ditto in Rodgers'[s] early life. New York Times, 12.10.48: "As for the others in the picture - Judy Garland for a couple of songs, Ann Sothern, Mel Torme and Marshall Thompson - the best to be said for them is that they do their jobs as directed in a disappointingly unimaginative way." See also D-13, D-14 NOTES: Ann Sothern sang "Where's That Rainbow?." Despite the fact that scenarist Ben Feiner, Jr. was Richard Rodgers's brother-in-law, Wprds__and ,J4usic was a fictionalized account of Rodgers and Hart's collaboration. Like most biographical films about composers at that time, the story was an excuse for production numbers. F-56 A Letter to Three Wives 103 minutes

(20th Century-Fox, 1949)

Producer: Sol C. Siegle. Director: Joseph L. Mankiewicz. Screenplay: Joseph L. Mankiewicz and Vera Caspary. Based on the novel K..h3.^i3JL-^!^^A.yLP..Mi by John Klempner. Photography: Arthur Miller. Music Alfred Newman. Musical director: Alfred Newman. Art directors: Lyle Wheeler and J. Russell Spencer. Editor: J. Watson Webb. Set: Thomas Little and Walter M. Scott. Costumes: Kay Nelson. Special effects: Fred Sersen. Makeup: Ben Nye. CAST: Jeanne Crain (Deborah Bishop), Linda Darnell (Lora May Hoi 1ingsway), Ann Sothern (Rita Phipps), Kirk Douglas (George Phipps), Paul Douglas (Porter Hoi 1ingsway), Barbara Lawrence (Babe Finney), Jeffrey Lynn (Brad Bishop), Connie Gilchrist (Mrs. Finney), Florence Bates (Mrs. Manleigh), Hobart Cavanaugh (Mr. Manleigh), Patti Brady (Kathleen), Ruth Vivian (Miss Hawkins), Thelma Ritter (Sadie), Stuart Holmes (Old man), George Offerman, Jr. (Nick), Ralph Brooks (Character), James Adamson (Butler), Joe Bautista (Thomasino), John Davidson (Waiter), Carl Switzer, John Venn (Messengers), Sammy Finn (Waiter), Celeste Holm (Voice of Addie Ross). SYNOPSIS: As three Westchester wives board a boat for a charity picnic, they receive a letter from Addie Ross, claiming she ran off with one of their husbands. During the picnic, all three speculate on their shaky marriages.

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Deborah Bishop fears she is not in the same class as her wealthy husband, Brad. Rita Phipps worries about a fight with her husband, George, over her work. The English professor hates the soap operas she writes and is not afraid to say so in front of Rita's boss. Lora May Hollingsway is a girl from the wrong side of the tracks who married department store owner Porter Hollingsway for his money. She loves him, but feels she has let him down. The women return for a country club dance. Deborah is sure Brad ran off with Addie when he does not arrive. Porter explains that it was he who left with Addie; he returned because he realized he loves Lora May. Relieved that Brad is late because of business, Deborah goes home to wait for him while the others enjoy the dance. REVIEWS: Variety, 12.8.48: "Jeanne Crain, Miss Darnell and Ann Sothern, as the three fraus, each turns in a job as good as anything they've done in pix to date..." New York Times, 1.21.49: "...episodes involving Jeanne Crain as the ex-WAVE and Ann Sothern as the radio writer do less to enhance those stars...It wouldn't be fair to tell you whose husband it is that runs away. But the outcome is thoroughly satisfactory - and so is the film..." See also B-241, B-256, B-307, B-338 NOTES: The screenplay was originally titled A Letter to Four Wives, but 20th Century-Fox head Darryl Zannuck told Joseph Mankiewicz he had one wife too many. A Letter to Three Wives won the Academy Award for Best Screenplay in 1949. Joseph Mankiewicz also won an Oscar for Best Director. The film was remade in 1985 as a telefeature with Ann Sothern playing the role created by Connie Gilchrist (T-52). F-57 The Judge Steps Out

(RKO, 1949)

91 minutes

Producer: Michel Kraike. Director: Boris Ingster. Screenplay: Boris Ingster and Alexander Knox. Based on a story by Boris Ingster. Photography: Robert de Grasse. Music: Leigh Harline. Musical director: Constantin Bakaleinikoff. Art directors: Albert S. D'Agostine and Field Gray. Editor: Les Millbrook. CAST: Alexander Knox (Judge Thomas Bailey), Ann Sothern (Peggy), George Tobias (Mike), Sharyn Moffett (Nan), Florence Bates (Chita), Freida Inescort (Evelyn Bailey), Myrna Dell (Mrs. Winthrop), Ian Wolfe (Hector Brown), H.B. Warner (Chief Justice Haynes), Martha Hyer (Catherine Bailey), James Warren (John Struthers III), Whitford Kane (Dr. Boyd), Harry Hayden (Judge Davis), Anita Bolster (Martha).

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SYNOPSIS: Judge Thomas Bailey gets fed up with his nagging wife and spendthrift daughter. When his doctor advises a vacation, Tom leaves his Boston family and heads for California. While working as an itinerant book salesman, Tom meets Peggy, owner of a roadside diner. Peggy hires Tom as a cook and soon falls in love with him. Tom gives Peggy legal advice when she tries to adopt Nan, an orphan. When the application is turned down, it reminds Tom of a case he tried. He decides to go back to Boston to get a divorce and appeal the child custody case. Tom wins the appeal, enabling Peggy to adopt Nan. However, he finds his wife has changed and learns he is now a grandfather. Peggy reads about his court case and goes to Boston to tell him he belongs with his family. Tom agrees and returns to his courtroom and wife. REVIEWS: Variety, 5.11.49:

"...the two stars are capable."

New York Times, 6.3.49: "Miss Sothern is as winning as she is convincing as a roadside beanery owner who falls head over heels in love with her well-mannered short-order cook and nobly steps aside when his sense of family and civic responsibility takes him back home." NOTES: The Judge Steps Out was orignially titled Indian Summer and was released under that title in England. Although it was filmed in 1947, RKO delayed its American release until 1949. F-58 Shadow on the Wall

(MGM, 1950)

84 minutes

Producer: Robert Sisk. Director: Patrick Jackson. Screenplay: William Ludwig. Based on the story "Death in the Doll's House" by Hannah Lees and Lawrence P. Bachmann. Photography: Ray June. Music: Andre Previn. Art directors: Cedric Gibbons and Eddie Imazu. Editor: Irvine Warburton. CAST: Ann Sothern (Dell Faring), Zachery Scott (David I. Starrling), Gigi Perreau (Susan Starrling), Nancy Davis (Dr. Caroline Canford), Kristine Miller (Celia Starrling), John Mclntire (Pike Ludwell), Tom Helmore (Crane Weymouth), Helen Brown (Miss Burke), Barbara Billingsley (Olga), Marcia Van Dyke (Secretary), Anthony Sydes (Bobby), Jimmy Hunt (Boy). SYNOPSIS: After David Starrling and his wife Celia have an arguement, Celia is murdered. Because he was knocked unconscious before the killing, David believes he is guilty. His six-year-old daughter Susan was witness to the shooting, but has a psychic block about what happened. While David awaits electrocution, psychiatrist Caroline Canford tries to help Susan recall the murder. When Susan sees her aunt's

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shadow on the wall, her memory returns. Dell Faring shot her sister because Celia stole Dell's fiance. David is freed and Dell is arrested. REVIEWS: New York Times, 5.19.50: "...Ann Sothern, who turns in a polished portrayal, seems out of character as the worried villainess of the piece." Library Journal, 6.1.50: "Ann Sothern's role suggests that the picture might have been called Maisie Was a Murderess, though she never overplays." See also B-378 F-59 Nancy Goes to Rio Technicolor

(MGM, 1950)

99 minutes

Producer: Joe Pastarnak. Director: Robert Z. Leonard. Screenplay: Sidney Sheldon. Based on a story by Jane Hall, Frederick Kohner, and Ralph Block. Photography: Ray June. Songs: Earl Brent, Fred Spielman, Jack Norworth, Nora Bayes, Ray Gilbert, Charles Pasquale, Maria Grever, Giacomo Puccini, and Georgie Stoll. Musical director: Georgie Stoll. Art directors: Cedric Gibbons and Jack Martin Smith. Editor: Adrienne Fazan. Costumes: Helen Rose. CAST: Jane Powell (Nancy Barklay), Ann Sothern (Frances Elliott), Barry Sullivan (Paul Berten), Carmen Miranda (Marina Rodriguez), Louis Calhern (Gregory Elliott), Scotty Beckett (Scotty Sheldon), Fortunio Bonanova (Ricardo Domingos), Glenn Anders (Arthur Barrett), Nella Walker (Mrs. Harrison), Hans Conried (Alfredo), Frank Fontaine (Masher), Leon Belasco (Professor Gama), Leonid Kinskey (Ivan Putroff), Danny Scholl (Charles), Ransom Sherman (Dr. Ballard), Sig Arno (Captain of waiters), Pierre Watkin (Kenneth), Forbes Murray, Bess Flowers (Party guests). SYNOPSIS: Frances Elliott goes to Rio to study for a part in a new play. After promising the role to Frances, the playwright has second thoughts about her age. When he sees Frances's daughter, Nancy, an aspiring actress, he offers her the role. Nancy heads for Rio so her mother can coach her. On the boat she meets Paul Berten, an attractive coffee magnate who hears Nancy rehearsing and mistakenly thinks she's pregnant. Nancy misintreprets Paul's kindness for a proposal and turns him down. When Nancy arrives in Rio and sees Frances rehearsing for her role, Nancy nobly gives up the play. As consolation, she decides to accept Paul's proposal. After Paul learns that Nancy is not expecting, he falls in love with Frances. Afraid of hurting her daughter, Frances turns down Paul's proposal. When

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Frances realizes that Nancy's real love is acting, she gives her daughter the role, and Frances marries Paul. REVIEWS: Variety, 2.1.50: "...Ann Sothern and Carmen Miranda contribute the other soothing vocal moments...Two femme stars [Powell and Sothern] make their characters easy to take..." New York Times, 4.7.50: "Those songs, nicely sung by Miss Powell and Ann Sothern, who plays her swank mama, include a couple of sweet oldies and a bright new one, 'Time and Time Again.'" See also D-15, D-16, B-305 NOTES: Ann Sothern sang "Time and Time Again," "Shine On, Harvest Moon," and "Magic Is the Moonlight." Nancy Goes to Rio was Ann Sothern's final film for MGM. According to the May, 1950 issue of Good Housekeeping, MGM planned a Nanci Goes to series; it never developed. Nancy Goes to Rio was a remake of It's a Date, a 1940 musical starring Deanna Durbin and Kay Francis. F-60 The Blue Gardenia

(Warner Bros., 1953)

90 minutes

Producer: Alex Gottlieb. Director: Fritz Lang. Screenplay: Charles Hoffman. Based on the short story "Gardenia" by Vera Caspary. Photography: Nicholas Mururaca. Music: Raoul Kraushaar. Song: Bob Russell and Lester Lee. Arrangement: Nelson Riddle. Art director: Daniel Hall. Editor: Edward Mann. CAST: Anne Baxter (Norah Larkin), Richard Conte (Casey Mayo), Ann Sothern (Crystal Carpenter), Raymond Burr (Harry Prebble), Jeff Donnell (Sally Ellis), Richard Erdman (Al), George Reeves (Police Captain Haynes), Ruth Storey (Rose), Ray Walker (Homer), Nat "King" Cole (Himself). SYNOPSIS: After receiving a "Dear Jane" letter from her fiance in Korea, Norah Larkin accepts a blind date with Harry Prebble. Harry plies her with drinks and takes her back to his apartment. When he tries to seduce her, Norah knocks him unconscious with a poker and flees. Through a hangover the next morning, Norah reads that Harry was beaten to death. She can't remember killing him, but believes she is guilty. In an effort to solve the murder, newspaper columnist Casey Mayo writes a series of open letters to the killer. Norah meets Casey and pretends her friend killed Harry. Casey sees through her story. He falls in love with her and convinces her to go to the police. Meanwhile Casey follows another lead, discovering Rose, a record store clerk, was also at Harry's apartment that night. After a

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botched suicide attempt, Rose confesses that she killed Harry. He had refused to marry her, despite the fact that she was pregnant, so she clubbed him to death. With the real killer arrested, Norah and Casey begin a romance. REVIEWS: Variety, 3.18.53: "Formula development has an occassional bright spot, mostly because Ann Sothern breathes some life into a stock character and quips." Movie Play, 5.53: "With Ann Sothern returning to the screen after too long an absence in the part of a wisecracking telephone operator, and Richard Conte contributing a strong acting job as a newspaper columnist who follows up a murder and falls in love with the chief suspect, the picture will interest all types of audiences." See also B-89 NOTES: The Blue Gardenia marked Ann Sothern's return to films after a three-year absence. Nat "King" Cole sang the title song. Ironically, Ann's sister, Bonnie Lake, recorded with Cole's group, King Cole's Swingsters, in 1939. F-61 The Best Man

(United Artists, 1964)

102 minutes

Producers: Stuart Millar and Lawrence Turman. Director: Franklin Schaffner. Screenplay: Gore Vidal. Based on the play by Gore Vidal. Photography: Haskell Wexler. Music: Mort Lindsey. Costumes: Dorothy Jeakins. CAST: Henry Fonda (William Russell), Cliff Robertson (Joe Cantwell), Margaret Leighton (Alice Russell), Shelley Berman (Sheldon Bascomb), Lee Tracy (Art Hockstader), Ann Sothern (Mrs. Gamadge), Gene Raymond (Don Cantwell), Kevin McCarthy (Dick Jensen), Mahalia Jackson (Herself), Howard K. Smith (Himself), John Henry Faulk (T.T. Claypoole), Richard Arlen (Oscar Anderson), Penny Singleton (Mrs. Claypoole), George Kirgo (Speechwriter), George Furth (Tom), Anne Newman (Janet), Mary Lawrence (Mrs. Merwin), H.E. West (Senator Lazarus), Michael MacDonald (Zealot), William R. Eberson (Governor Merwin), Natalie Masters (Mrs. Anderson), Blossom Rock (Cleaning woman), Bill Stout (Himself), Tyler McVey (Chairman), Sherwood Keith (Doctor). SYNOPSIS: William Russell and Joe Cantwell are two aspiring Presidential candidates vying for their party's nomination. Russell is a man of high political ideals who asks his wife to stick by him through the election although he has been a philanderer. Cantwell is an opportunist who will stoop to anything to get the nomination. He threatens to reveal

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Russell's long-ago nervous breakdown to win support from the delegates and former President Art Hockstader. When Russell is faced with the opportunity to reveal similar evidence of Cantwell's past homosexual relationship, he cannot resort to those tactics. After Hockstader dies, Russell resigns and throws his support behind a third candidate, virtually defeating Cantwell. REVIEWS: New York Times, 4.7.64: "...Ann Sothern as a brassy and brutal manipulator of the 'women's vote'...stand[s] out in a cast that is notable for its authenticity." Films in Review, 5.64: "Ann Sothern is a pleasure to watch in her playing of a self-appointed expert on 'the women's vote'..." See also B-85 F-62 Lady in a Cage

(Paramount, 1964)

94 minutes

Producer: Luther Davis. Director: Walter Grauman. Screenplay: Luther Davis. Photography: Lee Garmes. Music: Paul Glass. Musical director: Paul Glass. Art director: Hal Pereira. Editor: Leon Barsha. Set: Joseph Kish. Special effects: Paul K. Lerpac. Makeup: Wally Westmore and Gene Hibbs. CAST: Olivia de Havilland (Mrs. Hilyard), Ann Sothern (Sade), Jeff Corey (The Wino), James Caan (Randall), Jennifer Billingley (Elaine), Rafael Campos (Essie), William Swan (Malcolm Hilyard), Charles Seel (Junkyard proprietor), Scatman Crothers (Proprietor's assistant). SYNOPSIS: Mrs. Hilyard is an over-protective mother who is recovering from a broken hip. Her son, Malcolm, goes on vacation for the Fourth of July weekend, leaving her a note that he will commit suicide if she does not give him some freedom. Mrs. Hilyard gets stuck between floors in the cage-like elevator of her townhouse when the power goes out. She hits the alarm, but the only person who hears it is a passing drunk. He breaks in and robs her. Later the wino returns with Sade, an aging prostitute, in order to get more riches. Three sadistic teens follow them and soon take over the house. Led by Randall, they kill the wino and lock Sade in the wine cellar. Mrs. Hilyard tries to bribe the trio into letting her out of the elevator. They continue to torment her, reading Malcolm's letter aloud. Shocked by the revelation, Mrs. Hilyard finally frees herself and blinds Randall with two metal strips from the elevator. The other two captors flee while Randall and Mrs. Hilyard struggle. She crawls outside to get help. In an attempt to stop her, Randall ends up in the street and is killed by a passing motorist.

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REVIEWS: Newsweek, 6.22.64: "But it is Ann Sothern, as the prostitute, who steals the show - or would have if she weren't locked up in a closet about two-thirds of the way through, where she may be still, at this very minute, waiting for producer Luther Davis to start his sequel, Lady in a Closet." Hollywood Citizen-News, 8.12.64: "...Miss de Havilland...is sure to merit Oscar consideration...Ditto Ann Sothern who elicits audience sympathy even though she plays the part of a conscienceless slut of easy virtue and no morals...And that's not easy to do!" See also B-253, B-461 NOTES: Originally, Sade was strangled by Randall in Lady in a Cage, but the scene was cut from the finished film, leaving her in the wine cellar. The release was delayed in England because the censors deemed the film too violent. Jeff Corey recalled accompanying Ann Sothern on a trip to Skid Row to resesarch their characters in Ann's chauffeurdriven Rolls Royce. Gene Hibbs did the makeup on The Ann Sothern Show. F-63 Sylvia

(Paramount, 1965)

115 minutes

Producer: Martin H. Poll. Director: Gordon Douglas. Screenplay: Sydney Boehm. Based on the novel by E.V. Cunningham. Photography: Joseph Ruttenberg. Music: David Raksin. Songs: Ira Gershwin, Harold Arlen, Paul Francis Webster, and David Raksin. Art directors: Hal Pereira and Roland Anderson. Editor: Frank Bracht. Set: Sam Comer and Arthur Krams. Costumes: Edith Head. Special effects: Paul K. Lerpae. Makeup: Wally Westmore. CAST: Carroll Baker (Sylvia West), George Maharis (Alan Macklin), Joanne Dru (Jane Phillips), Peter Lawford (Frederick Summers), Viveca Lindfors (Irma Olanski), Edmond O'Brien (Oscar Stewart), Aldo Ray (Jonas Karoki), Ann Sothern (Grace Argona), Lloyd Bochner (Bruce Stamford III), Paul Gilbert (Lola Diamond), Nancy Kovack (Big Shirley), Paul Wexler (Peter Memel), Jay Novello (Father Gonzales), Connie Gilchrist (Molly Baxter), Alan Carney (Gus), Shirley O'Hara (Mrs. Karoki), Anthony Caruso (Muscles), Gene Lyons (Gavin Cullen), Val Avery (Pudgey), Manuel Padilla (Pancho), Majel Barrett (Anne), Bob Random. SYNOPSIS: Private investigator Alan Macklin is hired by Frederick Summers to look into the shady past of Frederick's fiancee, Sylvia West. Alan begins his search with a book of Sylvia's poems; the imagery leads him to her hometown.

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There he learns that Sylvia was raped by her stepfather when she was fourteen. After that, she turned to prostitution. Alan learns that she secured her finances by investing money she earned blackmailing a sadistic, wealthy client. As Alan pieces together Sylvia's difficult life, he meets and falls in love with her. He tells Frederick that he couldn't find any information about Sylvia's past. Deciding she can't marry Frederick, Sylvia tell him the truth and unites with Al an. REVIEWS: Variety, 2.3.65: "Ann Sothern as a blowsy cashier in a penny arcade where Sylvia once worked is a definite standout." New York Times, 2.11.65: "...Ann Sothern, Paul Gilbert, Peter Lawford, Joanne Dru and Edmond O'Brien ham it up something awful in assorted tabloid character roles." See also B-62, B-143, B-380 F-64 Chubasco (Warner Bros.-Seven Arts, 1968) 99 minutes Technicolor Producer: William Conrad. Associate producer: James Lydon. Director: Allen H. Miner. Assistant director: Fred Gammon. Screenplay: Allen H. Miner. Photography: Louis Jennings and Paul Ivano. Music: William Lava. Song: William Conrad and Gordon Jenkins. Art director: Howard Hollander. Editor: John W. Holmes. Set: William L. Kruehl. Costumes: William Smith. CAST: Richard Egan (Sebastian), Christopher Jones (Chubasco), Susan Strasberg (Bunny), Ann Sothern (Angela), Simon Oakland (Laurindo), Audrey Totter (Theresa), Preston Foster (Nick), Peter Whitney (Matt), Edward Binns (Judge North), Joe De Santis (Benito), Norman Alden (Frenchy), Stuart Moss (Les), Ron Rich (Juno), Milton Frome (Police Sergeant), Toni Gerri (Aunt Mary). SYNOPSIS: When a gang of motorcyclists disrupt a San Diego beach party, Chubasco and his girl friend, Bunny, are arrested. Bunny's father, Sebastian, bails her out and forbids her to see Chubasco. The sympathetic judge finds Chubasco a job on a tuna boat in lieu of going to jail. Despite a rebellious attitude, Chubasco becomes a successful fisherman. He befriends an elderly skipper, Benito, who helps Chubasco elope with Bunny. During the reception at the brothel of Benito's friend, Angela, Benito dies of a heart attack, leaving Chubasco unemployed. He finds a job on another boat, unknowingly going to work for Bunny's father. Sebastian is furious when he learns of the

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elopement. He attacks Chubasco and gets knocked overboard during the fight. Although Chubasco saves his father-in-law's life, Sebastian vows to put him ashore at the next stop. Before they reach shore, Chubasco falls overboard and Sebastian saves his life. United by the incident, Sebastian accepts Chubasco and his daughter's marriage. F-65 The Killing Kind color

(Media Trend, 1973)

95 minutes

Executive producer: Leon Mirell. Associate producer: Sal Grasso. Producer: George Edwards. Director: Curtis Harrington. Screenplay: Lony Crechales and George Edwards. Based on a story by Lony Crechales. Photography: Mario Losi. Music: Andrew Belling. CAST: Ann Sothern (Thelma Lambert), John Savage (Terry Lambert), Ruth Roman (Rhea), Luana Anders (Librarian), Cindy Williams (Roomer), Sue Bernard (Raped girl), Peter Brocco (Neighbor), Marjorie Eaton, Helen Winston. SYNOPSIS: Terry Lambert returns home after serving two years in prison for his participation in a gang rape. Ironically, Terry is impotent and served time needlessly. Bent on revenge, Terry kills his lawyer and the girl who accused him. Terry's over-protective mother, Thelma, is suspicious of his behavior. When Terry kills a girl who boards with his mother, Thelma helps him dispose of the body. Ever intent on protecting her son, Thelma poisons him so he will not have to return to jail. REVIEWS: Los Angeles Times, 3.20.73: "In a truly triumphant return to the screen after a seven-year absence, Ann Sothern plays a frowzy, plump, once pretty and promiscuous woman who always has clung to her illegitimate son (John Savage) for strength and security, blissfully unaware of how destructive her possessiveness and jealousy have been to him... Harrington has gotten virtually perfect performances all around. Miss Sothern's mother is alternately shrewd and stupid, vexing and pathetic, valiant and lazy, whiling away her time in front of her TV, gobbling popcorn and stroking her many cats." Variety, 6.13.73: "Miss Sothern has the right blowsy air but also the underlying girlishness, raw charm and looks that made her a goodtime girl in her youth." See also B-131, B-389, B-424 NOTES: According to film historian Colin Briggs, The Killing Kind was originally titled Are You a Good Boy?. Ann Sothern wrote a song for the opening credits, but when

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the title changed, the song was cut. Ann told Modern People that she took the role because it was a great character part and because she wanted to be involved in an independent production (B-20). F-66 Golden Needles

(Sequoia, 1974)

93 minutes

color

Producers: Fred Weintraub and Paul Heller. Director: Robert Clouse. Screenplay: S. Lee Upgostin and Sylvia Schneble. Photography: Gilbert Hubbs (Movielab Color). Music: Lalo Schrifrin. Editor: Michael Kahn. CAST: Joe Don Baker (Dan), Elizabeth Ashley (Felicity), Jim Kelly (Jeff), Burgess Meredith (Winters), Ann Sothern (Finzie), Roy Chiao (Lin Toa), Frances Fong (Su Lin), Tony Lee (Kwan), Alice Fong (Lotus), Clarence Barnes (Claude), Pat Johnson (Winters's man), Edgar Justice (Bobby). SYNOPSIS: Wealthy Mr. Winters offers Felicity $300,000 to find a gold statuette called the Golden Needles of Ecstasy. According to legend, when the statue's seven needles are correctly inserted in an adult male by an acupuncturist, he will become a sexual dynamo. If the needles are applied incorrectly, it brings instant death. Felicity hires Dan to help her steal the statue when her plans go awry in Hong Kong. Amidst the chases for the statue, Dan and Felicity fall in love. They decide the Chinese government is the rightful owner of the statue and put their love ahead of greed. REVIEWS: Variety, 7.17.74: "Ann Sothern apears as proprietor of a disreputable Hong Kong bar, scarcely looking herself..." Los Angeles Times, 7.31.74: "...Ann Sothern's tough but loveable bar owner is a cutesy caricature." F-67 Crazy Mama

(New World, 1975)

82 minutes

color

Producer: Julie Corman. Director: Jonathan Demme. Screenplay: Robert Thorn. Based on a story by Francis Doel. Photography: Bruce Logan (Metrocolor). Art director: Peter Jamison. Editors: Allan Holzman and Lewis Teague. Set: Linda Spheeris. Costumes: Jac McAnelly. Stunts: Alan Gibbs. CAST: Cloris Leachman (Melba Stokes), Stuart Whitman (Jim Bob), Ann Sothern (Sheba Stokes), Jim Backus (Albertson), Donny Most (Shawn), Linda Purl (Cheryl), Bryan Englund (Snake), Merle Earle (Bertha), Sally Kirkland (Ella Mae), Clint Kimbrough (Daniel), Dick Miller (Wilbur Janeway), Carmen Argenziano (Supermarket

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manager), Harry Northup (FBI m a n ) , Ralph James (Sheriff 1932), Dinah Englund (Melba 1932), Robert Reece (Mover), Mickey Fox (Mrs. Morgan), John Aprea (Marvin), Cynthia Songey (Lucinda), Hal Marshall (Bartender), Beach Dickerson (Desk clerk), Barbara Ann Walters (Lady teller), Bill McLean (Bank manager), William Luckey (Newsman), Warren Miller (Justice of the peace), Saul Krugman (Colonel Snodgrass), Vince Barnett (Homer), Tisha Sterling (Sheba 1932). SYNOPSIS: It is 1932 and Sheba Stokes's husband cannot pay the mortgage on his Jerusalem, Arkansas farm. He refuses to leave and the police shoot him. Twenty-five years later, Sheba and her daughter, Melba, are evicted from their California beauty parlor. With no place to go, they decide to return to Arkansas and reclaim their land. Fed up with authority, they embark on a crime spree with Melba's pregnant daughter, Cheryl, and her boy friend in tow. En route to Arkansas, the women pick up a young motorcyclist and an old lady who has run away from her nursing home. Melba falls in love with a married sheriff and they hatch a phony kidnap scam to get money from his wealthy wife. The ransom drop turns out to be a trap; the sheriff and the old lady are killed in the chaos. Sheba's family arrives in Arkansas, finding a country club named after her husband's killer on their land. They disrupt a party and Sheba gets shot. The rest of the extended family escape and open a diner. REVIEWS: Variety, 7.16.75: "Arkansons and Texans will laugh at the cornpone southern (and especially Sothern's) dialog [sic], ably helped by dialog [sic] coach Robert Easton." Washington Post, 8.4.75: "Even in distressing physical shape, Sothern comes closer to being the star of this expendable show. Or maybe it's just that one doesn't hold it against her. She may really need the work, in one way or another. It's impossible to believe that Leachman does." NOTE: Dinah Englund and Tisha Sterling played their mothers's characters in the 1932 flashback. Cloris Leachman's son, Bryan Englund, played the motorcyclist. F-68 The Manitou Color

(Avco Embassy, 1978)

104 minutes

Producer: William Girdler. Director: William Girdler. Screenplay: William Girdler, Jon Cedar, and Tom Pope. Based on the novel by Graham Masterson. Photography: Michel Hugo (Panavision, CFI Color). Music: Lalo Schifrin. Editor: Bub Asman. Set: Cheryal Kearney. Costumes: Michael Faeth and Agnes Lyon.

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Ann Sothern CAST: Tony Curtis (Harry Erskine), Michael Ansara (Singing Rock), Susan Strasberg (Karen Tandy), Stella Stevens (Amelia Crusoe), Joe Cedar (Dr. Jack Hughes), Ann Sothern (Mrs. Karmann), Burgess Meredith (Dr. Ernest Snow), Paul Mantee (Dr. Robert McEvoy), Jeanette Nolan (Mrs. Winconis), Lurene Tuttle (Mrs. Hertz), Ann Mante (Floor nurse), Hugh Corcoran (MacArthur), Tenaya (Singing Rock's wife), Carole Hemingway (Prostitute), Beverly Kushida (Second floor nurse), Jan Heininger (Wolf), Michael Laren (Michael), Joe Gieb (Misquamacas).

SYNOPSIS: After Karen Tandy complains of back problems, her doctor discovers a 400-year-old medicine man growing on her spine. Karen turns to her former lover, Harry Erskine, a phony spiritualist, who arranges a seance. When Harry and the doctors cannot help, Karen enlists the aid of Singing Rock, a modern-day medicine man. Singing Rock exorcises the evil spirit and eliminates Karen's back problem. REVIEW: Variety, 3.1.78: "This bout between good and Satan includes some scares, camp and better than average credits, including a Lalo Schifrin score." NOTE: Ann Sothern appeared in a seance scene as one of Harry's gullible customers. F-69 The Little Dragons Corporation, 1980)

(Eastwind/Aurora Film Color

Producers: Hannah Hempstead and Curtis Hanson. Director: Curtis Hanson. Screenplay: Harvey Applebaum, Louis G. Attlee, Rudolph Borchert, and Alan Ormsby. Photography: Stephen Katz. Music: Ken Lauber. Art director: Spencer Quinn. CAST: Charles Lane (J.J.), Ann Sothern (Angel), Chris Petersen (Zack), Pat Petersen (Woody), Sally Boyden (Carol Forbinger), Rick Lenz (Dick Forbinger), Sharon Weber (Ruth Forbinger), Joe Spinel 1 (Yancey), John Chandler (Carl), Clifford A. Pellow (Sheriff), Stephen Young (Lunsford), Pat Johnson (Karate instructor), Mast Bong Soon Han (The master), Donnie Williams (Motorcycle gang leader), Tony Bill (Niles), Brad Gorman (Deputy). SYNOPSIS: While camping with their grandfather, Zack and Woody meet Carol Forbinger, a wealthy girl vacationing on the next campsite. When Carol is kidnapped, Zack and Woody help the police find the criminals. The kidnappers are Carl and Yancey, two illiterate yokels who think they can get a large ransom. Led by their wiley mother, Angel, they take Carol to their shack. Zack and Woody enlist the aid of their karate class and a motorcycle gang to capture the

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criminals. The brothers get promoted in their karate class for their bravery. REVIEW: Variety, 7.23.80: "A rather lackadaisical, if amiable, suspenser clearly intended a palatable antidote to more violent action fare, The Little Dragons might be more at home on the tube than on theatre screens...a stronger script and deeper characterizations could have broadened its audience." F-70 The Whales of August (Alive/Nelson Entertainment, 1987) Color and black and white Executive producer: Shep Gordon. Producers: Carolyn Pfeiffer and Mike Kaplan. Director: Lindsay Anderson. Screenplay: David Berry. Based on the play by David Berry. Photography: Mike Fash. Music: Alan Price. Art directors: K.C. Fox and Bob Fox. Editor: Nicolas Gaster. Production design: Jocelyn Herbert. Set: Susie Hublitz. Costumes: Rudy Dillon and Julie Weiss. Sound: Donald Summer. CAST: Bette Davis (Libby Strong), Lillian Gish (Sarah Webber), Vincent Price (Mr. Maranov), Ann Sothern (Tisha Doughty), Harry Carey, Jr. (Joshua Brackett), Frank Grimes (Mr. Beckwith), Frank Pitkin (Old Randall), Mike Bush (Young Randall), Margaret Ladd (Young Libby), Tisha Sterling (Young Tisha), Mary Steenburgen (Young Sarah). SYNOPSIS: Elderly sisters Sarah Webber and Libby Strong are summering in Maine as they have for decades. Widowed during World War I, Sarah has never stopped loving her husband or enjoying life. Libby is blind and bitter; she delights in ordering Sarah and everyone else. Sarah wants to install a picture window so she can watch for the whales's annual arrival, but Libby thinks they are too old for that kind of investment. Sarah puts up with Libby's rudeness to their friend, Tisha, and to Mr. Maranov, a visiting White Russian who is looking for a new home with the sisters. Tisha almost convinces Sarah to sell the cottage and send Libby to live with her daughter. Sarah reconsiders and lets Libby stay. As a compromise, Libby agrees to have a picture window installed. REVIEWS: Maine Times [Topsham], 11.27.87: "Vincent Price and Ann Sothern in supporting roles amount to a voyeur's bonus, but not much else....Sothern*s Tisha, an ay-uh Down Easter...is an embarrassment. Even were she better, the part isn't worth leaving retirement for." Dallas Morning News, 2.22.88:

"Ann Sothern, the film's

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lone Oscar nominee, brings superb feistiness and merriment to the movie as Gish's longtime friend, the sort of perky, wise neighbor anyone would wish to have. Seeing Sothern on screen again is like welcoming back a long-missed friend, which is precisely the impact the character is supposed to have. See also B-93, B-107, B-144, B-176, B-181, B-204, B-235, B-238, B-243, B-285, B-289, B-292, B-328, B-362, B-377, B-388, B-440, B-454, B-456, B-464 NOTES: Ann Sothern was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1988. She lost to Olympia Dukakis, star of Moonstruck. Tisha Sterling, Ann's daughter, played her mother's character as a young girl in the black and white prologue of The Whales of August.

Plays and Personal Appearances This chapter lists credits for all plays and personal appearances made as Harriette Lake and Ann Sothern. Each entry includes credits, cast, cities played, and synopsis. When available, theatre names, dates, and reviews are given. Additional reviews found in the bibliography are noted. PLAYS AND PERSONAL APPEARANCES AS HARRIETTE LAKE P-1

Smiles Pre-Broadway tryout. Colonial Theatre).

Boston (beginning 10.28.30,

Producer: Florenz Ziegfeld. Director: William Anthony McGuire. Choreography: Sammy Lee. Libretto: William Anthony McGuire. Music: Vincent Youmans. Lyrics: Clifford Grey and Harold Adamson. Musical director: Paul Lannin. Costumes: John Harkrider. Scenery: Joseph Urban. CAST: Tom Howard (Holy Joe), Edward Raquello (Pierre), Adrian Rosley (Tony), Paul Gregory (Dick), Lorraine Jaillet (Madelon), Gil White (First sailor), Frank Coletti (Slim), Pat Mann (Izzy Cohen), Arline Aber (Arline), Charline Aber (Charline), Clyde Hager (A street faker), Harry Tighe (Officer Dennis O'Brien), Harriette Lake (Glory), Bernard Jukes (Doughface), Fred Astaire (Bob Hastings), Larry Adler (Larry), Joe Lyons (Macklin), Mary Collins (Mother Jones), Marilyn Miller (Smiles), Adele Astaire (Dot Hastings), Jean Ackerman (Lillian), Eddie Foy, Jr. (Gilbert Stone), C. Sager (San Kee), G. Czaia (Chang Lang Foo), Ruth Morgan (Miss Parker), Hilda Moreno (Kiki), Ruth Patterson (Betty), Georgia Caine (Mrs. Hastings), Clare Dodd (Clara), Kathryn Hereford (Pat), Virginia Bruce, Betty Dumbris, Marian Dodge, Caja Eric, Georgia Ellis, Marcel Edwards,

100

Ann Sothern Dorothy Flood, Maurine Holmes, Meredith Howard, Neve Lynn, Marjorie LaVoe, Rose Mariella, Christine Maple, Peggy Peacock, Blanche Satchel, Helen Walsh, Gertrude Dahl (Ensemble).

SYNOPSIS: Four doughboys find a ten-year-old orphan in France after World War I. They name her Smiles and take her back to America. Smiles grows up to be a Salvation Army worker. When she meets Bob and Dot Hastings, a society brother and sister, Smiles quits her job to become a musical star. She soon learns that being the darling of society is not for her. Smiles quits to marry her favorite adopted father, Dick. REVIEWS: Boston Post, 10.29.30: "Harriette Lake, who sings 'Blue Bowery' and 'More Than Ever,' two better than average musical compositions, is a welcome newcomer to the Ziegfeld stage gallery." Boston Daily Globe, 10.2 9.30: "...among the many who deserve more praise than can now be given them were Georgia Caine, Harriette Lake and Harry Tighe." Boston Daily Record, 10.30.30: "It is a good enough score, with here and there a bit of blues, sung by the quite decorative Harriette Lake." NOTES: Harriette Lake sang "Blue Bowery," "More Than Ever," and "Dance Wedding." P-2

America's Sweetheart Broadway production. Cities played: Pittsburgh (one week beginning 1.19.31, Nixon Theatre), New York (135 performances beginning 2.10.31, Broadhurst Theatre). Producers: Laurence Schwab and Frank Mandel. Directors: Bobby Connolly and Monty Woolley. Libretto: Herbert Fields. Music: Richard Rodgers. Lyrics: Lorenz Hart. Musical director: Alfred Goodman. Set: Donald Oenslager. Costumes: Charles LeMaire. CAST: John Sheehan (S.A. Dolan), Gus Shy (Larry Pitkin), Inez Courtney (Madge Farrell), Jack Whiting (Michael Perry), Harriette Lake (Geraldine March), Jeanne Aubert (Denise Torel), Vera Marsh (Paula), Dorothy Dare (Dorith), Sue Moore (Lottie), Virginia Bruce (Miss Mulligan), Alice Burrage (Telephone Operator), Francetta Malloy (Dolores), Terry Carroll (Stenographer), Jay Ford (Mr. Corrigan), Fred Shawhan (Mr. Clark), Herbert Hall (Mr. Goulding), Bud Clark

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(Mr. Butler), Charles Fowler (Mr. Carey), Hilda Forman (Georgia), Louise Forman (Georgiana), Maxine Forman (Georgette), Al Downing (Book agent), Raoul De Tisne (Policeman). Mildred Webb, Jean Fursa, Flo Spink, Dorothy Day, Carola Taylor, Dorothy Van Hest, Patti Hastings, Ann Hardman, Wilma Novak, Billie Sallier, Jerry Downes, Sherry Pelham, Margaret Carolan, Frances Markey, Anita Pam, Evelyn Monte, Pamela Sweeney, Vida Manuel, Lorraine Webb, Virginia Webb, Adele Story, Rosalie Trego, Katy Stewart, Lucille Osborne, Sara Jane, Pam Bryant (Girls), Jack Donahue, Frank Hulser, Jack Hubert, Don Lannon, William Cooper, Hy Mohon, Jack Ross, Gene Sherrin, Jack Ray, Al Bloom, Robert Penny, William Meader (Boys). SYNOPSIS: Geraldine March becomes a silent film star while her boy friend, Michael Perry, struggles as an extra. The tables are turned when sound comes in and Michael becomes a screen heartthrob. All ends well when Michael proposes on the opening night of his big movie. REVIEWS: Variety, 2.18.31: "Harriette Lake, the ingenue, doing her first New York show, is a mild-mannered and pleasing morsel if void of any particular animation. That this will develop is plausible." Bi1lboard, 2.21.31: "...the most important thing [America's Sweetheart] does is to introduce one newcomer who is sure to be seen and heard many times in the future. That charming person is Harriette Lake... .Harriette Lake is simply grand." See also B-14, B-15, B-16, B-78 NOTES: Harriette Lake made her Broadway debut in America's Sweetheart. She sang "We'll Be the Same" and "I've Got Five Dollars." P-3

Everybody's Wei come Broadway production. Cities played: Philidelphia (pre-Broadway try-out, Forrest Theatre), New York (139 performances beginning 10.13.31, Shubert Theatre). Producers: Messrs. Shubert. Director: William Mollison. Choreographers: William Holbrook and Albertine Rasch. Libretto: Lambert Carroll. Based on the play Up Pops the Devil by Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett. Songs: Sammy Fain, Irving Kahal, Mack Gordon, Harry Revel, and Herman Hupfeld. Musical director: Tom Jones. Set: Watson Barratt. Costumes: Ernest Schrapps and Alison McLennan Hunter.

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Ann Sothern CAST: Andrew Carr (Buddy Hill), Jack Sheehan ("Biny" Hatfield), Frances Williams (Polly Bascom), Harriette Lake (Ann Cathway), Roy Roberts (Gilbert Morrell), Oscar Shaw (Steve Merrick), Thomas Harty (Drunk), Cecil Lean (George Kent), Jean Newcombe (Mrs. George Kent), Ann Pennington (Louella May Carroll), Spencer Barnes (Laundryman), Jack Ross (Kelly), Charles Garland (Mr. Platt), Lucille Osborne (Mrs. Platt), Bernice Lee (Grace), Phoebe Wallace (Betty), Elsie Duffy (Jane), Edna Hedin (Helen), Mary Brooks (Dora), Naida Pahl (Trixie), Louise Hansen (Premier danseuse), Andrew and Louise Carr (Specialty dancers), Louise Hansen, Beatrice Lauri, Ruth Cook, Una Ralph, Tesha Pearson (Albertina Rasch girls), Edna Hedin, Elsie Duffy, Evan Ritter, Mary Brooks, Helen Hawkins, Naida Pahl, Dorothy Koster, Sally Lynne, Virginia Davis, Gladys Carter, Etna Ross (Ladies of the ensemble), Charles Garland, Don Gordon, Jack Barratt, Hazzard Newberry, Carl Duart, Charles McClelland, Edwin Murray, Clark Leston, Jack Moore, Jack Moss (Gentlemen of the ensemble), Dorsey Brothers Orchestra.

SYNOPSIS: In order to help her husband, Steve, complete a murder story, Ann Cathway resumes her stage career at Proxy's. Steve rebels and the couple separates. When he learns that Ann is pregnant, they reunite. REVIEWS: New York Times, 10.14.31: "...the red-headed Harriette Lake, substituting a certain amount of affection for the simplicity of Sally Bates's performance last season [in Up__ Pops the Devil is] the girl in question." Billboard, 10.24.31: "Harriette Lake, as Ann, was adequate in her lines, tho [sic] there is nothing to rave about in her singing ability; but then there is no denying the fact that she is one of the most beautiful ingenues hereabouts." See also B-153, B-154 NOTE: Harriette Lake sang "All Wrapped Up in You" and "Even as You and I." P-4

Of Thee I Sing National tour 1932-33. Cities played: Detroit (one week beginning 9.12.32), Chicago (11 weeks beginning 9.19.32, Grand Opera House), St. Louis, Kansas City, Los Angeles (Biltmore Theatre), San Francisco (beginning 3.13.33, Curran Theatre), New York (6.5.33-6.10.33, Imperial Theatre).

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CHICAGO PRODUCTION: Producer: Sam H. Harris. Director: George S. Kaufman. Choreographer: George Hale. Libretto: George S. Kaufman and Morrie Ryskind. Music: George Gershwin. Lyrics: Ira Gershwin. Musical director: Harry S. Levant. Set: Jo Mielziner. Costumes: Kiviette and Charles LeMaire. CAST: Abe Reynolds (Louis Lipman), William J. Pringle (Francis X. Gilhooley), Georgette Lampsi (Maid), Cecil Lean (Matthew Arnold Fulton), Francis Pierlot (Senator Robert E. Lyons), Paul Everton (Senator Carver Jones), Donald Meek (Alexander Throttlebottom), Oscar Shaw (John P. Wintergreen), Roberta Robinson (Diana Devereaux), Al Sexton (Sam Jenkins), Harriette Lake (Mary Turner), Audrey Christie (Miss Benson), Tommy Texis (Vladimir Vladovitch), Sargeant Reynolds (Yussef Yussevitch), John Cherry (Chief Justice), Jeannette Marion (Scrubwoman), Adrian Rosley (French ambassador), Tommy Thompson (Senate clerk), John Cherry (Guide), Ethel Maynard, Kay Adams, Jane Ray, Jerry Luger, Gaile Darling, Cornelia Chason, Mabel Potter, Lola DeLille, Patsy Schenck, Patsy Claire, Betty Bowen, Eileen Leahy, Jeannette Lea, Ethel Ortman, Lou Cody, Maude Carroll, Jeannette Marion, Peggy Mseeinger, Leslie Cornell, Etna Ross (Girls), Mortimer O'Brien, Emmett O'Brien, Harry Murray, Jack Voeth, Jack Barnes, Phil King, Paul Pierce, Harold Voeth, Frank Edmunds, Ward Arnold, George Del Rigo, Martin Sheppard, George Lamb, Tommy Thompson, Morris Tepper, Jay Hunter (Boys), Bob Roy, Rene Giannone, Bill Lyons, Frank Rash, Bill Carlin, Greg Vernon, Dow Garlock, Charles Panely (Bob Roy Band). SYNOPSIS: John Wintergreen runs for President on a ticket of love. His party-members think the best way to promote this issue is for bachelor Wintergreen to marry "Miss White House," a beauty contest winner. Instead, Wintergreen falls in love with his campaign secretary, Mary Turner. After the election, the scorned "Miss White House" brings impeachment proceedings on Wintergreen. All ends happily when the charges are dropped and Mary gives birth to twins. REVIEWS: San Francisco Chronicle, 3.12.33: "[Harriette Lake] is slim and blonde, a graceful dancer and an ardent singer. She says she doesn't know any more about politics than she did before entering the cast of Of Thee I Sing, and she wears her hair behind her ears in ever so many little curls which she sets in with her finger ten minutes before curtain time." San Francisco Chronicle, 3.14.33: "...Harriette Lake is an attractive Mary Turner....Of Thee I Sing is something

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to see.

Don't miss it."

NOTES: Harriette Lake sang "Of Thee I Sing," "Who Cares?," and "Who Could Ask for Anything More?." After the national tour of Of Thee I Sing, Harriette replaced Lois Moran in the Broadway company on June 5, 1933. Also in the cast were William Gaxton and Victor Moore. The show closed at the Imperial Theatre on June 10, 1933 due to an extensive heat wave . PLAYS AND PERSONAL APPEARANCES AS ANN SOTHERN P-5

Vaudeville appearance 1936 City played: Theatre).

Chicago (week of 10.16.36, Palace

CAST: Ann Sothern, Virginia Baker and Company, the Six Lucky Boys, Johnny Perkins, Salici Puppets. SONGS PERFORMED BY ANN SOTHERN: "Half of Me," "I Was Lucky," "I'm in Love All Over Again," "You're an Angel," "Rhythm of the Raindrops," "Let's Fall in Love," and "I'm Getting Sentimental Over You." REVIEW: BiiJJ^p^ard_, 10.24.36: "Ann Sothern came on to a generous hand....She sang her way into the hearts of the audience, making no references to her motion picture life, but chalking up a hit on singing merit alone." P-6

Vaudeville tour 1939 Cities played: Newark (1.39, Shubert Theatre), Baltimore (1.39, Hippodrome Theatre), New York (1.39, Loews State Theatre), Cleveland (1.39, Palace Theatre), Akron (2.39, Palace Theatre), Youngstown (2.39, Palace Theatre), Montreal (2.39, Loews Theatre), Hartford (2.39, State Theatre), Chicago (3.39, Chicago Theatre). CAST: Ann Sothern, Roger Pryor and His Orchestra, Lane Truesdale, Red Hodgeson (all dates); Nick Lucas, Condos Brothers, Marion Belett and English Brothers, Vox and Walters, Buddy Page (Newark); Helen Pammer, Red Hodgson, Ray Wilbert, Barr and Estes (Baltimore); Sid Marion, Madeline Killen, Big-Time Grip, the Juvelys (New York); Val Setz, Barr and Estes, Eleanor Whitney (Cleveland); Marion Belief and English Brothers, Patricia King (Akron); Ames and Arno, Patricia King (Montreal); Sunny Rice, John Boles, Emmett Oldrield and Eddie Ware, Sam Kaplan's Orchestra (Hartford).

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SONGS PERFORMED BY ANN SOTHERN: "My Cigarette," "With a Song in My Heart," and "Deep in a Dream." REVIEWS: Variety, 1.25.39: "Miss Sothern sings a couple of ballads in disarming style, looks lovely and handles herself with easy grace. She takes over and starts directing the orchestra for a comedy touch at the curtain." Bill hoard, 2.11.39: "Show builds up a custom-made entrance for Miss Sothern, who further ingratiates herself in amiable family banter with her husband. Her clear soprano and microphone poise in three ballads enhances her even more of a treat to the eyes on the stage than on the screen. She sings with a sweet and pleasing voice, her three offerings being well selected." See also B-l, B-207, B-244, B-261, B-416 P-7

Faithful 1y Yours Broadway production. Cities played: New Haven (9.26.51-9.29.51, Shubert Theatre), Philidelphia (one week beginning 10.1.51, Forrest Theatre), New York (68 performances beginning 10.18.51, Coronet Theatre). Producer: Richard W. Krakeur. Director: Richard Whorf. Play: L. Bush-Fekete and Mary Helen Fay. Based on the play by Jean Bernard-Luc. Set: Paul Morrison. CAST: Ann Sothern (Vivian Harding), Robert Cummings (Thomas 0. Harding), Victor Wood (Stokes), Marguerite Gould (Susan), Philip Bourneuf (Dr. Peter Wilson), Eileen Erksine (Betty), Doreen Lang (Miss Parker), Florence Sundstrom (Gracie), Beverly Whitney (Joyce), Barbara Barondess MacLean (Vera).

SYNOPSIS: When a psychiatrist convinces Vivian Harding that fidelity is abnormal, she tries to persuade her husband to be unfaithful . REVIEWS: New York World-Telegram, 10.19.51: "As a helpless devotee of Miss Sothern in pictures, I can only applaud the attentiveness and quiet gaiety with which she performs on the stage. She never overvalues her material. If it shocks her to realize how pointless it all is, she graciously gives no sign." New York Journal American, 10.19.51: "[Ann Sothern] is pretty enough in some West Coast finery and carries herself with quite a California air. She carries herself far better

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than she carries the play." See also B-lll, B-116, B-160, B-161, B-173, B-184, B-245, B-460 P-8

Nightclub act 1954 Cities played: Reno (6.54, Riverside Hotel), Las Vegas (7.54, El Rancho Vegas), Chicago (8.54, Chez Paree). CAST: Ann Sothern, the Escorts (all dates); Shyrettos, Riverside Starlets, Bill Clifford Orchestra, Betty Joyce (Reno); Doodles and Skeeter, Bill Ellis Orchestra, El Rancho Girls (Las Vegas); Shecky Green, Pryde and Day, Brian Farnom Orchestra (Chicago). SONGS PERFORMED BY ANN SOTHERN: "Too Darn Hot," "Lilly of Laguna," "I Want to Be Happy," "Get Happy," "Happy Talk," "As You Was," Irving Berlin medley.

REVIEWS: YJIXiety, 6.16.54: "Even though the act has a high polish and an air of sophistication with its smart staging, Miss Sothern keeps it warm and down to earth....she has not tried to get away with simply appearing in person. A lot of thought and work have gone into preparing an entertaining show." Bil1 board, 8.14.54: "Surrounded by five male escorts, Miss Sothern sings, dances, and in general creates an atmosphere of fun. Besides singing several medleys, she rocks the house with bits based on her former role of Maisie Revere [sic], and her current role of Susan McNamara [sic], private secretary. For a beg-off she sings 'Lilly of Laguna,' complete with a cockney accent which gets loads of response." See also B-26, B-113, B-150, B-322 P-9

Nightclub appearance 1957 City played:

Chicago (4.57, Chez Paree).

CAST: Ann Sothern, the Escorts, Bonnie Four, Bob Williams, Freddie Letuli Trio, Ted Fio Rito Orchestra. REVIEW: Variety, 5.1.57: "Miss Sothern serves the calypso routines, the Private Secretary skit and a cockney 'Lillie of Leguna' [sic] signoff with a repetitive sameness of her trademarked idiom. This makes for some strain on her one hour on stage. The terp demands cause her problems in spots

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where the choreography forces her to vocalize without the mike. She becomes inaudible then and the stage goes dead." P-10 God Bless Our Bank Stock tour 1963. Cities played: Charlotte, NC (6.18.63-6.23.63, Charlotte Summer Theatre), Detroit (6.25.63-6.30.63, Northland Playhouse), Falmouth, MA (7.2.63-7.7.63, Falmouth Playhouse) Laconia-Glendale, NH (7.8.63-7.13.63, Lakes Region Playhouse), Ivoryton, CT (7.15.63-7.20.63, Ivoryton Playhouse), Johnson City, NY (week of 7.22.63), Westport, CT (7.29.63-8.3.63, Westport Country Playhouse). IVORYTON PRODUCTION: Producers: Zev Bufman and Stanley Seiden. Ezra Stone. Play: Mac Benoff. Costumes: and Vilma Auki Bufman.

Director: Moss Mabry

CAST: Ann Sothern (Gertrude "Gussie" Williams), Jane Wallin (Francy Brown), Dan Ferrone (Dick Patterson), Michael Zokas (George Swall), Susan Reiselt (Terry Claire), Fay Sappington (Mary Cathey), Roland Winters (William P. Chesney), Wallace Acton (Rev. Vernor Peabody), George Cotton (Mayor Carter), George Ives (Fred Gibbon), Donald Marye (Henry Mowley), Jeff Corey (Sandy MacGiver), J. Frank Lucas (Huey Filch), David Belasco, George Gugleotti, Chuck Thomas, Pat Eberhart, Susan Mclnerney, Susan Savage (Citizens). SYNOPSIS: For 20 years, bookkeeper Gertrude "Gussie" Williams has been doling out a million dollars to her bank's poor customers. On the day Gussie is being honored for her charitable contributions to the town, the bank auditors arrive, creating pandemonium. REVIEWS: Variety, 7.7.63: "It seems well-nigh impossible that these veteran performers could be made so ineffective as to appear as amateurish, but that's exactly the impression made by completely predictable antics in God Bless Our Bank.. .. .God bless the Northland Playhouse patrons, most of whom sat through all three acts - probably as a courtesy to the much-loved Maisie, er, Miss Sothern." Middletown Press [CT], 7.16.63: "For Miss Sothern the play couldn't have been better chosen. It gives her effervescence and charm free rein and she handles the role superbly." NOTES: According to Jeff Corey, Ann Sothern asked him to go over the script of God Bless Our Bank with her before she headed east to prepare for the play. Corey remembered Ann's hand in his being cast. "In one scene with a Scotsman,

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Sandy MacGiver, she does a take off of his Scottish burr and repeats his phrase, 'Ay, lass, ye have a way wi' ye.' She liked the way I said it and several weeks later, after they had been reading many actors in New York for the role of MacGiver, Annie kept saying they don't sound as good as Jeff. So she prevailed on the producer, Zev Bufman, and the director, Ezra Stone, to get me for the role." Corey recalled, "Annie was a rare throwback to Hollywood regality, brought her chauffered Rolls and a maid on tour with her...I had to 'explain' her to the cast of east coast actors who were accustomed to the austere, if not spartan, quality of the workplace." During the show's run in Johnson City, Ann Sothern was hospitalized for dehydration. Despite talk of taking the show to Broadway after revissions, God Bless Our Bank played its last performance in Westport. P - H The Solid Gold Cadillac Stock tour 1965. Cities played: Warrren, OH (8.65), Columbus, OH (8.24.65-8.29.65, Veterans Memorial Auditorium). COLUMBUS PRODUCTION: Producer: John Kenley. Director: Gus Schirmer. Play: Howard Teichmann and George S. Kaufman. Set: Charles Brandon. Costumes: Carl Heastand. CAST: Ann Sothern (Laura Partridge), Fred Allen (Narrator), Donald Hylan (T. John Blessington), Larry Fletcher (Alfred Metcalfe), Lawrence Vincent (Warren Gillie), Cliff Ferre (Clifford Snell), Joan Force (Amelia Shotgraven), Richard Yanko (Mark Jenkins), Jeanne Rose (Miss L'Arriere), Jesse White (Edward L. McKeever), Judy Jenkinson (Miss Logan), John Grant (The A . P . ) , Andrew Green (The U.P.), Sean Adams (Chief reporter and standby for the cast). SYNOPSIS: Laura Partridge, a minor stockholder in a large corporation, asks some embarrassing questions at a stockholders's meeting. When the board of directors give her a job to shut her up, Laura foils them be seizing control of the company. REVIEWS: Columbus Dispatch, 8.25.65: "Miss Sothern, for the most part, seemed at home in the role, though a strange lethargy seemingly inherent in the script as a vehicle for her dampened rather than brightened the brand of humor peculiarly hers." Columbus Citizen-Journal, 8.25.65: "...[Ann Sothern] brings the same comedy approach to the role that has made her a favorite of millions through the years. The same voice, the same movements, the same reactions - and the

Plays and Personal Appearances opening night audience loved every minute of it. astute, studied comedienne."

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She is an

NOTES: According to Jesse White, it was producer John Kenley's idea to pair Ann Sothern and White after their work on Private Secretary and The Ann Sothern Show. P-12 The Glass Menagerie Tour 1966. Cities played: Miami (two weeks beginning 5.17.66, Coconut Grove Playhouse), Los Angeles (6.66, Huntington Hartford Theatre). MIAMI PRODUCTION: Producers: Zev Bufman in association with James Riley. Director: George Keathley. Play: Tennessee Williams. Set: James Riley. Costumes: Costume Associates. Music: Paul Bowles. CAST: Ann Sothern (Amanda Wingfield), Joan Hackett (Laura Wingfield), Ben Piazza (Tom Wingfield), James 01 son (Jim). SYNOPSIS: Faded Southern belle Amanda Wingfield tries to run the lives of her children. An attempt to fix up her daughter Laura with her son Tom's friend ends in disaster. Crippled Laura retreats into a world of fantasy and Tom leaves home like his father. REVIEWS: Miami.News, 5.18.66: "Ann Sothern is the audience lure....Miss Sothern is excellent as 'Amanda'..." Miami Herald, 5.19.66: "Ann Sothern, blowsy and cozy as a stuffed koala, is the new angle on the drama. She is enthralling as she wavers between reality and the days of her youth...But she goes further, to bring Amanda to a new level - warm, even humerous, and somehow sympathetic in her unrelenting efforts for her children." NOTES: Piper Laurie played Laura in the Los Angeles production; the other three stars reprised their Miami roles. In a 1985 interview on The Merv Griffin Show, Ann Sothern said she would like to perform in The Glass Menagerie at the Burt Reynolds Dinner Theatre with Tisha Sterling as Laura (T-50). P-13 Gypsy Stock tour 1967. Cities played: Cedar Grove, NJ (6.67, Meadowbrook Dinner Theater), Gaithersburg, MD (7.25.67-7.30.67, Shady Grove Music Fair), Devon, PA (7.31.67-8.5.67, Valley Forge Music Fair), Haddonfield, NJ (8.7.67-8.12.67, Camden County Music Fair),

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Ann Sothern Westbury, NY (8.15.67-8.20.67, Westbury Music Fair), Owings Mills, MD (8.22.67- 8.27.67, Painters Mill Music Fair). DEVON PRODUCTION: Producers: Lee Guber and Shelly Gross. Director: Ella Gerber. Choreographer: Larry Stevens. Libretto: Arthur Laurents. Suggested by the memoirs of Gypsy Rose Lee. Music: Jule Styne. Lyrics: Stephen Sondheim. Musical director: Joel Scott. Sets: Milton Duke. Costumes: Sara Brook. Lighting: Lester Tapper. CAST: Norman Budd (Uncle Jocko), John Bennett Perry (George), Sandy Stokes (Balloon girl), Rick Huyett (Clarence), Lori Shelle (Baby June), Doreen Miller (Baby Louise), Ann Sothern (Rose), Jon Richards (Pop), Louis S. Garcia, Gene Spear, Bill Allsbrook (Newsboys), Sam Schwartz (Weber), Alfred Sandor (Herbie), Joanna Lester (Louise), Connie Otto (June), Warren Burton (Tulsa), Louis S. Garcia (Yonkers), Gene Spear (Angie), Rick Huyett (L.A.), Norman Budd (Kringelein), Jon Richards (Mr. Goldstone), Shirley Stephens (Waitress), Warren Burton, Louis S. Garcia, Gene Spear, Bill Allsbrook, Rick Huyett (Farm boys), John Bennett Perry (Scarecrow), Nancy Fox, Sandy Stokes (Cow), Peggy Hadley (Miss Cratchitt), Sandy Stokes (Agnes), Joan Kail (Marjorie M a y ) , Nancy Fox (Geraldine), Maureen Maloney (Delores), John Bennett Perry (Pasty), Barrie Landauer (Tessie Tura), Norman Budd (Cigar), Millie Hughes (Electra), Sam Schwartz (Announcer), Joan Kail (Renee), Sam Schwartz (Phil), Rick Huyett (Bougeron Cochon), Bill Allsbrook (Photographer).

SYNOPSIS: Rose, the ultimate stage mother, tries to make her daughter, June, into a star. When June elopes, Rose switches her ambitions to her less-talented daughter, Louise. After Louise becomes a star as stripper Gypsy Rose Lee, Rose admits she wanted the fame for herself. REVIEW: Newsday [New York], 8.16.67: "[Ann Sothern] makes Rose, the classic stage mother, a prickly, tough, and thoroughly human person. And as a bonus, she adds her own sardonic sense of humor and a surprisingly effective singing voice. It is a most entertaining combination." NOTES: Ann Sothern sang "Some People," "Small World," "Mr. Goldstone, I Love You," "You'll Never Get Away from Me," "Everything's Coming Up Roses," "Together, Wherever We Go," and "Rose's Turn." According to Filmograph, Ann had turned down the role of replacing Ethel Merman as Rose in the original Broadway production (B-80).

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P-14 Glad Tidings Stock tour 1967-68. Cities played: Chicago (1.10.67-2.5.67, Ivanhoe Theatre), Denver (7.1.68-7.6.68, Elitch Theatre Company), Ivoryton, CT (7.8.68-7.13.68, Ivoryton Playhouse), Latham, NY (7.16.68-7.21.68, Colonie Summer Theatre). CHICAGO PRODUCTION: Producer: Charles Booth. Play: Edward Mabley.

Director:

Sidney Breese.

CAST: Jeannette Leahy (Ethel Nash), Geraldine Power (Mrs. MacDonald), Jack Stillman (Henry), John Himes (Steve Whitney), Judy Harris (Agnes Bell), Elizabeth Lee (Claire Abbott), Ann Sothern (Maud Abbott), George Womack (Gus Kennedy), Warren Burton (Terry Abbott). SYNOPSIS: As editor Steve Whitney is about to marry Ethel Nash, a wealthy magazine publisher, Steve is confronted by Maud Abbott, a temperamental film star with whom he had an affair 20 years before. When Maud tells him about his illegitimate 19-year-old daughter, Steve decides to marry Maud instead. REVIEW: Denver Post, 7.2.68: "Ann Sothern heads the credits list. She is very theatrical in her role as Maud Abbott, an aging movie star who re-ignites an affair with her one time lover..." NOTE: The Denver cast included Anne Archer, who competed against Ann Sothern for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1988. P-15 Mame Hawaii Civic Light Opera production. City played: Honolulu (8.6.68-8.25.68, Honolulu Concert Hall). Producer: Herb Rogers. Director: Yuki Shimoda. Choreographer: Gildo di Nunzio. Libretto: Michael Smith. Based on the novel by Patrick Dennis and the play Auntie Mame by Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee. Songs: Jerry Herman. Musical director: Donald Yap. Set: Attco, Inc. Costumes: Max Berman & Sons, Inc. CAST: Ann Sothern (Mame), Delphi Lawrence (Vera Charles), Myra de Groot (Agnes Gooch), Mark Savage (Patrick), Richard Dennis (Ralph Devine), Winston Scoville (Bishop), Marc Towers (M. Lindsey Woolsey), Yuki Shimoda (Ito), Richard Dennis (Doorman), Jim White (Messenger), Emilito Capina (Elevator boy), Jim White

112

Ann Sothern (Stage manager), Jerry Skeels (Uncle Jeff), Jim Demarest (Dwight Babcock), Brooks Almy (Madame Branislowski), Seth Riggs (Beaureguard Jackson Pickett Burnside), Brooks Almy (Cousin Fan), Beverly Anderson (Sally Cato), Ysabel MacCloskey (Mother Burnside), Jerome Brandon (Patrick, age 19-29), Gene Amberson (Jr. Babcock), Ysabel MacCloskey (Mrs. Upson), Jim White (Mr. Upson), Missy Alpern (Gloria Upson), Tina Blandy (Pegeen Ryan), Ricky Rogers (Peter Dennis), Brooks Almy, Missy Alpern, Beverly Anderson, Dariel Lee, Jan Arbogast, Tina Blandy, Tanya Kau, Janis Roscoe, Judi A. Capers, Mary King, Linda Van Dusen, Michael Lee Bow, Winston Scoville, Jr., Rosaleen Barry, Belle Ruff, Gene Amberson, Jerome Brandon, Richard Dennis, Bob Small, Emelito Capina, Brad Powell, Jerry Skeets, Jim White, Edith King, Kay Yamada, Howard Kasoka, Walter Wright, Michael Jamison, Frank McLain, Joyce Koontz (Mame's friends).

SYNOPSIS: Ten-year-old orphan Patrick Dennis comes to live with his flamboyant Auntie Mame. Mame raises him with the philosophy that life should be lived to the fullest, despite the protests of his conservative trust officer. REVIEWS: Honolulu Star-Bulletin, 8.7.68: "...Miss Sothern is an expert actress who is charmingly unafraid to look her age, knows what to do with a funny line and can sing. She sounded good, despite microphone problems, and late in the second act she was astonishingly good in matriarchal lament 'If He Walked into My Life.'" Honolulu Advertiser, 8.8.68: "Ann Sothern's Mame is kooky and wise, wry and affectionate, graceful, sexy, full of charms. She even displays a convincing serious dimension, as in the well-sung 'If He Walked into My Life.' By the end of the run, Miss Sothern will be sensational. Already, it is completely convincing that Mame's nephew should continue to sing 'My Best Girl' to her throughout the show." NOTES: Ann Sothern sang "It's Today," "Open a New Window," "The Man in the Moon," "My Best Girl," "We Need a Little Christmas," "Bosom Buddies," "That's How Young I Feel," and "If He Walked into My Life." The Civic Light Opera's Mame was the first production not directly supervised by the New York producers. Ann Sothern had turned down the role on Broadway in 1965. P-16 My Daughter, Your Son Stock tour 1970. Cities played: St. Charles, IL (7.2.70-7.19.70, Pheasant Run Playhouse), Wichita, KS (7.70, Kenley Star Theatre), Canal Fulton, OH (Canal Fulton Summer Arena).

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WICHITA PRODUCTION: Producer: Frank Kenley. Director: David Morrison. Play: Phoebe and Henry Ephron. Set: Robert Verberkmoes. CAST: James Paul (Arthur Gordon), George Paulsin (Jimmy Gordon), Ann Sothern (Maggie Gordon), TaylorReed (Daddy Ellis), David Brenton (Joe Ellis), Rebecca Phillips (Ann Gordon), Roslyn Alexander (Sally Ellis). SYNOPSIS: Comic complications arise when a television writer's daughter plans to marry a dentist's son, despite the fact that the couple has been living together for an extended period. REVIEW: Chicago Tribune, 7.3.70: "Ann Sothern is starred as the highly aware mother of the worldly wise bride, but the roles are distributed so evenly that she does not dominate the show for an instant." P-17 Barefoot in the Park Stock tour 1970. Cities played: Chicago (Mill Run Playhouse), Cedar Grove, NJ (Meadowbrook Dinner Theatre). CHICAGO PRODUCTION: Play: Neil Simon. CAST: Ann Sothern (Mrs. Banks), Tab Hunter (Paul Bratter). Other credits unavailable. SYNOPSIS: Comic look at the marital tribulations of newlyweds Paul and Corie Bratter, who live in a five-story, walk-up apartment in New York. NOTE: Mary Jo Walters played Corie Bratter and Woody Romoff portrayed Victor Velasco in the Cedar Grove production. P-18 Butterflies Are Free Stock. Cities played: Miami, FL (12.29.70-1.10.71, Coconut Grove Playhouse), Corning, NY (7.18.72-7.22.72, Masonic Cathedral). MIAMI PRODUCTION: Producers: Eddie Bracken Ventures, Inc. and Zev Bufman. Director: Elizabeth Caldwell. Play: Leonard Gershe. Set: Richard Seger. Lighting: James Riley. CAST: Ann Sothern (Mrs. Baker), Beau Bridges (Don Baker), Pamela Kingsley (Jill Tanner), Tom Fuccello (Ralph Austin).

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SYNOPSIS: A young blind man moves to New York to escape his over-protective mother. She follows him and gets involved in a tug-of-war with his attractive neighbor over the blind man's affections. REVIEWS: Miami News, 12.31.70: "Ann Sothern, as the mother swathed from toe to chin, handles those one-liners with just the proper bite, as she has always done." Leader [Corning], 7.18.72: "Although Miss Sothern fits the role of the over-powering mother from upper class Scarsdale, her soft-spoken voice became inaudible at times. If the audience was expecting to see [a] play starring Miss Sothern, Butterflies isn't it. Her time on stage is limited to the second act. But, she did fit the bill and the scene with [Don] Baker in which the over-protective mother told her fledgling to fly away was tender, sincere and realistic." See also B-134, B-423 NOTES: The Corning cast included Richard Caine as Don, Pamela Gilbreath as Jill, and Richard Fasciano as Ralph. A major flood in Corning forced the Corning Summer Theatre to move its productions from the Corning Glass Center to the Masonic Cathedral. Yvonne Gill reported that only 75 people were in attendance on opening night ("Butterflies Tender, Warm." Leader. July 18, 1972). Playwright Leonard Gershe wrote many scripts for Private Secretary and The Ann Sothern Show. P-19 Personal Appearance Chicago area production. City played: Arlington Heights, IL (8.3.71-8.22.71, Arlington Park Theatre). Director:

William Tregoe.

Play:

Lawrence Riley.

CAST: Ann Sothern (Carole Arden), Ray Rayner (Gene Tuttle), Elaine Cohen (Gladys Kelcey), Mary Jo Walters (Joyce Stuthers), Beatrice Fredman, Robert Urch, Geraldine Power, Richard Hawk, Jerry Ward, Marji Bank. SYNOPSIS: While promoting her newest film, actress Carole Arden gets stranded in a small town when her car breaks down. Her press agent must discourage her from taking a handsome young gas station attendant back to Hollywood with her. REVIEW: Arlington Heights Herald, 8.4.71: "Most personable on stage, Ann Sothern brings laughs through her many double meaning retorts, almost always said with raised eyebrows."

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P-20 Everybody Loves Opal Dinner theatre production. City played: Jacksonville, FL (beginning 8.15.73, Thunderbird Dinner Theatre). Play:

John Patrick.

Set:

Richard Feathergill.

CAST: Ann Sothern (Opal Kronkie), Victor Raider-Wexler (Sol), Ken Kliban (Chemist), Doug Landrun (Policeman), John Creamer (Doctor), Carol Mennie. SYNOPSIS: Opal Kronkie is an optimistic junk collector who believes nothing can hurt a person if he has good friends. When three petty crooks use her home as a hideout, she refuses to listen to the truth about them. The crooks decide to make Opal a partner in their perfume bootlegging business and insure her. They plot to collect the insurance money by arranging a fatal accident. REVIEW: Florida Times-Union, 8.16.73: "As Opal, Ann Sothern has her moments. But overall, she lacks sufficient madness in her method for the play to work satisfactorily." NOTES: On opening night of Everybody Loves Opal, a piece of scenery fell on Ann Sothern, injuring her back. In 1975 she sued the then-bancrupt Thunderbird Dinner Theatre. A jury awarded her $200,000 in 1977. P-21 The Duchess of Pasadena Tour 1978-79. Cities played: Chicago (2.13.783.19.78, Drury Lane South), Chicago (beginning 5.11.78, Drury Lane East), Seattle (9.79, Cirque Dinner Theatre). CHICAGO PRODUCTION: Producer: Vernon R. Schwartz. Director: Schwartz. Play: George Tibbies.

Vernon R.

CAST: Del Ellison (Consuelo), Barry Cullison (Courtney), Patricia De Mar (Cecily), Ann Sothern (Alexandra), Richard Baird (Evgini), Pami Ozaki (Tsubaki). SYNOPSIS: Alexandra Lorillard is the Russian-born widow of a wealthy American who spends her time intimidating her family and servants. After her daughter runs off with the family chauffeur and her son marries the pregnant Mexican maid, Alexandra makes peace with her Japanese daughter-in-law while recovering from a stroke. REVIEWS: Chicago Sun-Times, 2.14.78:

"Miss Sothern seems to enjoy

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it all hugely: casting the occasional dry line to her hungry-salmon audience in campy stage-British, playing her countess as a cross between Queen Victoria and Mae West, with a touch of Madame Oglepuss. There's a roguish glint in those Siamese-cat eyes, a seductive chuckle playing about those lips and a tearful curtain speech in which she assures us that yes, she's been ill, but she's well on the mend." Chicago Tribune, 5.12.78: "[Ann Sothern] is - and let's say it straight out - pushing 70 and so large that a couple of stagehands have to help whisk her up the aisles when she makes her exits from the Drury Lane's arena stage. However, clad in nightgowns, piano shawls and a feather or two, she can still muster an imperious pose, and as a comedian - when she doesn't trip over her lines - she still can muster a nifty double take or get a laugh with such a line as 'Lust! Lust! Lust! The house is riddled with it!'" NOTE:

Ann Sothern sang a Russian ballad.

Radio This chapter is divided into two sections. The first deals with Ann Sothern's two radio series: Maisie and The Adventures of Maisie. Each entry is preceded by the prefix "RS." Pertinent information includes broadcast dates, network, and cast. Complete information on individual episodes is unavailable. The second section is a chronological listing of Ann Sothern's national guest appearances on radio. Each entry is preceded by the letter "R." A typical entry includes the name of the series, episode title, the date of broadcast, the network, the type of series (anthology, comedy, variety, etc.), and cast. Selected reviews are also provided. A key to abreviations follows: AFRS Armed Forces Radio Service com comedy ep episode int interview mus musical NN Non-Network (did not appear on ABC, CBS, or NBC) var variety SERIES_L RS-1 Maisie. com 7.5.45-3.28.47 CBS With Ann Sothern (Maisie Ravier), Elliott Lewis (Bill), Ken Miles (Announcer), John Brown, Wally Maher, Norman Field, Donald Woods, Lurene Tuttle. REVIEW: VarietX/ 7.18.45: "[Ann Sothern] plays her role to the hilt, giving a performance that adds enjoyment to some fine writing by [Samuel] Taylor and [Bob] Sloan." See also B-84

118

Ann Sothern

RS-2 The Adventures of Maisie com 11.24.49-ear1y 1952 NN With Ann Sothern (Maisie Ravier), Jack McCoy (Announcer), Hans Conreid, Sheldon Leonard, Ben Wright, Lurene Tuttle, Marvin Miller, Joan Banks, Elvia Allman, Bea Benaderet, Peter Leeds, Patrick McGeehan, Frank Wilson, Sandra Gould. REVIEWS: Variety., 11.30.49: "...the show is a topflight air adaptation of the pix series, also starring Ann Sothern....Aside from Miss Sothern, the production is backed by a solid supporting cast and some nifty musical scoring by Harry Zimmerman." Billboard, 12.17.49: "The radio adaptation of Ann Sothern's successful film series, Maisie, falls considerably short of the mark....Miss Sothern labored to wring a few laughs out of the script, but even the isolated bits which might have merited mirth fell flat because of lack of studio audience and poor timing on the part of the thesps." NOTE: The Adventures of Maisie was syndicated by MGM. During her bout with hepatitis, Ann Sothern recorded her role from her bed. Episodes revolved around Maisie's friends, played by Gene Kelly and Audrey Totter, during the period in which Ann Sothern was unable to appear. GUEST APPEARANCESj_ R-l

The Fleischmann Hour var 4.25.35 NBC Variety show with Rudy Vallee, Judith Anderson, Dresden Boys Choir, Tom Howard, Cohen Canyon Hillbillies. Ann Sothern appeared in a sketch.

R"2

Kraft Music Hall var 2.27.36 NBC Variety show with the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra, Bing Crosby, Bob Burns, Lotte Lehman, Ann Sothern, William A. Brady.

R~3

Lux Radio Theatre ep "Kick In" 4.6.36 Anthology with Ann Sothern and Edmund Lowe.

R-4

Hollywood Hotel var 6.26.36 CBS Variety show with Louella Parsons, Dick Powell, Jean Dickenson, Raymond Paige Orchestra, Frances Langford, Igor Gorin. Ann Sothern and Francis Lederer performed a scene from My American Wife.

R-5

Kraft Music Hall var 8.6.36 NBC Variety show with Bing Crosby, Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra, Bob Burns, Robert Taylor, Ann Sothern.

CBS

Radio

119

REVIEW: Variety, 8.19.36: "Ann Sothern...saved herself...with a George Gershwin song, 'Where's the Boy, Here's the Girl.' While being no knockout in giving out the number on the air waves, Miss Sothern's vocal efforts compensated greatly for the meaningless chatter she indulged ahead of it with [Bing] Crosby." R-6

Hollywood Hotel var 8.14.36 CBS Variety show with Louella Parsons, Dick Powell, Frances Langford, Anne Jamison, Igor Gorin. Ann Sothern and Gene Raymond appeared in a scene from Walking on Air.

R-7

Shell Chateau var 9.26.36 NBC Variety show with Olsen and Johnson, Smith Ballew, Donald Budge. Ann Sothern and Roger Pryor appeared in a scene from There's Always Juliet.

R-8

C_aiTie]„.Ca.rayan var 11.17.36 CBS Variety show with Rupert Hughes, Frank Forrest, Goodman and Stoll Orchestras. Ann Sothern, Charles Ruggles, and Mary Brian appeared in the sketch "The Queen's Husband."

R-9

Your Hit Parade mus 5.26.37 NBC Musical show with Ann Sothern and the Mark Warnow Orchestra.

R-10 The Chase and Sanborn Hour var 7.18.37 NBC Variety show with Don Ameche, W.C. Fields, Edgar Bergen and Charlie McCarthy, Dorothy Lamour, Armbruster Orchestra. Ann Sothern and Don Ameche appeared in a scene from Fifty Roads to Town. R-ll Hollywood Hotel var 12.31.37 CBS Variety show with Louella Parsons, Frances Langford, Jerry Cooper, Anne Jamison, Ken Niles, Raymond Paige Orchestra. Ann Sothern, Gene Raymond, and Victor Moore appeared in a scene from She's Got Everything. R-12 Woodbury Playhouse ep "Trinidad Dryad" 2.6.38 NBC Blue Anthology with Ann Sothern and Tyrone Power. R-13 Woodbury Playhouse ep "Fifty Roads from Town" 4.24.38 NBC Blue Anthology with Ann Sothern and Tyrone Power. R-14 Woodbury Playhouse ep "Goodbye Again" 4.16.39 NBC Blue Anthology with Ann Sothern and Charles Boyer. R-15 Screen Guild Theatre CBS

ep

"Variety"

9.24.39

120

Ann Sothern Variety show with Judy Garland, John Conte, Oscar Bradley Orchestra. Ann Sothern performed in a skit with Cary Grant, Mickey Rooney, and Roger Pryor.

REVIEW: Variety, 9.27.39: "...Ann Sothern [was] rather underprivileged in opportunities..." R-16 Good News of 1940 var 1.4.40 NBC Variety show with Edward Arnold, Fanny Brice, Hanley Stafford, Connee Boswell, Meredith Willson, Raymond Walburn. Ann Sothern and William Gargan appeared in a sketch to promote their film Joe_jind_Eihe^^ oiL_the President. REVIEW: Variety;., 1.10.40: "William Gargan and Ann Southern (sic) were ostensibly booked...to register a plug for their latest film...The performance they turned in did much better than that. It marked them and the Terp (sic) characterizations as a Class A comedy prospect for some sponsor." R-17 Screen Guild Theatre ep "I Met Him in Paris" 2.4.40 CBS Anthology with Ann Sothern, Melvyn Douglas, and Robert Young starring in the comedy. REVIEW: Variety, 2.7.40: "...Miss Sothern again demonstrated the sharp touch Hollywood belatedly discovered not long ago." R -18 Sc_re_en_Gui _1 d_ JT heat j: e ep "Red Dust"" 10.6.40" " CBS Anthology with Ann Sothern, Clark Gable, Jeffrey Lynn, and Rita Johnson starring in the drama. See D-19 and D-20 R-19 The Charlie McCarthy Show var 1.18.41 NBC Variety show with Edgar Bergen and Charlie McCarthy, Donald Dickson, Ann Sothern. R-20 The Rudy Vallee Show var 1.23.41 NBC Variety show with Rudy Vallee, Ann Sothern, John Barrymore, David 0. Selznick. R-21 Silver Theatre ep "Lady with Ideas" 3.23.41 CBS Anthology with Ann Sothern starring in the comedy. R-22 Lux Radio Theatre ep "Maisie Was a Lady" 11.24.41 CBS Anthology with Ann Sothern, Lew Ayres, Maureen O'Sullivan, and Henry Stephenson starring in the

Radio

121

comedy. R-2 3 Screen Guild Theatre ep "My Life with Caroline" 12.14.41 CBS Anthology with Ann Sothern, William Powell, and George Barbier starring in the comedy. R-24 Silver Theatre ep "The Awful Truth" 1.11.42 CBS Anthology with Ann Sothern starring in the comedy. R-25 The Charlie McCarthy Show var 3.8.42 NBC Variety show with Edgar Bergen and Charlie McCarthy, Ann Sothern. R-26 Post Toasties Time var 7.30.42 NBC Variety show with Frank Morgan and Ann Sothern. R-27 Screen,GuiJ_d_Theatre ep "Bachelor Mother" 11.23.42 CBS Anthology with Ann Sothern, Fred MacMurray, and Charles Coburn starring in the comedy. REVIEW: Variety, 12.2.42: "Playing by Ann Sothern, Fred MacMurray and Charles Coburn was persuasive, but the audience microphones were turned too high, so the studio laughter seemed exagerated and distracting." R-2 8 Lux Radio .Theatre ep "A Night to Remember" 4.19.43 CBS Anthology with Ann Sothern and Robert Young. R-29 Silver Theatre ep "And the Farmer's Son" 12.26.43 CBS Anthology with Ann Sothern and Preston Foster. R-30 Screen Guild Theatre ep "Congo Maisie" 5.29.44 CBS Anthology with Ann Sothern and John Hodiak starring in the comedy. R-31 This Is My Best ep "Miss Dilly Says No" 3.20.45 CBS Anthology with Ann Sothern. R-32 Screen Guild Theatre ep "Heavenly Body" 6.4.45 CBS Anthology with Ann Sothern and William Powell. R-33 The Danny Kaye Show var 2.8.46 CBS Variety show with Danny Kaye, Ann Sothern, Butterfly McQueen.

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R-34 Lux Radio Theatre ep "I Love You Again" 3.2 9.48 CBS Anthology with Ann Sothern and William Powell starring in the comedy. R-35 The Village Store var 4.15.48 NBC Variety show with Jack Carson, Ann Sothern, Eve Arden, 11ene Woods. R-36 Suspense ep "Beware the Quiet Man" 8.12.48 CBS Anthology with Ann Sothern starring in the drama. R-37 Background for Stardom int fall, 1948 NN Interview with Erksine Johnson and Ann Sothern. R-38 Command Performance U.S.A. var 12.25.48 AFRS Christmas special with Ken Carpenter, Ann Sothern, Edmund Gwenn, Gene Autry, Bing Crosby, the Andrews Sisters, Lisa Roy, Jacques Martin, the Hoosier Hot Shots, Harry Babbitt, the Pied Pipers, Harry James, Bob Hope, Lauritz Melchior, Lum and Abner [Chester Lauck and Norris Goff], Cass Daley, Jerry Colona, Frank Nelson, Walter Tetley, Mel Blanc, Francis X. Bushman, Donald Crisp, William Conrad, Jeffrey Silver, and Jack Webb. R-39 Duffy's Tavern ep 3.30.49 NBC Comedy with Ed Gardiner, Ann Sothern, Jimmy Durante. R-40 The Theatre Guild on the Air ep "Burlesque" 10.9.49 NBC Anthology with Ann Sothern and Bert Lahr starring in the comedy written by George M. Watters and Arthur Hopkins. DATE UNKNOWN: R-41 Globe Theatre ep "Boy Meets Girl" Anthology with Ann Sothern, Chester Morris, and Lee Tracy starring in the comedy. R-42 Mail Call var Program No. 9 AFRS World War II variety program featuring Lena H o m e , Fanny Brice, and Hanley Stafford. Ann Sothern and Melvyn Douglas previewed Three Hearts__fpr_ Jul_ija . See D-23 R-43 MGM Theatre of the Air ep Nancy" NN Anthology with Ann Sothern.

"Three Loves Has

Television This chapter is divided into two sections. The first deals with Ann Sothern's TV series: Private Secretary, The Ann Sothern Show, and My Mother the Car. Although Miss Sothern was not a regular on The Lucy Show, she made seven appearances within nine months. Because of her recurring role, The Lucy Show is given the same treatment as Miss Sothern's series. Part one examines the four series in-depth. Each entry is preceded by the prefix "TS." Pertinent information includes broadcast dates, network, number of episodes, brief production credits, and a complete cast listing. A brief synopsis of the series's premise is also included. Following each entry is a complete episode guide for each series. "PS" refers to an episode of Private Secretary, "AS" to The Ann Sothern Show, "LS" to The Lucy Show, and "MMC" to My Mother the Car. Additional reviews found in the bibliography are noted. The second section is a complete chronological listing of Miss Sothern's national guest appearances on television. Not included are theatrical motion pictures shown on TV, award shows, telethons, or repeats. Each entry is preceded by the letter "T." A typical entry includes the name of the series, the episode title, the date of broadcast, the network, the type of series (anthology, comedy, variety, etc.), and a brief synopsis of Miss Sothern's role. Selected reviews are also provided. Telefeatures are treated as films, listing the same information as that provided in the "Filmography." A key to abreviations follows: com comedy doc documentary ep episode gm game show int interview ms mini series

124

Ann Sothern NN pt sp tf var

Non-Network (did not appear on ABC, CBS, NBC, or PBS) pilot special telefeature variety

SERIES TS-1 Private Secretary [PS] 2.1.53-9.10.57

CBS

com 104 black and white episodes

Producer: Jack Chertok. Based on a series idea created by Ned Marin. Directors: Rod Amateau, Leslie Goodwins, Gerald Mayer, Christian Nyby, and Oscar Rudolph. Writers: Jerry Adelman, Earl Baldwin, William Bast, Arnold Belgard, Peggy Chantler, Phil Davis, Frederic L. Fox, Leonard Gershe, Ted Hartman, Sigfried Herzig, Curtis Kenyon, Jack Laird, Louella MacFarlane, Richard Morris, Martin A. Ragaway, Larry Rhine, Tom Seller, and Phil Shuken. CAST: Susan "Susie" Camille MacNamara Peter Sands, Susie's boss Violet Praskins, switchboard operator Sylvia Platt, Susie's husbandhunting best friend Leopold Guth, Sylvia's boss Mickey "Cagey" Calhoun, an unscrupulous agent, Susie's rival Ben Moss, Cagey's assistant Tommy Simpson, drugstore clerk later promoted to office boy Henry Hollis, jack-of-al1-trades who keeps turning up in different vocations Dr. Martin, Mr. Sands's physician

Ann Sothern Don Porter Ann Tyrrell Joan Banks Frank Orth Jesse White George E. Stone Joseph Martorano/ Joseph Corey Franklin Pangborn Frank Wilcox

Susie MacNamara is private secretary to theatrical agent Peter Sands. Susie often oversteps her boundaries of efficiency by meddling in her boss's personal life. FIRST SEASON 1953 PS-1 "Femme Fatale" 2.1.53 In an effort to keep Mr. Sands's niece from chasing an older man, Susie pretends to be interested in the niece's young boy friend.

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PS-2

"The Bachelor Takes a Wife" 2.8.53 Susie plays matchmaker for a client who shows interest in Mr. Sands and a suave TV star known as "The Bachelor."

PS-3

"The Eyes Have It" 2.15.53 When a hypnotist uses his talents on Susie to get a contract, Mr. Sands thinks she has had a nervous breakdown. With King Donovan.

PS-4

"Where There Is a Will" 2.22.53 Susie convinces hypochondriac Mr. Sands to go back to work by reminiscing about their business associations. One flashback has talent agent Sands turning away violinist Jack Benny. (Private Secretary alternated with The Jack Benny Show.) Gladys Hurlbut is introduced as Cora Evans.

PS-5

"Old Flame" 3.1.53 Susie's old boy friend comes to town and Susie tries to rekindle the romance. She does not know he wants her opinion of his marrying a dancer she knows. With Mary Anderson.

PS-6

"Servant Problems" 3.8.53 Susie poses as a maid in order to convince a wealthy couple not to remove their backing from a show involving Mr. Sands's clients. With Alan Mowbray, Allen Jenkins.

PS-7

"Old Soldiers" 3.15.53 When Mr. Sands's former Air Force reserve buddy asks him to report to Washington, Mr. Sands thinks he is being called for active duty. Instead, the colonel wants his help in organizing a USO tour.

PS-8

"Lady from Paris" 3.29.53 Susie mistakenly signs a French chanteuse. Her worries increase when she hears the singer may really be a phony from Brooklyn.

PS-9

"Suspicion" 4.5.53 When Susie sees her friends plotting behind her back and meets a secretarial replacement, she thinks she is going to be fired. Franklin Pangborn is introduced as Henry Hollis.

PS-10

"A Man Called Smith" 4.12.53 Susie hunts for an elusive author and tricks Mr. Sands into hearing a promising new singer. This was the pilot for Private Secretary.

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Ann Sothern PS-11

"Star Struck" 4.26.53 On a night when she has a date with a handsome movie star, Susie finds herself playing host to the obnoxious wife of a writer. With Gladys Hurlbut.

PS-12

"Who Dunit" 5.3.53 While trying to help a girl from her hometown of Mumford, Iowa, Susie and the girl are kidnapped by three small-time hoods.

PS-13

"Too Much Spring" 5.10.53 On the first day of spring, romantic Susie cannot concentrate on her work. She and Vi fantasize about marrying Mr. Sands.

PS-14

"Penny Wise, Pound Foolish" 5.24.53 Mr. Sands's economy binge proves to be expensive in the long run.

PS-15

"Child Labor" 5.31.53 Susie convinces an over-protective stage mother to let her daughter enjoy her childhood, leaving Mr. Sands without a client. With Sherry Jackson, Ann Doran.

PS-16

"Dark Stranger" 6.7.53 When Vi's fortune teller predicts a tall, dark stranger will enter Susie's life, Susie hopes the dark stranger can help her find Mr. Sands's lost ring.

SECOND SEASON 1953-54 PS-17 "Havana or Bust" 9.20.53 After Susie brags to her friend that she will accompany Mr. Sands on a business trip to Havana, Susie must find a way to convince her boss to take her. PS-18

"Two Weeks with Pay" 9.27.53 As Susie prepares to go on vacation with Sylvia, she worries that her replacement, a conniving secretary named Flame, could become permanent. Flame is played by Evie Johnson, then the wife of Van Johnson and a friend of Ann Sothern.

PS-19

"Miami" 10.11.53 While Sylvia chases men in Miami, Susie tries to outwit rival agent Cagey Calhoun and sign a handsome singer. This is the first appearance of Jesse White as Cagey Calhoun and George E. Stone as his assistant, Ben.

PS-20

"The Hubby Killer"

10.18.53

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127

Susie and Sylvia are suspicious of Susie's houseguest, a South American actress publicized as "the hubby killer." With Anita Ekberg. PS-21

"The Little Acorn that Didn't Grow" 11.1.53 Susie tries to find a job for the elevator operator, a classical violinist. With Leonid Kinskey, Sandra Gould.

PS-22

"Cast Thy Bread" 11.8.53 An elderly butler steals Susie's new hat as a birthday gift for his employer, a former grande dame of the theatre. When Susie learns the circumstances, she lets him keep the hat and convinces Mr. Sands to hire the actress. Anthony Warde is introduced as Lt. Samuel Green.

PS-23

"Weekend in Connecticut" 11.22.53 After envying Mr. Sands's frequent business trips, Susie learns the jaunts are not all play when she must spend the weekend in Connecticut with a female writer. With Hope Emerson, Alvy Moore.

PS-24

"Seven out of Ten" 11.29.53 Mr. Sands tries to improve office efficiency with a management article while Susie interprets his behavior as love. Meanwhile, Sylvia's Brooklyn friend tries to pass herself off as a socialite. With Jean Byron.

PS-25

"Two of a Kind" 12.13.53 Susie helps a flamboyant older actress win a role in a play. With Natalie Schafer.

PS-26

"Girl of the Year" 12.20.53 Susie gets fired for her absent-mindedness after winning the "Secretary of the Year" award.

PS-27

"The Blau-Holstein Memoirs" (AKA "Holstein's Memoirs") 1.3.54 Susie and Cagey Calhoun compete for the rights to the memoirs of a European princess.

PS-28

"Sable Coat" 1.10.54 Susie's freinds are jealous when Armende, a French movie star, gives Susie a fur coat refused by his fiancee. Marcel Dalio is introduced as Armende.

PS-29

"Shrinking Vi" 1.24.54 Susie plays matchmaker for her meteorologist neighbor and Vi. With King Donovan.

128

Ann Sothern PS-30

"The Little Monster" 1.31.54 Susie befriends a precocious child prodigy who plays "The Little Monster" on stage and off. Danny Richards, Jr. is introduced as Harold Lemaire, the little monster.

PS-31

"Mind Over Matter" 2.14.54 Susie plays matchmaker for Vi's cowboy penpal and a temperamental producer. With Guinn "Big Boy" Williams.

PS-32

"Friend in Need" 2.21.54 After overextending herself to help her friends, Susie ends up in bed with a bad cold. She feels deserted when none of them visit.

PS-33

"Vive L'Amour" 3.7.54 Susie goes to Paris to convince Armende that his girl friend is a gold digger. With Marcel Dalio.

PS-34

"Tempest in a Pickle Jar" 3.14.54 Susie helps find the real culprit when Tommy is accused of stealing hot dogs.

PS-35

"And Susie Is the Sun" 3.28.54 Susie tries to discourage young Harold Lemaire's crush on her by playing matchmaker for him and a precocious little girl. With Danny Richards, Jr.

PS-36

"High Spirits" 4.4.54 Susie discovers that Vi's phony medium is leaking secrets about Mr. Sands's office to a gossip columnist.

PS-37

"Live Wire" 4.18.54 Susie tries to outfox Mr. Sands's new partner, whom she thinks is out to steal her boss's clients.

PS-38

"A Still Small Voice" 4.25.54 Susie and Vi make Mr. Sands feel so guilty for killing a deer on a hunting trip that he loses sleep. With Frank Wilcox, Joe Besser.

PS-39

"April Showers" 5.9.54 When Sylvia's fiance flirts with Susie, she must convince Sylvia that he is not Mr. Right.

PS-40

"Crazy Mixed-up Kid" 5.16.54 Susie teaches a publicity-hungry actor that his stunts are hurting his career.

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PS-41

"A Matter of Taste" 5.30.54 Susie and Mr. Sands try to convince a famous Hungarian chef to divulge his recipes on a TV series.

PS-42

"No Rest for the Weary" 6.6.54 Susie and Cagey Calhoun try to outfox each other at a convalescent home where a concert pianist is hiding. With Franklin Pangborn.

THIRD SEASON 1954-55 PS-43 "Good Neighbors" 9.12.54 Susie must take her neighbors's baby to the office when the parents are late returning. PS-44

"The Rivals" 9.19.54 While vacationing in the Poconos, Susie Sylvia run into Cagey Calhoun and Ben. and Cagey both go after an older woman, the other wants her for a client. With Hurlbut.

PS-45

"Where Oh Where" 9.26.54 Susie's friends fear the worst when she does not come to work after a fight with her boss. With Anthony Warde. Ann Sothern appears in only the beginning and end of this episode.

PS-46

"One Bewitching Hour" 10.10.54 Susie plays matchmaker for a famous actress and a renowned singer who were formerly married. With George Givot, Gertrude Michael , Grady Sutton.

PS-47

"The Brass Ring" 10.24.54 Susie, Mr. Sands, Vi, Sylvia, and Tommy dream of fame and fortune after composing a song. When it is rejected, they latch onto another brass ring with a newspaper rebus puzzle. With Frances Bavier.

PS-48

"Humpty Dumpty" 11.7.54 Harold Lemaire signs with Cagey Calhoun to make Susie jealous. She teaches Harold a lesson by hiring a replacement. With Danny Richards, Jr., Richard Deacon.

PS-49

"Original and Two Carbons" 11.21.54 When Mr. Sands grows a moustache to emulate a Broadway actor, Susie gets even by turning brunette and sporting a monacle like an actress client. With Marguerite Chapman.

PS-50

"Susie for President"

12.5.54

and Susie thinking Gladys

130

Ann Sothern Susie and Sylvia almost ruin their friendship when both run for president of the Midtown Secretaries League. With Nancy Culp, Pat Carroll, Frank Orth. PS-51

"Goodbye, Susie, Hello" 12.19.54 Susie thinks that Mr. Sands does not want her when he convinces her to take a higher paying job.

PS-52

"Sweet Foxy" 1.2.55 When Susie learns that Cagey Calhoun and Ben are broke, she helps them sign a handsome singer. With Aaron Spelling.

PS-53

"Secretaries Are People Too" 1.16.54 Susie trains a prima donna actress to be a secretary so she can win a role in Office Story.

PS-54

"Screaming Meemies" 1.30.55 After a relaxing trip to Vermont, Mr. Sands decides to sell the agency and retire to a farm. With Jesse White. See also B 375.

PS-55

"Tangled Web" (AKA "Little White Lie") 2.13.55 Susie does not realize the repercussions when she lies about a letter she forgot to type. With Anthony Warde, Ernest Sarracino.

PS-56

2.27.55 "Blessing in Disguise" Vi is ecstatic after a botanist client gives her a geranium, but the office is in an uproar when the plant wilts. With Craig Stevens.

PS-57

"Tenth Anniversary" 3.13.55 Susie and Mr. Sands play a variation of The Gift of the Magi on Susie's tenth anniversary. She has her bracelet melted down to make a holder for his gold coin and he has his coin made into a pin for Susie.

PS-58

"Progress Is Here to Stay" (AKA "Little Old Fashioned Girl") 3.27.55 When Mr. Sands says modern conveniences are unnecessary, Susie goes to extremes to teach him a lesson.

PS-59

"Mambo" 4.10.55 Susie teaches Mr. Sands to mambo so he can sign a Cuban singer.

PS-60

"Anything Can Happen" 4.24.55 When Susie's friends mistakenly think she

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inherited a million dollars, they treat her like royalty. With Reginald Denny. PS-61

"A Scream in the Night" (AKA "Give Up the Ghost") 5.8.55 Susie and Cagey Calhoun compete for the rights to a deceased author's mystery books by spending the night in his niece's haunted house. With Judith Evelyn.

PS-62

"The Perfect Speciman" 5.15.55 A millionaire courts Susie after he accidently hits her with his car. Mr. Sands worries that Susie will marry and leave the agency.

PS-63

"An Ounce of Prevention" 5.22.55 Susie moves in with an overweight actress to keep her from gaining weight and losing a part. With Peter Hanson.

PS-64

"Mr. Neanderthal" (AKA "Battle of the Biceps") 5.29.55 Susie searches for a professional boxer to star in a play called Mr. Neanderthal. With Chuck Conners.

PS-65

"Candy" (AKA "The Box of Candy") 6.5.55 Susie is suspicious when Mr. Sands brings her a box of candy. With Kathleen Freeman, Franklin Pangborn.

PS-66

"Finders Keepers" 6.12.55 Susie, Vi, and Sylvia find a diamond pendant and reluctantly search for its owner. With Byron Foulger.

PS-67

"The Root of All Evil" 6.19.55 Susie tries to reunite a security-hungry secretary and the poor man she loves.

PS-68

"The Boy Next Door" 6.26.55 Susie, Vi, and Sylvia compare methods for snaring Susie's handsome new neighbor. With Jock Mahoney.

FOURTH SEASON 1955-5 6 PS-69 "Oh, Oh, Suzette" 9.11.55 Susie helps a young playwright convince his grouchy, rich uncle to back his show. With Ray McDonald. PS-70

"The Slow Curve" 9.18.55 Susie convinces Mr. Sands to sign a baseball player. Both Susie and the player manipulate

132

Ann Sothern each other in order to get the contract. PS-71

"Whistler's Daughter" 10.2.55 Susie takes up painting to get rid of a nervous twitch. When one of her paintings sells, she is ready to quit her job to become an artist. With Jay Novello, Frank Wilcox.

PS-72

"America's Sweethearts" 10.16.55 Susie tries to reunite a young couple known as "America's Sweethearts."

PS-73

"The Platt Plan" 10.30.55 Susie tries Sylvia's advice on how to get a raise.

PS-74

"Midtown Mardi Gras" 11.13.55 Susie and Vi are upset when Mr. Sands puts work above escorting them to the Midtown Secretarial League's Mardi Gras. With Frank Orth.

PS-75

"Room for Improvement" 11.27.55 Vi tries her hand at being a secretary as Susie prepares for her vacation.

PS-76

"Turnabout" 12.11.55 Susie learns that there is more than shrewdness to being a good agent when she and Mr. Sands switch positions on "Turnabout Day."

PS-77

"To Each His Own" 12.25.55 Susie finds she is expected to play talent scout when a friend invites her for dinner. With Ernest Sarracino.

PS-78

"In Darkest Manhattan" 1.8.56 Bored with her mundane secretarial chores afterreading Modern Secretary Magazine, Susie fantasizes about working for Mr. Sands in the jungle. A reporter from the magazine makes her realize that Susie's job is exciting because of the celebrities she meets. With Cesar Romero, Edna Skinner.

PS-79

"The Shade of the Old Family Tree" 1.22.56 Mr. Sands has his family tree traced by a phony in order to join an exclusive club. With Hans Conreid.

PS-80

"Little Bo Bop" 2.5.56 Susie tries to teach a bop musician to speak English so that Mr. Sands will sign him.

PS-81

"Old Dog, New Tricks"

2.19.56

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A director wants to hire Mary Higgins, the office cleaning lady, for his play. Susie must get things back to normal when the part goes to Mary's head. Martha Wentworth is introduced as Mary. PS-82

"Oh Brother!" 3.4.56 Susie convinces the producer of a This Is Your Life-type program to reunite the night watchman with his brother from Italy. Susie does not know the brothers have been feuding for over 20 years. With Ernest Sarracino, Harold Peary.

PS-83

"Cat on a Hot Tin File" 3.18.56 Susie has to hide a cat that appears in the office because an actress client is horribly allergic to cats. With Jean Parker, John Banner.

PS-84

"The Little Caesar of Bleeker Street" 4.1.56 When Susie's diamond ring is missing, all fingers point to a brash, young shoeshine boy whom Susie had been encouraging. With Harry Shearer.

PS-85

"Seven Ways to Fire" 4.15.56 When Susie overhears Mr. Sands talking about firing his club's assistant manager, Susie thinks she is ready to get the ax. With Lyle Talbot.

PS-86

"Passing the Buck" 4.29.56 Susie and Mr. Sands let a play slip through their hands when they procrastinate about reading it. With Frank Cady.

PS-87

"Too Good to Be True" 5.13.56 Susie tries to help Cagey Calhoun change his obnoxious ways so his client can get a role in a new play. With Norma Varden.

PS-88

"Susie's Crusade" 5.27.56 Susie fights with the new building manager because he fired Mary Higgins, the cleaning lady. Susie does not know that Mr. Sands needs to butter up the manager to renew his lease. With Martha Wentworth, Frank Nelson.

PS-89

"Elusive" 6.10.56 Susie tries to track down an elusive retired actress to convince her to appear in a play. With Virginia Christine.

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Ann Sothern FIFTH SEASON 1956-57 PS-90 "French Leave" 9.9.56 Mr. Sands loans Susie to a French producer so he will have the inside track on the producer's film. Mr. Sands does not count on Susie being loyal to her new boss. With Jacques Bergerac. PS-91

"All That Glitters" 9.16.56 Henry Hollis, now working on Wall Street, gives Susie a tip. She invests and fantasizes about being a financial wizard. With Franklin Pangborn.

PS-92

"The Reunion" 9.30.56 Susie feels insignificant after lunching with three old friends from high school. With Virginia O'Brien.

PS-93

"The Sow's Ear" 10.14.56 Susie teaches Cagey Calhoun some manners so he can win more clients. She does not expect her pupil to steal Mr. Sands's prize client, a British novelist.

PS-94

"How to Handle the Boss" 10.28.56 Susie gets a reporter friend who loves practical jokes to ghost write an article called "How to Handle the Boss." When he mistakenly submits a gag article, Susie tries to get it back before the presses roll. With John Archer.

PS-95

"What Every Secretary Knows" 11.11.56 Susie and a producer's wife scheme to unite Mr. Sands and the producer on a project, proving that the woman behind the man is important. With Madge Blake.

PS-96

"Dollars and Sense" 11.25.56 To curb her extravagant spending, Susie asks Vi and Mr. Sands to put her on an allowance.

PS-97

"Her Best Enemy" 12.9.56 Cagey Calhoun schemes to borrow a new contract written by Mr. Sands.

PS-98

"Three's a Crowd" 12.23.56 Susie disrupts the friendship of a producer and a playwright when both fall in love with her.

PS-99

"The Big Shot" 1.6.57 Tommy pretends to be an executive when as aspiring actress finds him alone in the office. He promises her a role as Venus, not knowing Mr. Sands is negotiating with an established

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actress. With Joe Flynn. The aspiring actress is played by Melissa Converse, Don Porter's step-daughter. PS-100 "That's No Lady - That's an Agent" (AKA "Susie the Saboteur") 1.20.57 Susie disguises herself as a Russian secretary to prevent a rival casting agent from stealing an opera star client. With Sig Ruman, Hillary Brooke. PS-101 "Not Quite Paradise" 2.3.57 Vi's Aunt Martha and her friend play matchmaker for Vi and Mr. Sands when he and Susie come for dinner. With Zasu Pitts, Hope Summers. PS-102 "The Efficiency Expert" 2.17.57 Mr. Sands hires an efficiency expert to straighten out the office as he considers merging the agency. With Raymond Bailey, Frank Nelson. PS-103 "Two and Two Make Five" (AKA "Two Plus Two") 3.3.57 As Mr. Sands searches for a voice for a new cartoon commercial, Susie has a bigger worry: the IRS wants to audit her return. With Mel Blanc. PS-104 "Thy Name Is Sands" 3.17.57 Susie tries to convince Mr. Sands that he needs glasses. With Frank Wilcox, Howard McNear. REVIEWS: New_J£gxk_JLimes_, 2.15.53: "Before Ann Sothern attained her highest fame in Hollywood, she played in many B pictures, but none could have been more unfortunate than Private Secretary....Not even her blonde feminine luster is enough to make one care about the contents of this exaggerated farce filmed in Hollywood." TV Guide, 4.9.54: "As with most TV comedy shows, the scripts often exaggerate situations to achieve humor but they seldom fall into a slapstick rut. And they sport some of the wittiest and most sophisticated dialogue on TV, all handled extremely well by Miss Sothern and her cohorts. Altogether, the show is one of TV's brighter comedies." See also B-100, B-350, B-351, B-352, B-353, B-354, B-355, B-356 NOTES: During the summer of 1953 and 1954, Private Secretary was rerun on NBC as Susie. It is under this

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title that the show is syndicated. Joseph Martorano left the series in 1954 and returned in 1956. In the interim, he changed his name to Joseph Corey and his character was promoted to office boy. TS-2 The Ann Sothern Show [AS] 10.6.58-9.25.61

CBS

com

93 black and white episodes

Executive producer: Desi Arnaz. Directors: Abby Berlin, Paul Harrison, Roger Kay, James V. Kern, Otto Lang, Sidney Miller, Oscar Rudolph, and Richard Whorf. Writers: Tom Adair, James Allardice, Ray Allen, Art Baer, Bob Barbash, Barry Blitzer, Dick Chevillat, Nancy Clark, Phil Davis, Mel Diamond, Izzy Elinson, Bob Fisher, Fred S. Fox, Benedict Freedman, Leonard Gershe, Barbara Hammer, Arthur Hoffe, Charles Isenberg, Ben Joelson, Ashe King, John Kohn, Alan Lipscott, Louella MacFarlane, Bill Manhoff, John Fenton Murray, George O'Hanlon, Arthur Phillips, Bob Ross, Terry Ryan, Bob Schiller, Tom Seller, Henry Sharp, Danny Simon, Ray Singer, Lee Solomon, Arne Sultan, Bob Van Scoyck, Bob Weiskopf, and Marvin Worth. CAST: Kathleen "Katy" O'Connor Jason Macauley, her boss (1958-59) Flora Macauley, Jason's overbearing wife (1958-59) Olive Smith, Katy's roommate and secretary Donald Carpenter, the hotel's resident rascal (1958) Johnny Wallace, bellhop (1958-59) Paul Martine, room clerk (1958) James Devery, Katy's boss (1959-61) Woody Hamilton, bellhop (1959-61) Tom Bartley, Chairman of the Board of the hotel (1958-59) Michel, hotel chef Alfred, room clerk Oscar Pudney, proprietor of the hotel cigar stand (1960-61) Richy Gordon, Katy's neighbor, a piano prodigy (1960-61) Dr. Delbert Gray, Olive's boy friend, a dentist (1960-61) Dr. Gray, Delbert's overprotective mother, a dentist (1960-61) Harold Fitch, room clerk (1961)

Ann Sothern Ernest Truex Reta Shaw Ann Tyrrell Barry Gordon Jack Mullaney Jacques Scott Don Porter Ken Berry Lester Matthews Paul Dubov Jack Wagner Jesse White Jimmy Fields Louis Nye Gladys Hurlbut James Millhollin

Katy O'Connor is assistant manager of the Bartley House, a luxury hotel in New York City. She shares an apartment with

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her secretary, Olive Smith. Plots center on the running of the hotel and the girls's personal lives. During the first season the hotel is managed by Jason Macauley, a hen-pecked little man who calls Katy "the best darned assistant manager I ever had." After Macauley is transferred to Calcutta, James Devery becomes manager. His rapport with Katy is both stern and affectionate. In the last episode he proposes to Katy. FIRST SEASON 1958-59 AS-1 "Two Too Many" (AKA "The Bridal Suite") 10.6.58 Complications arise when Katy gives the bridal suite to a young pair of newlyweds and Mr. Macauley assigns the same room to his wife's newlywed friends. With Connie Stevens, El via Allman. This is the series's pilot. AS-2

"Six Wives Plus Two" 10.13.58 A maharajah checks into the Bartley House and gives Mr. Macauley one of his six wives when the manager saves his life.

AS-3

"Love Comes to Olive" 10.20.58 Katy tries to discourage Olive's crush on Paul the desk clerk. With Frank Behrens.

AS-4

"Governess for a Day" 10.27.58 Katy tries to calm nine-year old Donald Carpenter while Mr. Macauley prepares for an award. With Raymond Bailey.

AS-5

"Masquerade Ball" 11.3.58 During a masquerade ball, thieves crack the hotel safe and steal a millionaire's jewels. Katy dons a dark wig in an effort to catch the thieves and clear her name. With Frank Faylen, Selmer Jackson, Wally Cassell, Stanley Adams.

AS-6

"New Lease on Life" 11.10.58 When Katy's friends convince her that she dominates Olive, Katy decides to move. She enlists the help of a Latin American band in breaking her lease. With Jose Gonzalez-Gonzalez, Kathleen Freeman, Frank Behrens, Howard McNear, the Guadalajara Boys.

AS-7

"Countess of Bartley" 11.17.58 A Duchess tries to play matchmaker for her playboy nephew, a Count, and Katy. With Gladys Cooper, Alan Marshall.

AS-8

"The Thanksgiving Story" 11.24.58 Katy suspects Donald Carpenter has taken up with

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Ann Sothern a gang of delinquents. When she learns he has formed an orchestra, Katy tries to get them a job at the hotel. Ann Sothern and Barry Gordon perform "Thanks for Everything," with music by Miss Sothern, and lyrics by Mel Diamond and John Kohn. With Danny Richards, Jr., Don Grady. Richards had a recurring role on Private Secretary as Harold Lemaire. AS-9

"Say It with Music" 12.1.58 Katy tries to help Mrs. Macauley impress her women's club by persuading a temperamental cellist to entertain at their meeting. With Leo Fuchs.

AS-10

"The Big Gamble" 12.8.58 While the Macauleys are on vacation, Katy is left in charge. She unknowingly lends their room to a lady gambler who starts a poker game. With Ross Martin, George O'Hanlon. Sylvia Field, who plays the gambler, was the real-life wife of Ernest Truex.

AS-11

"It's a Dog's Life" 12.15.58 The Bartley House staff are surprised by Donald Carpenter's good behavior. They do not know he is breaking hotel rules by keeping a dog. With Alice White, Sid Tomack.

AS-12

"The Boss's Son" 12.22.58 The playboy son of the Bartley House founder chases Katy while in town to inspect the hotel. With Frederick Ford.

AS-13

"The East Side Story" 12.29.58 Katy allows a longtime employee to persuade her into hiring his near-delinquent son as a bellhop. When things begin disappearing, the boy seems to be the guilty party. With Mark Damon. Ernest Sarracino, the father, had a recurring role on Private Secretary as the night watchman.

AS-14

"Johnny Moves Up" 1.5.59 When Johnny's mother visits, he convinces the hotel staff to pretend he is the assistant manager so she will not be disappointed at his position. With Frances Bavier, John Abbott, Sid Melton, Charles Lane.

AS-15

"Give It Back to the Indians" 1.12.59 After Katy champions the cause of the American Indian on a radio program, an influential board member demands she be fired. Eleanor Audley is

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introduced as the wealthy Mrs. Thompson. AS-16

"Three Loves Has Katy" 1.19.58 Katy fantasizes about marriage when her three college boy friends come to the hotel for a reunion. With John Beal, Philip Reed, Gordon Jones.

AS-17

"Five Year Itch" 1.26.59 Katy searches for a replacement so she can go on an extended vacation. She ends up playing matchmaker for her over-efficient replacement.

AS-18

"Hurrah for the Irish" 2.2.59 After winning the sweepstakes, Katy's Irish uncle Sean visits and buys her a fur coat. With Cecil Kellaway.

AS-19

"O'Connors Stick Together" 2.9.59 When Katy learns that her uncle Sean and his brother are feuding, she schemes to reunite them in a common cause: preventing her from marrying an Englishman. With Cecil Kellaway, Terrence De Marnay.

AS-20

"The High Cost of Living" 2.16.59 Katy and Olive lose their friends when they try to beat the high cost of living by hiring a financial consultant. With Helen Wallace, Mary Treen, Natalie Masters.

AS-21

"Two on the Aisle" 2.23.59 When a press agent sends Katy two tickets to a hit musical, she must decide which of her friends should accompany her. With Joseph Kearns, Edward Hemmer.

AS-22

"Stand-in Heiress" 3.2.59 Katy pretends to have a large inheritance to prove to her friend, a wealthy widow, that her fiance is only after her money. With Marguerite Chapman, Sid Melton.

AS-23

"Katy's Big Surprise" 3.9.59 When Mr. Macauley is transferred to the Calcutta Bartley House, he persuades Katy to take over as manager. They do not know that Tom Bartley has already chosen a replacement. Don Porter is introduced as James Devery. This is the last episode with Ernest Truex and Reta Shaw.

AS-24

"Katy's New Boss" 3.23.59 Katy tries to take matters into her own hands when she thinks Mr. Devery is too hard on the

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Ann Sothern staff.

Paul Dubov is introduced as Michel.

Originally scheduled for 3.16.59. AS-25

"The Road to Health" 3.30.59 Mr. Devery embarks on an extensive diet and exercise program to impress a younger woman.

AS-26

"The Engagement Ring" 4.6.59 When Mr. Devery gives Katy his mother's ring so that she can have its setting changed, the hotel staff think Katy and the boss are engaged. ' With Lester Matthews.

AS-27

"Katy's Investment Club" 4.13.59 Katy buys speculative stock when she is entrusted with funds from the staff's investment club. With Lyle Talbot, Jim Nolan.

AS-28

"The Square Peg" 4.20.59 The hotel staff worry when Mr. Devery orders psychological tests to increase efficiency. With David Opatashu.

AS-29

"Geisha Girl" 4.27.59 Tired of doing menial chores for Mr. Devery, Katy decides to hire a houseboy. She is not prepard for the beautiful, efficient geisha girl she gets instead.

AS-30

"The Ugly Bonnet" 5.4.59 To show his gratitude for her hard work, Mr. Devery buys Katy a hat. She returns the ugly headgear, only to learn he wants her to wear it to lunch with him. With Irene Hervey, Peter Leeds.

AS-31

"The Raise" 5.11.59 Mr. Devery promises to train Mrs. Thompson's nephew in exchange for a seat on the board of directors. He does not know the nephew dislikes the hotel business and wants a career in aviation. With Eleanor Audley, Carlton Carpenter.

AS-32

"Springtime for Katy" 5.18.59 When Mr. Devery treats Katy like one of the boys, she plots to make him aware of her femininity by dating a handsome, playboy actor. With Patrick O'Neal.

AS-33

"Katy Goes Through Channels" 6.1.59 Mr. Devery applies military techniques to operating the hotel in order to win the Bartley

Television Trophy for efficient operations. Soule, Joe deReda.

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With Olan

AS-34

"A Promotion for Johnny" 6.8.59 Johnny overhears a conversation about his promotion and mistakenly thinks he is going to be fired. With Helen Kleeb. Richard Reeves, who plays the bartender, has a recurring role as the doorman in later episodes.

AS-35

"A Baby at the Bartley House" 6.15.59 When their neighbor is late returning from a trip, Katy and Olive must take her baby to work with them. With Paul Dubov, Nora O'Mahoney.

SECOND SEASON 1959-60 AS-36 "The Lucy Show" 10.5.59 When Katy's friend, Lucy Ricardo, visits the hotel, Lucy plays matchmaker for Katy and Mr. Devery. Lucille Ball plays her I Love Lucy character. Ironically, Lucy Ricardo is also a friend of Ann Sothern's previous TV incarnation Susie MacNamara. Miss Sothern guested on The Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Show on 11.6.57 (T-13). AS-37

"Katy and the Cowboy" (AKA "The Guy Madison Story") 10.12.59 Katy tries to make Mr. Devery jealous by taking a rodeo headliner to a hotel opening. With Guy Madison, Merry Anders, and rodeo luminaries Casey Tibbs, Harley May, Dean Oliver, and Mo Sagers. This episode was suggested by Don Porter, a real-life western aficionado. He was disappointed when Mr. Devery did not get to ride a horse.

AS-38

"Katy and Olive's Nervous Breakdown" (AKA "Nervous Breakup") 10.19.59 After Katy and Olive have a misunderstanding, Katy runs through a series of roommates. With Alice Backes, Gloria Robertson, Marge Redmond. Jan Englund is introduced as Katy's friend, Marion.

AS-39

"Domestic Katy" (AKA "Domesti-Katy") 10.26.59 After a visit from a happily married friend, Katy tries to be more domestic.

AS-40

"Sal Mineo" 11.2.59 Katy helps a young musician and his girl friend get married, despite Mr. Devery's opposition to the match. With Sal Mineo, Denise Alexander. Sal Mineo performed "Chicken Cacciatore," "Take

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Ann Sothern Off Your Shoes," and "You're Crushing My Duster," with music by Ann Sothern and lyrics by Ian Bernard. AS-41

"The Big Payoff" 11.16.59 A Bartley House vice president fires Katy for accepting a bribe when she receives a mink stole from the company that won the hotel's air conditioning contract. With Tol Avery, Peter Leeds.

AS-42

"Old Buddy Boy" 11.23.59 Mr. Devery's college rival tries to convince Katy to become his assistant manager at the Honolulu Bartley House. With Mark Dana.

AS-43

"Queen for a Night" 11.30.59 Katy arranges a blind date for Olive with a friend of Mr. Devery.

AS-44

"Katy and the New Girl" 12.7.59 While Olive is on vacation, her unscrupulous replacement tries to steal Katy's job. With Eva Gabor, Jan Englund.

AS-45

"Katy's Tender Trap" 12.14.59 A recently married friend of Mr. Devery convinces him that Katy's friendly ministrations mean she wants to marry him.

AS-46

"Top Executive" 12.21.59 Katy is suspicious of an aggressive journalist who claims to be writing an article on Mr. Devery while sponging off the hotel. With Jayne Meadows.

AS-47

"Katy Mismanages" 12.28.59 While Mr. Devery is on vacation, Katy is left in charge of the hotel where her friends take advantage of her. With Jack Wagner, Olan Soule, Herb Vigran.

AS-48

"Woman Behind the Throne" 1.4.60 As Katy tries to persuade the female members of the Executive Club to vote for Mr. Devery for president, she gets herself nominated as his opponent. With John Emery, Harriet MacGibbon, Herb Vigran.

AS-49

"Slightly Married" 1.11.60 In order to provide a temporary home for a runaway orphan boy, Katy pretends she is married. With Charles Herbert, Frank Behrens.

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AS-50

"Devery's White Elephant" 1.18.60 Katy tries to impress a wealthy Alaskan widow in hopes that she will rent an expensive suite at the hotel. With Verna Felton.

AS-51

"Katy's New Career" 1.25.60 Disgusted with long hours and short pay, Katy quits her job and goes to work for a loan company. Jesse White, Private Secretary's Cagey Calhoun, appears as Katy's new boss. He later became a regular on The Ann Sothern Show as another character.

AS-52

"The Witness" 2.1.60 Katy and Olive try to convince a couple to drop their lawsuit against Mr. Devery after he hits their car. The girls's fear increases when they realize they forgot to renew Mr. Devery's insurance. With Jack Albertson, Lurene Tuttle.

AS-53

"The Dog Who Came to Dinner" 2.8.60 A stray puppy disrupts Katy and Olive's friendship. Olive wants to keep it, but she makes Katy do all the work. Howard McNear is introduced as their neighbor.

AS-54

"Olive's Dream Man" 2.15.60 Olive's friends think she is telling stories when she raves about her new boy friend. With Joe E. Brown, Doris Singleton, Hollis Irving, John Archer.

AS-55

"A Touch of Larceny" 2.22.60 Katy wants her neighbor to run the hotel's new cigar stand, but Mr. Devery is taken by the charming but unscrupulous Oscar Pudney. With Howard McNear. Jesse White is introduced as Oscar.

AS-56

"Common Cents" 2.29.60 Olive's anxiety over a date with a handsome stranger causes her to have a mental block over a financial matter with Katy.

AS-57

"The Freeloader" 3.14.60 Oscar Pudney tries to pass off his parasitic cousin as a wealthy South American cattleman in order to sponge off the hotel. With Robert Strauss.

AS-58

"Billy" 3.21.60 Katy helps a talented bellhop audition for a producer who is staying at the hotel. With Joel Grey, Jack Albertson. Grey sings "This Is My

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Ann Sothern Lucky Day" and duets with Ann Sothern on "Everybody Loves a Lover." AS-59

"I Can Get It for You Wholesale" 3.28.60 When Katy and Olive decide to buy a piano, Oscar Pudney offers to get it for them wholesale. With Edward Brophy.

AS-60

"Katy Meets Danger" 4.4.60 When the hotel is hit by a series of mysterious robberies, Katy hires a detective named Johnny Danger. With James Daly.

AS-61

"Roman Hatter" 4.11.60 When a young Italian hat designer cannot pay his hotel bill, Katy helps him sell one of his creations. With Fay Baker, Grady Sutton, Nico Minardos, Florence MacMichael.

AS-62

"Surprise, Surprise" 4.18.60 Katy feigns illness so she can prepare a surprise birthday party for Mr. Devery. He spoils the surprise by calling the house physician. With Gage Clark. Jackie Coogan is introduced as Barney, the house electrician.

AS-63

"One for the Books" 4.25.60 The hotel's two oldest residents think the Bartley House is haunted so Katy tries to rid the hotel of its poltergeist. With Estelle Winwood, Jesalyn Fax, Mary Treen.

AS-64

"Doubting Devery" 5.2.60 A fast-talking salesman convinces Mr. Devery that several employees are getting pay offs from a rival hotel.

AS-65

"Boy Genius" 5.9.60 Katy and Olive help their newspaper boy when they learn the musical prodigy gave up his lessons to support his widowed mother and sisters. With Audrey Totter, Raymond Bailey. Jimmy Fields is introduced as Richy Gordon.

AS-66

"Wedding March" 5.16.60 Olive accepts a proposal from Barney, the house electrician, not knowing he asked her on the rebound. With Jackie Coogan, Rebecca Richman, Grady Sutton, Paul Dubov.

AS-67

"Angels" 5.23.60 Katy convinces the hotel employees to invest in a Broadway show. With Guy Mitchell, who sings "I Fell in Love Today."

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RD SEASON 1960-61 68 "A Tooth for a Tooth" 10.6.60 Olive would rather suffer with a toothache than see a dentist - until Katy introduces her to Dr. Delbert Gray. With Winnie Coffin. Louis Nye is introduced as Delbert and Gladys Hurlbut is introduced as his mother. 69 "Loving Arms" 10.13.60 Katy permits a TV writer to do his research for a series about a hotel at the Bartley House, despite contrary orders from Mr. Devery. With Van Johnson. Patricia Ann Sterling, Ann Sothern's daughter, makes her acting debut as a teenage guest. 70 "The Girls" 10.20.60 Katy hides her success from two former sorority sisters, not realizaing that one is now an actress and the other is a millionaire's wife. With Janis Paige, Jeff Donnell. 71 "Pinch Hitter" 10.27.6 Richy Gordon wants to join the neighborhood baseball team, but the other boys think the pianist is a sissy. 72 "Olive in Love" 11.3.60 Olive asks Katy's help in getting Dr. Gray to notice more than her teeth. With Gladys Hurlbut, Winnie Coffin. 73 "Go Go Gordon" 11.10.60 Oscar Pudney tries to convince Richy Gordon to give up the classics for a career in rock and roll. With Chick Chandler. 74 "Hasta Luego" 11.17.6 When awakened by a loud racket from the apartment upstairs, Katy discovers a talented troupe of flamenco dancers and their handsome manager. With Cesar Romero, Stacey Keach, Sr. 75 "The Proposal" 11.24.60 Frustrated by Dr. Gray's reluctance to propose, Olive and Katy try reversing Mr. Devery's theory on how to avoid marriage. With Paul Dubov. 76 "Secret Admirer" 12.1.60 When Oscar Pudney realizes that Katy and Mr. Devery want to take away his lease, Pudney schemes to change Katy's mind by becoming her secret admirer. With Norma Varden, George O'Hanlon.

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Ann Sothern AS-77

"Option Time" 12.8.60 When Mr. Devery uses a better offer as a bargaining tool in his contract negotiations, his plan backfires and he is forced to take another job.

AS-78

"Setting the Date" 12.15.60 Olive is puzzled by Dr. Gray's reluctance to set a wedding date - until she learns that his mother does not know about the engagement.

AS-79

"The Other Woman" 12.22.60 Katy is concerned about Richy Gordon's need to earn more money so he can spend it on a ten-year-old gold digger.

AS-80

"The Elopement" 12.29.60 Anxious for Olive to marry Dr. Gray, Katy and Mr. Devery make separate plans for an elopement. With Gladys Hurlbut.

AS-81

"Operation Pudney" 1.5.61 Katy is suspicious that Oscar Pudney is working a racket at the hotel. She does not know that he is taking up a collection to buy her a coveted watch. With Alice Pearce, Paul Dubov.

AS-82

"Mr. Big Shot" 1.19.61 Katy convinces the staff to pretend that Woody is an executive for the duration of his hometown girl friend's visit. With Taffy Paul [Stefanie Powers], James Millhollin.

AS-83

"Toujour L'Amour" 1.26.61 When Dr. Gray insists on spending the honeymoon at Camp Winamega instead of Paris, Olive decides he lacks continental charm. Katy enlists the help of Mr. Devery to teach Dr. Gray to be more suave.

AS-84

"The Royal Visit" 2.2.61 Mr. Devery mistakes a loyal secretary for a princess and allows her to break the hotel's "No Pets" rule. With Eva Gabor.

AS-85

"Just Friends" 2.9.61 When Katy and Mr. Devery mistakenly think the other is lonely, both set out to entertain the other. With Paul Dubov, William Kendis.

AS-86

"The Widow" 2.16.61 Katy and Mr. Devery try to halt a romance between gold digging Oscar Pudney and a wealthy widow. With Lurene Tuttle.

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AS-87

"Always April" 2.23.61 Constance Bennett and John Emery play the overly-theatrical parents of an aspiring actress who runs away to the Bartley House. With Susan Silo, Marty Ingels, Leonid Kinskey, Minta Durfee. This episode was an unsold pilot for a series about a young actress.

AS-88

"Two's Company" 3.2.61 Olive asks for Katy and Mr. Devery's help in convincing Dr. Gray that their apartment is not big enough for his mother.

AS-89

"Vamp Till Ready" 3.9.61 Katy gets involved in a love triangle when she promises to entertain Dr. Gray while Olive is out of town.

AS-90

"Pandora" 3.16.61 Katy goes to Hollywood to help an actor find a secretary. She hires Pandora, an unsophisticated girl from the midwest. With Pat Carroll, Guy Mitchell. This episode was a pilot for an unsold series.

AS-91

"The Wedding" 3.23.61 As Olive and Dr. Gray prepare for their wedding in the hotel ballroom, they have trouble convincing Dr. Gray's mother to attend. With James Millhollin.

AS-92

"The Beginning" 3.30.61 Olive is so happily married that she tries to convince Katy to marry Mr. Devery. Dr. Gray overhears and warns Mr. Devery of the plan to snare him. With Alice Pearce.

AS-93

"The Invitation" 9.4.61 Oscar Pudney makes eleborate preparations for Olive's wedding, then discovers he has not been invited. With George O'Hanlon. This episode was not aired during the regular season, but ran for the first time during the summer reruns. It was scheduled between "The Royal Visit" and "Pandora."

REVIEWS: Variety, 10.8.58: "[Ann Sothern] is an actress of charm, and blessed with a superlative sense of timing and a uniformly excellent bunch of loons in support. Miss Sothern's new stanza was a first night click." TV Guide, 3.14.59:

"If you liked the old Sothern show,

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then you'll like the new. It's a situation comedy with better-than-average scripts and some bright, likeable performers. Miss Sothern, of course, is the brightest and most likeable." See also B-50, B-51 NOTE: The Ann Sothern Show was jointly produced by Anso Productions and Desilu, companies owned by Ann Sothern, Lucille Ball, and Desi Arnaz. TS-3 The Lucy Show [LS] 10.1.65-9.16.68

com CBS

157 color episodes

Producers: Jack Donohue and Tommy Thompson. Based on the book Life without George by Irene Kampen. Directors: Jack Donohue and Maury Thompson. Writers: Edmund Beloin, Jerry Belson, Dick Chevalliat, Leonard Gershe, Garry Marshall, and P.A. Singer CAST: Lucy Carmichael Vivian Bagley, Lucy's friend and housemate Theodore J. Mooney, Lucy's banker Countess Framboise, Lucy's old friend Jerry Carmichael, Lucy's son Chris Carmichael, Lucy's daughter Sherman Bagley, Vivian's son

Lucille Ball Vivian Vance Gale Gordon Ann Sothern Jimmy Garrett Candy Moore Ralph Hart

Lucy Carmichael is a widow with a penchant for getting into trouble, usually involving Theodore Mooney, a stuffy bank vice president. Lucy's old school friend, Rosie Harrigan, returns as the widowed Countess Framboise. Despite her title, she is broke. Lucy tries to help the Countess regain her financial position, much to Mr. Mooney's consternation. LS-1

"Lucy and the Countess" 2.1.65 Anxious to impress the visiting Countess Framboise, Mr. Mooney invites her and Lucy to a meeting of the local wine-tasting society. With Carole Cook, Sid Gould.

LS-2

"My Fair Lucy" 2.8.65 In an effort to find a backer to open a charm school, Lucy poses as the Countess's successful pupil. With Reta Shaw, Byron Foulger. Shaw was a regular on The Ann Sothern Show during its first season.

LS-3

"Lucy and the Countess Lose Weight" 2.15.65 When a health farm to which Mr. Mooney loaned

Television

149

money begins to fail, he pays Lucy and the Countess to publicize it. LS-4

"Lucy and the Old Mansion" 3.1.65 When the Countess needs a place to entertain visiting nobility without cost, Lucy and Viv help her repair a dilapidated mansion. With Lester Matthews, who had played Tom Bartley, chairman of the hotel board, on The Ann Sothern Show.

LS-5

"Lucy and the Countess Have a Horse Guest" 10.25.65 Lucy and the Countess try to race her late husband's racehorse. With William Frawley.

LS-6

"Lucy Helps the Countess" 11.8.65 Lucy and the Countess, now a real estate agent, try to rent Mr. Mooney a new apartment.

LS-7

"Lucy and the Undercover Agent" 11.22.65 After viewing a James Bond movie, Lucy and the Countess follow a suspicious-looking bearded man they spot in a restaurant. With Jack Cassidy, Parley Barr.

NOTE: During 1965, Ann Sothern made seven appearances on Lucille Ball's long-running series. The two actresses had worked together in the movies and on each other's television series in the 1950s. TS-4 My Mother the Car [MMC] 9.14.65-9.6.66

NBC

com 30 color episodes

Producer: Rod Amateau. Creators: Allan Burns and Chris Hayward. Directors: Rod Amateau, David Davis, Sidney Miller, Tom Montgomery, and James Sheldon. Writers: John Barbour, Lou Breslow, James L. Brooks, Allan Burns, Phil Davis, Frank Fox, Lila Garrett, Chris Hayward, Bernie Kahn, George Kirgo, Tom Koch, Arnold Margolin, Whitney Mitchell, Jim Parker, Mitch Persons, and Alan Woods. CAST: Dave Crabtree Mother (Agatha Crabtree) Barbara Crabtree, Dave's wife Randy Crabtree, their son Cindy Crabtree, their daughter Captain Manzini, a devious antique car aficionado who wants to add Mother to his collection

Jerry Van Dyke Ann Sothern (voice) Maggie Pierce Randy Whipple Cindy Eilbacher Avery Schreiber

150

Ann Sothern Doc Bensen/Gi1lespie, auto mechanic

Harry Hoi combe

When Los Angeles lawyer Dave Crabtree goes to a used car lot to purchase a station wagon, he discovers a 1928 Porter touring car that claims to be the reincarnation of his mother. Because the car speaks only to him, Dave must conceal his mother's identity. Episodes involve Captain Manzini's attempts to steal the car to complete his collection of antique automobiles. MMC-1

"Come Honk Your Horn" 9.14.65 Dave Crabtree buys a decrepit 1928 Porter that claims to be the reincarnation of his mother. Despite the objections of his wife and the persistence of an antique car collector, Dave decides to keep Mother. The pilot syndicated in Canada is longer than the pilot aired in the United States.

MMC-2

"The Defenders" 9.21.65 Dave worries about Mother's safety when car-strippers strike the neighborhood. With Bill Daily.

MMC-3

"What Makes Auntie Freeze?" 9.28.65 On a trip to the mountains, Mother's anti-freeze causes her to get higher and higher. With Alvy Moore.

MMC-4

"Lassie...I Mean, Mother, Come Home!" 10.5.65 Mother rolls into a van bound for Mexico when Dave forgets to set her parking brake.

MMC-5

"Burned at the Steak" 10.12.65 Mother urges Dave to patch the quarrel between their newlywed neighbors. With Chuck Grodin, Lee Van Cleef.

MMC-6

"I'm Through Being a Nice Guy" 10.19.65 Captain Manzini tries to replace the Porter with an exact replica so he can add Mother to his col lection.

MMC-7

"Lights, Camera, Mother" 10.26.65 When the neighbors start a petition for Dave to get rid of his antique eyesore, he gets even by starring Mother in a TV commercial. With Stanley Adams, Peter Leeds.

MMC-8

"The Captain Manzini Grand Prix" 11.2.65 Captain Manzini tries to win Mother by challenging Dave to a race against England's foremost distance walker.

Television MMC-9

151

"TV or Not TV" 11.9.65 Mother wants Dave to buy her a color TV for the garage. With Harold Peary.

MMC-10 "My Son, the Ventriloquist" 11.16.65 In order to afford air conditioners for his family, Dave must land the account of extravagant Franklin Hotchkiss. With Harold Peary. MMC-11 "My Son, the Judge" 11.23.65 Mother counsels Dave on how to impress two local politicians who are interviewing prospects for a judgeship in domestic relations court. With Florida Friebus. MMC-12 "And Leave the Drive-in to Us" 11.30.65 Mother wants Dave to take her to a drive-in movie for her birthday. With Sonny Tufts, Frank Faylen, Herbie Faye. MMC-13 "For Whom the Horn Honks" 12.7.65 Mother warns Dave to be suspicious when he hears that Captain Manzini is dying. MMC-14 "Hey Lady, Your Slip Isn't Showing" 12.14.65 There are too many mothers on the scene when Dave's mother-in-law comes for a visit. With Paula Winslowe. MMC-15 "Many Happy No Returns" 12.21.65 When Mother learns that Dave plans to let Barbara chose her own Christmas gift, Mother is furious. MMC-16 "Shine On, Shine On, Honeymoon" 12.28.65 Despite a warning from Barbara's astrology-buff mother, the Crabtrees decide to take their belated honeymoon. MMC-17 "I Remember Mama, Why Can't You Remember Me?" 1.4.66 Mother gets amnesia after a collision with a truck. MMC-18 "Goldporter" 1.11.66 Captain Manzini hopes his uncle's new hypnotic drug will make Dave sell him the Porter. With Milton Frome. MMC-19 "The Incredible Shrinking Car" 1.18.66 If Dave refuses to sell Captain Manzini his car the Captain threatens to use a molecular compressor on it and shrink Mother to the size

152

Ann Sothern of a toy. MMC-20 "I'd Rather Do It Myself, Mother" 1.25.66 Dave hires an unbearably efficient maid to help Barbara with the housework. With Marge Redmond. MMC-21 "You Can't Get There from Here" 2.1.66 Dave discovers that his driver's license expired when he is stopped by a sheriff while driving the kids to camp. MMC-22 "Riddler on the Roof" 2.8.66 Mother tries to stop the assassination of a visiting dignitary after over-hearing three thugs plotting. With Stanley Clements, Jose Gonzalez-Gonzalez. MMC-23 "My Son, the Criminal" 2.15.66 When the mailman sees Dave cementing the garage floor and hears him muttering about Mother, the mailman suspects Dave has killed his mother. With Byron Foulger, Jim Sikking. MMC-24 "An Unreasonable Facsimile" 2.22.66 Manzini disguises a Swedish sailor to look like Dave in another effort to steal Mother. MMC-25 "Over the Hill to the Junkyard" 3.1.66 Mother's fate looks bleak when Barbara wins a limosine in a supermarket drawing. With Charlie Bril1, Dick Wilson. MMC-26 "It Might as Well Be Spring as Not" 3.8.66 When Mother and a wealthy gentleman have mutual love at first sight, the millionaire offers Dave a limonsine and chauffeur in exchange for his car. With Frank Faylen. MMC-27 "Absorba the Greek" 3.15.66 Mother is suspicious when a prudish building owner seeks Dave's help in closing a notorious nightclub. MMC-28 "The Blabbermouth" 3.22.66 Exhausted from overwork, Dave lets it slip that the Porter is his mother. MMC-29 "When You Wish Upon a Car" 3.29.66 Mother allows her grandchildren to think that she can grant wishes like Aladdin's lamp. With Kelly Van Dyke, Jerry Van Dyke's daughter. MMC-30 "Desperate Minutes" 4.5.66 A jewel thief and his moll hide out in the

Television Crabtree home. Bain.

153

With Robert Strauss, Barbara

REVIEWS: Variety, 9.22.65: "Miss Sothern's voice portrayal is bland, a circumstance again attributable to the writers who have made her a disembodied 'Maisie' instead of the sprite-1ike-bewitched-on-wheels character called for." TV Guide, 12.4.65: "Ann Sothern... pi ays His Mother's Voice. Otherwise, she, too, is blameless." See also B-304 NOTES: According to producer Rod Amateau, the Porter was named after Don Porter, an "in joke" honoring Ann Sothern's co-star on her two 1950s series. Jean Arthur and Eve Arden had auditioned for the role of Mother. COMPLETE LI STING...QF__TELEVIj> ION GUEST APPEARANCES T-l

The Fred Waring Show

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12.16.51

Variety show hosted by Fred Waring. television debut. T-2

Schlitz Playhouse of Stars 2.1.52 CBS

ep

CBS

Ann Sothern made her "Lady with a Will"

Anthology. Ann Sothern starred as a spinsterish housekeeper whose employer left her his fortune so she could rid their town of corrupt politicians. REVIEW: Ya_r.iety./ 2.6.52: "Ann Sothern made her video dramatic bow Friday night as star of 'Lady with a Will' on CBS-TV's Schlitz Playhouse of Stars, evidencing again that an actress schooled in films and/or legit can make the switch to TV with ease....Whi1e she may no longer be the 'Maisie' of her Metro film series, she looked beauteous enough." T-3

Hollywood Opening Night 10.13.52 NBC

Anthology. drama. T~4

ep

"Let George Do It"

Ann Sothern starred with Richard Egan in this

What's My Line?

gm

8.30.53

CBS

Ann Sothern was mystery guest on this game show hosted by John Daly. Panelists were Arlene Francis, Bennett Cerf, Dorothy Killgallen, and Steve Allen.

154 T-5

Ann Sothern The Red Skelton Show

var

12.1.53

CBS

Variety series hosted by Red Skelton. Ann Sothern appeared in a skit as Daisy June with Skelton as Clem Kodiddlehopper. T-6

Lady in the Dark color

sp

9.25.54

NBC

90 minutes

Producer: Max Liebman. Directors: Max Liebman and Jeffrey Hayden. Associate producer-director: Bill Hobin. Choreographer: Rod Alexander. Book: Moss Hart. Adaptation: Billy Friedberg and Max Liebman. Music: Kurt Weill. Lyrics: Ira Gershwin. Musical director: Charles Sanford. CAST: Ann Sothern (Liza Elliott), Shepperd Strudwick (Dr. Brooks), Luella Gear (Maggie Grant), Carleton Carpenter (Russell Paxton), James Daly (Charley Johnson), Paul McGrath (Kendall Nesbitt), Robert Fortier (Randy Carver), Bambi Linn, Rod Alexander (Dancers). SYNOPSIS: Liza Elliott is a magazine editor who has trouble making up her mind about her job and her love life. In her dreams, she is the epitome of glamour and organization. Liza turns to psychiatry to help put her life in order. REVIEWS: New York Times, 9.27.54: "...Ann Sothern turned in a charming performance as a fashion magazine editor undergoing psychoanalysis. The production made enormous demands upon her, both physically and mentally, but every moment that she was on stage - and that was most of the time - she was in complete control of her assignment." New York Journal, 9.28.54: "Nor are we entirely certain Ann Sothern was precisely the proper lady in the dark...Miss Sothern couldn't be butchy and unfeminine any more than Marilyn Monroe could." See also D-17, D-18, B-124 NOTES: Ann Sothern sang "One Life to Live," "It Looks Like Liza," "This Is New," "The Woman at the Altar," "The Best Years of Her Life," "The Saga of Jenny," and "My Ship." This color adaptation of the Broadway musical was the second in a series of spectaculars produced by Max Liebman. Gertrude Lawrence starred in the original Broadway production; Lady in the Dark was filmed in 1944 with Ginger Rogers. T-7

The Milton Berle Show 10.18.55 NBC

ep

"State of Confusion"

Television

155

Comedy series hosted by Milton Berle. Berle and Ann Sothern portrayed Hector and Flora Sibley, a larcenous couple who are forced to flee their Chicago bookmaking spot. After they change their names and establish themselves in political offices in another state, their nemesis tracks them down and sets up shop next door. With Robert Strauss, Grady Sutton. "State of Confusion" was an original comedy by Gore Vidal. T-8

The Loretta Young Show 12.11.55 NBC

ep

"Man in the Ring"

Anthology hosted by Ann Sothern, substituting for the ailing Loretta Young. T-9

Fpjr_d._Theat_re

ep

"With No Regrets"

2.20.57

ABC

Anthology. Ann Sothern played Christine Emerson, an elderly principal who defends a student accused of arson. T-10 Washington Square

var

2.24.57

NBC

Variety series hosted by Ray Bolger. Ann Sothern sang "Walking the Beat," "Steppin' Out with My Baby" with Bolger, and joined the company for "Shake, Rattle and Roll." "Walking the Beat" was written for this performance by Bonnie Lake and Buddy Ebsen. T-ll The Steve Allen Show

var

5.19.57

NBC

Variety series hosted by Steve Allen. Ann Sothern sang the calypso hit "That's Right, Woman Is Smarter" and performed in a sketch with Allen. She joined guests Brenda Lee and Bert Lahr for the finale, "Be a Clown." T-12 The Perry Como Show

var

10.12.57

NBC

Variety series hosted by Perry Como. Ann Sothern joined guests Red Buttons, Miyoshi Umeki, Miko Taka, and the Bobettes. T-13 The Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Show Cruise to Havana" 11.6.57 CBS

ep

"Lucy Takes a

Comedy series starring Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz as their I Love Lucy characters, Lucy and Ricky Ricardo. When Hedda Hopper asks how Lucy and Ricky met, this episode flashes back to a Cuban cruise. Ann Sothern reprised her Private Secretary role as Susie MacNamara, a friend of Lucy's who joined her on the cruise. With Cesar Romero, Vivian Vance, William Frawley, Rudy Vallee. REVIEW: Variety., 11.13.57:

"It was full of pushbutton, visual

156

Ann Sothern

gags such as Rudy Vallee stripped down to striped underwear and jumping overboard on a cruise ship; a hilarious if over-extended tippling session by Miss Ball and guest Ann Sothern ...and an obvious under-upper on the ship back for the man-hunting Ball and Sothern." NOTE: Because the show was running overtime in rehearsals, producer Desi Arnaz negotiated with U.S. Steel, sponsor of the program following the Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Show, to cut their show by 15 minutes. Madelyn Davis, who co-wrote "Lucy Takes a Cruise to Havana" with Bob Carroll, Jr., said Arnaz was one of the few people who had the chutzpah to pull off the negotiation, allowing "Lucy Takes a Cruise to Havana" to run 75 minutes. T-14 Holiday in Las Vegas

sp

11.16.57

NBC

Variety special emanating from Las Vegas hosted by Ann Sothern. Written by Your Show of Shows writers Mel Tolkin, Lucille Kallen, and Neil Simon. Guests included Jayne Mansfield, Sammy Davis, Jr., Tony Randall, Vic Damone, and Mickey Hargitay. Ann Sothern sang "You Can't Do a Show without a Showgirl" and performed in the finale, "Holiday in Las Vegas." REVIEW: Ya^ieiY, 11.20.57: "Considering the talents recruited for the display, it was, for the most part, low-calibre vaudeo, played in a way which suggested that everybody involved couldn't wait to have it done with and get back to the dice tables." T-15 The Steve Allen Show

var

2.9.58

NBC

Variety series hosted by Steve Allen. Guests were Ann Sothern, Eydie Gorme, Steve Lawrence, Henny Youngman, Dinah Shore, Guy Bivona and his band, and Photoplay Award winners Rock Hudson, Deborah Kerr, Jerry Wald, Leo McCarey, Tony Randall, Taina Elg, Dolores Hart, and Robert Evans. T-16 Pe.r„spn_tp..Perspn

int

12.5.58

CBS

News/interview show hosted by Edward R. Murrow. A CBS press release said Ann Sothern discussed fishing, trap shooting, and cattle breeding during the interview in her home. T-17 The June AlJison Jhow CBS

ep

"Night Out"

11.23.59

Anthology hosted by June Allyson. Ann Sothern played Martha, a woman who decides to go on the town with her best friend after her husband forgets her anniversary. With Pat Carrol 1.

Television T-18 Desilu Playhouse CBS

ep

"Desilu Revue"

157

12.25.59

Variety special showcasing members of Lucille Ball's Desilu Workshop Theatre for aspiring performers. Among the celebrities present to cheer the aspirants were Ann Sothern, Hugh O'Brien, George Murphy, Rory Calhoun, and Lassie. T-19 The Andy Williams Show

var

1.31.63

NBC

Variety show hosted by Andy Williams. Ann Sothern sang "Baubles, Bangles and Beads" and joined the cast for a Bossa Nova finale. T-20 I've Got a Secret

gm

2.11.63

CBS

Game show hosted by Gary Moore in which panelists tried to guess a secret of the celebrity guest. Ann Sothern was a guest; panelists were Bess Myerson, Henry Morgan, Betsy Palmer, and Tony Perkins. T-21 The Price Is Right

gm

5.1.64

ABC

Game show hosted by Bill Cullen in which contestants guess prices to win prizes. Ann Sothern was a guest. T-22 The Celebrity Game

gm

6.28.64

CBS

Game show hosted by Carl Reiner. Ann Sothern, Vic Damone, Mort Sahl, Tippi Hedren, Fabian, Hedda Hopper, Roy Rogers, Dale Evans, and Art Linkletter were guests. T-23 The Celebrity Game

gm

8.2.64

CBS

Game show hosted by Carl Reiner. Ann Sothern joined guests Gary Crosby, Dennis Day, Hedda Hopper, George Jessel, Gypsy Rose Lee, Paul Lynde, Delia Reese, and Mickey Rooney. T-24 The Celebrity Game

gm

8.23.64

CBS

Game show hosted by Carl Reiner. Ann Sothern was on the panel with Rory Calhoun, Hedda Hopper, George Jessel, Marilyn Maxwell, Ken Murray, and Ronald Reagan. T-25 The Alfred Hitchcock Hour 10.19.64 NBC

ep

"Water's Edge"

Anthology hosted by Alfred Hitchcock. John Cassavettes played an ex-convict who thought his former cellmate's widow could tell him where the cellmate hid the loot from a robbery. Ann Sothern played Helen Krause, the widow. T-26 The Regis Philbin Show

int

10.26.64

NN

158

Ann Sothern

Talk show hosted by Regis Philbin. on the premiere episode.

Ann Sothern was a guest

REVIEW: Variety, 10.28.64: "Philbin and this week's guest, Ann Sothern, indulged in a conversational duet that ran much too long..." T-27 Insight

ep

"Boss Toad"

1964

NN

Religous anthology series. Ann Sothern played Fran Anderson, a woman caught between the conflict of her husband and her teenage son. With Brian Keith. T-28

Alumni Fun

gm

1.31.65

CBS

Game show hosted by Peter Lind Hayes in which celebrated alumni battled former students from an opposing college. Ann Sothern joined test pilot Scott Crossfield and Time magazine editor Thomas Griffith as representatives from the University of Washington. They competed against actor William Lundigan, executive Robert H. McCaffrey, and football star John Mackey from Syracuse University. T-2 9 Tjhe Legend of Jesse James 12.20.65 ABC

ep

"The Widow Fay"

Western starring Chris Jones. Ann Sothern played the widow Fay, who mistook Jesse for her missing son. With Stanley Adams. T-30 The Girl from UNCLE ep Affair" 2.14.67 NBC

"The Carpathian Killer

Adventure series starring Stefanie Powers, Noel Harrison, and Leo G. Carroll. Ann Sothern played Mother Magda, a soup manufacturer out to take over the world, in an adventure set in a borscht-circuit hotel. With Stan Freberg, Jack Cassidy, George Furth. T-31 The Outsider

tf/pt

11.21.67

NBC

120 minutes

Producer: Roy Huggins. Director: Michael Ritchie. Assistant director: Henry Kline. Teleplay: Roy Huggins. Photography: Bud Thackery. Music: Pete Rugalo. Art director: Frank Arrigo. Editors: Carl Pingitore and David Rawlins. Costume designer: Grady Hunt. CAST: Darren McGavin (David Ross), Sean Garrison (Collin Kenniston III), Shirley Knight (Peggy Leydon), Nancy Malone (Honora Dundas), Edmond O'Brien (Marvin Bishop), Ann Sothern (Mrs. Kozzeck), Joesph Wiseman (Ernest Grimes), Ossie Davis (Lieutenant Wagner),

Television

159

Audrey Totter (Mrs. Bishop), Mario Alcalde (Sergeant Delgado), Anna Hagan (Carol Dorfman), Mme. Spivy (Delia), Kent McCord (Officer Dutton). SYNOPSIS: David Ross, an ex-convict turned private investigator, is hired to find out if a young woman is embezzling from her employer. When her corpse and Ross's gun are found in his office, he becomes the chief suspect. This was the pilot for the 1968-69 series. REVIEW: Variety, 11.29.67: "This private eyewash...also served as a pilot for an upcoming series on the same web. And why anybody needed a pilot remains a mystery, since the ingredients are right out of an old recipe book." T-32

Family Affair

ep

"A Man's Place"

1.8.68

CBS

Comedy starring Brian Keith and Sebastian Cabot. Ann Sothern played Florence Cahill, a widow who persuades Mr. French to open a restaurant. T-33 Insight 10.5.69

ep NN

"Is the 11:59 Late This Year?"

Religous anthology series. Ann Sothern played a fading actress, one of five people considering taking a train to oblivion in this allegorical tale. With Howard Duff. T-34 Love American Style Bachelor" 12.22.69

ep "Love and the ABC

Comic anthology. Ann Sothern played the over-protective mother of Brandon de Wilde. Her son must talk her out of her hypochondria when bringing home his fiancee. T-35 The Men from Shi 1 oh ep "Legacy of Spencer Flats" 1.27.71 NBC Western starring Doug McLure as Trampas. Ann Sothern played Delia, a trigger-happy woman who, with her sister, mistakes Trampas for an escaped convict and imprisons him in a ghost town. With Carolyn Jones, Bradford Dillman, Edgar Buchanan. T-3 6 Congratulations, It's a Boy! 90 minutes

tf

9.21.71

ABC

Producer: Aaron Spelling. Director: William A. Graham. Teleplay: Stanley Z. Cherry. Photography: Arch R. Dalzell. Music: Basil Poledouris and Richard Baskin. Art director: Paul Sylos. Editor: Art Seid. CAST: Bill Bixby (Johnny Gaines), Diane Baker (Edye), Jack Albertson (Al Gaines), Ann Sothern (Ethel Gaines),

160

Ann Sothern Karen Jensen (Rhonda), Darrell Larson (B.J.), Tom Bosley (Herb), Jeff Donnell (Rose), Judy Strangis (Riva), Robert H. Harris (Ben Beigleman).

SYNOPSIS: Johnny Gaines is a carefree bachelor whose meddling parents are out to find him a mate. Johnny's life is disrupted when 17-year-old B.J. shows up on his doorstep, claiming to be Johnny's son. B.J. helps Johnny re-examine his life and get out of the clutches of his overprotective parents. REVIEW: Variety, 9.29.71: "The interpretation of Bixby's parents seem to imply that they were Jewish (despite WASP character names) - especially in Miss Sothern's limning of an overprotective mama - which would explain Bixby's reluctance to tell them about the son (whose mother was named Kelly - a shicksa)." NOTES: Jack Albertson replaced Edmond O'Brien. The original pre-airing title was So's Your Old Man! T-3 7 A Death of Innocence 90 minutes

tf

11.26.71

CBS

Producer: Mark Carliner. Director: Paul Wendkos. Teleplay: Joseph Stefano. Based on the novel by Zelda Popkin. Photography: Ben Colman. Music: Morton Stevens. Art director: Joseph R. Jennings. Editor: Gene Fowler, Jr. CAST: Shelley Winters (Elizabeth Cameron), Arthur Kennedy (Marvin Hirsh), Tisha Sterling (Buffie Cameron), Ann Sothern (Annie LaCossitt), John Randolph (Charles Cameron), Antoinette Bower (Cara Fellman), Peggy McCay (Helen McCloud), Richard Bright (Jimmy Rekko), Tony Young (Joe LaCossitt), Pilar Sevrat (Miss Santiago), Doreen Long (Mary Fingerhut), Barney Phillips (Klein), Regis J. Cordic (Judge Morahan). SYNOPSIS: Elizabeth Cameron comes to New York when her spoiled daughter, Buffie, is accused of murdering an old woman. Buffie insists that she and her boy friend, Joe LaCossitt, are being framed by Joe's wife. As the trial proceeds, Elizabeth realizes her daughter is more concerned with Joe than her sentence. Elizabeth visits Joe's mother to understand her daughter's obsession. She learns that Joe came from a poor background, but his mother spoiled him as Elizabeth had Buffie. A psychiatric report said Buffie felt neglected because she was never punished; committing the crime was a plea for attention. Buffie and Joe are proven guilty. Elizabeth returns home to her other two daughters, hoping not to make the same mistakes with their upbringing.

Television

161

REVIEW: Variety, 12.1.71: "...Miss Sothern did another tiresome version of the slattern mother of the bad guy-murderer." NOTE: Kim Stanley was originally scheduled to play Annie LaCossitt, but a foot injury caused her to be replaced by Ann Sothern. T-38 Chicago Teddy Bears

ep/pt

12.10.71

CBS

Comedy about 1930s gangsters. Ann Sothern played a flowerpeddler in this story about a speakeasy owner's rivalry with his gangster cousin. With George Raft. NOTE: Despite the fact that the series premiered September 17, 1971, the episode airing December 10, 1971 was the series's pilot. T-39 Alias Smith and _Jones ep Can Steal"""" 12". 1*6". 71 A

"Everything Else You

Western starring Peter Duel and Ben Murphy. Ann Sothern played Blackjack Jenny, a fiery blackjack dealer, in a story that found Smith and Jones in trouble with the law. With Patrick O'Neal, Jessica Walter. T-40 Fpl..D.e_Rpl.

var sp

2.28.72

ABC

Variety special set in a medieval fair. Ann Sothern played the Queen. Other guests included Cyd Charisse, Mickey Rooney, Totie Fields, Rick Nelson, Milt Kamen, Yma Sumac, and the Kroft Puppets. REVIEW: Variety, 3.8.72: "With everyone in the cast saddled with material beneath their capabilities, the potpourri turned into pointless mishmash." NOTE: According to Joyce Haber, Fol De Rol was the pilot for a projected series (Los Angeles Times. January 26, 1972. ) . T-41 The Weekend Nun

tf

12.20.72

ABC

90 minutes

Producers: Thomas J. Miller and Edward K. Milkis. Director: Jeannot Szwarc. Teleplay: Ken Trevey. Photography: Ronald W. Browne. Music: Charles Fox. Art director: William L. Campbell. Editor: Rita Roland. CAST: Joanna Pettet (Sister Mary Damian/Marjorie Walker), Vic Morrow (Chuck Jardine), Ann Sothern (Mother Bonaventure), James Gregory (Sid Richardson), Beverly Garland (Bobby Sue Prewitt), Kay Lenz (Audree

162

Ann Sothern Prewitt), Michael Clark (Rick Seiden), Tina Andrews (Bernetta), Judson Pratt (Priest), Barbara Werle (Sister Gratia), Lynn Borden (Connie), Marion Ross (Mrs. Crowe), Stephen Rogers (Arlen Crowe), Ann Summers (Administrator).

SYNOPSIS: Sister Mary Damian ponders how to best serve God in this drama based on the life of a real nun, Joyce Duco. By day she works as a juvenile probation officer; by night she lives in the convent. Despite warnings from her Mother Superior and a fellow probation officer that she cannot divide her life for two full-time professions, Sister Mary Damian tries to juggle both careers. It takes the death of one of her teenage cases to make her realize that she must chose between her job and the church. REVIEW: Daily Variety, 12.20.72: "Ann Sothern works to make the mother superior sympathetic, but the mannerisms cloy." NOTE: The telefilm was originally titled Matter of the Heart. T-42 The Great Man's Whiskers 120 minutes

tf

2.13.73

NBC

Producer: Adrian Scott. Director: Philip Leacock. Teleplay: John Paxton. Based on the play by Adrian Scott. Photography: John F. Warren. Music: Earl Robinson and E.Y. Harburg. Art director: George C. Webb. Editor: John Elias. CAST: Dean Jones (James E. Cooper), Ann Sothern (Aunt Margaret Bancroft), Dennis Weaver (Abraham Lincoln), Harve Presnell (Ballad singer), Beth Brickell (Katherine Witherby), Cindy Eilbacher (Elizabeth Cooper), Richard Erdman (Joseph Somerby), Isabel Sanford (Ella), Nicole Meggerson (Pearl), John Hillerman (Major Underwood), Maudie Prickett (Miss Albright), Woodrow Chambliss (Paddleford), Alvin Hammer (Whately), Charles Lane (Philbrick). SYNOPSIS: Ten-year-old Elizabeth Cooper writes a letter to President Lincoln, urging him to grow a beard. When the President visits the child, her father, a music teacher, becomes the town hero. NOTE: The telefilm was shot in 1969, but did not air until four years later. T-43 Medical Story 10.30.75 NBC

ep

Medical anthology series.

"The Moonlight Healer" Ann Sothern played Mrs. Metulski,

Television

163

a patient, in a story about an over-worked resident who moonlights in the emergency room. T-44 Best Sellers ms "Captains and the Kings" 9.30.76-11.18.76 NBC 540 minutes Executive producer: Roy Huggins. Producer: Jo Swerling, Jr. Associate producer: Dorothy J. Bailey. Directors: Douglas Heyes and Allen Reisner. Teleplay: Douglas Heyes. Based on the novel by Taylor Caldwell. Adaptation: Stephen Karpf and Elinor Karpf. Photography: Isidore Mankofsky, Ric Waite, and Vilis Lapenieks. Music: Elmer Bernstein. Art directors: John Corso and Joseph R. Jennings. Editors: Larry Lester, Edwin F. England, Christopher Nelson, and Lawrence J. Vallario. CAST: Richard Jordan (Joseph Armagh), Perry King (Rory Armagh), Patty Duke Astin (Bernadette Hennessey Armagh), Ray Bolger (R.J. Squibbs), Blair Brown (Elizabeth Healey), John Carradine (Father Hale), Katherine Crawford (Moira Armagh), Charles Durning (Ed Healey), Henry Fonda (Senator Enfield Bassett), Celeste Holm (Sister Angela), John Houseman (Judge Newel 1 Chisholm), David Huffman (Sean Armagh), Burl Ives ('Old Syrup'), Harvey Jason (Haroun 'Harry' Zieff), Vic Morrow (Tom Hennessey), Barbara Parkins (Martinique), Joanna Pettet (Katherine Hennessey), Jane Seymour (Marjorie Chisholm Armagh), Ann Sothern (Mrs. Finch), Robert Vaughn (Charles Desmond), Neville Brand (O'Herlihy), Pernell Roberts (Braithwaite), Joe Kapp (Strickland), Linda Kelsey (Peg), Elizabeth Cheshire (Young Bernadette), Johnny Doran (Young Joseph), Kristopher Marquis (Young Sean), Missy Gold (Young Mary), Beverly D'Angelo (Miss Emmy), Peter Donat (Clair Montrose), Doug Heyes, Jr. (Kevin Armagh), Stefan Gierasch (Gannon), Terry Kiser (Courtney Wickersham), Clifton James (Governor Skerritt), Cliff DeYoung (Brian Armagh), Alan Hewitt (Governor Hackett), Jenny Sullivan (Honora Houlihan), Sean McClory (Boland), Richard Matheson (President Garfield), George Gaynes (Orestes Bradley), Ford Rainey (Abraham Lincoln), William Prince (Jay Regan), Ann Dusenberry (Ann-Marie), Philip Bourneuf (Father Scanlon), Cynthia Sikes (Claudia Desmond Armagh), Kermit Murdock (James Spaulding), John Herbsleb (Young Courtney), Patrick Laborteaux (Young Rory), Mills Watson (Preston), Roger Robinson (Corporal Lincoln Douglas), Lee Jones DeBroux (Teddy Roosevelt), Robert Donner (Wounded Texan), Ken Swofford (Captain Muldoon), Stephen Coit (President McKinley), Giorgio Tozzi (Foreign gentleman), Severn Darden (Plover), Byron Webster (William Jennings Bryan), Tracey Gold (Rosemary Armagh), Sian-Barbara Allen (Cara Leslie), Sally Kirkland (Aggie), Bill Quinn (Dr. Harris

164

Ann Sothern Herbert), Connie Kreski (Pearl Gray).

SYNOPSIS: Joseph Armagh is a strong-willed Irish immigrant who tries to establish his family name through the accumulation of wealth and power. Among his goals is to see his son, Rory, become the first Catholic President of the United States. This nine-hour adaptation of Taylor Caldwell's best seller chronicles the years 1857 to 1912. NOTES: The mini-series was the first in a series of novels adapted for television for NBC's Bes.t__SelJ_ers_. Ann Sothern was in part one, which aired September 30, 1976. Captains and the Kings was nominated for eight Emmy Awards. Winners included actress Patty Duke Astin and cinematographer Ric Waite. T-45 Over Easy

int

3.2.78

PBS

Talk show hosted by Hugh Downs. Sterling were guests. T-46 Flying High

ep

Ann Sothern and Tisha

"High Rollers"

11.24.78

CBS

Comedy-drama about three airline stewardesses. Ann Sothern played Miss Kirkeby in an episode that took place in Las Vegas. With Jack Jones, Lew Ayres. T-47 Good Morning America

int

11.23.82

ABC

Talk/news show. Joan Lunden interviewed Ann Sothern, Don Porter, and Jesse White in a segment reuniting casts of situtation comedies. Ann Tyrrell joined the trio in a phone hook-up. T-48 Hour Magazine

int

1983

Talk show hosted by Gary Collins. about her 1950s TV series. T-49 Today

int

12.85

NN Ann Sothern reminisced

NBC

Talk/news show. Ann Sothern discussed her role in the TV remake of A Letter to Three Wives. T-50 TlLe.J^^y_^.ri.ffin_Shpw

int

12.85

NN

Talk show hosted by Merv Griffin. Ann Sothern discussed her career and her role in the remake of A Letter to Three Wives. T-51 Entertainment Tonight

int

12.85

NN

Entertainment news show. Ann Sothern talked about her career and her role in the remake of A Letter to Three

Television

165

Wives. T-52 A Letter to Three Wives 120 minutes

tf

12.16.85

NBC

Executive producer: Michael Filerman. Supervising producer: Robert P. Marcucci. Producer: Karen Moore. Co-producer: Terry Morse. Director: Larry Elikann. Teleplay: Sally Robinson. Based on the story "A Letter to Five Wives" by John Klempner. Adaptation: Vera Caspary. Based on the 1948 screenplay by Joseph L. Mankiewicz. Photography: Laszlo George. Music: Johnny Mandel. Art director: Richard Wilcox. Editor: Art Seid. CAST: Loni Anderson (Lora Mae Holloway), Michele Lee (Rita Phipps), Stephanie Zimbalist (Debra Bishop), Ben Gazzara (Porter Holloway), Charles Frank (Brad Bishop), Michael Gross (George Phipps), Doris Roberts (Sadie), Ann Sothern (Ma Finney), Whitney Kershaw (Babe Finney), James Staley (Frank Elkin), David Garrison (Ted Polikoff), Stephen Shellen (Nicky Fletcher), Nancy Warren (Jenny), Hagan Beggs (Freddy), Karen Austin (Kate), Logan Connaughton (Logan Phipps), Noah Connaughton (Noah Phipps), Campbell Lane (Carl), Louise Johann (Melissa), Shane Punt (Mickey), Richard Sargent (Captain), Shelly Fisher (Piano player), Stewart Bethune (Waiter). SYNOPSIS: As three wives depart for a riverboat charity picnic, they receive news that one of their husbands has run off with a beautiful divorcee who was a friend to all three. The wives spend the day re-examining their marriages through a series of flashbacks. The story is narrated by the divorcee who is never seen on camera. REVIEWS: New York Times, 12.16.85: "At the other end of the social scale, Miss Anderson's working-class mother is played by Miss Ann Sothern, as she is billed in the credits, and the sassy maid by Doris Roberts. Living so close to the railroad tracks that the entire kitchen shakes when a train goes by, the two women do their best to work up some salt-of-the-earth humor but come nowhere near the deadpan sarcasm of the [Thelma] Ritter-[Connie] Gilchrist routines." Chicago Tribune, 12.16.85: "Lora Mae's up-bringing, it turns out, was not only on the wrong side of the tracks but next to the tracks. It also turns out that her mother is played by a member of the '49 film cast, Ann Sothern - or, as the credits would have it, 'Miss Ann Sothern' - who is almost unrecognizable in her Tugboat Annie-like role." See also B-132, B-297

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Ann Sothern

T-5 3 Entertainment Tonight

int

3.8 6

NN

Entertainment news show. Ann Sothern appeared in a segment about the Museum of Broadcasting. T-54 Showbiz Today

int

10.27.87

CNN

Entertainment news show on the Cable News Network. Ann Sothern discussed her career and her role in The Whales of August. T-55 Today

int

12.1.87

NBC

Talk/news show. Gene Shalit interviewed Ann Sothern about her career and The Whales of August. T-5 6 American Movie Classics Interviews circa 1987

int

AMC

Short interviews with Ann Sothern aired between features on the American Movie Classics cable station. Topics included her name change and the dressing room she inherited from Greta Garbo at MGM. T-57 Entertainment Tonight

int

3.7.88

NN

Entertainment news show. Leonard Maltin reported on the Santa Barbara Film Festival's tribute to Ann Sothern and interviewed her briefly. T-58 Entertainment This Week

int

4.30.88

NN

Entertainment news show. Leonard Maltin interviewed Ann Sothern about her career. T-59 Collecting America

doc

7.4.88

PBS

Documentary on the Shelbourne Museum narrated by Ann Sothern.

Discography D-l

Sothern Exposure Zenith L 1611 and Tops L 1611 Vocals by Ann Sothern; orchestra conducted by Ian Bernard. After You've Gone Another Year Always The Last Time I Saw Paris You'll Never Know My Man * Life Is Just a Bowl of Cherries Summertime Everybody's Doin' It Now Where or When * Let's Fall in Love * Wayfaring Stranger * Ballin' the Jack

REVIEW: Bi1lboard, 5.5.58: "A rather mediocre effort at singing the evergreens, with little taste in arrangements and gross inequity in sound reproduction. Miss Sothern most assuredly does better work than this pressing reveals." See also B-147 NOTES: Sothern Exposure was released in 1958 on both the Zenith and Tops labels. The album was reissued as It's Ann Sothern Time (Craftsmen C-8061). The songs marked with asterisks were released as Spotlight on Ann Sothern and the Broadway Blues (Tiara TMT 7 531) and Song Stylings Featuring Ann Sothern (Sutton 317). Both albums also feature songs by an uncredited pianist. FILM SOUNDTRACKS D-2 Harold Arlen in Hollywood, 1934-1954

JJA 19763

168

Ann Sothern Selected songs from the soundtracks of film musicals written by Harold Arlen, including Let's Fall in Love. Let's Fall in Love - Ann Sothern Love Is Love Anywhere - Ann Sothern

D-3

Kid Millions Classic International Filmusicals C.I.F. 3007 Original soundtrack from the film featuring performances by Eddie Cantor, Ethel Merman, George Murphy, and the Nicholas Brothers. Your Head on My Shoulder - Ann Sothern, George Murphy Mandy - Eddie Cantor, Ethel Merman, Ann Sothern Your Head on My Shoulder (reprise) - Ann Sothern, George Murphy

NOTES: This album also features the soundtrack from Roman Scandals. Reissued as Sandy Hook SH 2039. D-4

Merman in the Movies 1930-1938 Encore 101 Soundtracks featuring Ethel Merman. Mandy - Eddie Cantor, Ethel Merman, Ann Sothern (Kid Millions)

D"5

Personalities on Parade, Volume 1 PP-1 Limited edition recording of unreleased and private pressings, featuring such stars as Al Jolson and Harpo Marx . I Was Lucky - Ann Sothern, Maurice Chevalier (Fp_lies_. Bergere)

D-6

Lady Be Good Hollywood Soundstage HS 5010 and Caliban 6010 Original soundtrack from the film featuring performances by Robert Young, Eleanor Powell, John Carroll, Virginia O'Brien, the Berry Brothers, and Connie Russel1. You'll Never Know - Ann Sothern Your Words and My Music - Ann Sothern, Robert Young Lady Be Good - Ann Sothern, Robert Young The Last Time I Saw Paris - Ann Sothern Lady Be Good Finale - Ann Sothern, Robert Young, Eleanor Powell, Red Skelton, John Carroll, Virginia O'Brien

NOTE: Caliban 6010 also contains the soundtrack from Going Places. D-7

The Gershwins in Hollywood, 1931-1964

JJA 1077 3

Discography

169

Selected songs from the soundtracks of film musicals written by George and Ira Gershwin, including Lady Be Good. Lady Be Good - Robert Young, Ann Sothern, Red Skelton, John Carroll, Eleanor Powell, Virginia O'Brien D-8

Cole Porter in Hollywood, 1929-1956 JJA 107 67 Selected songs from the soundtracks of film musicals written by Cole Porter, including Panama Hattie. I've Still Got My Health - Ann Sothern Let's Be Buddies - Ann Sothern, Virginia O'Brien

D-9

Ladies of Burlesque Legends 100/2 Songs from the soundtracks of burlesque-related movies. I've Still Got My Health - Ann Sothern (Panama

Hattie) NOTE:

Reissued as Sandy Hook SH 2019.

D-10 Cut! Out Takes from Hollywood's Greatest Musicals, Volume 1 Out Take Records OTF-1 Collection of songs cut from films, taken from studio recordings. Salome - Ann Sothern and male chorus (Panama Hattie) NOTE:

This album was reissued on the DRG label (SBL 12586).

D-11 Cut! Out Takes from Hollywood's Greatest Musicals, Volume 3 Out Take Records OTF-3 Collection of songs cut from films, taken from studio recordings. I'd Do Anything for You - Ann Sothern, Red Skelton, Rags Ragland, Ben Blue (Panama Hattie) D -12 T'ho us a n d s_ Che e r. Cheerio 5000, Ho Soundstage HS 409, and Amalgamated 232 Original soundtrack from the film featuring performances by Gene Kelly, Kathryn Grayson, and Judy Gar 1 and. Prospective WAVES skit - Ann Sothern, Lucille Ball, Marsha Hunt, Frank Morgan, John Conte, Marta Linden D-13 Words and Music MGM E-505 (10" LP) Original soundtrack from the film featuring performances by Mickey Rooney, Judy Garland, Lena H o m e , and Betty Garrett. Where's That Rainbow? - Ann Sothern and chorus

170

Ann Sothern

NOTES: The Words._and_Music soundtrack has been reissued many times. The 12" LPs usually have another soundtrack on the same album. Among the reissues are: MGM E-3233, MGM E-3771-ST, Metro M-580, and MGM 2SES-54. Words and Music was also issued in a 78 album (MGM 37) and a 7" EP set (MGM X-37). D-14 Words and Music MGM 3017 3 (45) Where's That Rainbow? - Ann Sothern There's a Small Hotel - Betty Garrett D-15 Nancy Goes to Rio MGM E-508 (10" LP) Original soundtrack from the film featuring performances by Jane Powell and Carmen Miranda. Time and Time Again - Ann Sothern, Danny Scholl Magic Is the Moonlight - Ann Sothern, Jane Powell NOTE: The Nancy Goes to Rio soundtrack has been reissued on 12" LP, including MGM 2SES-53, and compact disc. D-16 Nancy Goes to Rio

MGM 30225 (45)

Magic Is the Moonlight - Ann Sothern, Jane Powell Time and Time Again - Ann Sothern, Danny Scholl TELEVISION SOUNDTRACKS D-17 Lady_J.n_Uie.Dark RCA LM 188 2 Soundtrack from the television musical featuring Carleton Carpenter. One Life to Live - Ann Sothern and chorus It Looks Like Liza - Ann Sothern, chorus, uncredited male This Is New - Ann Sothern, chorus, uncredited male The Woman at the Altar - Ann Sothern and chorus The Best Years of Her Life - Carleton Carpenter, Ann Sothern The Saga of Jenny - Ann Sothern and chorus My Ship - Ann Sothern My Ship (finale) - Ann Sothern and cast REVIEW: Billboard, 12.18.54: "Miss Sothern's interpretation of the title role is less tart and sophisticated than Gertrude Lawrence's original, but it's nonetheless appealing show-wise." NOTE: The album was recorded November 5, 1954 and included dialogue from the production. D-18 Hooray for Hollywood RCA LPV-579 Collection of reissued songs from RCA and its subsidiaries, performed by an assortment of film

Discography

17

personalities, including Joan Crawford, Mickey Rooney, and Harpo Marx. The Saga of Jenny - Ann Sothern and chorus (Lady....in the Dark) 0 PROGRAMS d-19 Red Dust Pelican 106 Screen.Guild..Theatre radio production starring Clark Gable, Ann Sothern., and Jeffrey Lynn. d-19 Hollywood's Heroes on the Air Murray Hill 9 3^239 Four-record set of radio broadcasts including Screen. Guild Theatre production of Red Dust starring Clark Gable, Ann Sothern, and Jeffrey Lynn. d-19 Hp_lYwppd..Is..pn. the Air Radiol a 2MR-1718 Excerpts from radio shows cf the 1930s and 1940s promoting musical film.3 of the era. Lady Be Good - Ann Sothern, Robert Young, Eleanor Powell, John Carroll, Red Skelton, Virginia O'Brien d-19 Hollywood on the Air Presents "The Feminine Touch" Star-Tone Records ST-205 Female mcvie personalities perform songs and sketches in excerpts from radio shows. Among the stars are Carole Lombard, Jean Harlow, and Marlene Dietrich. Never in a Million Years Ann Sothern (Fifty....Roads to Town, from a 1937 broadcast) d-19 Mai_.__Ca.iI__J?i\og_ram No,...3 War Department, Special Services Division Master #8391/2 Radio program issued during World War II, featuring Lena H o m e and Fanny Brice. Preview of Three Hearts for Julia - Ann Sothern, Melvyn Douglas

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Awards and Honors The following is a list of awards, nominations, and honors received by Ann Sothern. A-1

The _Mi n n ejapp 1 _is_ _Jpuina.I Prizes for Piano Compositio (First place in city finals, 1924 and 1926, second place in city finals, 1925).

A-2

The American Cosmeticians's Association awarded Ann its annual medal for having "the most consistently fashionable makeup of any player of the cinema," 1936.

A-3

Fishing trophy for landing a 259-pound marlin.

A-4

Awarded membership in the American Judo Association after two months of study, 1947. Only four other people were made members after less than a year's study.

A-5

Emmy nomination for Best Actress in a Regular Series, 1954, for Private Secretary; lost to Loretta Young.

A-6

Awarded a bronze shorthand book for being named "Favorite Private Secretary of the Year" by the Los Angeles Chapter of the National Secretaries Association, 1954.

A-7

Named Most Popular TV Actress of 1954 by readers of Modern Screen; received silver cup, 1955.

A-8

Emmy nomination for Best Actress in a Continuing Performance, 1955 for Private Secretary; lost to Lucille Bal1.

A-9

Emmy nomination for Best Comedienne, Private Secretary, 1955; lost to Nanette Fabray.

174

Ann Sothern

A-10 One of eight recipients of the Golden Scissors Award given by the California Fashion Creators for contributions to the state, 1955. A-ll Emmy nomination for Best Comedienne in a Continuing Performance, Private Secretary, 1956; lost to Nanette Fabray. A-12 Golden Globe nomination for her performance in Lady in a Cage. A-13 Miami Herald Best Actress Award A-14 Honorary gold membership in the Danish-American Club A-15 Treasury Department Award A-16 Star in Hollywood Walk of Fame for film accomplishments, located at 1612 Vine Street. A-17 Star in Hollywood Walk of Fame for television accomplishments, located at 1634 Vine Street. A-18 Key to the City, Jacksonville, Florida, 1974. A-19 Tribute to Ann Sothern benefiting the San Francisco Lung Association, April 19, 1979, Warfield Theatre, San Francisco. Tribute included film clips, the San Francisco premiere of The Killing Kind, and a question-and-answer session with Ann Sothern. A-20 Named one of 12 most glamorous women by Max Factor Cosmetics, 1985. Others included Vivien Leigh and Carole Lombard. A-21 Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress, for The Whales of August, 1988; lost to Olympia Dukakis. A-22 Tribute at the Santa Barbara Film Festival, March 4, 1988, Victoria Street Theatre. Tribute included film and television clips, and a screening of A Letter to Three Wives (1949).

Annotated Bibliography Much has been written about Ann Sothern's life and career. A complete list of pieces about Miss Sothern would fill a volume more than twice this size. This bibliography is intended as an overview of what has been written about Ann Sothern and her work. It features reviews and articles from newspapers, books, news magazines, fan magazines, trade papers, and tabloids. Only those reviews which mention her performance and are not quoted elsewhere in the book are included in this bibliography. Items in which Miss Sothern is referred to as Harriette Lake are noted. B-l

Ackerman, Paul. "Loew's State, New York." Billboard. January 28, 1939. Review of Ann Sothern's act with Roger Pryor. Ackerman called Ann "... a personable femme who sings, but not well." B-2

"Actress Donates Collection." Los Angeles Times. April 2, 1978. Announcement that Ann Sothern donated films of Private.. Secretary and The Ann Sothern Show to the archives of UCLA and the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. B-3

"Actress Seeks Fall Damages." Miami Herald. January 20, 1977. Announcement of Ann Sothern's suit against the Thundereal Corp., former owner of the Thunderbird Motor Hotel, where Ann was hit with a piece of scenery during a performance of Everybody Loves Opa1 in 197 3. B-4

"Actress to Teach at J.U." Florida Times-Union [Jacksonville]. March 22, 1974. p. A-ll~ Ann Sothern planned to visit Jacksonville University for three days, beginning March 27, 1974. Her itinerary included drama lectures and a reception hosted by the Friends of the Fine Arts.

176

Ann Sothern

B-5

Adams, Val. "Radio-TV Notes: Autumn Plans." New_ York Times. June 5, 1955. Ann Sothern's Vincent Productions was negotiating with Nell Martin's agent for the television rights to Maisie. Martin created the character who Ann had portrayed on film and radio. B-6

Adler, Larry. It Ain't Necessarily So. Grove Press. New York. 1987. pp. 27-28. Co-star of Smi_les. recalled how Harriette Lake was fired. B-7

"Adopted Boy Picks Tent over Hollywood Luxury." New York Herald Tribune. January 14, 1940. David Hobbs returned to his parents after living with Ann Sothern and Roger Pryor for two years. Despite the luxuries provided by Ann and Roger, David missed his family and decided to join them in a tent on the Lemon Cove Ranch. B-8

Agan, Patrick. Is That Who I Think It Is? Vol. 3. Ace Books. New York. 1976. pp. 182-83. Overview of Ann Sothern's career and personal life. Included then and now photos. Agan said, "...for most of her career, Sothern was saddled with parts unworthy of her; it's to her credit that she carried so many of them off so very wel1." B-9

Albert, Katherine. "A Message to Girls Who 'Help Out.'" Modern Screen. June, 1935. Fan magazine account of Ann Sothern's struggle to support her family. Article was meant to inspire readers who envied Ann's screen success. Article claimed Ann saw little of her father while growing up, although he supported his estranged family. In an effort to get better acquainted, Ann lived with him while attending the University of Washington. When Ann decided to join her mother in Los Angeles, her father threated to cut off her allowance, the article said. He was afraid Ann would follow her mother into a show business career. According to article, Walter Lake cut off his ex-wife and daughters, while Ann worked to support her family. Article claimed facts had been pieced together from information from Ann's friends. Ann was quoted as saying, "Having responsibilities makes one a better person." B-10

"'All She Ever Heard While She Was Growing Up Is How Beautiful She Was.'" Esquire. January, 1967. pp. 78-81. Ann Sothern discussed her daughter in a pictorial on Tisha Sterling. Article included one photograph of mother and daughter. B-ll

Allman, Kevin. TV Turkeys. Perigree Books. New York. 1987. pp. 68-75. Book about the most preposterous shows ever televised, included a chapter on My Mother the Car. Ann Sothern won

Bibliography

177

the role of the talking car over Eve Arden and Jean Arthur. Ann explained her reasons for taking the role, "I am interested in money. Anyway, I'm an actress and I want to act. I don't want to sit around waiting for the great things that never come along." B-12

"Always Ann." TV Guide. October 18, 1958. pp. 17-19. Ann Sothern discussed the similarity of Katy O'Connor to former roles Susie and Maisie. She said all three were underdogs, as well as warm, intelligent, and independent. Ann was quoted as saying, "I don't want to be different. I just want to be familiar." She also introduced the cast of The Ann Sothern Show. Article reviewed Ann's career and mentioned her long association with Lucille Ball. B-13

"American Girl - 1943 Model." Lion's Roar. July, 1943. Ann Sothern discussed the role of American women during World War II. She was inspired by their hope for the future and their hard work while doing research at a defense plant for her role in Swing Shift Maisie. Article included photographs of Ann working at the defense plant. B-14

"America's Sweetheart." Theatre Magazine. April, 1931. p. 25. Review of Broadway production. Critic summed up the plot, "Miss Harriette Lake and Mr. Jack Whiting have been entrusted with its leading roles, and you will be safe in guessing that they are both humble aspirants to the screen in the beginning and that before the story is told they have both become stars. A lisp drives Miss Lake out of the talkies, you may be sorry to learn. But save for that, everything is quite all right, and she presumably marries Mr. Whiting each evening and two matinees directly the curtain is down." B-15

"America's Sweetheart." Variety. January 28, 1931. Review of the pre-Broadway production as seen at the Nixon Theatre in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Critic said, "...Miss Lake, whom Ziggy brought on from the coast for Smiies and then dropped in Boston when role was clipped, shows plenty of possibilities. Looks good, sings nicely and dances well, and should go over." B -16 " Am e ri c a [ s _S wee t.he a r t..'' Vogue . Review of Broadway production. Critic said, "Harriette Lake makes her metropolitan debut as the girl who goes West with [Jack Whiting], reaches the top in silent pictures, and loses all when speech comes to the screen. She shows promise." B-17

Ames, Walter.

"Ann of Many Moods, Mediums Has Glasses

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for All of Them." Los Angeles Times. March 22, 1953. Interview with Ann Sothern about her new career in TV and films. She agreed with Walter Ames that television was partly responsible for her popularity in The Blue Gardenia. Ames recalled that the audience applauded for a full minute when she first appeared on screen at the preview. Ann said, "TV is the greatest exploitation medium any actress can hope to attain." She explained how she used different pairs of glasses to illustrate her character's moods on Private Secretary. Far-sighted off screen, Ann said glasses can improve a woman's personality and looks if she wears the right frames for the occassion. Article also gave her tips for secretaries, and a brief overview of her career. B-18

Amidon, Dorothy. "How She Gained Glamour." Picture Play. May, 1938. pp. 44-45, 67. Ann Sothern's advice for becoming more glamorous included studying oneself objectively, dressing conservatively, developing interests outside her profession, and building self-confidence. B-19

Anderson, Jack. "No Rocking Chair for Ann." Miami Herald. May 13, 1966. Interview with Ann Sothern during her appearance in The_ Glass Menagerie at the Coconut Grove Playhouse. She took the role of Amanda because she wanted a creative challenge. About the production she said, "[Director George Keathley] told me I have an absolute affinity for this role and I'm beginning to believe him and besides, we have a perfectly wonderful cast." Ann confided that she planned to return to television during the 1967-68 season for Desi Arnaz's production company. The series was to be written by I Love Lucy's Madelyn Davis and Bob Carroll, Jr. B-20

Anderson, Nancy. "Ann Sothern Says 'No' to Nostalgia Kicks." Modern People. March 17, 1974. Ann Sothern stated that she preferred looking ahead to reminiscing about her career. She disliked the nostalgia kick that had women, including her daughter, Tisha, dressing in 1940s styles. Ann recalled her preference for character roles. She credited actresses Billie Burke and Helen Broderick for helping her early in her career. B-21

Andrews, Bart. The "I Love Lucy" Book. Doubleday & Company, Inc. Garden City, New York. 1985. pp. 121, 165, 178, 184, 197, 214, 385-86. Chronicle of Lucille Ball's series mentioned Ann Sothern, Private Secretary, and The Ann Sothern Show. Pages 385-86 included a synopsis and photograph of Ann as a guest on The Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Show.

B-22

Andrews, Bart and Dunning, Brad.

The Worst TV Shows

Bibliography

179

Ever. E.P. Dutton. New York. 1980. pp. 109-15. Book included chapter on My Mother the Car. When asked about the absurdity of her role as the title character, Ann Sothern was quoted as saying, "If a horse can talk [referring to Mr. Ed, presumably], why not a car?" B-23

"Ann Sothern." Current Biography 1956. H.W. Wilson. New York. 1956. Overview of Ann Sothern's life and career during the height of her Private Secretary popularity. B-24

"Ann Sothern a Bride." New York Times. September 28, 1936. Announcement of Ann Sothern and Roger Pryor's marriage at 12:01 A.M., September 27, 1936. B-25

"Ann Sothern Asks Decree." New York Times. April 15, 1942. Announcement that Ann Sothern had filed for divorce from Roger Pryor on April 14, 1942 after a seven-month separation. B-26

"Ann Sothern: Chez Paree, Chicago." Downbeat. September 22, 1954. Review of Ann Sothern's nightclub act. Critic said, "Miss Sothern, just as charming and attractive as ever, gives the paying customers their money's worth, and throws in several dividends... The vivacious Miss Sothern presents an act which is wel1-produced, well staged, and has obviously been broken-in before it was unveiled to the public." B-27

"Ann Sothern 'Clicks.'" Los Angeles Times. January 10, 1934. Announcement that Ann Sothern had been signed to a long-term contract by Columbia Pictures. Article praised her work in L_et,_s_ "Fal 1_.Jn ...Love, stating that one of the factors leading to her contract was her vocal projection on the screen. B-28

"Ann Sothern Divorce Final." Los Angeles Examiner. March 8, 1949. Ann Sothern obtained her final divorce decree from Robert Sterling on March 7, 1949. Ann's attorney, Charles E. Millikan, said she had not taken the action sooner because she had been out of state and had not signed the required affidavit. B-29

"Ann Sothern Gags Glasses." Quick. May 25, 1953. pp. 39-40. Pictorial showing Ann Sothern modeling outrageous eye wear, including frames decorated with terrycloth and black lace.

B-30

"Ann Sothern Gets Divorce." January 3, 1948.

New York Times.

180

Ann Sothern

Announcement that Ann Sothern received an interlocutory divorce decree from Robert Sterling on January 2, 1948. Sterlings had been separated since November, 1947.

The

B-31

"Ann Sothern Gets Final Decree." New York Times. March 9, 1949. Announcement that Ann Sothern received her final divorce decree from Robert Sterling on March 7, 1949. B-32

"Ann Sothern Has a Daughter." New_Yprk...Times.. December 11, 1944. Birth announcement for Tisha Sterling. B-33

"Ann Sothern Has Operation." New York Times. January 16, 1940. Ann Sothern was in good condition following an appendectomy on January 15, 1940. B-34

"Ann Sothern Hurt in Crash of Her Auto." Los Angeles Times. May 4, 1948. Ann Sothern suffered multiple bruises and severe shock in a car accident. The left side of her sedan was demolished as she left MGM on the afternoon of May 3, 1948. A studio workman removed her from the car and took her to the studio physician for treatment. B-35

"Ann Sothern in Car Crash." Hollywood Citizen-News. May 19, 1966. Ann Sothern was charged with failing to yield after her car hit another automobile broadside, according to patrolman Larry Glover. The accident occurred in Miami, Florida while Ann was appearing at the Coconut Grove Playhouse in The Glass Menagerie. B-36

"Ann Sothern in Tirade at Emmy; Demands a Probe." Variety. February 6, 1957. Ann Sothern demanded an investigation of the policies used by the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences in selecting Emmy Award nominations. An Academy spokesman claimed that pre-nomination ballots were sent to entertainment guild members. The 20 most popular nominations, as tabulated by Price-Waterhouse, were put on the final ballot. Ann was angry that Private Secretary was not included in the top 20 series, although it had a 39.8 rating and was more popular than many other nominated series. She noted other well-ranked series that were ignored and called for a revised system for selecting nominees. B-37

"Ann Sothern Injured in Crash." New York Daily News. April 6, 1961. p. 4. Ann Sothern suffered minor cuts and bruises when a cardriven by Tisha Sterling hit another vehicle at an intersection of U.S. 101. Ann and Tisha were on vacation when the accident occurred.

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B-38

"Ann Sothern Insists She Is Ma's Support." New York Daily News. May 3, 1961. Ann Sothern's reaction to her mother's support suit. Annette Yde-Lake, 76, sued Ann for $1,200 in monthly support, claiming her daughter had refused to help in the past. Ann denied the allegations, stating that she had solely supported her mother for many years and would continue to do so. A hearing was scheduled for June 6, 1961. B-39

"Ann Sothern... Lady with a Past." Mpyie_Mirr.gr. October, 1939. Pictorial depicting Ann Sothern's life in 17 photographs, from babyhood to Congo Maisie.

B-40

"Ann Sothern Learns that It Pays to Flop." Screen Guide. March, 1940. pp. 16-17. Ann Sothern was praised for waiting for a quality role to return to the screen. By taking a year off, she was able to avoid bad roles like those she had played with Gene Raymond. Article included a full-page color photograph. B-41

"Ann Sothern Makes Offbeat Comeback." Minneapolis Tribune. October 11, 1964. p. E-3. Ann Sothern discussed her return to the screen in•Lady_Jn.a Cage after an 11-year absence. She stated that she wanted to play character roles. "I'll play anything that interests me, old ladies, drunks. If it's a good part, I don't care if I'm 80," she said. In later years, Ann turned down roles she deemed too risque, despite their acting challenges. B-42

"Ann Sothern Mother of Girl." Los Angeles Times. December 10, 1944. Birth announcement for Patricia Ann Sterling, daughter of Ann Sothern and Robert Sterling. Tisha was born at Cedars of Lebanon Hospital on December 9, 1944 and weighed eight pounds, two ounces. B-43

"Ann Sothern Moving Up." Los Angeles Times. January 12, 1934. Paramount borrowed Ann Sothern from Columbia to star in Melody in Spring. Dixie Lee and Joan Marsh had been tested for the role. B-44

"Ann Sothern, Pryor Part." New York Times. September 9, 1941. Announcement of Ann Sothern and Roger Pryor's trial separation. Article said there was hope for a reconci1iation. B-45

"Ann Sothern Recovering." New York Times. July 29, 1963. Announcement that Ann Sothern would be discharged from Johnson City, New York's Memorial Hospital on July 29,

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1963 following treatment for dehydration. B-46

"Ann Sothern Reports Robbery." New York Times. March 4, 1941. Ann Sothern reported a theft of $7,000 worth of jewelry. Article said she noticed the items were missing when she and Roger Pryor returned home on March 2, 1941. B-47

"Ann Sothern Returns as Character Actress." New York Morning Telegraph. October 9, 19 64. Ann Sothern discussed her return to the screen in character roles in Lady in a Cage and Sylvia. She was quoted as saying, "The greatest compliment somebody can give me is not that 'She's pretty.' The greatest compliment is, 'She's a great actress.'" B-48

"Ann Sothern Says $93,000 Due Her." Hollywood Citizen-News. February 4, 1957. Announcement of Ann Sothern's $93,000 suit against Chertok Television, Inc., Apex Film Corp., and Jack Chertok. The complaint about the distribution of profits from Pri„vate_... Secretary was filed in Santa Monica Superior Court. B-49

"Ann Sothern 'Shocked' at Mother's Suit." NewYork... Herald Tribune. May 4, 1961. Ann Sothern said she was shocked by her mother's lawsuit, which asked for $1,200 in monthly support. Ann said she would contest her sister's petition for guardianship of their mother. B-50

"The Ann Sothern Show." Variety. October 7, 1959. Review of the second season opening episode, "The Lucy Show." Critic said, "[Lucille] Ball and [Ann] Sothern gave spirited performances." B-51

"The Ann Sothern Show." Variety. October 12, 1960. Review of the third season opening episode, "A Tooth for a Tooth." Critic said, "Miss Sothern, whose running role is that of an assistant hotel manager, was wry, but in the first stanza, hers was a secondary role." B-52

"Ann Sothern Show Star." Leader [Corning, N Y ] . July 15, 1972. Announcement that Ann Sothern would replace Celeste Holm in Butterflies Are Free at the Corning Summer Theatre. B-53

"Ann Sothern Sued by Mother for Aid." New York World Telegraph. May 3, 1961. Announcement of Annette Yde-Lake's suit against her daughter, Ann Sothern. Annette claimed that Ann had refused to help her since April 1, 1961. Annette, suffering from advanced arteriosclerosis, was living with Mrs. John

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Dickman, a reported friend. It was later revealed that Mrs. Dickman was Annette's daughter, Bonnie. Annette estimated Ann's earnings at $240,000 a year, with assets worth over a mi 11 ion dollars. B-54

"Ann Sothern Sues for $93,000." Los Angeles Herald Examiner. February 5, 1957. Ann Sothern sued Chertok Television and Apex Film Corporation for $93,000, claiming that expenses were deducted from proceeds of Private Secretary before her percentage was figured. B-55

"Ann Sothern Sues over Show Profits." Lpsjknjgj?ies__.. Times. February 5, 1957. Announcement of Ann Sothern's suit with Jack Chertok, filed February 4, 1957 in Santa Monica Superior Court. B-56

"Ann Sothern Sues over TV Show." Lps_.Ang_el_es.._ Examiner. February 5, 1957. Announcement of Ann Sothern's suit against Jack Chertok and others. Ann said that "unwaranted expenses were deducted from proceeds of the show before her percentage was figured." Vincent Productions, in which Ann was a majority stockholder, was also suing Chertok. According to attorney J. Everett Blum, she also sought an interpretation of her contract by the court. B-57

"Ann Sothern - Tisha Sterling: What Would I Do Without You?" TV and Movie Screen. March, 1966. pp. 38-39. Article dispelled rumors that Ann Sothern did not approve cf Tisha Sterling's marriage to Lai Baum. It also revealed that Tisha was expecting Ann's first grandchild. B-58

"Ann Sothern to Divorce Actor Mate." Los Angeles Times. December 23, 1947. Ann Sothern's attorneys, Lloyd Wright and C.E. Millikan, announced that Ann would file for divorce from Robert Sterling. They had first separated in March, 1946. B-59 "Ann Sothern to Scrap 'Secretary' unless TPA Works out a New Deal." Variety. February 27, 1957. pp. 27, 31. Account of Ann Sothern's lawsuit with Television Programs of America (TPA) over her Private Secretary contract. Because TPA had purchased a hit property from producer Jack Chertok, she felt her contract with the series should be renegotiated. Ann refused to film any additional episodes until the matter was settled. B-60

"Ann Sothern, U.S. Settle." Hollywood Citizen-News. October 18. 1960. Announcement that the government settled its claim against Ann Sothern for $99,000. Taxes were from the sale of the

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rights to Private Secretary for $1,217,000. B-61

"Ann Sothern's Best Bet." This Week. July 22, 1956. Ann Sothern discovered dancer Ginny Saturday while both were appearing in Las Vegas. Ann put her under contract. Ginny was set to star in In Love with Love, a film produced by Ann's Vincent Productions. B-62

"Ann Sothern's New Image." Los Angeles Examiner. September 7, 1964. Ann Sothern discussed her character roles in Lad.y_Jn._a_. Cage, The Best Man, and Sylvia. Ann was mistakenly quoted about her relationship with George Maharis's character in Sylvia. She claimed her character knew Maharis prior to their encounter in a nightclub. In fact, Maharis took her out to pump her for information about Sylvia, an old acquaintance of Ann's character. B-63

"Ann Sothern's Revolt Paved Way to Stardom." Brooklyn Daily Eagle. June 30, 1940. Account of Ann Sothern's return to Warner Bros, in Brother Orchid after being fired from the studio about ten years earlier. B-64

"Ann Sothern's Row with Mother Told." Los Angeles Mirror. June 29, 1961. Report on the custody hearing of Annette Yde-Lake. Bonnie Dickman testified that her sister, Ann Sothern, refused to support their mother while Annette resided with Bonnie. She also said that Ann accused her mother of driving Ann to a nervous breakdown with the guardianship suit. B-65

"Ann Sothern's Secret: She Blew the Whistle on Grace Kelly and Ray Milland." Globe. November 17, 1987. Ann Sothern confessed that she sent Grace Kelly an annonymous letter, urging Grace to stop her affair with Ray Milland in 1953. Because Ray's wife, Mai, was Ann's best friend, Ann did not want to see her hurt. Ann said that the affair ended shortly after she sent the letter, and Ray went back to his wife. B-66

"Ann Sothern's Story of the Suit." New York Post. May 3, 1961. Ann Sothern discussed her mother's suit for support. Ann said that she paid her mother's bills through April 12, 1961, when Annette Yde-Lake left the hospital and moved in with her daughter, Bonnie Dickman. When Bonnie filed a petition to be named as her mother's guardian, Ann objected. She was quoted as saying, "I don't intend to provide for other persons who are attempting to interfere with my mother's well-being." Marion Tetley, the third Lake daughter, agreed with Ann.

Bibliography

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B-67

"Are Women in Danger of Losing Their Femininity?" Screenland. N ov embe r, 194 2. Stars discussed women's chances of losing their feminity while doing men's jobs during World War II. Ann Sothern answered in the negative, stating, "Women today are only proving that they can do what is expected of them when it becomes necessary in an emergency." B-68

"Are You Afraid to Walk Alone?" Photoplay. November, 1941. Stars discussed individuality. Ann Sothern suggested tallying assets and liabilities in order to decide a path in life. She said a person must be himself, no matter what his job.

B-69

Asher, Jerry. "Child of Divorce." TV Star Parade. February, 1955. pp. 26-27, 78-80. Ann Sothern discussed her role as both mother and father to her daughter, Tisha. Ann said she always put Tisha first and never broke a promise to her daughter. Ann recalled the good times she shared with her daughter, as well as the times she was forced to punish Tisha. Article included a full-page color photo of Ann. B-70

. "Her Year of Exile." Screenland. January, 1939. pp. 51, 76. Account of Ann Sothern's one-year absence from the screen. She was quoted as saying that she grew careless about her weight, clothes, and publicity because of her unhappiness with her limited roles. Among the changes in her life instated during her retirement were moving into a new house and taking custody of David Hobbs. B-71

. "It's an Old Sothern Custom." Mgd_ern_ Screen. January, 1941. pp. 46, 62. Fan magazine description of Ann Sothern's personality. Article recounted Ann's adventures in public without her makeup, on a New York shopping spree with Mai Milland, and as an amateur seamstress and hairdresser. B-72

. "Languid Lady." Photoplay. October, 1939. pp. 32, 95. Ann Sothern discussed her idiosyncrasies, which included rearranging furniture, shopping for bargains, and fishing. B-73

. "Maisie Makes Good." Screenbook. November, 1939. pp. 66-67. Account of the changes in Ann Sothern's career after signing her MGM contract. In addition to being recognized by her peers, Ann found herself standing up for her rights. Ann's popularity led to several commercial items: a Maisie doll was planned for release that Christmas and Ann's hands served as models for white china bookends. Article mentioned that Ann's sister, Bonnie Lake, sang under the

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name Zoe Richards. B-74

. "Sterling Pattern for Happiness." Screenland. February, 1946. pp. 20-21, 74-76. Ann Sothern's plans for Robert Sterling's homecoming after World War II. Although Ann had to spend the day making test shots for Up Goes Maisie, Bob's welcome home festivities went off without a hitch. The birth and christening of their daughter, Tisha Sterling, was recalled. Article included black and white photos of Ann, Bob, and Tisha, and a full page color shot of Ann. B-75

. "Two Time Loser." Picture Play. November, 1939. pp. 26-27, 75. Account of Ann Sothern's screen comeback in Maisie. Ironically the film was shot on the same stage where Ann had been tested by producer Paul Bern ten years earlier. Bern had seen her in a bit in Hearts in Exile; the test led to her first MGM contract. B-7 6

"At Home with Ann Sothern." New York Sunday News. April 21, 1957. p. 6 Pictorial showing Ann Sothern, Tisha Sterling, and their poodles in their Beverly Hills home. B-77

Atkinson, Brooks. "Faithfully Yours." New York Times. October 19, 1951. p. 22. Review of Broadway production. Atkinson said, "...[Ann Sothern] scampers prettily through the evening. Since the material is so ordinary it is probably academic to observe that she does not do much more with her lines than speak them intelligibly; she gets the surface tones without the satiric inflections." B-78

. "Lampooning the Screen." New York Times. February 11, 1931. Review of Broadway production of America's Sweetheart. Atkinson said, "Jack Whiting of the blond hair and baritone voice and Harriette Lake are a personable pair of musical comedy band-masters, awakening your interest in 'Sweet Geraldine.'" B-79

Baskette, Kirtley. "A Star Who Won't Forget Her Friends." Photoplay. August, 1934. pp. 40, 88. Review of Ann Sothern's career focusing on the people who helped her achieve fame. Ann's Show of Shows screen sister, Marion Byron, was credited with giving her makeup tips and building her confidence. Comedian Tom Howard taught her about stage directions while in Smiles. Ann credited songwriter Walter Donaldson with helping her get a role in America's Sweetheart. Sound technician Lou Silvers taught her how to utilize her voice for the microphone in Let's Fall in Love. Ann promised to remember her friends's help through her career. She was

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quoted as saying, "I'll never change, never go high hat. Because I'm counting on those friends to put me right, if I ever start in that direction..." She continued, "I know that fame often has a short life in Hollywood - and if I must go down eventually, I want to meet a few friends on the way . " B-80

Bawden, James. "'A Date with Maisie' Starring Ann Sothern." Filmograph. Vol. IV, no. 4. 1975. pp. 33-42, inside back cover. Extensive interview with Ann Sothern about her career in conjunction with a Canadian television retrospective of her films. Article included insights on Ann's opinions of her roles, as well as Bawden's comments about the films's historical perspective. Four stills accompany the article. B-81

Benham, Laura. "That Sothern Belle." Picture Play. August, 1935. pp. 44-45, 79. Interview with Ann Sothern about her name change and the role of luck in a show business career. When asked about marriage plans, Ann said movie making was not conducive to happy marriage because of the long hours and emotional work. B-82

Berg, Louis. "Maisie's Other Self." Los Angeles Times. April 2, 1950. Contrast of Ann Sothern and her role of Maisie. Article reported that Ann tried to rebel against the character by acting more refined and aloof. B-8 3

Bergan, Ronald. The United Artists Story. Crown Publishers, Inc. New York. 1986. pp. 61, 63, 78, 220. Credits, synopses, critiques, and photographs of films released by United Artists between 1919 and 1985. Ann Sothern was mentioned in the listings for Kid.J_ilJ.i_?_i_s, Folies Bergere, Trade Winds, and The Best Man. B-84 "Best Busts." Time. August 27, 1945. p. 58. Review of summer replacement radio series, including Maisie, "...which came out breezy on the screen, but got becalmed on the radio." Article featured a photograph of Ann Sothern. B - 8 5 "The Best Man . " Va.rij_ t__ . April 1, 1964. Review. Critic said, "Of the three females involved, Ann Sothern has the meatiest part (an influential lady delegate) and makes the most of it." B-8 6

"The Best New TV: The Ann Sothern Show." Silver Screen Annual. 1959. p. 72. Brief comparison of Ann Sothern and her TV counterpart, Katy O'Connor. Included photograph of Ann as Katy. B-87

"Beverly Hills* Movie Guide."

Liberty.

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August 30, 1941. Review of Lady Be Good. Critic rated the film "excellent" and awarded it three stars. He said, "...Ann Sothern steals the picture as the ex-waitress who can rhyme love with dove to the lad's tinkling melodies. Incidentally, her singing of 'The Last Time I Saw Paris,' the sentimental reverie of the once gay boulevards, is a gem." B-88

"Billing Hassle Hits Faithfully." Variety. October 3, 1951. Account of problems that occurred when both Ann Sothern and Robert Cummings were promised top billing in Faithfully Yours. Article claimed it would cost $40 a day to shift the stars's names back and forth on the Broadway marquee. B-8 9

"The Blue Gardenia." The Green Sheet. April 15, 1953. Review. Critic said, "Brightened by Ann Sothern's tart humor, a formula film is slicked up with good photography, pretty girls, night-club [sic] music, and interesting supporting roles." B-90

Blum, Daniel. A Pictorial History of the American Theatre 1860-1970. Crown Publishers, Inc. New York. 1971. pp. 254, 337. Photographs of Harriette Lake/Ann Sothern in America's Sweetheart and Faithfully Yours.

B-91

. Theatre World, 1951-52 Season. Greenberg: Publisher. New York. 1952. pp. 36-37. Photographs and credits from Ann Sothern's Broadway comedy, Faithfully Yours. B-92

Bowers, Ronald. "Ann Sothern Knew What She Wanted." Films in Review. January, 1974. Detailed overview of Ann Sothern's career, focusing on her work in film. Included filmography and movie stills. Details were full of errors, including a statement that Ann guested on two episodes of The Lucy Show rather than seven, listing Bonnie Lake as Ann's screen sister in Show of Shows, and erroneously crediting Ann with the song "Hattie from Panama" in the film Panama_Hattie. B-93

Boyar, Jay. "Turgid Whales Flounders in Sap." Orlando Sentinel. March 23, 1988. Review of The Whales of August. Boyar observed, "With legends as large as [Bette] Davis and [Lillian] Gish overshadowing everything else, it's interesting that only Ann Sothern, in the supporting role of a busybody neighbor named Tisha Doughty, received an Oscar nomination for The Whales of August. Sothern, 79, plays the livliest character in the movie with great humor and presence." B-94

Briggs, Colin.

"Ann Sothern:

A Lady That's Not Easy

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to Forget!" Hollywood Studio Magazine. May, 1988. pp. 19-23. Overview of Ann Sothern's film career emphasizing Ann's character roles. Article included stills from Ann's films and a full-page color photo of Ann. Errors included a mention that Ann's name change came from E. H. Sothern, inventor of the submarine, while in fact it was Ann's grandfather, Simon Lake, who invented the submarine, and credited Maurice Chevalier as the star of Melody in Spring. B-95

. "Ann Sothern: Sothern Hospitality with a Sense of Humor." Hollywood Studio Magazine. April, 1983. pp. 14-16, 24. Personal account of collector Colin Briggs's association with Ann Sothern, loaded with photographs from her career and private life.

B-96

. "Lady Be Good - Looking Back at Memorable Films." Hollywood Studio Magazine. May, 1985. pp. 18-21. Retrospective on the cast of Lady Be Good, including updates on Ann Sothern, Eleanor Powell, Virginia O'Brien, Connie Russell, and Rose Hobart. B-97

. "The Survivors of Cry Havoc." Hoilywood Studio Magazine. December, 1983. pp. 12-15. Retrospective on the cast of Cry Havoc, including interviews and photographs of Ann Sothern, Marsha Hunt, Heather Angel, and Frances Gifford. B-98

"Bright Entertainment in Condemned Cell." The Age. March 25, 1950. Review of April Showers. Critic said, "On this page you will see Ann Sothern as June and Jack Carson as Joe, doing their stuff. She is a good little actress as a rule, but the film does not give her a chance." E-99

Buckley, Michael. "Ann Sothern." Films in Review. March, 1988. pp. 130-47. Overview of Ann Sothern's career with filmography and stills. Ann reminisced about her work and her co-stars. In addition to interviewing Ann personally, Buckley quoted many published interviews. Article mentioned Ann's reluctance to discuss her age and her early credits. Filmography listed Broadway Nights, Free and Easy, and Whoopee, films generally not accepted as featuring Ann, but did not include Ali Baba Goes to Town, a film in which she has a cameo. B-100 Bundy, June. "Sothern Is Slick 'Secretary,' but Seg Is Strictly Out of Stereo File." Billboard. February 7, 1953. Review of Private Secretary premiere, "Femme Fatale."

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Critic said, "Miss Sothern is an accomplished comedienne, equally effective in slapstick or high comedy...so she managed to make a good deal of this juvenile fare funnier than it actually was." Ann Sothern was mistakenly credited as receiving an Academy Award nomination for A Letter to Three Wives. B-101 Burt, Bill. "Stars Grow Younger by Changing Birth Dates." National Enquirer. April 4, 1978. Article about stars whose ages decrease as years pass. Among the stars who grew younger in each edition of The Motion Picture Almanac were Ann Sothern, Dinah Shore, Merle Oberon, and Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. Business manager Robert McDonald of Quigley Publications, publisher of the almanac, said the stars themselves provided the dates for the book. B-102 Burton, John. "Good-by to Marriage, Hello to Romance." Photoplay. July, 1942. pp. 65, 86. Fan magazine account of Ann Sothern's separation from Roger Pryor and her romance with Robert Sterling. Article outlined Ann and Bob's meeting outside the home of Hedy Lamarr, their courtship, and their common interests. Although he said Bob's friendship was good for Ann, Burton predicted that Ann and Bob would not marry. B-103 Buxton, Frank and Owen, Bill. The Big Broadcast. Viking Press. New York. 1972. p. 149. Credits for Ann Sothern's 1945 Maisie radio series on CBS. B-104 Cades, Hazel Rawson. "This Is the Way They Wear Their Hair in Hollywood." W pman..' s __H pme Companion . December, 1942. pp. 70-71. Pictorial showing a dozen actresses modeling popular hairstyles. Ann Sothern wore a smooth style held up with her great-great-grandmother's jeweled barrette. B-105 Cagney, James and Warren, Doug. James Cagney: The Authorized Biography. St. Martin's Press. New York. 1983. pp. 100, 158. Ann Sothern's work with James Cagney in Footlight Parade and You, John Jones was recalled. B-106 Campbell, Genie. "Actress Ann Sothern Liberated, But Still Feminine." Arlington Heights Herald [Illinois]. August 11, 1971. Interview with Ann Sothern about women's liberation during the run of Persona1 Appearance at the Arlington Park Theatre. Ann said she was in favor of equal pay for equal work, but vehemently opposed to abortion and child care centers. She was quoted as saying, "A child responds to love and nothing can replace the love of his real mother. Those women who are enormously fulfilled as mothers and housewives should never be put down."

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B-107 Canby, Vincent. "In Cannes Limelight: Gish and Davis." New York Times. May 16, 1987. Review of The Whales of August premiere at the 40th Cannes International Film Festival. The film was shown out of competition at a gala attended by Prince Charles and Princess Diana. Critic Vincent Canby said, "If The._Whaies__ of August were being shown in competition, ... there would be no doubt that [Lillian Gish and Bette Davis] would walk off with a joint prize for the festival's best performance by actresses, and that [Lindsay] Anderson... would be a leading contender for the best director award." B-108 Canfield, Alyce. "When Your Man Comes Home." Motion E icture.. N o v embe r , 1944. pp. 56, 64. After visiting camps and hospitals during World War II, Ann Sothern related soldiers's requests for their homecoming. Ann told women to be ultra-feminine, to be full of compassion and understanding, and to let men take over the responsibilities upon their return. Ann, then pregnant, also advised young mothers to send their soldier husbands plenty to pictures of their children so that the fathers could keep up with their development. B-109 "Career Staller." TV Guide. March 4, 1987. p. 24. Ann Sothern discussed her role as the talking automobile on My Mother the Car. Ann recalled never seeing the other actors in what she called "the strangest role I ever played." She blamed the William Morris Agency for convincing her to do the role for money. She called the show "the biggest mistake I ever made." B-110 Carlinsky, Dan. Celebrity Yearbook. Price/Stern/Sloan. Los Angeles. 1982. p. 60. Reprint of Harriette Lake's 1926 yearbook photo from Central High School. She was quoted as saying, "Emotion is the summit of existence; music is the summit of emotion; art the pathway to God." B-lil Chapman, John. "Fai thf uH_i_Yg_uxs. Mildly Funny." New York Daily News. October 19, 1951. Review of Broadway production. Chapman called Ann Sothern "agreeable as well as attractive." He said, "Whenever [Ann Sothern and Robert Cummings] get the chance they put zip and sparkle into Faithfully Yours, but they are forced to spend too much of their time - and mine - waiting for the next joke." B-112

. "Sothern Belle." Chicago Tribune. August 3, 1941. p. 3. Review of Ann Sothern's career. Spencer Tracy was credited with convincing her to sign the contract offered by MGM after Maisie. Ann was reluctant because she had been typecast as an ingenue at other studios. Tracy's enthusiasm for MGM sold her. Ann's presence at MGM was evidenced by

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two possessions: a wicker rocking chair and a portable colonial dressing room that had belonged to Joan Crawford. Helen Hayes was reported to be Ann's favorite actress. Chapman said Ann and Roger Pryor celebrated each anniversary at the circus, since that was where Roger proposed. B-113 "Chez Paree, Chicago." Variety. August 11, 1954. Review of Ann Sothern's nightclub act. Critic said, "...the TV and film star is a pro on the boards and a perfect charmer, magnetic of personality, fine of frame and glib of tongue." B-114 Churchill, Reba and Bonnie. "How to Attract Your Prince Charming." Screenland. September, 1949. pp. 36-37, 64-65. Ann Sothern gave advice on how to get dates. Article claimed her beaus included Clark Gable, Kirk Douglas, and producer Cy Howard. B-115 Chusmir, Janet. "Ann's 'Quite Lonely at Times.'" Miami Herald. December 25, 1970. Interview with Ann Sothern during her appearance in Butterflies Are Free at the Coconut Grove Playhouse. Ann was quoted as saying, "Whatever we are in life, we have created it. If we're lonely, that's our bag - what we've created." She discussed her close relationship with her daughter, Tisha Sterling, and her love of history. Article said Ann's philosophy was "Love God with your whole heart and love thy neighbor." B-116 Coleman, Robert. "Faithfully Yours Old Hat in a Smart Showcase." New York Daily Mirror. October 19, 1951. Review of Broadway production. Coleman said, "Ann Sothern and Robert Cummings... prove superlative farceurs. They take a thin bubble and keep it whirling in air long after its supporting gas has escaped. We hope Hollywood won't recapture them before they find a play worthy of their talents." B-117 Compton, Brenda. "The Wartime Wedding of Ann Sothern and Bob Sterling." Movieland. September, 1943. pp. 24-27. Lengthy description of Ann Sothern and Robert Sterling's wedding. Article included informal photographs by Nat Dallinger, the only photographer who covered the wedding. B-118 "Congo Maisie." Photoplay. March, 1940. Review. Critic gave the film one star and said, "[Ann] Sothern is at her hard-boiled best as Congo Maisie..." B-119 "Congo Maisie." Picturegoer and Film Weekly. June 15," "l940. British review. Critic said, "Ann Sothern does her best

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in a completely artificial role and is helped by slick dialogue." B-120 Cooke, John. "Letter to Three Unwed Wives." Glpbe. November 12, 1985. Interview with the stars of the telefilm A Letter to Three Wives, all of whom were unmarried in private life. Ann Sothern's two marriages were mentioned; she was pictured in a scene from the original film. B-121 Copeland, Elizabeth. "Ann Sothern Seems Destined to Take Dunking in Films." Richmond News Leader [Virginia]. August 10, 1940. Interview with Ann Sothern, contrasting her stunts as Maisie with stunts she performed as a movie extra some ten years earlier. Ann was quoted as saying, "...when Maisie flops in the mud, it proves she's a bullheaded, self-sure dame who wants more of the clinging-vine stuff around men. That's character. But when I was known as Harriette Lake and did a splash off the back of a motorcycle, I was just playing a moon-face frail and it was only done to get a laugh." She claimed, "If a part has backbone, I don't care what they make me do." B-122 Crewe, Regina. "Ann Sothern Comes Back as Film Starto the City She Left When an Ingenue." New York American. April 25, 1935. Interview with Ann Sothern, who was promoting her first starring role during a trip to New York. Ironically, the film was Eight Bells; 14 months earlier, Ann appeared in a scene from the play Eight Bells as part of her screen test for Columbia. Article reviewed Ann's career, claiming she was signed to a long-term contract by Columbia an hour after the first preview of Let's Fall in Love. B-123 Crichton, Kyle. "Amazing Maisie." Col 1ier's. July 12, 1941. Review of Ann Sothern's career focusing on her role as Maisie. When asked about being typecast, Ann said, "I'm on this tightrope. Maisie is my pal and I love her , but I don't want her to get her arms around my neck. When she falls off, I don't want to fall off." Article listed some of Ann's quirks, which included reading medical volumes, fishing, eating stuffed cabbage, and giving surprise parties. Her dislikes included attending nightclubs, driving a car, and riding in a plane piloted by her husband, Roger Pryor. B-12 4 Crosby, John. "Lady in Color." New York Herald Tribune. September 27, 1954. Review of the TV production of Lady in the Dark. Crosby called Ann Sothern "altogether fine" and gave her "the Crosby award for courage for this year" for following in the footsteps of Lady in the Dark's previous stars, Gertrude

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Lawrence and Ginger Rogers. B-125 Crothers, Bosley. "At the Capitol." New York Times. June 23, 1939. Review of Maisie. Critic said, "[Ann] Sothern, hitherto a reasonably restrained actress, throws left hooks, gags and fits of temperament with surprising abandon." B-126 Crowell, Karen L. "Ann Sothern: An Actress Returns Home." Idaho Mountain Express. December 28, 1984. Interview with Ann Sothern about her career and her move to Ketchum, Idaho. Ann said she liked the pace of life in Idaho; it had not changed since she began vacationing there in 1948. B-127 "Cues from Color TV." TV Program Week. January 8-14, 1955. Costume designers discussed working in color TV. Article included three photographs of Ann Sothern in Lady in the Dark. B-128 Curtis, Anthony. "Marriage Is No Gamble When It's Love." Photoplay. April, 1937. pp. 34-35, 93. Fan magazine account of Ann Sothern and Roger Pryor's decision to marry, despite the fact that their work forced them to live in different cities. Ann was quoted as saying that the long-distance marriage was the perfect arrangement for an actress who was tired after work; she was at her best when visiting Roger in Chicago on vacation. Ann said that they both dated mutual friends while the other was out of town. Despite friends's predictions that the marriage would not last, Ann insisted, "...my heart tells me that Roger and I are gambling on a sure thing!" B-129 Curtis, Charlotte. "For Victoria Leiter, Ann Sothern May Even Sit on Throne." New York Times. November 21, 1968. Plans for a costume party given by George Griswold Freylinghuysen for debutante Victoria Leiter on November 29, 1968. Among the celebrities invited were Rosalind Russell, Jeanne Crain, and Ann Sothern, who dressed like Queen Victoria. B-130 Curtis, Olga. "Veteran Actress Tires of Grind." Denver Post. July 3, 1968. Interview with Ann Sothern while she was appearing in Glad Tidings at the Elitch Theatre. Ann was quoted as saying she wanted to retire, but she was bored when she was not working. She hoped an operation to repair bad cartilage would get rid of her knee brace and allow her to continue stage work. Ann considered going back to school to get her degree to teach dramatic arts. B-131 Cuskelly, Richard.

"Bizarre Killing Kind."

Los

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Angeles Herald-Examiner. March 20, 1974. p. B-l. Review. Critic said, "[Ann] Sothern weaves around her mansion dressed in an absurd collection of tacky-glamorous negligees and housedresses, feeding her multitude of cats, guzzling Dr. Pepper and crunching pounds of popcorn." He continued, "She's an over-the-hil1 goodtime girl whose heart may be solid gold but whose devotion to her son makes Mrs. Portnoy look like a neglected parent. Still, Miss Sothern manages to bring an odd sort of sad nobility to the role." B-132 Cuthbert, David. "Wives Thrives." New Orleans Times-Picayune. December 15, 1985. Review of the telefilm A Letter to Three Wives. Cuthbert praised the broad comic relief supplied by Ann Sothern and Doris Roberts as "refreshingly down-to-earth." B-133 "Damage Suit." Washington Post. February 15, 1975. p. B-2. Announcement of Ann Sothern's suit against the owners of the Thunderbird Motel in Jacksonville, Florida. Ann claimed a pole fell and injured her back while she was performing in Everybody Loves Opal on August 15, 1973. She said she did not know the severity of her injury until she consulted a private physician in California after the run of the play. The suit was filed in Duval County Circuit Court. The motel owners filed for bankruptcy in 1974. B-134 Dana, Gus. "In Butterflies Are Free Laughter and Tears Abound." Miami Beach Sun. December 31, 1970. Review of Miami production. Critic said, "Miss Sothern's character starts out as the ultimate, nasty, clinging mother -- a hateful, sarcastic character, but she plays Mama Baker superbly." B-135 "A Day with a Star." American Magazine. February, 1943. pp. 110-11. Pictorial showing Ann Sothern at home, shopping, sewing, and riding a motorcycle. Article included a photo of Ann with her mother, Annette Yde-Lake. B-136 Dennis, Hope. "Mame Is the Dame with the Flashy Clothes." Honolulu Advertiser. August 13, 1968. Interview with Ann Sothern during the run of Mame at the Honolulu Concert Hall. Article concentrated on the elaborate costumes used in the production. Fashion writer Hope Dennis recalled Ann's curtain call, in which she wore a blue and shocking pink muumuu and a maunaloa lei. After Ann did a few hula steps, Dennis reported, "That's when the audience lost their hearts to her. They stood up and clapped until it sounded like thunder." B-137 Dennis, Regina. "Who's News." USA Weekend. February 17, 1989. p. 2. Question column in weekend supplement to Gannett

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newspapers. Dennis reported that Jessica Tandy would play the role for which Ann Sothern was in the running in the film version of Driving Miss Daisy. Ann said she had turned down offers to write an autobiography because "they have to have so much scandal, and I'm not a scandalous person." Dennis said Ann's paintings would be in a Sun Valley charity exhibit in March, 1989. B-138 "Divorce for Ann Sothern." New York Times. May 8, 1942. Announcement that Ann Sothern received an interlocutory divorce decree from Roger Pryor on May 7, 1942. Ann was quoted as saying that Roger's love of flying was at the root of their problems. B-13 9 Douglas, Kirk. The Ragman's Son. Simon and Schuster. New York. 1988. Autobiography of the co-star of A Letter to Three Wives. Douglas wrote, "When I played an English professor in A Letter to Three Wives and Ann Sothern played my wife, we rehearsed the relationship offscreen. I think [my wife] Diana knew more than she let on." Book included a still from the film. B-140 Dunn, Angela Fox. "TV Legend Ann Sothern Reveals Success Secret - Being Sexy and Smart." Star. May 3, 1983. Ann Sothern discussed her popularity with the public thanks to reruns of her TV series and movies. She claimed that her success was due to the combined innocence and selfconfidence she displayed on the screen. Ann said she was most proud of the fact that her career had produced no scandals. Despite pain from her back accident, Ann planned to appear in a play in California with her daughter, Tisha. B-141 Dunning, John. Tune in Yesterday. Prentice-Hall, Inc. Englewood Cliffs, NJ. 1976. pp. 386-87, 537. Brief discussion of Ann Sothern's two Maisie radio series. B-142 Eames, John Douglas. The MGM Story. Crown Publishers, Inc. New York. 1975. pp. 126, 147, 150, 151, 159, 162, 171, 173, 178, 182, 183, 186, 187, 196, 203, 213, 219, 222, 228, 231. Brief synopsis, credits, critique, and photos from MGM films from 1924 to 1974. Ann Sothern was mentioned in the listings for Dangerous Number, Joe and Ethel Turp Call on the President, Maisie, Congo Maisie, Fast and Furious, Gold Rush Maisie, Maisie Was a Lady, Dulcy, Lady Be Good, Ringside Maisie, Maisie Gets Her Man, Panama Hattie, Three Heats for Julia, Cry Havoc, Swing Shift Maisie, Thousands Cheer, Maisie Goes to Reno, Up Goes Maisie, Undercover Maisie, Words and Music, Shadow on the Wall, and Nancy Goes to Rio.

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B-143

. The Paramount Story. Crown Publishers, Inc. New York. 1985. pp. 102, 122, 246, 251. Brief synopsis, credits, critique, and photos from Paramount films from 1916 to 1984. Ann Sothern was mentioned in the listings for Melody in Spring, My American Wife, Lady in a Cage, and Sylvia. B-144 Ebert, Roger. "Gish and Davis Give Luster to The Whales of August." Chicago Sun-Times. November 13, 1987. p. 31. Review. Ebert analyzed Ann Sothern's role, "Sothern is sensible and cheery as a neighbor woman, who has shared the lives of these sisters for many years and accepts them. She is sort of a peacemaker, whose life lacks the complexity tthatr B-145 Eells, George. "Ann Sothern Helps Her Daughter Grow Up." Look. April 25, 1961. Article on Ann Sothern's relationship with her daughter, Tisha Sterling. Despite such Hollywood trappings as a stable and in-home soda fountain, Ann said, "I want her to adjust to the world as it is - not the world of a movie star's kid." Photographs by Earl Theisen accompanied the article. B-146 Eichelbaum, Stanley. "A Perennial Charmer." Sari. Francisco Examiner. April 19, 197 9. p. 28. Article about a tribute to Ann Sothern at the Warfield Theatre benefiting the San Francisco Lung Association. The tribute included clips from Ann's films, a screening of The Killing Kind, and a question-and-answer session with Ann in which she cited that John Hodiak and Tyrone Power were her favorite leading men. B-147 Eichler, Alan. "Stars Who Sing: The Best and, Of Course..." Los Angeles Times. September 6, 1987. Record collector/producer Eichler rated celebrity albums. He listed Ann Sothern's Sothern Exposure as among the best and mentioned "her fine singing ability." Eichler noted that the rights to Sothern Exposure were controlled by Pickwick International. B-148 "Eight Recieve 'Golden Scissors' Award." L_os_Angel.es, Examiner. Jaunary 13, 1955. Golden Scissors Awards were presented by the California Fashion Creators to eight citizens for their contributions to the state. Recipients included Ann Sothern and Danny Kaye. Photograph of the eight recipients accompanied article. B-149 Eisner, Joel and Krinsky, David. Television Comedy Series. McFarland & Company, Inc. Jefferson, NC. 1984. pp. 64-69, 251, 406, 471, 496-98, 602-5. Episode guide to sitcoms in syndication, including The

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Ann Sothern Show and My Mother the Car. Ann Sothern's appearances on Family Affair, The Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Show , Love American Sty 1 _e, and The_Luc_...Show are also noted. B-150 "El Rancho, Las Vegas." Variety.. July 7, 1954. Review of Ann Sothern's nightclub debut. Critic said, "Miss Sothern can do no wrong, whether it's gold-digging or just telling jokes....She can pour flavor into a song like a soda jerk, whether it be gusto and bounce or romance and beauty." He concluded, "With her talent and happy faculty of timing, Miss Sothern is a welcome addition to today's thin ranks of nitery headliners." B-151 Ellis, Grace. "Hollywood Charm: Ann Sothern's Cookie Secret." Screen Book. November, 1935. pp. 54-55. Recipe for Ann Sothern's favorite filled fig cookies. Article included photos of Ann and her cook, Osie Coleman, baking and eating. B-152 Engstead, John. Star Shots. E.P. Dutton. New York. 1978. pp. 164, 233, 238. Memoir recalling Engstead's experiences as a Hollywood photographer. He said, "Ann [Sothern] knows everything there is to know about posing and is great to photograph in spite of the fact that she put on extra pounds and never took them off. Fat or thin, she is an excellent subject." He described her makeup and posing secrets. Book included 1940s and 1970s shots of Ann. Engstead called Tisha Sterling one of his most naturally beautiful models. B-153 "Everybody's Welcome." Variety. September 29, 1931. Review of the pre-Broadway production of Everybody's Wei come, seen at the Forrest Theatre in Phi 1idelphia. Critic said, "Harriette Lake, as the young wife, is both personable and capable. Hers is no strong voice, but she plays smoothly opposite [Oscar] Shaw and impresses as sincere and vigorous." B-15 4 "Everybody's Welcome." Variety. October 20, 1931. pp. 56-57. Review of the Broadway production of Everybody's Welcome. Harriette Lake was mentioned as one of the stars. B-155 "Everything Is in Limbo." TV_Guide. July 20, 1957. pp. 20-21. Ann Sothern discussed her plans for retirement in the next three years. She was in the midst of a lawsuit with Jack Chertok over Private Secretary profits. She considered another series. Article mentioned her investments: a sewing center and a collection of oil paintings. She planned to move to Versailles so her daughter could attend school there. Ann's regret was that she had not performed

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outdoors to a crowd in a stadium. B-15 6 Ewen, David. George Gershwin: His Journey to Greatness. Ungar Publishing Co. New York. 1970. Paragraph on national tour of Of Thee I Sing with Harriette Lake. Ewen said Of Thee I Sing was the only Gershwin musical to have two productions running simultaneously. B-157

. New Complete Book of The American Musical Theater. Holt, Rinehart and Winston. New York. 1970. "pp. 8-9, 286, 373-77, 406. Overview of Broadway musicals, including information on the cast, plot, and songs. America's Sweetheart was covered on pages 8 and 9, and Of Thee I Sing on pages 373-377. Ann Sothern was also mentioned in conjunction with the film versions of Lady Be Good and Panama Hattie. B-158

. Richard Rodgers. Henry Holt and Co. New York. 1957. pp. 136-37. Account of America's Sweetheart. Ewen recalled, "Like the character [Harriette Lake] portrayed she was soon destined to reach the summits in Hollywood - under the name of Ann Sothern." B-159 Factor, Max. "You Can Make Beauty a Habit." Hollywood. May, 1935. pp.46, 58. Famed makeup expert Max Factor praised the beauty habits of Ann Sothern and Marian Nixon. He described Ann's "perfect contour of face" and listed makeup shades that were appropriate for her complexion. Ann's advice included using skin-freshener, finding a good foundation cream, and reapplying makeup for an evening of entertaining. B-160 "Faithfully Yours." VLa_ri__t__. October 3, 1951. Review of the pre-Broadway production as seen at the Shubert Theatre in New Haven. Critic said, "Miss Sothern matches an attractive appearance with generally dextrous thesping. A fault to be overcome, however, is a tendency to laugh along the with audience when she, as a character, is meant to be serious." B-161 "Faithfully Yours." Variety. October 24, 1951. p. 68. Review of Broadway production. Critic said, "Miss Sothern, in a dazzling array of gowns, is visually attractive and, like [Robert] Cummings, has an engaging stage personality. But her playing has limited range..." B-162 "The Fans Say - Sing, Ann Sothern Says - Maybe." TV_. This Week. June 3, 1954. Ann Sothern discussed her musical background. She said she would like to answer her fans's pleas to sing on Private Sjec__et_ar__, but only if the script had a logical reason

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for her to sing. Ann's interest in music was revived by her daughter's piano lessons. B-163 Farley, Ellen. "Is Oscar Nomination a Career Boost?" Los Angeles Times. March 30, 1988. Article posed title question to nominees for Best Supporting Actress: Ann Sothern, Anne Ramsey, Anne Archer, Norma Aleandro, and Olympia Dukakis. Ann Sothern announced that she would like to star in the film version of Driving Miss PiLtsx. Her agent, Tom Korman, said, "There aren't a lot of scripts around for older ladies.... But whatever's around, she's in the top echelon of people being considered for it." B-164 Fender, Robert. "I Don't Want to Be Typed - Says Ann Sothern." Motion Picture. October, 1935. pp. 27, 63. Interview with Ann Sothern about her plans for her career. She was quoted as saying she wanted to return to Broadway in a play every two years because a live audience kept actors stimulated. She said she learned from audience reaction, as well as from studying performances of actors she admired. Ann claimed she saw Paul Muni's films many times in order tr learn from his technique. B-165 Fields, Sidney. "Only Human." New York Daily Mirror.- October 25, 1951. Ann Sothern discussed her return to Broadway in .I_a_ithf u.l___r. Yours and recalled her stage and film career. She said she took the challenge of a stage role after a bout with infectious hepatitis because the sense of achievement on stage is greater than that in films. She told Fields, "...I figured the only way to get back to work was to work doubly hard. The seven weeks of rehearsal proved I'm well. It also proved nothing could be hard again." Ann planned to do another play after the run of Faithfully Yours. B-166 Finnigan, Joe. "Prefers Laziness: Ann Sothern Plans Film 'Retirement.'" Hollywood Citizen-News. September 20, 1959. p. 3. Ann Sothern announced her plan to retire when The Ann Sothern Show ended in 1961. She discussed her business interests that would keep her busy: cattle breeding, a sewing center, two production companies, and a music publishing company. She said she had no desire to direct, citing that men should be boss on set. B-167 Fletcher, Adele Whitely. "How Fred Astaire Helped Ann Sothern Find Happiness." Mpvij5_Mirrpr. February, 1937. pp. 52-53, 121-22. Fan magazine account of how Fred Astaire's friendship and encouragement helped Ann Sothern in her first stage role in Smiles. Ann credited Astaire with teaching her that hard work was the only way to raise an actor above the crowd. When two of Ann's songs were cut from Smi1es, Astaire

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offered consolation. She was quoted as saying, "He helped me keep my perspective and remember that there were many reasons why numbers were taken away from people and that many of them had nothing to do with the performer's ability at all." Article did not mention that Ann was released from the show before it opened in New York. B-168 "Flight Plan for London." New York Daily News. June 18, 1962. Photograph of Ann Sothern and Tisha Sterling as they prepared to leave for a two-month trip to London. Caption said Ann planned to return to Broadway in the fall. B-169 Flynn, Jean King. "What 'Tish' Told 'Maisie.'" ______ American Weekly. January 13, 1952. Ann Sothern recalled changing her values after her seven-year-old daughter, Tisha Sterling, pointed out that Ann was working too hard. Article included photo of Ann and Tisha. B-170 Fordin, Hugh. The World of Entertainment! Hollywood's Greatest Musicals. Doubleday and Company, Inc. Garden City, NY. 1975. pp. 41-44, 51-56, 213, 235-40, 542, 545, 552, 554. Detailed chronicle of films made by the Arthur Freed unit at MGM, including Lady Be Good, Panama Hattie, and Words snd____usi c. Included cost, dates of filming, songs deleted from the release print, and behind-the-scenes photographs. Fordin said that Ann Sothern, Judy Garland, and Lucille Ball had been mentioned for "Fireside Chat" in Ziegfeld Fol.ii.es., however the production number was not filmed. B-171 Foster, Frank. "Ann Sothern: 'I was a Lousy Actress.'" National Enquirer. July 11, 1971. Ann Sothern said that recent actors were more talented than film stars of the past. She credited beauty and publicity for older stars's popularity. When asked about watching her own films on television, Ann was quoted as saying, "I'm always amazed at what a lousy actress I was." B-172 "$4,000,000 Gross on Private Secretary as Syndication Fare." Variety. March 14, 1962. Announcement that Jack Chertok gave Official Films, distributors of Private Secretary reruns, an extension on their distribution contract. Article claimed the six years of reruns had grossed over $4 million and estimated that they would gross between $750 thousand and one million dollars in 1962. Ann Sothern owned 25% of the series. B-173 Francis, Bob. "F__ithfuii_y_ Misses in Translation." Billboard. October 27, 1951. pp. 3, 54. Review of Broadway production of Faithfully Yours. Francis said, "Miss Sothern's straight playing is a good back-stop for [Robert] Cummings's frequently over-farcial

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clowning.... Both of them manage to inject more than considerable charm into a pair of ridiculous characters." B-174 "Frank Lloyd Wright, Meet Ann Sothern...." New York Post. March 1, 1957. p. 18. Ann Sothern called the fire department when smoke began pouring through an artificial fireplace in her apartment at the Plaza Hotel. The flames were found 12 floors below, where a friend had started a fire in Frank Lloyd Wright's fireplace, not knowing it was just for decoration. No damage was reported. B-175 "Frankly Speaking." ________ l__s. September, 1963. p. 176. Celebrities answered the question "What is the biggest mistake you ever made?" Ann Sothern claimed she should have remarried immediatly after her divorce from Robert Sterling. She was quoted as saying, "I'm afraid that the longer you're alone, the easier it becomes to stay that way." B-176 Freedman, Richard. "Whales of August Clings to Static Dramaturgy." New Jersey Star-Ledger. October 16, 1987. Review. Freedman praised Ann Sothern, "...whose pleasantly nosy neighbor, Tisha, practically steals the movie from the experienced competition." B-177 Freeman, Don. "This Hollywood Nonsense." Theatre Magazine. April, 19 31. p. 27. Caricatures of scences from America's Sweetheart. Harriette Lake was stuck in a fountain after insulting Jack Whiting, her leading man. B-178 "From the Brown Derby's Chinese Kitchen." Photoplay. July, 1935. pp. 80, 100. Recipes for the Brown Derby's Chicken Chop Suey, Chicken Chow Mein, Cantonese Rice, Ham Noodles, Rice Pudding, and Molasses Sauce, dishes "pronounced palate-perfect" by Ann Sothern. Ann was pictured eating with chopsticks at the Hollywood restaurant. B-17 9 Garnett, Tay and Balling, Fredda Dudley. Light Your Torches and Pull Up Your Tights. Arlington House. New Rochelle, NY. 1973. pp. 220-21. Autobiography of the director of Trade Winds. Garnett recalled that Florence Eldridge, wife of Fredric March, suggested Ann Sothern for the role of Jean. Garnett claimed the Maisie series was a copy of his Trade_J^nds character. B-180 Gelmis, Joseph. "Davis and Gish on Their Own Golden Pond." Newsday [New York]. October 18, 1987. Account of the filming of The Whales of August. ProducerMike Kaplan recalled how Ann Sothern was cast in the

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movie. He viewed her work in the telefilm A Letter to Three Wives, before casting her as Tisha. Because Ann was using a cane, he worried about her mobility and hesitated in casting her in The Whales of August. Kaplan was quoted as saying, "I called her. She said, 'No, the cane was just a prop.' Then I met her. And the cane, well, she's dependent on it. But two minutes after meeting her, it didn't matter. She has all this buoyancy and humor." B-181

. "Two 'Old Dames' You Will Care About." Newsday. [New York]. October 16, 1987. Review of The Whales of August. Gelmis described Ann Sothern as "plump, vivacious, jolly - good company, clever, a gossip who knows everybody's business. In her ringleted orange wig, she looks like a large cuddly stuffed Orphan Annie." B-182 Gilbert, Andrea Vogel. "Stardom's Magic Still Has a Hold on Ann Sothern." Seattle Times. September 6, 1979. p. E-l. Interview with Ann Sothern during her appearance in The_ Duchess of Pasadena at the Cirque Dinner Theatre. Ann recalled her work at MGM and complained about nostalgia books which capitalized on her career. She said she planned to continue acting until she "cool[ed] off in the middle of a line." B-183 "GplJ. R.ush.Maisie . " MpYi_eJMirrpr_. October , 1940 . Review. Critic said, "Ann Sothern proves herself one of the best little actresses on any man's screen; her drunk scene remaining a classic of all drunk scenes." B-184 Golly, Sid. "Ann Sothern's Neat Finesse Wins Raves in Diverting, Subtle Farce." Bi1lboard. October 6, 1951. Review of pre-Broadway production of Faithfully Yours as seen in New Haven. Golly praised Ann Sothern's performance and wardrobe, claiming her role was tailor-made. He said, "She breezes thru [sic] her assignment with a fine understanding of the character. In direct contrast to her supporting players, she presents a masterpiece of underplaying that not alone points up the situations to their highest degree, but almost brings a feeling of credulity to a character that even the author did not expect the viewers to believe." B-185 "Goodson-Todman O'Hara TV Series." Variety. September 26, 1962. Bill Todman was in Hollywood to oversee production of the pilot for Atta Boy, Mama starring Ann Sothern. The pilot was produced by Goodson-Todman in association with NBC at Metro studios. It was created by Mac Benoff, head of Goodson-Todman's film operation. Ida Lupino directed.

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B-186 "Goodson-Todman Pitch New Ann Sothern Show." Variety. July 18, 1962. Announcement that Mark Goodson and Bill Todman were trying to sell a pilot starring Ann Sothern. The series, about a midwestern housewife, would be aired during the 1963-64 season. The pilot, later titled Atta Boy, Mama, was not sold. B-187 "Gotham Gala Pays Gish Tribute, Raises Coin for March of Dimes." Variety. October 21, 1987. Discussion of black-tie benefit for the March of Dimes which honored Lillian Gish on October 14, 1987. The benefit included the New York premeiere of The Whales of August and a gala attended by Helen Hayes, Ann Sothern, Vincent Price, and other celebrities. B-188 Gould, Jack. "TV's Top Comediennes." New York Times Magazine. December 27, 1953. pp. 16-17. Pictorial story on the most popular comediennes on 1950s television, including Gracie Allen, Lucille Ball, Ann Sothern, and Martha Raye. Gould said Miss Sothern had "a gift for the make believe." B-189 Graham, Sheilah. "Ann Sothern Counts on 5 More Film Years." New York Daily Mirror. December 9, 1945. Ann Sothern vowed to give up movie acting for radio after five more years on the screen. She was quoted as saying, "I've been in [films] ten years already and five more make fifteen and that's long enough for anyone to be a movie actress." Ann wanted the role of Anna in Anna and the King of Siam, but reported, "They said I didn't look old enough." B-190

. "One Ann Sothern - 4 Companies." New York Daily Mirror. May 4, 1958. Ann Sothern discussed the pilot for her new series, tentatively titled Career Girl, and her investments. Career .Girl was changed to The Ann Sothern Show and debuted in the fall of 1958. B-191 Graver, Brindley. "Ann Sothern Got Hollywood Contract, Then Met Ziegfeld." Milwaukee Journal. July 15, 1941. Second in a series of three articles on the career of Ann Sothern. Installment focused on Ann's early days in Hollywood, her work on Broadway in the 1930s, and her re-discovery on screen in Let's Fall in Love. B-192

. "Ann Sothern Won't Be Typed - Is 'Maisie' Only Twice a Year." Milwaukee Journal. July 16, 1941. Final installment of a three-part review of Ann Sothern's career. Article concentrated on Ann's dissatisfaction with her screen roles prior to Maisie. She was quoted as

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saying, "I'll never play another straight leading part. I've served my apprenticeship as nice, wishy washy girls who are there for no other purpose than to be rescued by the hero and share in the clinch at the fadeout." She continued, "From now on, it's going to be character parts or nothing. I don't care how small or how large they are, as long as they have some substance to them." B-193

. "Back Yard Baby Actress - Life Story of Ann Sothern." Milwaukee Journal. July 14, 1941. First in a series of three articles on the career of Ann Sothern. Piece focused on Ann's early ambitions, including concerts in her back yard. Article included photographs of ten-year-old Ann with her sisters, taken while they were vacationing at Lake Minnetonka, Minnesota, and Ann posing at age two. B-194 Green, Stanley. RincL_B.ei_ls_! Sing Songs ! Arlington House. New Rochelle, NY. 1971. pp. 43, 54, 221, 226, 242, 248, Chronicle of Broadway musicals of the 1930s, including Smiles, Am_e.rica_|s_Swee.t_hea.rt, Everybody's Welcome, and Of Thee I Sing. Harriette Lake was pictured in a scene from Eyerybody_'_s_ Wel_cp me. B-195 Hall, Gladys. "A Ghost for a Year!" Silver Screen. August, 1939. Account of Ann Sothern's one-year absence from the screen. B-196 Harmetz, Aljean. "Ann Sothern - Dauntless." New Yprk._Times. October 11, 1987. Interview with Ann Sothern at her Idaho home about her life and the release of The Whales of August. Article recounts her 1973 accident in Jacksonville, Florida (mistakenly dated as 1974), which broke her back and her other health problems. Of her career Ann said, "Character parts are the only roles that ever interested me." She did not believe her Whales of August role would receive an Academy Award nomination because of her strength and independence. Article included information on her personal life, such as her father's desertion of the family, her high school composition honors, and her 1952 conversion to Catholicism. B-197

. "Family Bonds." New York Times. October 11, 1987. Article on Tisha Sterling accompanying "Ann Sothern Dauntless." Article recounts Tisha's difficulties as an actress living in her mother's shadow. She credited her Idaho hideaway as helping her survive. B-198

. "Placating the Stars of Whales." New_ York Times. October 22, 1987. Chronicle of the filming of The Whales of August on location in Maine in September, 1986. Problems

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encountered by producer Mike Kaplan included finding three houses with bathrooms on the ground floor for Bette Davis, Lillian Gish, and Ann Sothern, and carrying the stars on a daily 40-minute ferryboat ride to the film location. Ann Sothern recalled Bette Davis telephoning her with compliments about Ann's performance after viewing the daily rushes. B-199 "Harriet [sic] Lake in Musical Comedy." San Francisco Chronicle. October 29, 1933. Announcement that Harriette Lake had been put under a long-term contract with Columbia Pictures. Her first film would be Let's Fall In Love, which was scheduled to begin shooting in the next few days. B-200 "Harriet [sic] Lake Stars." Minneapolis Journal. March 15, 1931. Story about Harriette Lake, star of America's Sweetheart. Article recounted Harriette's musical training in Minneapolis, her travel to Broadway via Hollywood, and her role in the out-of-town tryout of Smi1es. B-201 Harris, Radie. "Broadway Ballyhoo." Hollywood Reporter. October 13, 1987. p. 123. Announcement of promotional efforts by the stars of The Whales of August. Ann Sothern spent eight days at New York's Ritz Carlton with her sister, Sally, to publicize the film. It was Ann's first trip since surgery to help her walk six months before the film premiere. B-202

. "Broadway Ballyhoo." HpJ_l_yjippd_ Re.Ppr.ter. October 19, 1987. Report on the New York premiere of The Whales of August, a benefit for the March of Dimes. A birthday party for Lillian Gish was given at the Plaza Hotel following the premiere. Harris said Ann Sothern told her she appreciated the welcome from autograph fans, but was anxious to return to her home in Idaho after the celebration. B-203 "Have Fun on Your Own!" Stardom. September, 1942. pp. 24-25. Ann Sothern advised women to find hobbies while their men were in the service. Lakeside Country Club golf instructorLew Scott gave Ann pointers in a series of photographs. B-204 Healy, Michael. "Gish and Davis Save Whales from Its Script." Los Angeles Daily News. October 23, 1987. Review of The Whales of August. Healy said, "[Ann] Sothern plays the friend Tisha with a nice complexity. She is both genuinely concerned about her friend and still has aspects of a manipulative busybody. She gets every bit of meaning out of the little role."

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B-205 "Hearing on Mother of Ann Sothern Under Way." Los Angeles Times. June 29, 1961. Superior Judge Eugene P. Fay presided over a hearing over the custody of Annette Yde-Lake. Annette's daughter, Ann Sothern, contended that Annette would receive the best care in a sanitarium. Another daughter, Bonnie Dickman, wanted Ann to contribute $1,200 a month for Annette's support while Annette resided with Bonnie. A previous hearing had been declared a mistrial when Superior Judge Clyde C. Triplett found he could not make a ruling during the two hours he had allotted to hear the case. B-206 Henderson, Jessie. "Sunday Breakfast with Ann Sothern." Screen Play. September, 1937. pp. 58, 76-77. Ann Sothern discussed her favorite menu for Sunday brunch and shared recipes. B-207 "Hipp, Balto." Variety. January 18, 1939. Review of Ann Sothern's act with Roger Pryor as seen at the Hippodrome Theatre in Baltimore. Critic said, "Miss Sothern...looks well and gives out with legitimately sold brace of vocals, 'Deep in a Dream' and 'With a Song in My Heart,' both entirely up to scratch and a solid handgetter." B-208 Hirschhorn, Clive. The Hollywood Musical. Crown Publishers, Inc. 1981. pp. 85, 87, 96, 100, 105, 106, 121, 186, 195, 212, 228, 291, 299, 301, 313. Brief synopsis, credits, critique, and photos from film musicals from 1929 to 1980. Ann Sothern was mentioned in the listings for Let's Fall in Love, Melody in Spring, Kid Millions, Folies Bergere, Hooray for Love, The_ Girl Friend, Walking on Air, Lady Be Good, Panama Hattie, Thousands Cheer, April Showers, Words and Music, and Nancy Goes to Rio. B-209

. The Warner Bros. Story. Crown Publishers, Inc. New York. 1979. pp. 80, 212, 270, 380. Synopsis, credits, critique, and photographs from Warner Bros, films from 1925-1978. Ann Sothern is mentioned in conjunction with Show of Shows, Brother Orchid, April Showers, and Chubasco. B-210 Hobbs, David. "Riches to Rags." Movie Mirror. July, 1940. Fan magazine account of David Hobbs's stay with Ann Sothern and Roger Pryor. Article was allegedly dictated by David to his sister, Beulah. He described meeting Ann in November, 1937 in Dallas, traveling to Hollywood, and receiving limitless attention. David said that despite Ann and Roger's love and money, he longed for his own family. B-211 Holland, Jack. "Ann's New Happiness." TV Picture Life. October, 1956. pp. 18-21, 56-57.

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Fan magazine account of Ann Sothern's contentment with Private Secretary, her new apartment, and her production company. In addition to developing teleplays and producing Ann's nightclub act, Vincent Productions handled two of her discoveries: Tony Ramo and Ginny Saturday. Article also mentioned Ann's romance with Bill Andrew, choreographer of her nightclub act. Of daughter Patricia, Ann said, "She never looks upon me as a star. I'm just her mother, but she went to great lengths to try to get me to introduce her to Kirk Douglas, Marilyn Monroe, and Fess Parker." Ann also discussed her future plans, including her desire to do another Broadway musical. B-212

. "The Sothern Route." Mpvie_Shpw. April, 1946. pp. 31, 77-80. Ann Sothern gave advice to aspiring actors. She cited talent, personality, education, and ambition as the keys to becoming a star. Ann also stressed the importance of humility and the ability to take constructive criticism. B-213

. "What I'll Teach My Daughter about Marriage." Movie Show. September, 1948. Ann Sothern predicted what she would tell her three-and-ahalf -year-old daughter, Patricia Sterling, about marriage. Ann stressed honesty, tolerance, understanding, and unselfishness. Article included photographs of Ann and Tisha on the set of April Showers. B-214 Hollis, Karen. "Luck Smiles on Ann." Mpdern_ Screen. July, 1936. Interview with Ann Sothern on how luck influenced her career. B-215 "Hollywood News Box." New..XpUs._Wpr_lJ-Tei_e^ram. December 8, 1941. Announcement that the film Panama Hattie would be revised at a cost of $200,000. Only the musical numbers would be salvaged. B-216 "Hooray for Love." Motion Picture. August, 19 3 5. Review. Critic rated the film AAA, claiming "Ann [Sothern's] singing was never better and the hit song, 'I'm in Love All Over Again' will long outlive the picture." B-217 "Hooray for Love." Photoplay. August, 1935. Review. Critic said, "Ann Sothern and Gene Raymond carry a luke-warm love story, but their voices don't quite put over the catchy tunes." B-218 Hopper, Hedda. "Ann Sothern Back in Hospital." Los.. Angeles Times. March 30, 1950. Ann Sothern returned to Hollywood Presbyterian Hospital en March 28, 1950 for minor surgery. She had been hospital izec' the previous month for a thyroid gland operation.

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B-219

. "Ann Sothern Will Clown with Lucy." Los Angeles Times. May 25, 1964. Announcement that Ann Sothern would guest star on Lucille Ball's TV series at least three times during the 1964-65 season. Ann had recently recovered from pneumonia which she caught while appearing at a jury trial in San Luis Obispo, California. The trial concerned a car accident in which she and Tisha Sterling were involved. Ann was quoted as saying, "We felt like Sacco and Vanzetti, but won hands down." B-220

. "TV Role and Little Tish Make Good Sothern Dish." Los Angeles Times. August 10, 1953. Ann Sothern discussed her television career. Despite the success of Private Secretary, she said she would like to continue making movies when her schedule permitted. She credited her crew with bringing the Nielsen ratings from 23 to 33 within six months. Several crew members, including cameraman Jack Pittack and sound man Bob Lee, had been at MGM with Ann. To prevent the public from tiring of her, Ann planned to appear only in the beginning and end of some episodes of Private Secretary. She considered narrating some episodes, but this never happened. Ann said she had turned down a Las Vegas appearance, but she would appear in nightclubs if MGM's Roger Edens would stage her act. A yearlater she played Las Vegas, Reno, and Chicago in an act staged by LeRoy Prinz. Ann claimed her secret desire was to be a diplomat's wife instead of an actress. B-221 Hough, Donald. "The Girl with the Moveable Face." This Week. December 8, 1940. p. 12. Review of Ann Sothern's career. She was quoted as saying, "If you think I'll ever be a star - I mean a leading lady in the glamor tradition - you're crazy. And if I thought so, I'd be crazy. I'm a character actress and I love it." She continued, "I have to act hard, and act all over. Sometimes I get tired, but I have to keep going because every time I slow down a little I have a horrible feeling that people are walking out of the theatre." B-222 Hover, Helen. "Popping Questions at Ann Sothern." Hoilywood. September, 1942. pp. 32-33, 57. Interview with Ann Sothern about her career, her views on marriage, and her philosophy on a myriad of subjects. She was quoted as saying Shirely Temple was her idea of woman of the year because Shirley was "the epitome of everything a young girl should be." When asked what three men she would like to be stranded with on a deserted island, Ann replied, "Bing Crosby - to sing to me. Charles Chaplin - for his charm and wit. Franklin P. Adams - to play questions and answers. And I ought to have someone who can cook!" Ann claimed Hedy Lamarr had given her the nickname of "Pluto" because of her sad eyes. B-223 "How They Prepare."

Mp.vi.e_ Mirror..

June, 1937.

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Discussion of stars's techniques for preparing for a role. Ann Sothern recalled studying with three teachers to master a Swedish accent for Let's Fall in Love. B-224 "How to Be an Armed-Force Riot." Photoplay. July, 1943. Stars offered popularity pointers to women dating soldiers. Ann Sothern told women to mind their manners. Her advice included keeping the date inexpensive and sending her date back to camp on time. B-225 Hoyt, Caroline Somers. "'Don't Be Yourself,' Says Ann Sothern." Movie Mirror. June, 1936. pp.67, 94-95. Interview with Ann Sothern about the changes in her personality and appearance since the beginning of her career. Article commented on Ann's ability to look and sound differently, causing a magazine editor to admit her personality was impossible to categorize. Ann said all artists should grow as they mature. She was quoted as saying, "I believe that all professional personalities are synthetic to a certain extent. I don't think there is a single outstanding personality on the screen who could have walked into a studio as she was ten years ago and have interested anyone in giving her even background work." She continued, "We grow into a character and we learn from experience, and these things cannot be reflected in our makeup until they have actually happened." B-226 Hubler, Richard G. "A Belle Named Sothern." Coronet. June, 1959. pp. 91-96. Detailed interview with Ann Sothern about her life and The__. Ann Sothern Show. Article featured many little-known facts, but also had several glaring errors. Article omitted Ann's early film and stage credits, listing America's 8we.ethea_rt as her first role. Daughter Tisha was wronglyidentified as Trish. Confusing transitions lead the reader to beleive that Private Secretary happened before Faithfully Yours. Ann said she tried to please the women viewers, from whom she received 80 % of her fan mail. Her hard work interfered with her personal life. An unnamed producer was quoted, "Neither of her husbands could stand her passion for perfection." Ann recalled her name changes, the last of which was Anna Maria Sothern when she converted to Catholicism. B-227 Humphrey, Hal. "Ann Sothern Is Marrying Off 'Katy,' Then Calling It Quits." Los Angeles Mirror. February 20, 1961. CBS TV president James Aubrey was blamed for the cancellation of The Ann Sothern Show after moving the series to a timeslot opposite The Untouchables. Ann Sothern was quoted as saying, "By mutual consent between the sponsors and me, we are cutting the series short by fourepisodes." The last show featured Don Porter's character

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proposing to Ann's Katy. Ann considered turning producer after her series was cancelled. She had Cesar Romero under option for a series on firemen entitled Loom Up. She said the networks and advertising agencies were reluctant to produce a series that dealt with tragedy so Loom Up's future was uncertain. B-228

. "That Beep-Beep Is Ann's New Role." Los Angeles Times. July 19, 1965. Ann Sothern discussed her role on My Mother the Car. She predicted that viewers would become so intrigued by her voice coming out of the car that they would demand an on-screen appearance. She suggested a solution, "We could do it by way of a dream sequence in which Dave recalls times when his mother was alive." Ann was quoted as saying that she wanted to do another series during the 1966-67 season. B-229 "In All Ways Acknowledge Him and He Will Direct Thy Path." TV Star Parade. July, 1961. pp. 34, 60-61. Article on how Ann Sothern's faith helped her survive a series of tragedies, including divorce and illness. Ann's religion was also credited in aiding her after an automobile accident with her daughter, Tisha Sterling, here mistakenly called Trish. B-230 "In Her 1988. Photograph of Film Festival at a luncheon

Honor."

Santa Barbara News-Press.

March 5,

Ann Sothern with Santa Barbara International director Phyllis de Picciotto and Dennis Doph in Ann's honor.

B-231 "Is TV a Haven for Hollywood Has-Beens?" TV Guide. July 24, 1954. p. 23. Ann Sothern, Joan Crawford, Humphrey Bogart, and other stars answered the title question. Ann Sothern said she tried to employ performers who had been forgotten by filmmakers on Private Secretary. B-232 "J.U. to Welcome Ann Sothern as Resident Artist." Florida Times-Union and Journal [Jacksonville]. September 8, 1974. Announcement that Ann Sothern was artist in residence at Jacksonville University, September 17-20, 1974. Ann's schedule included a series of workshops on the Stanislavsky method of acting for university students, a tea in her honor, and a lecture open to the public. B-233 Jacques, Steve. "Screen Star Ann Sothern: God Gave Me and My Daughter Our Lives Back." National Enquirer. September 5, 1978. Ann Sothern credited her faith in helping her recover from a back accident in Jacksonville, Florida. She said her faith also helped her daughter, Tisha, beat skin cancer.

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B-23 4 Jenkins, Stephen. Fritz Lang: The Image and the Look. British Film Institute. London. 1981. pp. 109-15. Discussion of the symbolism and technique used by directorFritz Lang in The Blue Gardenia. Includes stills of Ann Sothern. B-235 Jennings, John. "Gish, Davis Make Whales of August a Pleasant Experience." Tucson Citizen. December 29, 1987. Review. Jennings gave the film a grade of "B-" and called Ann Sothern "interesting as the girlhood friend of the sisters who has seen them grow old together." He added, "The dialogue makes for fun listening as Sothern and [Harry] Carey manage convincing New England accents." B-236 Jewell, Richard B. with Harbin, Vernon. The__RKO__ Story. Arlington House. New York. 1982. pp. 85, 97, 98, 107, 109, 112, 115, 237. Brief synopsis, credits, critique, and photos from RKO films from 1929 to 1960. Ann Sothern's RKO films were Hooray for Love, Walking on Air, Smartest Girl in Town, There Goes My Gir1, Super-Slputh, There Goes the Groom, and The Judge Steps Out. B-237 Johnson, Erksine. "She Returns after Long Illness." Los Angeles Daily News. February 4, 1952. Announcement that Ann Sothern would return to the screen in The Blue Gardenia after a three-year abscence. Ann was quoted as saying, "No one will ever really know how ill I was. The doctors said they lost me for 10 days." Johnson said Ann's virus infection of the liver was the same illness that killed Gertrude Lawrence. B-238 Johnson, Malcolm I. "Gish, Davis Give Whales Extra Class." Hartford Courant. December 25, 1987. Review of The Whales of August. Johnson praised the film's character study. He added, "There's also a bit of humor, courtesy of Ann Sothern, now a pleasingly plump 69-year-old, who trots in a slightly nosy neighbor with a terrible secret: she has lost her driver's license." B-239 Jones, Jack. "Secretary Finds TV Going Rough, But Great Training for New Talent." Los Angeles Sunday News. March 8, 1953. Ann Sothern discussed the hard work involved in Private Secretary. She said the films were shot in three twelve-hour days. Despite the long hours, she felt TV was a great training ground for young actresses. Ann said she was offered several Maisie-like roles before settling on Private Secretary. She explained, "I know it would have been sure-fire, but I didn't want to be typed any more." B-240 Kamm, Herb.

"A Girl's Best Friend."

TV Headliner.

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21:

July, 1959. pp. 16-17, 54, 56. Discussion of Ann Sothern's appeal to television viewers. Ann was modest about her fans. "I'd say my success is 75 percent whatever it is that God gave me that appeals to people. The other 25 percent is my work." Article gave a brief overview of Ann's life and featured stills from The... Ann Sothern Show. Ann was pictured on the cover of this issue of TV Headliner. B-241 Kane, Christopher. "Movie Reviews." Modern Screen. March, 1949. Film review of A Letter to Three Wives. Critic said, "...Hollywood should give Ann Sothern more good parts. She's very nearly the cutest, smartest-1ooking girl out there." B-242 "Katy Used Her Head." TV Guide. November 15, 1953. pp. 12-13. Seven-panel pictorial of Ann Sothern and Jacques Scott of The Ann Sothern Show, modeling hats to show the aspects of f1irting. B-243 Kauffmann, Stanley. "Stanley Kauffmann on Films: Survivals." The New Republic. November 2, 1987. p. 2. Review of The Whales of August. Kauffmann said, "The once pert and vivacious Ann Sothern is on hand in a spherical reincarnation, accompanied by a cane..." B-244 Kern, B.M. "Shubert, Newark, N.J." Billboard. January 14, 1939. p. 24. Review of Ann Sothern's act with Roger Pryor. Kern called Ann's vocals "one of the outstanding acts on the 75-minute presentation." He continued, "[Ann Sothern] gives ample proof that her pipes have not frozen up despite three years in glitter1 and." B-245 Kerr, Walter. "Just Plain Frigid." Nejw.Xor.k_.H.e_ralJ.„ Tribune. October 19, 1951. Review of Broadway production of Faithfully Yours. Kerr said Ann Sothern brought "a crisp delivery and a doll-like attractiveness" to her performance. However, he pointed out, "... the lines will not support her, and she is not a technical virtuoso in the [Robert] Cummings...manner. As a result, she is left at the post through no fault of her own, and it is cold there." B-246 "Key to the City." Florida Times-Union [Jacksonville]. September 19, 1974. p. C-3. Announcement that Ann Sothern was awarded a key to the city by Jacksonville University during a tea given by the Friends of the Fine Arts. Included photo of Ann with guests at tea. B-247 Kinkle, Roger D.

The Complete Encyclopedia of

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Popular Music and Jazz 1900-1950. Arlington House. New Rochelle, NY." 1974. p. 1787. Brief biography and discography of Ann Sothern. B-248 Krajewski, Susan. "'50s Star Ann Sothern: I'm Back on My Feet and Ready to Work Again." National Enquirer. April 29, 1986. Interview with Ann Sothern about her recovery from her Jacksonville, Florida accident. Ann said she was in and out of hospitals for over three years. The back injury affected the nerves in her legs, causing her to lose the feeling in her feet. Ann had recently returned to work in the telefilm A Letter to Three Wives. B-249 Krebs, Albin. "Notes on People." N_ew_Yprk_Jim.es. January 20, 1977. Report on the trial of Ann Sothern's suit against the Thunderbird Dinner Theatre in Jacksonville, Florida. Article said Ann became tearful when she was asked if a woman her age should expect to work less than a youngeractress. She was quoted as saying, "Acting is my life. I've been acting since I was 15." B-250 "Lady Be Good." Commonweal. September, 26, 1941. p. 548. Review. Critic said, "Ann Sothern, who has shown before that she can act, now proves she can sing - even such slightly wornout numbers as last winter's 'The Last Time I Saw Paris.'" B-251 "Lady Be Good." Photoplay. October, 1941. Review. Critic said, "The music is delightful, especially Ann Sothern's singing of 'The Last Time I Saw Paris.' In fact, it's Annie's picture despite the terrific competition and we look for more big-time musicals for Miss Sothern." B-252 "Lady Be Good." Scribner's Commentator. December, 1941. pp. 106-7. Review. Critic said, "I left in spite of the fact that I adore Ann Sothern and regard her as one of the top few finest actresses on the screen, right up there with Bette Davis and several others." He added, "She has a real range,...deep, underlying appeal which gets me. And she's the only actress I know who can't sing whom I like to hearsing. (...Ann Sothern puts so much feeling into bad singing that it touches me here.)" B-2 53 "Lady in a Cage." Variety. June 3, 1964. Review. Critic said, "[Olivia] de Havilland does about as well as possible under the dire circumstances. So does [Ann] Sothern as the prostie [sic]. When the picture ends, she's locked up in a closet but nobody seems to care." B-254 Lane, Lydia.

"The Secret of Sothern's Comfort."

Los.

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Angeles Times. November 2, 1975. Ann Sothern's health and beauty hints. She advised using vitamins and minerals to balance a diet, and using moisturizer and abrasive soap for the complexion. B-255 Lane, Virginia T. "Why They Call Her Annie." Motion Picture. July, 1937. pp. 43, 89. Article about Ann Sothern's endearing qualities which led people to call her "Annie." Her long-distance marriage to Roger Pryor was discussed. Article also recalled a series of practical jokes the crew of Fifty Roads to Town pulled on Ann's birthday. B-256 "A Letter to Three Wives." Look. February 1, 1949. pp. 80-82. Review and photographs from the film. Critic praised the film's acting, directing, and use of flashbacks. B-257 "A Letter to Three Wives." Motion Picture. March, 1949. Film review. Critic said, "The cast is superb - Ann Sothern, Jeanne Crain, Linda Darnell, Paul Douglas, Kirk Douglas, Barbara Lawrence, with supporting roles outstandingly good." B-258 Lewis, Ruth. "Ann Sothern Bounces Back." Los Angeles Daily News. October 7, 1954. RCA predicted Ann Sothern would be a recording star after her work on the soundtrack for Lady in the Dark. B-259 "Like Mother, Like Daughter." Silver Screen. May, 1950. p. 29. Pictorial showing Ann Sothern, Jane Powell, and Louis Calhern performing "Shine on Harvest Moon" in Nancy Goes to Rio. B-260 Little, Stuart W. "After 11 Years: Ann Sothern Back on Stage as Spinster." New York Herald Tribune. August 10, 1962. Announcement that Ann Sothern would return to Broadway in God Bless Our Bank in November, 1962. Little reported that the Theatre Guild and Joel Schenker were producing the play, which would preview in New Haven, Boston, and Philidelphia before its Broadway opening during the week of November 26. The play was delayed until the summer of 1963, at which time the producers were Zev Bufman and Stan Seiden. B-261 Lo Schiavo, Lydia. "The Sothern Approach." The Photoplayer. December 4, 1948. pp. 9, 18. Biographical sketch of Ann Sothern. Among the items mentioned were that Ann planned to adopt a baby boy, that she loved to wear her fur coats, even in humid tempertures, and that she was a fanatic about cleanliness.

216

Ann Sothern

B-262 "Loew's, Montreal." Variety. February 22, 1939. Review of Ann Sothern's act with Roger Pryor. Critic said, "Miss Sothern is held for the climax, topping everything in applause. Her vocal efforts, 'My Cigarette' and 'With a Song in My Heart,' are not too forte, but adequate and well received here." B-263 Lorentz, Pare. "The Movies." Judge. April, 1935. pp. 16-17. Review of llpii_es.B_erg.ere.. Critic said, "...there's a little blond in the show named Ann Sothern who is both pretty and funny, two attributes [Maurice] Chevalier's erst-while teammate, Jeanette MacDonald, has lacked, which is another piece of good luck for the Frenchman, and which makes Folies Bergere a little better than pretty good." B-264 Los Angeles Times. January 23, 1977. Announcement that a Jacksonville, Florida jury awarded Ann Sothern $200,000 in her suit against the Thunderbird Dinner Theatre. Ann was injured when a piece of scenery fell on her during a performance of Everybody Loves Opal in 1973. She testified that she had been unable to control her weight or get a job since the accident. B-265 "Luckies Nears Private Sec'y Film Purchase." Biljbgard.. November 8, 1952. Announcement that Lucky Strike "was on the verge of purchasing Private Secretary, the film package which stars Ann Sothern." Article said that if the deal went through, the series would replace Ttis_J.s_SJipjw_Bu_sines.s in the 7:30 Sunday evening timeslot on CBS. The show premiered in that timeslot on February 1, 1953. B-266 Mack, Gloria. "Eye Deal." Movie Mirror. October, 1940. p. 100. Comments on Ann Sothern's expressive eyes. Ann advised using an eye cup and eye lotion to ease irritation brought about by dust and glare. B-267 "Madam President." TV Guide. March 21, 1959. pp. 12-14. Interview with Ann Sothern about her business interests. Ann credited her father, Walter J. Lake, for teaching her about investments. Article included background about how each business was started. A Bar S Music Company handled three songs used on The Ann Sothern Show. Ann denied that she had refused $500,000 for her interest in Private Secretary reruns. She said, "I have never been interested in selling my interest in Private Secretary. And people do not make you offers unless they know you are interested." Ann was pictured on the cover. B-268 Maddox, Ben. "She Dared to Be a Human Being." Motion Picture. June, 1940. pp. 34, 87, 89.

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Interview with Ann Sothern about her one-year absence from the screen and the changes in her life. She blamed herself for accepting glamorous roles that bored her. Ann claimed it was difficult to hold out for a script with a challenging character role. She also discussed her marriage to Roger Pryor. Ann was quoted as saying, "Roger is moody; it's up to me to fit in with his moods, cleverly. He'll calmly analyze where I'm inclined to be too impuslive. I'm stubborn. I have to keep tab on this trait, or I might be sorry." B-269 Madison, Carla. "Ann Sothern's Advice to Modern Girls." Movie Classic. August, 1935. pp. 24, 60. Interview with Ann Sothern about her advice to aspiring actresses. Ann recalled her early screen career under the guidance of Bill Koenig and Paul Bern. Her advice included taking an inventory of talents, continued hard work, a good general education, and remembering individuality. Article claimed Ann attended the University of Washington for three years, although the University found her listed only in the 1928-29 student directory. B-270 "Maisie." ScreenlandSeptember, 1939. Film review. Critic said, "[Ann] Sothern does a grand job of sincere emoting in her 'big scene,' and in fact all through the film she gives adequate evidence that she posesses all the necessary equipment to step right in to a big-star spot any time now." B-271 "Maisie Gets Her Man." Movie Stars Parade. August, 1943. pp. 36, 73. Report on Ann Sothern and Robert Sterling's wedding. The event, which included a forgotten wedding license, was compared to a Maisie movie. B-272 "Maisie Goes and Does It Again!" Screen Stories." B-272 "Maisie Goes and Does It Again!" Screen Stories." March, 1955. p. 47. Ann Sothern was named most popular TV actress of 1954 by readers of Modern .Screen. In addition to a brief overview of Ann's career, article included a photograph of Ann and her silver cup award. This piece accompanied an adaptation of "The Screaming Meemies" episode of Private Secretary. B-273 "Maisie - What You've Been Waiting For." Si_lver_... Screen. September, 1939. Film review of Maisie. Critic said, "Ann Sothern as Maisie give a performance you'll never forget. She's that good." B-274 Maksian, George. "Comeback for Sothern Show." New.. York Daily News. January 5, 1987. Announcement that Nickelodeon would begin running The Ann Sothern Show and Private Secretary. Article included a photograph of Ann.

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Ann Sothern

B-275 "Mame Musical Bid: B'way Beckons Back Ann Sothern." Daily Variety. September 2, 1965. Ann Sothern was offered the title role in the musical Mame, which was still being written at the time of this article. She was mistakenly credited as appearing on Broadway in Through the Years and the road company of Showboat. Ann turned down the Broadway premiere of Mame; the role went to Angela Lansbury. Ann later starred in the musical in Hawaii. B-276 Manners, Dorothy. "Devastating Daytime Styles." Motion Picture. January, 1936. pp. 43-45, 54. Fashion pictorial featuring Ann Sothern, Joan Bennett, Rochelle Hudson, Gina Malo, and Billie Burke modeling glamorous daytime wear. B-277 Martin, Donald. "New and Lavish Musical Films." Etude. September, 1941. pp. 594, 638. Review of Lady Be Good, providing some background information on the film. Donald Martin mistakenly stated that "The Last Time I Saw Paris" was sung in the film by Tony Martin; the Oscar-winning song was performed by Ann Sothern. Lady Be Good was the first time Ann sang officially under her MGM contract. She had performed an acappela version of "St. Louis Blues" in Congo Maisie. B-278 Marx, Samuel, and Clayton, Jan. Rodgers and Hart. G.P. Putnam's Sons. 1976. pp. 148-49. Ann Sothern reminisced about her role in America's Sweetheart and her relationship with Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart. B-279 "Matter of Protection." Los Angeles Times. August 13, 1934. After Ann Sothern and her stand-in were attacked by Anna Sten's two spitz dogs at the United Artists studio, Ann began taking a Great Dane with her on her walks around the lot. B-280 Maynard, John. "Why TV's 'Perfect Secretary' Needs Three Girl Fridays." Los Angeles Exmainer. February 21, 1954. Article about the dissimilarities between Ann Sothern and her Private Secretary character, Susie MacNamara. Susie was portrayed as an organized girl who could do anything. Stories about Ann's mishaps included forgetting the ring en route to her wedding, breaking two fingers, and hasseling with a yoyo she had to use on the series. Ann hired three secretaries to handle her fan mail. Ann also dispensed advice to real secretaries. B-281 McCarthy, Julia. "Maisie Likes Name Mrs. Bob Sterling Best." New York Daily News. February 18, 1946. Account of Ann Sothern and Robert Sterling's trip to New

Bibliography

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York for shopping and seeing Broadway shows. Article mentioned Hedy Lamarr had given Ann a St. Christopher medal inscribed, "From Hedy to Pluto, Christmas, 1941." Ann had earned the nickname because of her sad eyes. B-282 McCarthy, Todd. "Ann Sothern Sells Her 2 Series to Metromedia for Syndication." Daily Variety. May 7, 1979. Announcement that Ann Sothern sold Private Secretary and The Ann Sothern Show to Metromedia, Inc. The series had been out of syndication for ten years. Article mentioned that Ann had been honored in a benefit for the American Lung Association on April 18, 1979, at San Francisco's Warfield Theatre. The tribute included film clips, a question-andanswer hour with Ann, and a screening of The Killing Kind. B-283 McClay, Howard. "Ann Sothern Back on TV." Lps_. Angeles Daily News. September 18, 1953. Interview with Ann Sothern and a visit to the set of Private Secretary. Ann discussed her plans to return to movie-making while starring in Private Secretary. She said doctors warned her against fatigue during the series's first season so she had to turn down movie offers. She hoped to appear in both media during the second season. During the visit to the set, Ann revealed that the entire crew returned for the second season despite other job offers. The second season introduced the character of Sylvia, played by Joan Banks, who was Mrs. Frank Lovejoy in real life. Both Miss Banks and Mr. Lovejoy were radio favorites who appeared on the Maisie. series. Article also explained the numerous eyeglasses worn by Ann on Private Secretary. Article mentioned that directors were alternated every two or three weeks. Gerald Mayer, a friend of Ann's from MGM, joined first year director Christian Nyby. B-284 . "Ann Sothern Is Now a Four Career Girl." Los Angeles Daily News. June 22, 1954. Ann Sothern's nightclub debut was heralded. McClay noted that she had conquered movies, radio, television, and nightclubs, making her an actress with four careers. B-285 McCreadie, Marsha. "Quartet of Film Legends Fail to Bring Excitement to Saccharine Whales." Arizona Republic [Phoenix]. January 23, 1988. Review of The Whales of August. McCreadie said, "Even Ann Sothern as a tubby visitor doesn't do much to flesh out The Whales of August, so to speak." B-286 McManus, John T. "That Sothern Rebel in Our Midst." New York Times. March 22, 1936. Chronicle of Ann Sothern's trip to New York and her new RKO contract. Dissatisfied with Columbia's roles and the studio's efforts to change her to a blonde, Ann joined RKO

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in 1936. At this writing, she had not worked for her new employer, however, RKO had agreed to let her return to her original hair color. She said, "Blonde hair limits a girl to certain types or parts" and she would "like to be versatile." Ann was scheduled to appear in Save a Lady. RKO executives said the title was a natural for an advance build-up along the lines of the Apple Annie idea. Ann Sothern's first RKO film was Walking on Air. B-287 McManus, Margaret. "Hardy Ann Sothern Would Like to Cling, but Hasn't the Time." Louisvilie Courier-Journal. November 20, 1960. Ann Sothern discussed her desire to marry, despite her busy schedule on The Ann Sothern Show. She talked about her relationship with her daughter, Tisha. Ann said it was difficult for children of stars to feel they were liked for themselves. She added that Tisha had been resentful of her mother's career for awhile, but had adjusted. Ann's plans for the future included being a grandmother. She said, "I will consider my life a success if Tish gets a good husband and has a happy marriage and several children. I don't want a career for her, just a nice, normal life." Ann also confided that she had always lived beyond her means, citing her purchases of a star-sapphire ring and a white ermine coat while she was just a starlet. B-288 . "New Side Kick." Milwaukee Journal. February 7, 1965. Interview with Ann Sothern about her role on The__Lucx_ Show. Ann said she had been asked to do 20 segments for the 1965-66 season, but she did not want to overcommit herself. She planned a weekly series which she would share with three other women. She hoped Loretta Young would join the project. Ann appeared on three episodes of The Lucy Show during the 1965-66 season; the women's project never materialized. Ann was quoted as saying that Sun Valley was the one place she considered home. She even went so far as to purchase four cemetary plots across from that of Ernest Hemingway. B-289 Meltz, Marty. "Whales Draws on Maine Spirit." Portland Press Herald. November 19, 1987. Review of The Whales of August. Meltz criticized Ann Sothern and Harry Carey, Jr.'s roles as Maine natives. He said, "Both give serviceable performances but are embarrassingly inept in their Maine accents and comically inaccurate with their 'ayuh.'" B-290 Meredith, Scott. George S. Kaufman and His Friends. Doubleday and Co, Inc. Garden City, N.Y. 1974. pp. 444-45. Detailed account of Of Thee I Sing, including its eight-month tour starring Harriette Lake.

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B-291 "Merman Shows Ann Sothern How to Do Panama Hattie." Life. May 19, 1941. pp. 123-24, 127. Pictorial of Ann Sothern learning the nuances of Panama Hattie from its stage star, Ethel Merman. B-292 Millar, Jeff. "Davis, Gish Still Feisty after All These Years." Houston Chronicle. February 13, 1988. Review of The Whales of August. Millar summed up Ann Sothern's role as "a cheerful neighbor who referees [Bette Davis and Lillian Gish's] spats." B-293 Mishkin, Leo. "The Boys Who Write for the Movies Better Beware of 'Maisie' Sothern." New York Morning Telegram. August 4, 1941. Interview with Ann Sothern in which she protested the stunts she had to perform as Maisie. She vowed to get even with the writers, "I'll trade the whole bunch in for a chap named Noel Coward, and sit in a drawing-room the rest of my professional life." B-294 Mitz, Rick. The Great TV Sitcom Book. Richard Marek Publishers, Inc. New York. 1980. pp. 6, 9, 80-83, 147, 152, 230, 233. Premises and critiques of situation comedies on televsion from 1949 to 1980. Ann Sothern was mentioned in the listings for The Ann Sothern Show and My Mother the Car. Private Secretary was given a four-page treatment, which included photos and biographies of Ann and Don Porter. Mistakes include listing Joseph Martorano as Joseph Nartocana and stating that Ann Sothern's real name was Henrietta Lake. B-295 Morino, Marianne. The Hollywood Walk of Fame. Ten Speed Press. Berkeley, CA. 1987. pp. 210, 215. Brief biography of Ann Sothern with the locations of her stars in the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The star for her film accomplishments is located at 1612 Vine Street; the television star is at 1634 Vine Street. B-296 Morrin, Frances. "Girls ... Girls.. .Girls." Movies. November, 1943. pp. 35, 82. Chronicle of the filming of Cry Havoc, featuring 13 leading actresses. B-2 97 Morris, Nancy. "TV Movie Is a Winner." Shreveport Journal. December 13, 1985. Review of the telefilm A Letter to Three Wives. Morris said, "[Ann] Sothern is delightful in this role, and seems to be having a grand time playing the feisty woman who does not apologize for who and what she is." B-298 Morrison, Benjamin. "Sothern Comfort." New Orleans Times-Picayune. February 5, 1987.

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Interview with Ann Sothern during the 1987 National Association of Television Production Executives (NATPE) convention. Ann discussed her role in The Whales of August and the reruns of Private Secretary and The Ann Sothern Show on Nickelodeon. B-299 "Mother Drops Suit Against Sothern, to Try for Accord." Hollywood Citizen-News. July 1, 19 61. Annette Yde-Lake dropped her support suit against her daughter, Ann Sothern, at the request of another daughter, Marion Tetley. Marion was named guardian of her mother on June 30, 1961. Article reported that Marion was trying to work out a reconcil1iation between her sisters, Ann Sothern and Bonnie Dickman, following the family's legal entanglements. B-300 "Mother in New Move Against Ann Sothern." New York Post. May 16, 1961. Announcement that Annette Yde-Lake had filed objections in Superior Court to the appointment of her daughter, Ann Sothern, as her guardian. Annette said Ann had a conflict of interest since she was being sued by her mother for support. Annette also objected to her daughter, Marion Tetley, as guardian because Marion worked for Ann. Annette wanted a third daughter, Bonnie Dickman, with whom she resided, to be named as guardian. B-301 "Mother Sues Ann Sothern for Support." New York Herald Tribune. May 3, 1961. Announcement of Annette Yde-Lake's suit against Ann Sothern. Ann was shocked by the suit. She claimed she had been supporting her mother until Annette left the hospital to live with another daughter. B-302 "Movies Cover Girl." Movies. December, 1942. p. 30. Pictorial showing Ann Sothern at home. Ann was also pictured on the cover. B-303 Murphy, George. Say...Didn't You Used to Be George Murphy? Bartholomew Hours. New York. 1970. pp. 171. Ann Sothern's friend and former co-star reminisced about their work and the parties they attended. Murphy recalled the filming of "Your Head on My Shoulder" in Kid Mil lions. "Annie was wearing a big, circular, bouffant skirt and when I put my arm around her, the other side of her hoop would fly up," Murphy said. "So a man was assigned to hold it down. Because of the skirt, she couldn't see her marks, so another man was assigned to guide her feet. A third man was steering my feet, and two more were holding special lights to accomodate the cameraman." B - 3 0 4 "My Mother the Car." Daily Variety.

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September 15, 1965. Review. Critic called the premiere "pleasant and humorous." He said Ann Sothern "...voices mom in the proper maternal tones." B-305 "Nancy Goes to Rio." Photoplay. May, 19 50. Review. Critic called the film "colorful and gay" and described Ann Sothern as "poise personified." B-306 "National Song Search." Radio Guide. October 27, 1939. p. 12. Ann Sothern, Roger Pryor, and Oscar Bradley, orchestra leader of Screen Guild Theatre, were announced as honorary judges in Radio Guide's weekly composition contest. B-307 "The New Films." pp. 6, 86. Film review of A Letter "...Ann Sothern gives a time in this reviewer's

Theatre Arts.

April, 1949.

to Three Wives. Critic said, sensitive performance for the first memory."

B-308 "New Job and Name, but Same Old Susie." Minneapolis Star.- July 16, 1958. p. 16-B. Ann Sothern discussed her new role as Katy O'Connor on The .4ll^..Spther_n.^jip_w. Article pointed out the resemblance between Katy and Ann's former TV incarnation, Susie MacNamara. Ann said, "The public seems to like me playing a specific type of character and that's what I'm going to give them." B-309 "New Plays in Manhattan." Time. February 23, 1931. p. 29 Review of Broadway production of America's Sweetheart. Critic called Harriette Lake "a lovely synthesis, one part Ginger Rogers, one part Ethel Merman." E-310 New York Times. November 29, 1931. Portrait of Harriette Lake, star of Everybody's Welcome. B-311 New York Times. February 5, 1957. Announcement of Ann Sothern's lawsuit with Chertok Television, Inc. She sought $93,000 in Private Secretary profits, which she claimed were improperly distributed. B-312 Newby, Laura. "Ann Sothern - Commuting Bride." S c reen„ _Gui d e_. Dec emb er, 1936. pp. 24, 52. Account of the courtship and marriage of Ann Sothern and Roger Pryor. B-313 Ney, Joanna. "Keeping On: Cliff Island, Cartagena, and Edinburgh." Film Comment. February, 1987. PP. 2, 4. Account of the filming of The Whales of August. Article mentioned that the crew used a chintz-covered sedan chair to

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transport Lillian Gish and Ann Sothern to the beach film sights. Ann was quoted as saying Bette Davis was too tough to use the chair, even after she injured her hip. B-314 "Nick to Dust Off Two Sothern Skeins." Variety. January 28, 1987. Announcement of Nickelodeon's plan to air reruns of The Ann Sothern Show and Private Secretary. Nickelodeon Vice President of acquisitions Linda Kahn was quoted as saying, "[These] are the first series about working women...Mary Tyler Moore and all the others came later." B-315 "91 and 105." New York Daily News. October 15, 1987. Photograph of Ann Sothern and Lillian Gish backstage at New York's Coronet Theatre after the premiere of The Whales of August. The film marked 91-year-old Gish's 105th screen appearance. B-316 Nolan, Pat. "Ann Sothern Hits the Comeback Trail at 78." Globe. March 31, 1987. Ann Sothern discussed her return to the screen in The Whales of August. She summed up her role as the "good-natured but lonely friend and neighbor of two sisters." She recalled playing poker with the film crew, a far cry from her solitude in Ketchum, Idaho. Ann described her Idaho mountain home as "a slice of heaven." Her hobbies included trap-shooting and fishing. B-317 O'Brien, Jack. "Voice of Broadway." New Jersey Star-Ledger. March 10, 1988. p. 94. O'Brien quoted a People Weekly interview with Ann Sothern in which she said she saw "a lot of guys that turn me on." B-318 "Of Thee Follows Cynara in Chi." Billboard. September 17, 1932. Announcement that the national touring company of Of Thee I Sing would open at Chicago's Grand Opera House on September 18, 1932. Harriette Lake and Oscar Shaw were stars of the tour. B-319 "Of Thee I Sing Continuing." New York Herald Tribune. May 31, 1933. Announcement that the return Broadway engagement of Of_Th.ee I Sing had been extended indefinitely. Article mentioned that Harriette Lake would replace Lois Moran, the musical's original leading lady. B-320 "Of Thee I Sing Role No Novelty to Harriette Lake." New York Herald Tribune. June 4, 1933. Announcement that Harriette Lake would replace Lois Moran in the Broadway company of Of Thee I Sing. Article said Harriette was vacationing after a 33-week tour of the play when she was called to reprise the role of Mary on Broadway.

Bibliography

225

Harriette's career was reviewed; her film credits were listed as Show of Shows , Ho 1 d. _E v e rxtJltDJS / Heart s __ Exile, and Forward March (released as Doughboys). B-321 "On the Set with Lady Be Good." Modern Screen. June, 1941. Behind-the-scenes visit to MGM's stage 27 where La.dy_.Be.. Good was filmed. Article reported that Ann Sothern wore 35 Adrian gowns in the movie and that the use of "The Last Time I Saw Paris" cost MGM $10,000. Included photograph of Ann Sothern, Eleanor Powell, Red Skelton, and Phil Silvers clowning on the set. B-322 Oncken, Ed. "Ann Sothern." BiHbpard. July 17, 1954. Review of Ann Sothern's nightclub debut at El Rancho Vegas. Oncken said, "Ann Sothern departs largely from her dumb blonde type for a bit of glamor, a bit of comedy, and a couple of character routines." He called her backup group, the Five Escorts, "...unspectacular enough to make the star stand out after a fashion, what with her new platinum hair-dye." B-323 Osborne, Robert. "Rambling Reporter." Hp.H_yw_pg_d.__ Reporter. July 30, 1986. Announcement that The Whales of August would begin shooting off the coast of Maine after Labor Day. Column also mentioned that Mai Milland visited Ann Sothern's Idaho home . B-324

. "Rambling Reporter." Hoi lywppd JReportejr • August 14, 1987. p. 3. Announcement that Ann Sothern would give the eulogoy for Mark Bates, the husband of Ann's granddaughter, Heidi. Mark died in a motorcycle accident on August 11, 1987. B-325

. "Rambling Reporter." Hollywood Reporter. January 29, 1988. Ann Sothern discussed her up-coming tribute at the Santa Barbara Film Festival on March 4, 1988. She said it was the first festival she had attended because "I don't like to be told what to do. Once you get there, they always have a currriculum for you to follow..." Ann claimed that producer Mike Kaplan was instrumental in convincing her to attend. She did not mention the 1979 San Francisco tribute. B-326

. "Rambling Reporter." Hollywood Reporter. February 18, 1988. p. 4. Ann Sothern recalled how she learned she was nominated for an Academy Award. Her friend, Sarah Mitchell, called Ann at 6:00 a.m. with the news. B-327 "Palace, Cleveland." Variety. February 1, 1939. Review of Ann Sothern's act with Roger Pryor. Critic said,

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"Show builds up a custom-made entrance for Miss Sothern, who further ingratiates herself in amiable family banter with husband-band-master. Although her gown seems too theatrically fussy, her clear soprano and microphone poise in three ballads stops any criticism." B-328 Pally, Marcia. "Star Cast Can't Save Whales." Boston Herald. December 18, 1987. Review of The Whales of August. Critic said, "Ann Sothern, the boisterous comedienne of musical theater and television, bubbles and flubs in Whales as Libby and Sarah's overeager neighbor. Thirty years later, she's as deliciously silly and coy as she was in Private Secretary or The Ann Sothern Show.'' B-32 9 "Panama Hattie in the Movies." Christian Science Monitor. October 2, 1942. Review. Critic said, "In Ann Sothern's hands, Hattie turns out to be closer than a twin sister to the same Miss Sothern's Maisie. But this is no matter for complaint." B-330 Paris, Barry. "Ann Sothern Saddened by MGM's Big Auction." Wichita Eagle. July 21, 1970. Interview with Ann Sothern during her appearance in My__. Daughter, Your Son in Wichita, Kansas. Ann reminisced about her career, including Maisie. About the MGM auction, she said, "I hate to see the demise of anything so I just decided not to be a part of it." Ann said My Daughter, Your Son broke house records during her recent appearance at the Pheasant Run Playhouse in Illinois. B-331 Parish, James Robert. "Maisie." The Great Movie Series. A.S. Barnes and Co., Inc. Cranbury, New Jersey. 1971. pp. 241-50. Overview of the Maisije movie series. Synopses, credits and photographs were given for the first nine Maisie films. Inexplicably, Unjercpyer Maisie was not included. B-332 Parish, James Robert, and Bowers, Ronald L. The MGM Stock Company: The_.G g 1 d en E ra . Arlington House. New Rochelle, New York. 1973. pp. 42, 51, 95, 115, 136, 183, 362, 522, 534, 535, 538, 574, 575, 612, 658, 662-69, 671, 726. Biographical sketches of MGM contract players. Ann Sothern's life was reviewed on pages 662-69. Her chapterincluded a filmography and two scenes from her films. She was also mentioned in chapters on her co-stars and Robert Ster1ing. B-333 Parish, James Robert and Pitts, Michael R. Hollywood on Hollywood. Scarecrow Press, Inc. Metuchen, NJ. 1978. pp. 21-23, 227-29, 356. Credits, synopsis, and background information on films about Hoi 1ywood, inc1uding Ali Baba Goes to Town, Let's Fall in

Bibliography

227

Love, and Super-Sleuth. B-334 Parsons, Louella O. "Ann Sothern Operated on for Second Time in Weeks." Los Angeles Examiner. March 30, 1950. Ann Sothern was operated on for a cyst in her abdomen a fewweeks after surgery for a thyroid condition. Dr. William Branch, Ann's surgeon, said she could go home in ten days if her improvement continued. B-335

. "Ann Sothern, Sterling Again Part, Divorce Due." Los Angeles Examiner. September 20, 1946. Parsons reported that Ann Sothern and Robert Sterling were divorcing after two attempts at reconcil1iation. Parsons said Bob moved out of their home on September 19, 1946. She claimed Ann had offered to give up her career for the sake of the marriage. B-336

. "Ann Sothern, Sterling Get License to Wed." Los Angeles Examiner. May 22, 1943. Ann Sothern and Robert Sterling drove to Ventura on May 21, 1943 to obtain a marriage license. Ann was quoted as saying, "I don't know when we will marry. We will have the ceremony whenever I can get time off from my picture [Cry Havoc]." B-337

"Ann Sothern Sues TV Producer." Lps__ Angeles Times. February 1, 1957. Announcement of Ann Sothern's suit with Jack Chertok. Scooping the other wire services by a good three days, Parsons said Ann planned to sue for $125,000, "asking for declaratory release, for an accounting and breach of contract regarding Private Secretary." Parsons said the disagreement between Ann and Chertok began long before the sale of Private Secretary to Brack Television Programs of America. B-338

. "Cosmopolitan's Movie Citations." Cosmopolitan. January, 1949. pp. 12-13, 107-8. Review of A Letter to Three Wives. Parsons praised the cast, citing, "There is intelligent bite in the portrait of a modern woman that Ann Sothern offers." B-339

. "In Hollywood." New York JournalAmerican . December 16, 1945. Ann Sothern claimed she was going to retire in a few years to have a second child. She was quoted as saying, "I believe the man should be the head of the family, and if he is able to make a good living, his wife should stay home, run his house and look after the children." B-340

. "In Hollywood." Los Angeles Examiner. May 10, 1953. Ann Sothern discussed Private Secretary and recalled her

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career at MGM. Parsons mentioned Ann's adoption proceedings with David Hobbs. She claimed that when Ann was ready to ask for adoption papers, David's family camped on her lawn and threatened to go to court over the matter. Ann was quoted as saying, "He'd be 16 now and I've often wondered what's happened to him." In fact, Hobbs would have been 26. B-341

_. "It's Still the Sterlings." Photoplay. July, 1946. pp. 56-57, 125-27. Fan magazine account of Ann Sothern and Robert Sterling's separation and reconciliation. Parsons said the Sterlings gave her the story in hopes it would help other couples whose marriages had been interrupted by World War II. Bob was quoted as saying, "The minute Ann and I quarreled and slammed doors and parted, we both realized what an awful mistake we had made. I really wanted to go home right away. But we had to be stubborn and stick it out for seven days." Bob advised couples to avoid too much togetherness; each partner should have interests that get them out with other people. Although the Sterlings told Parsons that they would never separate again, they were divorced in 1948. B-342 "Pattern After the Stars!" Motion.. Picture. January, 1936. p. 53. Ann Sothern and Kitty Carlisle modeled dresses that could be made from Motion Picture's $.2 5 patterns, enabling consumers to dress like the stars. B-343 Pauley, Gay. "Ann Sothern Is Starring in Business." Minneapolis Post-Dispatch. November 5, 19 60. Ann Sothern discussed her investments, which included future plans for a dress manufacturing business and a California motel. The dress business grew out of a need for young-looking clothes for women with large hips and chests. Her partner was Moss Mabry, designer of the costumes for The Ann Sothern Show. B-344 Peterson, Bettelou. "Ann Sothern Still Can Be Seen on Screen." Detroit Free Press. June 5, 1987. Brief review of Ann Sothern's career, including a mention of The Whales of August, which was filmed during the summer of 1986. B-345

. "Whatever Happened to..." Detroit Free Press. November 2, 1983. Review of Ann Sothern's career with 1937 and 1970 photographs. Article said Ann did a brief stage tour with Tisha Sterling in 1983. B-346 "Plea Filed on Mother by Actress." Los Angeles Examiner. May 6, 19 61. Ann Sothern filed a petition to become her mother's guardian after Annette Yde-Lake sued her daughter for $1,200 a month support. Ann was joined in the suit by her sister, Marion

Bibliography

229

Tetley. B-347 Potter, Merle. "Harriette Lake, City's Latest Star on Film Horizon, Now 'Ann Sothern.'" Minneapolis Journal. November 17, 1933. Announcement that Columbia Pictures had changed Harriette Lake's name to Ann Sothern. Article recounted Harriette's accomplishments in Minneapolis, her early film roles, and her Broadway success. B-348 "Pretty Ann Sothern, Cosmeticians Praise Her." New York American. October 7, 1936. The American Cosmeticians's Association awarded Ann Sothern its annual medal for having "the most consistently fashionable makeup of any player of the cinema." B-349 "The Private Life of Ann and Bob." Movies. November, 1946. pp. 30-33. Pictorial on Ann Sothern and Robert Sterling's home, which included a photograph of Ann's trophy for landing a 259-pound marlin. She said, "The bigger one got away." B-350 "Private Secretary.. " Dai 1y Variety. September 15, 1954. Review of the third season opening, "Good Neighbors." Critic said, "[Ann] Sothern is right at home in her role, timing it perfectly for laughs as she draws [Don] Porter into her predicament, both at her home and at the office." B-351 "Private Secretary." Hollywood Reporter. September 22, 1953. Review of second season premiere, "Havana or Bust." Critic praised Ann Sothern's "wide-eyed portrayl" of Susie. B-352 "Private Secretary." Variety. February 11, 1953. Review of the series's premiere. Critic found fault with the show's stock characterizations and situations. He did not blame Ann Sothern, saying she had "little to sink her thesping teeth into." B-353 "Private Secretary." Variety. September 23, 1953. Review of the second season opening episode, "Havana or Bust." Critic praised Ann Sothern as "one of the more skillfull comediennes in TV." He added, "Even for a comedy, this yarn was a bit fragile but Miss Sothern's expert thesping and slick timing of her lines created a modicum of credibility." B-354 "Private Secretary." Variety. September 15, 1954. Review of the opening episode of the third season, "Good Neighbors." Critic concluded, "Crisis worked itself out alright under Miss Sothern's wise, assured ministrations,

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for a satisfactory finale and a satisfying half-hour." B-355 "Private Secretary." Variety. September 21, 1955. Review of the opening episode of the fourth season, "Oh, Oh, Suzette." B-356 "Private Secretary." Variety.. September 12, 1956. Review of the fifth season opening episode, "French Leave." Critic summed up the show's chance for success. "On Miss Sothern's personalized humor the series must rise or fall and her gay, flippant style should tip the balance in her favor." He praised Ann Sothern's work with guest star Jacques Eergerac. "Here she is called on to match Bergerac's struggling English with her own fractured French. It pays off with sustained humor." B- 357 "Priyat_e_ se_cr et arx/Ann Sothern Show Returns." TV Facts, Figures and Film. 19 8 6. p. 45. Industry magazine report on the background of Private Secretary and The Ann Sothern Show at the time of Nickelodeon's acquisition of the series. Their syndication history was recounted. Linda Kahn, Vice President of Acquisitions for Nickelodeon, "was particularly excited about the quality of the writing and how well the humor held up by today's standards." Kahn planned a trip to Idaho in December, 1986 to discuss a press campaign with Ann. Nickelodeon planned to begin airing the show January 5, 1987 as part of its primetime Nick at Nite lineup. B- 3 5 8 "Private Secretary for Real." Ho11ywood Reporter. August 31, 1972. Ann Sothern discussed her latest projects: a national employment referral agency called Ann Sothern's Private Secretarial Service and a television special about MotherGoose which she was writing with Stanley Styne. B-359 "Pvt . Secretary Aims for Fashion Tie-ins." Billboard. September 25, 1954. Announcement of new merchandising agreement for Ann Sothern's series, which included clothing and optical frames. The first promotion for the clothing was staged by New York's Saks 34th Street. The store allegedly sold over 300 dresses during the first week of the promotion. B-360 Proctor, Kay. "Long Distance Marriage." Modern Screen. June, 1937. pp. 30-31, 83-84. Fan magazine report on the marriage of Ann Sothern and Roger Pryor. Article said Roger insisted on paying all bills. Arguements were non-existent because fighting by telephone was too expensive and neither Ann nor Roger liked writing. Ann said the keys to a long-distance marriage were trust, keeping busy, and avoiding self-pity.

Bibliography

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B-361 Ragan, David. Who's Who in Hollywood 1900-1976. Arlington House. New Rochelle, NY. 1976. p. 438. Update on Ann Sothern's career with brief filmography. Ragan regretted that in recent films like Gpide_n__Needl_es. and Crazy Mama "...there is scant opportunity for the wry 'Maisie' humor to shine through." B-362 Rainer, Peter. "Cast Can't Stop Whales from Floundering." Los Angeles Herald-Examiner. October 23, 1987. Review of The Whales of August. Rainer said Ann Sothern "has a life-of-the- party f1ounciness." B-363 Raymond, Jack. Show_MLusi.c__gn._Record.. Frederick Ungar Publishing Co. New York. 1982. Listing of Broadway, film, and television musical recordings made between the 1890s and the 1980s. Included a photograph of Ann Sothern recording the Lady in the Dark album. B-364 Reade, Vivian. "Season with Reason." Motion Picture. May, 1946. pp. 59-60. Ann Sothern shared her favorite recipes for Spicy Spanish Rice, Herb Hamburgers, and Crisscross Cookies. Included photo of Ann cooking. B-365 Reed, Dena. '"It's Fun to Be in Love!'" Sil_v_er._ Screen. September, 1936. Interview with Ann Sothern about her new contract with RKO. Reed commented on Ann's facade of calm, despite a faux pas by the reporter. Ann recalled having her temper tested when she was interviewed by an insurance agent who remembered every minor accident she had ever had. Article mentioned Ann's first RKO film would be Count Pete; the film was released as Walking pn Air. B-366 Reed, Jo Bradley. "Ann Sothern Due in Kenley Production." Columbus Citi zen-Journa1. August 23, 19657 '~"p7~217 Interview with Ann Sothern in conjunction with her appearance in The Solid Gold Cadillac. Ann discussed her home in Sun Valley, Idaho, which she purchased in 1956. She claimed she had to wait until a family was transferred, as every home owner had to vote new residents into the community before they could buy a home. Ann reported that producer John Kenley had been wanting her to do Thie__Splid._. Gold Cadillac for several years. Despite the fact that she was preparing for roles on My Mother the Car and The...Lucy Show, Ann fulfilled her promise to him. B-367 Regis, Tom Erwin. "The Secret Loves of Ann Sothern!" Inside Story. August, 1957. pp. 20-22, 60, 62. Gossip magazine claimed Ann Sothern tried to maintain her youth by dating much younger men. Article included photographs of Ann with husbands Roger Pryor and Robert

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Sterling, as well as escort Bill Andrew. B-368 Rhea, Marian. "Maisie's Remedies for Heartaches." Photoplay. June, 1941. pp. 34, 84-85. Letters asking Maisie for advice. Article claimed that since her screen role, Ann Sothern had been receiving mail from troubled fans. Their letters and her replies were reprinted. Ironically, Ann's sister, Marion Lake Tetley, later worked for advice columnist Dear Abby. B-369 "Rites Conducted for Mother of Ann Sothern." Los Angeles Herald-Examiner. December 15, 1962. Announcement of the funeral of Annette Yde-Lake, held in the Chapel of the Palms at Hollywood Cemetary on December 15, 1962. In addition to Ann Sothern and Tisha Sterling, survivors included Annette's daughters, Marion Tetley and Bonnie Dickman, and her grandson, Warren Tetley. B-370 Robbins, Fred. "Sothern Exposure." 50 Plus. March, 1988. pp. 48-55. Extensive interview with Ann Sothern about The Whales of August, her work at MGM, and her 1973 accident (erroneously dated as 1974). Ann said she disliked the graphic language in movies; filmmakers needed more self censorship. She wanted "a polite society to start coming back, [with] people being nice to each other." B-371 "Romance, Music and a Bright New Star." Photoplay. February, 1934. Pictorial promoting Let's Fall in Love and its new star, Ann Sothern. B-37 2 Rosen, George. "Liebman's Lady in the Dark Spec a Dazzling, Opulent TV Tinter, But-" Variety. September 24, 1954. Review of Max Liebman's second color TV spectacular. Rosen said, "In the leading role, Miss Sothern, though utterly charming and good to look at, failed to generate any magnetism to make up for the deficiencies in her voice..." B-373 Sanders, Coyne Steven. "Ann Sothern - Always the Actress." Emmy Magazine. March/April, 1986. pp. 62-63. Interview with Ann Sothern about her television roles. Ann recalled that her TV series were shot like a movie with one camera. She was quoted as saying that she preferred Private Secretary to The Ann Sothern Show because "it took place in a theatrical agency. It had more people, and it was a more interesting premise than my being a hotel manager." Ann expressed surprise that she was included in a Max Factor cosmetics campaign honoring "Hollywood's Most Beautiful Women." Others honored in the television ads were Carole Lombard, Vivien Leigh, and Marlene Dietrich.

Bibliography

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B-374 Sarlot, Raymond R. and Basten, Fred E. Life at the Marmont. Roundtable Publishing, Inc. Santa Monica, CA. 1987. p. 238. In a discussion of the Chateau Marmont's masseur, Joe Leigh, the authors claimed that Ann Sothern was one of Leigh's less disciplined customers. They said, "If she didn't have a banana in her hand, she had a chocolate bar. She claimed the candy gave her energy, but the only exercise she got was climbing one flight of stairs, from the lobby to her second-floor suite." They added, "She wouldn't have done that if she hadn't been so terrified of elevators." B-375 Schwartz, Dan. "Look at the Stars Who Are 75 This Year!" National Enquirer. February 28, 1984. Article discussed the health and work schedules of celebrities turning 75, including Ann Sothern, Katharine Hepburn, and Ethel Merman. B-376 "The Screaming Meemies." Screen Stories. March, 1955. pp. 46-47, 57-60. Adaptation of an episode of Private Secretary. Included full-page photograph of Ann Sothern. B-377 Seavor, Jim. "Whales of August Looks at Autumn of Life." Providence Journal. April 15, 1988. Review. Seavor praised Ann Sothern's work as Tisha Doughty. He said, "Only once does she let the almost comic exterior melt, and then she shows how much a good actress can do with a few words. When she talks of having to wait six months to do something and adds 'six months is a very long time,' the uncertainty in her voice speaks volumes." E-378 "Shadow on the Wall." Variety. March 15, 1950. Review. Critic said, "[Ann] Sothern, in the unusual role of the heavy, handles the assignment neatly..." B-379 Shearer, Lloyd. "Ann Sothern: TV's Loveable Comedienne." St. Paul Pioneer Dispatch. January 18, 1959. pp. 24-25. Ann Sothern discussed her life and The Ann Sothern Show. She said people want to relax and enjoy themselves, therefore her series's aim was to "make them smile, not to stimulate the intellectuals." The series cost $51,000 an episode and received $46,000 a week from the sponsor. Ann said she intended to make it "the best comedy show on the air even if we have to operate at a loss now and make money on the reruns." Article included a brief overview of Ann's personal and professional lives. B-380 Shipman, David. The Great Movie Stars The Golden Years. Crown Publishers, Inc. New York. 1970. pp. 497-500. Biographical sketch of Ann Sothern with an emphasis on her film career. Included stills from Panama Hattie and

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Sylvia. B-381 "Shows This Week." TV Guide. October 4, 1958. p. 15. Photographs of the stars of new series, including Ann Sothern of The Ann Sothern Show. B-382 "Singing Secretary." TV Guide. September 18, 1954. p. 21. Ann Sothern discussed her present and future singing roles. She said she wanted to add more music to Private Secretary without upsetting the show's format. Ann suggested dream sequences in which her character appeared as a singer. Sponsors and the show's advertising agency were in favor of the idea. Ann also wanted to bring her Maisie character to television, but could not obtain the rights. She did salute Maisie in her nightclub act during the summer of 1954. However, younger audience members recognized Miss Sothern as television's Susie MacNamara. One child even joined her onstage for a hug. B-383 "$60,000 Dressing Room." Philidelphia Inquirer. February 8, 1959. Pictorial showing Ann Sothern's four-room dressing room. She chose the elaborate apartment because she spent an average of 12 hours a day producing, rehearsing, and filming The Ann Sothern Show. B-384 Skolsky, Sidney. "Ann Sothern Knits in the Bathtub." New York Post. September 25, 1943. Article about Ann Sothern's personality quirks. Skolsky claimed Ann hated to be called "Annie," had a neatness fetish, loved outlandish hats, and knitted everywhere, including the bathtub. B-385

. "Hollywood Is My Beat: Tintypes." Hollywood Citizen-News. October 2, 1958. Interview with Ann Sothern about The Ann Sothern Show and her feelings on humor. She said people are born with a sense of humor; it cannot be learned. Ann added that people should laugh at themselves. Article featured a brief review of Ann's life and habits, which included knitting in the bathtub and selecting a nightgown from a collection of 36. B-386

. "Tintypes." Hollywood Citizen News. April 7, 1942. Overview of Ann Sothern's career and habits. Skolsky reported that fur coats, earrings, and expensive nightgowns were among her favorite things. She was quoted as saying Jack Oakie was her favorite actor because "he looks like a baby that has just been spanked and scrubbed." Ann was then filming Get-Rich-Quick Maisie which was retitled Maisie Gets Her Man.

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B-387 "Smart Bachelorette." Movie Show. June, 1943. p. 44. Pictorial showing Ann Sothern doing household chores. B-388 Smith, Audrey. "The Whales of August." Photoplay. June, 1988. p. 26. Review. Smith said, "Ann Sothern was a great movie favourite [sic] in earlier years and now she comes back in a role which has all the poignancy of a lonely person, hiding it under a laughing exterior." B-389 Smith, Liz. "Cosmo Goes to the Movies." Cosmopolitan. November, 1973. p. 18. Review of The Killing Kind. Smith called Ann Sothern's performance "a strange mix of sex, mother love and darkling intel1igence." B-39C Smyth, Mitchell. "Broken Back Couldn't Beat 'Maisie.'" Toronto Sunday Star. May 11, 1986. p. D-4. Interview with Ann Sothern about her Jacksonville accident. She praised the effects of daily yoga exercises. She discussed her other interests, which included painting and fishing. Ann was quoted as saying that she was considering a return to work on a radio show. B-391 "So Who's a Private Secretary?" TV Guide. February 19, 1954. Ann Sothern discussed her lack of secretarial skills despite her role in Private Secretary. She claimed she ruined so much film by jamming the typewriter that the crew removed the machine's works. Article said Ann's exotic on-screen eyewear increased interest in glasses for career girls. B-3 92 "Solid Gold Cadillac at Vets." Columbus Dispatch. August 24, 19 65. Photograph of Ann Sothern, Jesse White, and Cliff Ferre in the Kenley Players production of The Solid Gold Cadillac. B-393 Sothern, Ann. "After the Accident." Guideposts. April, 1988. pp. 1-4. Ann Sothern discussed her 1973 accident in Jacksonville, Florida which injured her back. She said her faith in God helped her overcome her pain and mobility problems. B-394

. "Ann Sothern Seeks Your Advice." Screen Guide. June, 1949. Letter from, Ann Sothern asking readers for advice on her career. Among the subjects for which she asked their views were sensational publicity, her abandoning Maisie for more diverse roles, and the types of articles they liked in fan magazines. The five readers who sent the best letters received a personal phone call from Ann and several thank-you gifts.

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B-395

. "Confessions of a Bachelor Mother." TV__ People. June, 1953. Ann Sothern discussed the things her eight-year-old daughter taught her: patience, courtesy, to appreciate honesty, and to laugh at herself. Ann was also pictured on the cover of the magazine. B-396

. "Confessions of a Secretary." Lps_Ang_el_es__ Times. July 12, 1954. Ann Sothern was quoted as saying that a plaque from the National Secretaries Association for promoting the prestige of their profession was more gratifying than an Oscar. Ann said the award was a credit to her acting because off-screen she was the world's worst secretary. B-397

. "A Fan to Remember." Motion Picture. December, 1948. Ann Sothern recalled how a letter from a discouraged fan inspired her. Ann's encouragement led the girl to success. Ann said, "When I feel blue, I think of that first letter. I never would have believed it possible to straighten out that life when I answered her." B-398

„___. "How to Cure Heartbreak." Silver Screen. July, 1949. pp. 20-21, 56-58. Ann Sothern gave her advice on the title subject. She suggested taking inventory of accomplishments, keeping busy, concentrating on the future, and seeking sympathy from an objective counselor rather than a friend. B-399

. "How to Get Along with Women." Cosmopolitan. December, 1942. p. 57. Ann Sothern gave her advice on female friendship during World War II. She told women to be natural, to have confidence in themselves, to judge other women accurately, and to be 1oyal. B-400

. "I Wish Men Would -" Movie Show. May, 1948. Ann Sothern said that she wished men would talk about subjects of interest to women when they are in the presence of women. B-401 ____ . "My Favorite Joke." Parade. February 15, 1959. Ann Sothern shared a joke about a monk who learned to juggle to impress a visiting church dignitary. B-402

. "My Struggle with Fear..." Guideposts. September, 1956. pp. 1-5. Ann Sothern discussed her bout with infectious hepatitis and how it led to a newfound faith in God. She began asking His help in making decisions for today. She said honesty eliminated fear and tension. Ann claimed she met the

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demands of her career and personal life "because I had learned not to rely solely on strength from my own very limited reservoir, but to draw from my Father's inexhaustible spring." B-403 Sothern, Ann, and Abramson, Martin. "My Fountain of Youth." Family Circle. February, 1957. Ann Sothern shared her secrets for staying young. Her philosophy was "chronological age means nothing and emotional youth means everything." Her advice included keeping busy, being enthusiastic, and surrounding oneself with people who think young. She stressed the importance of a balanced life: work, recreation, and meditation. Ann used her mother as an example. At 70, Annette Lake taught and attended art school. She taught Ann that fear of age makes a person old. B-404 Sothern, Ann and Asher, Jerry. "A Soldier Must Have Love!" Screenland. January, 1944. pp. 20-21, 64-65. War bride Ann Sothern advised women with loved ones in the service. She recounted her experiences visiting hospitals and concluded, "...a solider must have love - a personal love beyond the call of duty - a personal as well as patriotic reason for saying to himself, 'This is what I'm fighting for.'" Article included photographs of Ann visiting soldiers and in Cry Havoc. B-405 Sothern, Ann and Reid, James. "My Pal, Ann Sheridan." Screen Life. October, 19 40. Ann Sothern discussed her friendship with the "Oomph Girl." Ann said she and Sheridan called themselves the "Oomph Girl" and the "Scroomph Girl." Their friendship began at the Clover Club when Ann Sothern learned that Sheridan was natural, not a full-time glamour girl. B-406 "Sothern Exposure." Lion's Roar. September/October, 1942. Review of Ann Sothern's life and career in MGM's promotional magazine. Article stressed the many facets of Ann's stage and screen roles. B-407 "Sothern Returns Letter." Hollywood Reporter. April 24, 1985. Announcement that Ann Sothern would be the only member of the 1949 film cast of A Letter to Three Wives appearing in the 1985 remake. B-408 "Sothern Style." Mp_Y_Le_Piax. Winter, 1944. Brief overview of Ann Sothern's career. Article included full-page color glamour photo, as well as pictures of Ann sewing, drinking a soda, and looking at photos from her films.

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B-409 "Sothernisms." Lion's Roar. June, 1942. Article promoting Maisie Gets Her Man in MGM's in-house publication. Among the bits of trivia mentioned about Ann Sothern were that her favorite directors were Ernst Lubitsch and George Cukor, and that she wanted to play Eliza in Pygmalion. B-410 "Sothern's Return." New York Daily News. April 30, 1985. Announcement that Ann Sothern would come out of retirement for a role in the telefilm A Letter to Three Wives which began filming in Vancouver, B.C. on May 10, 1985. Included a brief overview of her career and personal life. B-411 Springer, John and Hamilton, Jack. They Had Faces Then. Citadel Press. Secaucus, New Jersey. 1974. pp. 226-28, 329. Critical examination of Ann Sothern's 1930s film career and brief overview of her personal life. Included stills from her films. B-412 St. Louis Post-Dispatch. December 2, 1934. Ann Sothern was part of a series of "movie dressographs," paperdolls of film stars in the Sunday newspaper supplement. Piece included costumes from Kid Mi 11 ions, Blind Date, and Melody, in Spring . B-413 "Star Billings No Poser Now." Billboard. October 27, 1951. p. 54. Resolution of billing problems involving Ann Sothern and Robert Cummings in Faithfully Yours. Each star would have top billing in half of the promotional material, including newspaper ads. B-414 "Star in Kenley Comedy." Columbus Dispatch. August 22, 1965. p. 5. Announcement that Ann Sothern and Jesse White were starring in The Solid Gold Cadillac. The stars were pictured. B-415 Stark, John. "Feisty, Funny Ann Sothern Rides in from Her Snowy Mountain Home to Score a Whale of a Film Comeback." People Weekly. February 29, 1988. pp. 96-98, 103. Interview with Ann Sothern about her career and The Whales of August. Article discussed Ann's romances, her generosity, and her reluctance to talk about her early film appearances. Ann said she never had a facelift because of friends's unsuccessful surgery. She mentioned that her granddaughter, Heidi, had recorded "Children All Are We," a song composed by Ann. She claimed she would rather have a street in Ketchum named for her than win an Oscar. B-416 "State, Hartford." Variety. March 1, 1939. Review of Ann Sothern's act with Roger Pryor. Critic said

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Ann "...does nicely with three ballads in the closing spot after some friendly patter with hubby." B-417 Steele, Judy McConnell. "Star's Spirits Heightened by Acclaim from New Film." .Ldaho Statesman [Boise]. November 15, 1987. Account of Ann Sothern's life in Idaho and her success in The Whales of August. Article discussed her 1973 accident and its effects on her career. Ann said she watched the reruns of Private Secretary and The Ann Sothern Show, although she was sorry she could no longer move like she did in the 1950s. Ann planned to help create a theatre in Ketchum and to aid the elderly. B-418 Stengren, Bernard. "Ann Sothern: A Model Private Secreatry . " New._Yprjc_Times . August 2 2, 1954. Ann Sothern discussed her role on Private Secretary. She said she chose the series because of its elastic format which allowed her character to travel in search of talent for her boss's agency. Ann explained the origin of her character's name. She said, "We chose Susan because it's a familiar, likeable one and, of course, MacNamara is Irish." Her middle name, Camille, was used when Susie had to act sophisticated. Real-life secretaries praised the show because Susie was not portrayed as a dumb blonde. B-419 Sterling, Ann Sothern. "To Tisha - With Love." Screen Stars. August, 1946. pp. 22-23, 62-63. Letter from Ann Sothern to her baby daughter, Tisha Sterling. Article included advice, hopes for the future, and reminiscences about Ann's pregnancy. B-420 Stevenson, L.L. "Ann Sothern Recruits Foster Parents for War Orphans." P_etrpitJews . November 3, 1949. Account of Ann Sothern's involvement with the Foster Parents Plan for War Orphans. Ann not only sponsored a Greek youngster, but urged her friends and fans to support the program. B- 4 21 "Super-Sleuth.'' Modern Movies. October, 1937. Review. Critic said, "The team of [Jack] Oakie and [Ann] Sothern is an excellent one. Both turn in delightful performances and Miss Sothern is unusually lovely." B-422 "Su£er-Sl_euth." Modern Screen. October, 1937. Review. Critic gave the film one star and said, "Ann Sothern is attractive and capable in the feminine lead." B-423 Swaebly, Frances. "Butterflies Warm and Funny; Fine Opener for Grove Season." Miami Herald. December 31, 1970. Review of Miami production of Butterflies Are Free. Critic said, "Ann Sothern is a disappointment as the mother.... She is too much of the professional to be

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inadequate, but adequate is about all she is." Swaebly continued, "Not only doesn't she know all her lines, she appears to be little more than walking through the part. electricity comes across the stage."

No

B-424 Swisher, Viola Hegyi. "The Killing Kind." After Dark. August, 1973. Pictorial review. Critic called the film "a smashing triumph for Ann Sothern. Gloriously slattern, ravishingly beauteous, she's every inch - and every overweight ounce - a terrific actress and an ever-lustrous star." Review mentioned that the film was shot in a rented house at a cost of around $7,500 instead of spending $75,000 on a similar set. B-425 "Sympathetic Susie." Time. April 20, 1953. Interview with Ann Sothern about her new series, Private Secretary. Article reported that each 26-minute episode cost $27,500 to film. In addition to acting chores, Ann helped with editing scripts, casting, and production planning. Ann said show business was her mother's idea. Ann was quoted as saying she wanted to find "a man who is 40, rich and Catholic. Then I'll quit this business in a second." B-426 "Tax protest Filed by Ann Sothern." Los Angeles Times. October 29, 1959. Announcement of the filing of an appeal by Ann Sothern in U.S. tax court. The government claimed Ann owed $722,322.44 in income taxes for 1953-56; Ann said she owed no more than $7,120.94. Discrepancies involved profits from the syndication of Private Secretary and tax deductions on Ann's cattle ranch. B-427 Taylor, Clarke. "Golden with Age." Chicago Tribune. February 8, 1987. Account of the filming of The Whales of August, originally printed in the Los Angeles Times, November 23, 1986. This version featured photographs from the film, including one of Ann Sothern. B-428

. "Hollywood Legends Share the Limelight." Modern Maturity. December, 1987/January, 1988. pp. 32-34. Account of the filming of The Whales of August. Article was accompanied by five color photographs, including one of Ann Sothern and Tisha Sterling in costume. B-429

. "Hollywood's Royalty Roughs It." Los Angeles Times. November 23, 1986. Account of the filming of The Whales of August in Casco Bay, Maine. The movie cost $3 million and took eight weeks to shoot. Although Ann Sothern was quoted as complaining about the location work and limited rehearsal time, she

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complimented the crew and producer Mike Kaplan for their dedication to the film. B-430 Taylor, John Russell. "The Whales of August." Films and Filming. May, 1988. pp. 38-39. Review. Smith said, "...Ann Sothern, for all her weight, is as pretty as a picture and as winning as a kewpie doll." B-431 "That Light in Annie's Eyes Spells Love." Screen Album- May-July, 1955. Account of Ann Sothern's nightclub act and how her life was on the upswing since her bout with hepatitis in 1951. Article mentioned that El Rancho Vegas paid Ann $30,000 a week and advertised her appearance with three-foot neon letters. Title of article referred to her romance with dancer/choreographer Bill Andrew. Although article said Andrew gave her a jeweled cigarette case, Ann denied rumors that they would marry. B-432 "That Man Is Back." TV Guide. April 16, 1960. pp. 12-15. Account of the reunion of Ann Sothern and Don Porter on The Ann Sothern Show. Ann was quoted as saying, "Until we got Don back, the series was just going down the drain." She praised the talents of dismissed co-star Ernest Truex, but said audiences wanted her reteamed with her Private Secretary boss. She declared, "They want to see Don and me trying to outsmart each other. It's chemistry." Article included a run-down of Porter's activities between the two series and an overview of his career. Ann Sothern was pictured on the cover. B-433 "Theatrical Notes." New_Yprk Times. June 5, 1933. p. 18. Announcement of cast changes in Broadway productions. Harriette Lake was incorrectly listed as replacing Lois Moran in Once in a Lifetime; the actresses were in Of:'___ Thee I Sing. B-434 "There Are Chances at Every Party." Si.1 ver_ Screen. March, 1939. Article claimed a game of "Quotations" at the home of Joan Bennett and Walter Wanger lead to Ann Sothern being cast in Trade Winds. B-435 "They're No Softies!" Screen] ajrid . November, 1943. pp. 35, 80-82. Article on the changes World War II brought on glamorous actresses. Newlyweds Ann Sothern and Robert Sterling were pictured but not profiled in the article. B-436 Thomas, Bob. "Lucy and Anne [sic] Remain Friends on Climb Up." Hollywood Citizen-News. August 29, 1959.

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Ann Sothern and Lucille Ball reminisced about their friendship while Lucy guested on The Ann Sothern Show. Despite the fact that Lucy said that she and Ann were alike in temperament, article pointed out a difference in their spending habits. Ann was quoted as saying she spent money even when she didn't have it; Lucy, though a millionaire, refused to buy herself a new dress for her role on The_Ann_ Sothern Show. B-437 Thomas, Lawrence B. The MGM Years. Columbia House. New York. 1972. pp. 94, 95, 117, 125, 126. Chronology of MGM musicals. Ann Sothern is mentioned in the credits for Lady Be Good, Panama Hattie, Thousands Cheer, and Nancy Goes to _Ri_g. Words and Music is given a two-page treatment with highlights of the film, reviews, and photographs, including one of Ann Sothern. A caricature by Bob Harman accompanies a brief biography of Ann on page 117. B-438 Thomas, Tony and Terry, Jim with Berkeley, Busby. The Busby Berkeley Book. New York Graphic Society Ltd. Greenwich, CT. 1973. pp. 126, 139. Discussion of films directed by Berkeley, including Fast and Furious and Lady_ Be__Gppd. Book mentioned that Fast. and Furious was a happy reunion for Ann Sothern and Berkeley, as she had appeared as a bit player in his early Warner Bros, musicals. Authors claimed she can be easily spotted in the "Shanghai Lil" number in Footlight Parade. B-439 Thomas, Tony and Solomon, Aubrey. The Films of 20th Century-Fox. Citadel Press. Secaucus, NJ. 1979. pp. 50, 51, 87, 200, 202. Credits and synopses for Ann Sothern's 20th Century-Fox films: Danger - Love at Work, Fifty Roads to Town, Hotel for Women, and A Letter to Three Wives. Included a photo from the latter. B-440 Thompson, Frank. "Whales: Stirring Up Warm Film Memories." Idaho Statesman [Boise]. November 15, 1987. Review of The. Wh al e s _g f _Aug u s t . Thompson said, "Ann Sothern, whose red wig gives the impression that fireworks are shooting from her head - as they are from her mouth gives the film its energy. The sassy, heart-faced blonde is still evident in Sothern's easy skill with a wisecrack; she's been particularly missed from the screen." B-441 "Those Sothern Charmers." Screen Stars. February, 1950. p. 39. Pictorial showing Tisha Sterling visiting her mother, Ann Sothern, on the set of Nancy Goes to Rio. B-442 "Thousands Cheer." Time. October 11, 1943. Review. Critic said, "Frank Morgan pretends to be a

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doctor, gets slap-happy in his examination of Ann Sothern, Lucille Ball and Marsha Hunt, who want to be WAVES." B-443 "Thousands Cheer." Variety. September 15, 1943. Review. Critic said, "Frank Morgan with John Conte have a medico skit on the WAVES, wherein Ann Sothern, Lucille Ball and Marsha Hunt strut the [sex appeal]." B-444 "Together Again." Screen Guide. January, 1946. pp. 38-39. Pictorial showing Ann Sothern and Robert Sterling at home. Included full-page color photograph. B-445 Torre, Marie. "Ann Sothern: An Eye for Profit." New York Herald Tribune. September 7, 1958. Discussion of Ann Sothern's investments, including the Ann Sothern Sewing Center, the A-Bar-S Cattle Company, the A-Bar-S Music Company, Vincent Productions, and Anso Productions. Article included a photograph of Ann in the sewing shop, where she was allegedly buyer and head salesgirl. She planned to open a second store in Palm Springs. B-446

"Ann Sothern Is Eager to End Acting Career." New York Herald Tribune. March 11, 1959. Article about Ann Sothern's desire to end her acting career when The Ann Sothern Show went off the air. Ann said she did not want to direct, but liked producing for television. She told Torre, "When my series runs out, I should like to get a good production group together and package a television series." Ann also discussed her plans to market a line of collars and cuffs. B-447 "Tropic Heat Drives B'way Grosses to New Lows, Pop Opera Supported." Variety. June 13, 1933. Weekly box office estimate for Broadway theatres. Article mentioned an extensive New York heatwave that caused box office grosses to drop 25 to 50%. Of Thee I Sing was one of the casualties; article said, "Repeat date ended Saturday after heat shot grosses." B-448 "26 More for Private Sec'y." Billboard. September 18, 1954. Announcement that the American Tobacco Company had agreed to sponsor 26 additional episodes of Private Secretary which would carry the series through the 1955 season. Filming was scheduled to begin October 11, 1954. B-449 "Two Items." New York Times. June 4, 1933. Announcement of cast changes in Broadway productions, including Harriette Lake replacing Lois Moran in Of_.JThee_.I__ Sing . B-450 "Two Sothern Shows Due on Nickelodeon."

Variety.

2 44

Ann Sothern

January 23, 1987. Announcement that Nickelodeon would air The Ann Sothern Show and Private Secretary. Article claimed it was the series's first national exposure in 25 years. B-451 Upton, Pat. "An Interview with Ann Sothern." Cinema Projections. February, 1988. Ann Sothern discussed The Whales of August in a phone interview during the film's run at Williams Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Future projects included an inspirational autobiography and an album of her songs recorded in December, 1987. According to Ginger Piotter of the Ketchum Community Library, two demonstration records were made, but neither had been released as of March, 1989. B-452 Van Wyck, Carolyn. "Sothern Shopping - East and West." Photoplay. July, 1936. pp. 72-73. Pictorial showing Ann Sothern shopping for a variety of new beauty items. B-453 Vaughn, Christopher. "Sothern TV Shows Get Big NATPE Welcome." Hollywood Reporter. January 23, 1987. Interview with Ann Sothern who was in New Orleans for the National Association of Television Production Executives (NATPE) convention to promote Nickelodeon's airing of her TV series. Ann mentioned the innovations used in her series: eliminating tracks for cameras and cameramen, and using flying scenery. Article claimed Ann was "actively involved in a drama series about firefighters titled Loom Up which served as precursor to the Emergency series." 3-454 Vincent, Mai. "You'll Want to Catch The Whales of August if only for Its Prize Cast." Y_ir_3iniazZilpt [Norfolk]. February 20, 1988. Review. Critic said, "Ann Sothern is a faded, plump past belle who still remembers the good times and her conquests over men. Her visits lift the film to a degree of humorthat is much needed. We are left hoping that she'll pop in again." B- 4 5 5 Vinson, James, editor. The International Dictionary of Films and Filmmakers, vol. III. Actors and Actresses. St. James Press. Chicago. 1986. pp. 584-85. Overview of Ann Sothern's career including filmography and brief bibliography. Biographical notes by Frank Thompson quoted a 1985 television interview in which Ann said she hoped "to die in the middle of a line." B-456 "Vintage Perfo rman ces .'* New York Times . October 16, 1987. Review of The Whales of August. Critic called Ann Sothern "wonderful as the sisters's resilient, full-blooded Maine neighbor."

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B-457 Walker, Helen Louise. "Sterling Wedding Pattern." Photoplay. August, 1943. pp. 30, 88. Report on the wedding and reception of Ann Sothern and Robert Sterling. Article said Ann's mother, Annette Yde-Lake, brought the guests to tears when she sang "Oh Promise Me." Director Richard Thorpe gave the newlyweds a welcome present: he offered Ann a one-day vacation from shooting Cry Havoc. B-458 Walker, Helen Louise. "Talk about Romance! - Ann Sothern and Bob Sterling Speaking." Photoplay. February, 1943. pp. 48-49, 95-96. Article speculated about Ann Sothern and Robert Sterling's marriage plans as he enlisted in the Air Force. Ann and Bob discussed what they had learned from each other. B-45 9 Waterbury, Ruth. "Star in Your Home." Photoplay. July, 1949. pp. 62-63, 99-100. Account of the remodeling of Ann Sothern's house. Article included two black and white, and four color photos of the redecoration. B-460 Watts, Jr., Richard. "A Comedy Called Faithfully Yours.." New York Post. October 19, 1951. Review of Broadway production. Watts said, "Ann Sothern... is far from deft as the fatuous wife." B-4 61 Weiler, A.H. "Lady in a Cage." New York Times. June 11, 1964. Review. Critic said, "...Ann Sothern is properly sleazy as the pitiful prostitute." B-462 "Welcome Back." Photoplay. April, 1953. Announcement that Ann Sothern, Tom Drake, and Lew Ayres were returning to the screen after a long hiatus from movie-making. B-463 Wender, Susan. "'I Can Never Marry You.'" Modern Screen. June, 1956. pp. 44, 91-93. Discussion of Ann Sothern's relationship with Richard Egan. Article said Ann was reluctant to date Egan because of a ten-year age difference, but their friendship developed into love. During her recuperation from hepatitis, Egan remained devoted. When he proposed, Ann refused to marry him because she had been divorced. Article claimed Egan came from a very religous family, and Ann did not want him to compromise on his faith. B-464 "The Whales of August." Variety. May 13, 1987. Review. Critic said, "Ann Sothern is winning as the ladies's jocular neighbor." B-465 "When Dresses Were $2.98...These Actresses Starred for Sears, Roebuck." TV Guide. March 9, 1959.

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Discussion of established stars who endorsed Sears fashions and actresses who used modeling as a step to stardom. Ann Sothern was shown modeling a Swiss organdy collar priced at $1.00 in 1936. B-466 Wilkinson, Harry. "Looking Hollywood Way." Good Old Days. September, 1979. Overview of the careers of Ann Sothern, Jane Wyman, and Gene Tierney. Wilkinson reminisced about his views of Ann's f i1ms. B-467 Wilkinson, Lupton A. "Don't Be Too Sure." Movies. November, 1940. pp. 30-31, 70-71. Ann Sothern recalled her life and career, and insisted that hard work was no guarantee for success. Article discussed her planned adoption of David Hobbs. When asked about Ann's reaction to his parents's reclaiming him, Ann's sister, Marion, was quoted as saying, "I can't [discuss it]. Ann would never forgive me." B-468 Wilson, Earl. "Vegas Bows to Sothern Charm." Los Angeles Daily News. July 8, 1954. Account of the opening of Ann Sothern's nightclub act at El Rancho Vegas. Wilson reported, "I've never seen a woman entertainer with more warmth or charm. She held that audience completely in the palm of her hand...She is the new charm girl of the cafes, the new sweetheart of the saloons." B-469 Wilson, Elizabeth. "Dulcy Struts Her Stuff." Silver Screen. October, 1940. Ann Sothern was compared to her screen role of Dulcy, a scatter-brained but well-intentioned meddler. B-470 Wilson, Liza. "Indestructible Annie." Los Angeles Examiner. October 10, 1954. Account of Ann Sothern's successful Las Vegas opening of her nightclub act. Article stressed how religion helped her get through a tragic period, including hepatitis, her failed marriage to Robert Sterling, and lack of movie roles. Ann said she would not take her renewed success for granted; before her opening, reporters found her praying in a Las Vegas church. B-471 "Winds and Drafts." New Yorker. January 14, 1939. Review of Trade Winds. Critic said, "Ann Sothern blooms in a pretty role of a mean little secretarial type...ana probably she has never enjoyed any other part quite so much." B-472 Wood, Virginia. "Marie Tells on Maisie." Screenland. August, 1942. pp. 54-55, 59-61. Ann Sothern's studio maid, Marie, discussed her boss's habits. Among the secrets Marie shared were that it was difficult to keep Ann on a diet, that Ann disliked viewing

Bibliography

247

her own movies, and that she preferred her meat very rare. Article included photographs of Ann at home and in Maisie Gets Her Man. B-473 Worth, Sheila. "Ann Sothern's Miraculous Escapes from Death." Movie Mirror. May, 1937. pp. 48-49, 87-89. Account of Ann Sothern's childhood accidents, which included falling off the barn roof, setting her nightgown on fire, and getting run over by an automobile. B-474 Worthington, Rogers. "This 'Secretary' Isn't the Retiring Type." Chicago Tribune. May 17, 1978, Ann Sothern criticized the Tribune's opening night review of The Duchess of Pasadena which attacked her weight, age, and mobility. B-47 5 "Xmas's Coming." Picture Play. January, 1939. Pictorial showing Ann Sothern Christmas shopping. B-476 Zolotow, Sam. "Burrows Asked to Direct Bank." New York Times. August 1, 1963. Announcement that Abe Burrows had been asked by playwright Mac Benoff to direct a revised version of God Bless Our Bank. If Ann Sothern liked the revisions, she would reprise her role in the Broadway production. God Bless Our Bank never opened on Broadway; Ann Sothern returned to California.

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Appendix The following is a list of products endorsed by Ann Sothern or which used her likeness in advertising. Lux Soap, 1934 Le Monds Perfume, 1935, Talon Fastened Handbag, 1935 Frederics Permanent Waves, 1935 Max Factor Color Harmony Make-up, 1935 Autographed Ruffled Collars, 1936 Sears catalogue Autographed Fur Felt Hat, ca. 1936 Sears catalogue Screen Star Autographed Powder Puff, 1937 Wonder Bread, 1937 Max Factor Tru-color Lipstick, 1940 Max Factor Lipstick, 1941 Max Factor Color Harmony Face Powder, 1942 Max Factor Pan-cake Make-up, 1942 Max Factor Pan-cake Make-up, 1944 Max Factor Pan-cake Make-up, 1946 Stereo Realist Camera, 1949 Max Factor's Pan-stik, 1949 KM Power Mix, 1950 Lux Soap, 1950 Camel Cigarettes, 1951 Avon Cosmetics, 1952 Fedders Air Conditioners, 1952 Lucky Strike Cigarettes, 1954 Magnavox Televisions, 1956 Tang/Post Cereals, 1960 Max Factor Star Treatment Sweepstakes, 1985

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Index Numbers without a prefix refer to pages in the "Biography numbers preceded by an "F" to the "Filmography," numbers preceded by a "P" to the "Plays and Personal Appearances" section, numbers preceded by an "R" or "RS" to the "Radio" section, numbers preceded by a "T" or "TS" to the "Television" section, numbers preceded by a "D" to the "Discography," numbers preceded by an "A" to the "Awards" section, and numbers preceded by a "B" to the "Bibliography." The prefixes "PS," "AS," "LS," and "MMC" refer to television episodes of Private Secretary, The Ann Sothern Show, The..Lucy_ Show, and My Mother the Car. A-Bar-S Cattle Ranch, 11, 12 A-Bar-S Music Company, 11 Abbott, John, AS-14 Academy Award, 13, 15, 16, A-21, B-93, B-100, B-163, B-196, B-326, B-415 Adams, Stanley, AS-5, MMC-7 Adler, Larry, 3, P-l, B-6 Adler, Stella, 12 Adventures of Maisie, The, RS-2 Albertson, Jack, AS-52, AS-58, T-36 Alexander, Denise, AS-40 Alfred Hitchcock Hour, The, T-25 Ali Baba Goes to Town, F-28, B-99, B-333 Alias Smith and Jones, T-3 9 Allen, Steve, T-4, T-ll, T-15 Allman, Elvia, F-47, RS-2, AS-1 Allyson, June, 11, T-17 Alumni Fun, T-28

Amateau, Rod, 13, TS-1, TS-4 Ameche, Don, F-25, R-10 American Movie Classics interview, T-56 America's Sweetheart, 3, P-2, B-14, B-15, B-16, B-78, B-79, B-90, B-157, B-158, B-177, B-194, B-200, B-226, B-278, B-309 Anders, Merry, AS-37 Anderson, Judith, R-l Anderson, Lindsay, 16, F-70, B-107 Anderson, Mary, PS-5 Andrew, Bill, B-211, B-367, B-431 Andrews Sisters, R-38 Andy Williams Show, The, T-19~ Ann Sothern Sewing Center, 11 Ann _Spthern Show, The , ll-12,*14, 16, 17, 18, F-62, P-ll, P-18, TS-2,

252

Ann Sothern

LS-2, LS-4, B-12, B-21, B-50, B-51, B-86, B-149, B-166, B-190, B-226, B-227, B-240, B-242, B-267, B-274, B-282, B-287, B-294, B-298, B-308, B-314, B-328, B-343, B-357, B-373, B-379, B-381, B-383, B-385, B-417, B-432, B-436, B-450 Anna and the King of Siam, B-189 Anso Productions, 11, TS-2 April Showers, 9, F-54, B-98,"B-2"08, B-209, B-213 Archbald, Judge Harry R., 7-8 Archer, Anne, P-14, B-163 Archer, John, PS-94, AS-54 Arden, Eve, 14, R-35, TS-4, B-ll Are You a Good Boy?, see The Killing Kind Arlen, Harold, F-7, F-63, D-2 Armbruster Orchestra, R-10 Arnaz, Desi, 11, 14, TS-2, T-13, B-19, B-21 Arnold, Edward, R-16 Arthur, Jean, TS-4, B-ll Astaire, Adele, 3, P-l Astaire, Fred, 3, P-l, B-167 Astin, Patty Duke, T-44 Kit a _Bgy_2_Mama , 13, B -18 5 , B-186 Audley, Eleanor, AS-15, AS-31 Autry, Gene, R-38 Avery, Tol, AS-41 Awards, 10, 12, 13, 16, 173-74 Ayres, Lew, F-41, R-22, T-46, B-462 Babbitt, Harry, R-38 Backes, Alice, AS-38 Background for Stardom, R-37 Bailey, Raymond, PS-102, AS-4, AS-65 Bain, Barbara, MMC-30 Baker, Fay, AS-61 Ball, Lucille, 4, 8, 14, F-6, F-12, F-49, TS-2, AS-36, TS-3, T-13, T-18, D-12, A-8, B-12, B-21, B-50, B-170, B-188, B-219, B-436, B-442, B-443 Ballard, Kaye, 14

Ballew, Smith, R-7 Banks, Joan, RS-2, TS-1, B-283 Banner, John, PS-83 Barbier, George, R-23 Barefoot in the Park, P-17 Barr, Parley, LS-7 Barrymore, John, F-l, R-20 Barrymore, Lionel, F-43, F-49 Bates, Mark, 17, B-324 Batman, 14 Baum, Heidi (granddaughter), 14, 16, 17, B-324, B-415 Baum, Lai, 14, 17, B-57 Bavier, Frances, PS-47, AS-14 Beal, John, AS-16 Beaumont, Harry, F-51, F-52, F-53 Beckett, Scotty, F-39, F-59 Behrens, Frank, AS-3, AS-6, AS-49 Bellamy, Ralph, F-14, F-32, F-38 Benaderet, Bea, RS-2 Bennett, Constance, AS-87 Bennett, Joan, 6, F-32, B-434 Benny, Jack, 10, PS-4 Benoff, Mac, 13, P-10, B-185, B-476 Bergen, Edgar, R-10, R-19, R-25 Bergerac, Jacques, PS-90, B-356 Berkeley, Busby, F-5, F-35, F-43, B-438 Berle, Milton, T-7 Berlin, Abby, TS-2 Bern, Paul, 2, B-75, B-269 Bernard, Ian, 11, AS-40, D-l Berry Brothers, F-43, F-45, D-6 Besser, Joe, PS-38 Sest_Manu_ The , 13, F-31, F-61, B-47, B-62, B-83, B-85 Best Sellers, T-44 Bivona, Guy, T-15 Blake, Madge, PS-95

Index Blanc, Mel, R-38, PS-103 Blane, Sally, 2, F-l Blessed Event, 5 Blind Date, 4, F-10, B-412 Blondell, Joan, 6, F-5, F-36, F-50 Bloom, Mickey, 3 Blue, Ben, F-45, D-ll Blue Gardenia, The, 10, F-60, B-17, B-89, B-234, B-237 Bly, Nellie, 7 Bobettes, The, T-12 Boland, Mary, F-8, F-29, F-30 Bolger, Ray, T-10, T-44 Boswell, Connee, R-16 Bowman, Lee, F-35, F-39, F-47 Boyer, Charles, R-14 Bradley Orchestra, Oscar, R-15, B-306 Brady, William A., R-2 Brian, Mary, R-8 Brice, Fanny, R-16, R-42, D-23 Briggs, Colin, 17, F-43, F-65 Brill, Charlie, MMC-25 Broadway Nights, 2, B- 99 Broadway Thru a Keyhole, 4, 14, F-6 Broderick, Helen, F-23, F-31, B-20 Brooke, Hillary, F-41, F-52, PS-100 Brophy, Edward, F-4, AS-59 Brother_Orchid, 7, F-38, B-63, B-209 Brown, Joe E., F-3, AS-54 Brown, John, RS-1 Bruce, Virginia, P-l, P-2 Buchanan, Edgar, T-35 Budge, Donald, R-7 Bufman, Zev, 13, P-10, P-12, P-18, B-260 Burke, Billie, F-21, F-40, B-20, B-276 Burns, Bob, R-2, R-5 Burns, Chris, TS-4 Burrows, Abe, 13, B-476 Busby Berkeley Book, The, F-5 Bushman, Francis X., R-38 Butterflies Are Free, P-18, B-52, B-115, B-134, B-423

253

Buttons, Red, T-12 Byron, Jean, PS-24 Byron, Marion, 2, F-l, B-79 Cabot, Sebastian, T-32 Cady, Frank, PS-86 Cagney, James, F-5, F-46, B-105 Calhern, Louis, F-59, B-259 Calhoun, Rory, T-18, T-24 Camel Caravan, R-8 Cantor, Eddie, 3, F-12, F-28, D-3, D-4 Capra, Frank, 4 Captains and the Kings, see Best Sel1er Career Gir 1 , see Th.e_.Ann Sothern_ Show Carey, Jr., Harry, F-70, B-235, B-289 Carpenter, Carleton, AS-31, T-6, D-17 Carpenter, Ken, R-38 Carradine, John, F~28, F-29 T-44 Carroll, Jr., Bob, 14, T-13 B-19 Carroll, John, F-37, F-43, D-6, D-7, D-21 Carroll, Leo G., T-30 Carroll, Pat, 18, PS-50, AS-90, T-17 Carson, Jack, F-31, F-54, R-35, B-98 Caspary, Vera, F-56, F-60, T-52 Cassavettes, John, T-25 Cassell, Wally, F-49, AS-5 Cassidy, Jack, LS-7, T-30 Celebrity Game, The, T-22, T-23VT-24 Cerf, Bennett, T-4 Chandler, Chick, F-ll, F-34 F-51, AS-73 Chandler, David, 17 Chapman, Marguerite, PS-49, AS-22 Charisse, Cyd, F-55, T-40 Charlie McCarthy Show, The., R-19, R-25 Chase and Sanborn Hour, The, F-25, R-10 Chertok, Jack, 11, TS-1, B-48, B-54, B-55, B-56,

254

Ann Sothern

B-59, B-155, B-172, B-311, B-337 Chevalier, Maurice, F-13, D-5, B-94, B-263 Chicago Teddy Bears, The, T-38 Chicago Tribune, 15 Christine, Virginia, PS-89 Chubasco, F-64, B-209 Clark, Gage, AS-62 Clements, Stanley, MMC-22 Coburn, Charles, R-27 Coffin, Winnie, AS-68, AS-72 Cohen Canyon Hillbillies, R-1 Cohn, Harry, 4 Cole, Nat "King," F-60 Cole Porter in Hoi 1ywoodx 1929-1956, D-8 Co H ecting Americ_a, T- 5 9 Collins, Gary, T-47 Collison, Wilson, 6, F-33, F-37, F-39, F-41, F-42, F-44, F-48, F-51, F-52, F-53 Colona, Jerry, R-38 Columbia Pictures, 4, B-27, B-122, B-199, B-286, B-347 Columbus Citizen-Journal, 13 Come and Get It, 7 Command Performance U._S..A^, R-38 Como, Perry, F-55, T-12 Congo Maisie, F-37, R-30, B-39, B-118, B-119, B-277, B-331 Congratulations , 11Js _a Boy! ", 15, T-36 Conners, Chuck, PS-64 Conrad, William, F-64, R-38 Conreid, Hans, F-40, F-41, F-59, RS-2, PS-79 Conte, John, F-49, R-15, D-12, B-443 Converse, Melissa, PS-99 Coogan, Jackie, AS-62, AS-66 Coogan's Bluff, 14 Cook, Carole, LS-1 Cooper, Gladys, AS-7 Cooper, Jerry, R-ll Corey, Jeff, 13, 18, F-62, P-10 Corey, Joseph, see Martorano, Joseph

Coronet, 2 Costello, Dolores, F-l, F-2 Costello, Helene, F-l Count Pete, F-22, B-365 Courtney, Inez, F-16, P-2 Crain, Jeanne, F-56, B-129, B-257 Crawford, Joan, D-18, B-112, B-231 Crazy Mama, 15, F-67 Crisp, Donald, R-38 Crosby, Bing, 6, F-13, R-2, R-5, R-38, B-222 Crosby, Gary, T-23 Crossfield, Scott, T-28 Cry Havoc, 7, 8, F-50, B-97, B-296, B-336, B-404, B-457 Cukor, George, B-409 Cullen, Bill, T-21 Culp, Nancy, PS-50 Cummings, Robert, 9, P-7, B-88, B-91, B-lll, B-116, B-161, B-173, B-245, B-413 Cut.!. Out__T akes. _fxpm Hollywood's Greatest Musicals, Volume 1, D-10 Cut! Out Takes from Hollywood's Greatest Musicals, Volume 3, D-ll Dailey, Dan, F-40, F-43, F-45 Daily, Bill, MMC-2 Daley, Cass, R-38 Dalio, Marcel, PS-28, PS-33 Daly, James, AS-60, T-6 Daly, John, T-4 Damon, Mark, AS-13 Damone, Vic, T-14, T-22 Dana, Mark, AS-42 Danger - Love at Work, F-29, B-439 Dangerous Number, F-24, B-142 Danny Kaye Show, The, R-33 Darnell, Linda, 7, F-34, F-56, B-257 Davies, Marion, F-40 Davis, Bette, 16, F-70, B-93, B-107, B-198, B-252, B-292, B-313 Davis, Madelyn, 14, T-13, B-19

Index Davis, Phil, TS-1, TS-2, TS-4 Davis, Jr., Sammy, T-14 Day, Dennis, T-23 de Havilland, Olivia, F-62, B-253 de Reda, Joe, AS-33 de Wilde, Brandon, T-34 Deacon, Richard, PS-48 Dear Abby, 1, B-368 Death of.I nn.g cence ^_. A , 15, " T-27 "" Del Ruth, Roy, F-3, F-12, F-13, F-44, F-45 DeMarnay, Terrence, AS-19 Denny, Reginald.. PS-60 Desilu Pi ay house7...The , T-18 Diamond, Mel, TS-2, AS-8 Dickenson, Jean, R-4 Dickman, Mrs. John, see Lake, Bonnie Dickson, Donald, R-19 Dietrich, Marlene, D-22 Dillman, Bradford, T-35 Donaldson, Walter, B-79 Donna JReed Show, The, 14, 16 Donnell, Jeff, F-60, AS-70, T-36 Donovan, King, PS-3, PS-29 Don't Gamble with Love, F-19 Doran, Ann, PS-15 Dorian, Eob, F-22, F-23 Dorsey Brothers Orchestra, 3, P-3 Dorsey Orchestra, Ji mmy, R- 2, R-5 Dorsey Orchestra, Tommy, 3 Doug_hbp_ys , 2, F-4, B-320 Douglas, Kirk, F-56, B-114, E-139, B-211, B-257 Douglas, Melvyn, F-35, F-47, R-17, R-42, D-23 Douglas, Paul, B-257 Downs, Hugh, T-4 5 Drake, Tom, F-51, F-55, B-462 Dresden Boys Choir, R-1 Pxiving Miss Daisy, 17, B-137, B-163 DuB.ar r y W as_ a Lady , 7 , F- 45 Dubov, Paul, TS-2, AS-24, AS-35, AS-66, AS-75, AS-81, AS-85 Duchess, of Pasadenax__The ,

255

P-21, B-182, B-474 Duel, Peter, T-39 Duff, Howard, T-33 Duffy's Tavern, R-39 Dukakis, Olympia, 16, F-70, A-21, B-163 Dulcy, 7, F-40, B-142, B-469 Durante, Jimmy, R-39 Durbin, Deanna, F-59 Durphy, Minta, AS-87 East Side of Heaven, 6 Ebsen, Buddy, T-10 Edwards, Cliff, F-4, F-33 Eels, George, 17 Egan, Richard, 9, 17, F-64, T-3, B-463 Egilsrud, E. Johann, 2 Eight Bells, 4, F-14, B-122 Eilbacher, Cindy, TS-4, T-42 Ekberg, Anita, PS-20 Elg, Taina, T-15 Elsa Maxwell's Hotel for Women, see Hotel for Women Emergency, B-45 3 Emerson, Hope, PS-23 Emery, John, AS-48, AS-87 Emmy Awards, A-5, A-8, A-9, A-ll, B-36 Englund, Bryan, F-67 Englund, Dinah, F-67 Englund, Jan, AS-38, AS-44 Entertainment This Week, T-58 Entertainment Tonight, T-51, T-53, T-57 Escorts, The, P-8, P-9 Evans, Dale, T-22 Evans, Robert, T-15 Evelyn, Judith, PS-61 Everybody Loves Opal, 15, P-20, B-3, B-133, B-264 Everybody's Welcome, 3, P-3, B-153, B-154, B-194, B-310 Fabian, T-22 Fabray, Nanette, A-9, A-ll Factor, Max, A-20, B-159, B-373 Faithfully Yours, 9, P-7, B-88, B-90, B-91, B-lll, B-116, B-160, B-161,

256

Ann Sothern

B - 1 6 5 , B - 1 7 3 , B - 1 8 4 , B-226, E - 2 4 5 , B - 4 1 3 , B-460 Family A f f a i r , 1 4 , 1 8 , T-32 Fantasy Island, 15 Fast and F u r i o u s , F - 3 5 , B - 1 4 2 , B-438 Fax, Jesalyn, AS-63 Faye, Herbie, MMC-12 F a y l e n , Frank, F - 4 7 , A S - 5 , M M C - 1 2 , MMC-26 Fedderson, D o n , 18 F e i n e r , J r . , B e n , F-55 F e l t o n , V e r n a , AS-50 Female of the Species, T h e , 7 Field, N o r m a n , RS-1 Field, Sally, 13 Field, Sylvia, AS-10 F i e l d s , Jimmy, T S - 2 , AS-65 F i e l d s , T o t i e , T-40 F i e l d s , W . C . , R-10 Fifty Roads to Town, F-25, R - 1 0 , R - 1 3 , D-22, B - 2 5 5 , B-439 F i I m o g r a p h , 4, 7, 13, 1 5 , P-13 F.i ims. J n_R e y i ew , 14 Fleischmann H o u r , T h e , R-1 Pi .Yin g .Hi g..h , T - 4 6 F l y n n , J o e , PS-99 Fpi__ De....Rp 1., T-40 Folies Bergere, 4, 6, F-13, D-5, B - 8 3 , B - 2 0 8 , B-263 F o n d a , Henry, F-61, T-44 EPPii ight Parade, 4, F-5, B - 1 0 5 , B-438 Ford, Frederick, AS-12 Ford T h e a t r e , T-9 Fordin, H u g h , F - 4 3 , F-45 F o r r e s t , Frank, R-8 Forward M a r c h , B-320 Foster, Preston, R-29 F o u l g e r , Byron, F-51, P S - 6 6 , L S - 2 , MMC-23 Foy, J r . , Eddie, F-6, P-l F r a n c i s , A r l e n e , T-4 F r a n c i s , K a y , F-59 Frawley, William, L S - 5 , T-13 Freberg, Stan, T-29 Fred Astaire Salutes the Pox .Musicals., F-13 Fred Waring Show, T h e , 1 0 , T-l Free and Easy, B-99

Freed, A r t h u r , F-l, F - 4 3 , F-45, F-49, F - 5 5 , B-170 Freeman, Kathleen, P S - 6 5 , AS-6 F r i e b u s , Florida, M M C - 1 1 F r o m e , M i l t o n , F - 6 4 , MMC-18 F u c h s , L e o , AS-9 Furth, G e o r g e , F - 6 1 , T-30 G a b l e , Clark, 7, F - 3 7 , R - 1 8 , D-19, D - 2 0 , B-114 Gabor, Eva, AS-44, AS-84 G a r b o , G r e t a , T-56 G a r g a n , William, F - 3 6 , R-16 Garland, Judy, F - 4 9 , F - 5 5 , R - 1 5 , D-12, D-13, B-170 G a r n e t t , Tay, F - 3 2 , B-179 G a r r e t t , Betty, F - 5 5 , D - 1 3 , D-14 G a r r e t t , Jimmy, TS-3 G a x t o n , William, P-4 G e r s h e , Leonard, P - 1 8 , T S - 1 , T S - 2 , TS-3 G e r s h w i n , George, F - 4 3 , P - 4 , D - 7 , B-156 G e r s h w i n , Ira, F - 4 3 , F - 6 3 , P-4, T-6, D - 7 , D-17, D-18 Gershwins_in_HpHywp o d^ ""1931-1964," The7 D-7 Get-Rich-Quick Maisie, B-386 Get_.._Sjnart_, 14 Gidget, 13 Gilchrist, Connie, 15, F-48, F-49, F-50, F-52, F-56, F-63, T-52 Gill, Yvonne, P-18 Gi r 1 Fr i en_d_._Th_e , 5 , F-16 , B-20 8 Girl from UNCLE, The, T-30 Gish, Lillian, 16, F-70, B-93, B-107, B-187, B-198, B-202, B-292, B-313, B-316 Givot, George, PS-46 Glad_Tidings, 18, P-14, B-130 01 a s s Menageri_ej _The , 1 4 , P-12, B-19, ~B-35~" Globe Theatre, R-41 God Biess Our Bank, 13, P-10, B-260, B-476 Goff, Norris, R-38 GoJd Rush Maisie, F-39, B-142, B-183, B-331

Index 2 Golden Needles, 15, F-66 Gonzalez-Gonzalez, Jose, AS-6, MMC-22 033d Housekeeping, F-59 Good Morning America, T-47 Good News of 1940 , F-3 6, R-16 Goodman Orchestra, R-8 Goodson, Mark, 13, B-185, B-186 Goodwins, Leslie, TS-1 Gordon, Barry, TS-2, AS-8 Gordon, Gale, TS-3 Gorin, Igor, R-4, R-6 Gorme, Eydie, T-15 Optta_Dance_, _Gotta Sing, F-13 Gould, Dave, F-13 Gould, Sandra, RS-2, PS-21 Gould, Sid, LS-1 Grady, Don, AS-8 Grand . E_xit./ F-17 Grant, Cary, R-15 Great Man.'s_ Whiskers 15, T-42 Grey, Joel, AS-58 Griffith, Thomas, T-28 Griffin, Merv, T-50 Grodin, Charles, MMC-5 Guadalajara Boys, The, AS-6 Gwenn, Edmund, R-38 Gyjpsy, P-13 Haber, Joyce, T-40 Haight, George, F-48, F-51, F-52, F-53 Haley, Jack, F-16, F-29 Hanson, Peter, PS-63 Hargitay, Mickey, T-14 Harlow, Jean, 6, F-33, D-22 Harold Arlen in Holl_ywpod, 1934-1951/ D-2 Harrison, Noel, T-30 Hart, Dolores, T-15 Hart, Lorenz, 3, F-55, P-2, D-13, D-14, B-278 Hart, Moss, T-6 Hart, Ralph, TS-3 Hart, Walter S., 8 Hart, William John, see Sterling, Robert Harvey Girls, The, 8 Hayes, Helen, B-112, B-187 Hayes, Peter Lind, T-28 Hayward, Chris, TS-4

257

Hearts in Exile, 2, F-2, B-75, B-320 Hedren, Tippi, T-22 Hell Cat, The, F-9 Hel1-Ship Morgan, F-20 Hemmer, Edward, AS-21 Henderson, The Rev. Theodore, 8 Hepburn, Katharine, B-375 Herbert, Charles, AS-49 Hervey, Irene, AS-30 Hibbs, Gene, F-62 Hitchcock, Alfred, T-25 Hobbs, David, 6, B-7, B-70 E-210, B-340, B-467 Hodiak, John, F-37, F-48, F-51, R-30, B-146 Holcombe, Harry, TS-4 Hold Everything, 2, F-3 Hoiiday in Las Vegas, 11, ' T-14 Hollywood Canteen, 8 Hollywood Hotel, F-21, F-22, F-31, R-4, R-6, R-ll HoHywppd Is on the Air,

"5-21 ~

Hpiiywpod._Is on_th.e_Ai^ Presents "The Feminine TouchJ'_ D-2 2 Hoilywood Opening Night, 10, T-3 Hollywood Reporter, 17 Hoi 1ywood Studio Magazine, F-43, F-50 Hooray fgr__Loye, 5, F-15, B-208, B-216, B-217, B-235 Hoosier Hot Shots, R-38 Hope, Bob, R-38 Hopkins, Arthur, R-40 Hopper, Hedda, T-13, T-22, T-23, T-24 H o m e , Lena, F-45, F-49, R-42, D-13, D-23 Hotel for Women, 7, F-34, 3-439 Hour Magazine, T-48 Howard, Cy, B-114 Howard, Tom, P-l, R-1, B-7 Hudson, Rock, T-15 Hughes, Rupert, R-8 Hunt, Marsha, 8, 18, F-36, F-45, F-49, F-50, D-12, B-97, B-442, B-443

258

Ann Sothern

Hurlbut, Gladys, 12, PS-4, PS-11, PS-44, TS-2, AS-68, AS-72, AS-80 Hussey, Ruth, F-33, F-35 I Love Lucy, 14, AS-36, T-13 Idaho Mpuntain Express, 17 Idaho Statesman, 15, 17 i^d i an_ Summe r , F - 5 7 IngeIs, Marty, AS-87 Insight, T-27, T-33 Irene, 5, F-32, F-49, F-52, F-53 Irving, Hollis, AS-54 II A in it ._N ep es sari 1 Itis_a__5ate , F-59 Jtis. _Ann_S_gt h e r n _. T imp., D -1 I've G o t a S e e r e t , T-20 Jack ..Benny. _S how __. T h e , 1 0 , PS-4 Jackson, Selmer, F-7, F-17, AS-5 Jackson, Sherry, PS-15 Jacksonville University, 17, B-4, B-232, B-246 James, Harry, R-38 Jamison, Anne, R-6, R-ll Jean-Louis, 16 Jeffreys, Anne, 9 Jenkins, Allen, F-38, F-44, PS-6 Jenney, Jack, 1 Jessel1, George, T-23, T-24 Joe and Ethel Turp_Ca_H.__pn the president, 7, F-36, R-16, B-142 Johnson, Erksine, R-37 Johnson, Evie, PS-18 Johnson, Rita, F-37, R-18 Johnson, Van, PS-18, AS-69 Jolson, Al, D-5 Jones, Carolyn, T-35 Jones, Christopher, F-64, T-29 Jones, Gordon, AS-16 Jones, Jack, T-46 JPjy_„Q f...Living , 5 Judge Steps Out, The, 9, F-57, B-236 J une _A_1 lyson Show, The , T-17 Kallen, Lucille, T-14 Kamen, Milt, T-40 Kaplan, Mike, 16, 18, F-70,

B-180, B-198, B-325. B-4 Kaufman, George S., F-40, P-4, P-ll Kaye, Danny, R-33, B-148 Keach, Sr., Stacy, AS-74 Kearns, Joseph, AS-21 Keathley, George, P-12, BKeith, Brian, T-27, T-32 Kellaway, Cecil, F-38, AS-18, AS-19 Kelly, Gene, F-49, F-55, RS-2, D-12 Kelly, Grace, B-65 Kemp, Hal, 3 Kendis, William, AS-85 Kenley, John, P-ll, B-366 Kennedy, Edgar, F-27 Kern, James V., F-54, TS-2 Kerr, Deborah, T-15 Ketchum Community Library, 17, B-451 Kid Millions, 4, F-12, D-3, D-4, B-83, B-208, E-303, B-412 Kill gall en, Dorothy, T-4 Killing Kind, The, 15, F-65, A-19, B-131, B-146 B-282, B-3S9, B-424 Kinskey, Leonid, F-59, PS-21, AS-87 Kirkland, Sally, F-67, T Kleeb, Helen, AS-34 Kobal, John, F-50 Koenig, Bill, 2, B-269 Kohn, John, TS-2, AS-8 Kraft Music Hall, R-2, R- 5 Krakeur, Richard, 9, P-7 Kroft Puppets, The, T-40 Ladies of Burlesgue, D- 9 Lady" Be Good," 7, 16, F-43, D-6, D-7, D-21, B-87, B-96, B-142, B-157, B-17 B-208, B-250, B-251, B-252, B-277, B-321, B-437, B-438 Lady in a Cage, 13, F-62, A-12, B-41, B-47, B-62, B-143, B-253, B-461 Lady in the Dark, 10, T-6, D-17, D-18, B-124, B-127 B-258, B-363 Lahr, Bert, R-40, T-ll Lake, Alice, 4 Lake, Annette (mother),

In d e x see Yde-Lake, Annett Lake, Arthur, 4 Lake, Bonnie ( s i s t e r ) , 1, 1 1 , 1 2 , F-60, T-10, B - 5 3 , B - 6 4 , B-66, B - 7 3 , B - 9 2 , B - 1 9 3 , B - 2 0 5 , B - 2 9 9 , B - 3 0 0 , B-369 L a k e , H a r r i e t t e , 1-4, F-l - F-6, P-l - P-4, B - 6 , B - 1 4 , B - 1 5 , B-16, B - 7 8 , B - 9 0 , B - 1 1 0 , B - 1 2 1 , B-153, B - 1 5 4 , B-156, B - 1 5 8 , B - 1 9 4 , B - 1 9 9 , B - 2 0 0 , B - 2 9 0 , B-309, B-310, B-318, B-319, B-320, B - 3 4 7 , B-433, B-449; also see Sothern, Ann L a k e , Marion ( s i s t e r ) , 1, 1 2 , 16, 1 7 , B-66, B - 1 9 3 , B-299, B - 3 0 0 , B-346, B - 3 6 8 , B-369, B-467 L a k e , Sally ( h a l f - s i s t e r ) , 1, B-201 L a k e , Simon ( g r a n d f a t h e r ) , 1, B-94 Lake, Walter ( f a t h e r ) , 1, 2, B - 9 , B-196, B-267 Lamarr, Hedy, 8, B - 1 0 2 , B - 2 2 2 , B-281 Lamour, Dorothy, F-5, R-10 Lane, C h a r l e s , F-28, F-29, F-69, A S - 1 4 , T-42 Lang, F r i t z , F-60, B-234 Lang, W a l t e r , 9, 1 1 , F-ll, F-15 Langford, F r a n c e s , R - 4 , R - 6 , R-li Lansbury, A n g e l a , 8, B-275 Lash, The Rev. J. H a m i l t o n , 5 Lassie, T-18 Lauck, Chester, R-38 Laughton, P h y l l i s , 12 Laurie, Piper, P-12 Lawrence, Barbara, F~56, B-257 Lawrence, G e r t r u d e , T-6, D-17, B - 1 2 4 , E-237 L a w r e n c e , Steve, T-15 Lederer, F r a n c i s , F-21, R-4 Lee, Brenda, T-ll L e e , Gypsy R o s e , F-28, P-13, T-23 L e e d s , Peter, R S - 2 , A S - 3 0 , A S - 4 1 , MMC-7 Legend_ of Jesse James, T h e , 1 4 , T-29

2 5 9

Lehman, Lotte, R-2 Leigh, V i v i e n , A-20 Leonard, Sheldon, RS-2 Let's Fal1 in L o v e , 4, FTj'f -p_g /"""D-2 , B-27 , B-79 B-122, B-191, B-19 9 B-208, B-223, B-333, B-371 Le11er_ to Three Wives,_A , (1949), 9, 16, F-56, A-2 2 B-100, B-120, B-139 , B-241, B-256, B-257 , B-307, B-338, B-407 , B-439 Letter tp Three Wiy_es^__A, (1985)7~"l5-16, T-~52, 3-120, B - 1 3 2 , B - 1 8 0 , B-248, B-297, B-407, B-410 L e w i s , Elliott, RS-1 Liebman, M a x , 1 0 , T-6, B-372 Lightner, W i n n i e , F-l, F-3 Linden, M a r t a , F-47, F-48, F-49, F-51, D-12 Linkletter, A r t , T-22 Lion's R o a r , F-48 kii.tI e__Dragons, The , F-69 Lombard, C a r o l e , D-22, A-20 Loom U p , B - 2 2 7 , B-453 Loretta Young Show, T h e , T-8 Lost H o r i z o n , 4 Love. Amer i can_ Sty 1_e , 1 4 , "T-T4," B-149 Lpye__ Boat_i_ T_he., 15 Lovejoy, Frank, B-283 Lowe, Edmund, F-7, F-17, R-3 Loy, M y r n a , F-l, F-35 Lubitsch, Ernst, B-409 Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Shpw_, T h e , 1 1 , A S - 3 6 , T-13, B - 2 1 , B-149 Lucy Show, T h e , 1 4 , T S - 3 , B - 9 2 , B-149, B-219, B - 2 8 8 , B-366 Lum and Abner, R-3 8 Lunden, Joan, T-47 Lundigan, William, T-28 Lupino, Ida, 1 3 , B-185 Lux Radio Theatre, 7, F-41, R - 3 , R - 2 2 , R - 2 8 , R-34 Lynde, P a u l , T-23 Lynn, Jeffrey, F-56, R - 1 8 , D-19, D-20

260

Ann Sothern

Mabry, Moss, 12, P-10 MacFarlane, Louella, TS-i, TS-2 MacGibbon, Harriet, AS-48 Mackey, John, T-28 MacMichael, Florence, AS-61 MacMurray, Fred, R-27 Madison, Guy, AS-37 Maharis, George, F-63, B-62 Maher, Wally, RS-i Mahoney, Jock, PS-68 Mail Call, F-47, R-42, D-23 Maisie (film), 6-7, 10, F-32, F-33, F-34, B-5, B-73, B-75, B-82, B-112, B-121, B-123, B-125, B-142, B-179, B-270, B-273, B-331, B-271, B-293, B-330, B-368, B-382 Maisie (radio), 7, 9, RS-1, B-84, B-103, B-141, B-283 Maisie Gets Her Man, F-44, F-45, B-142, B-331, B-386, B-409, B-472 Maipi_e .Gpes. to Reno , F-51, B-142 ,""B-331 Maisie Was a Lady, F-41, R-22, B-152, B-331 Maltin, Leonard, 16, T-57, T-58 Mame, 14, P-15, B-136, B-275 Mandel, Frank, P-2 Mankiewicz, Joseph, 9, F-56, T-52 Manitou, The, F-68 Mansfield, Jayne, T-14 March, Fredric, 6, F-32, B-179 Marin, Edwin, F-33, F-39, F-41, F-42, TS-1 Marshall, Alan, AS-7 Martin, Jacques, R-38 Martin, Ross, AS-10 Martorano, Joseph, TS-1, B-294 Marx, Harpo, D-5, D-18 Masters, Natalie, F-61, AS-20 Matter of the Heart, T-41 Matthews, Lester, TS-2, AS-26, LS-4 Max, Robert Peter, 17 Maxwell, Marilyn, T-24 Mayer, Gerald, TS-1, B-283

Mayer, Louis B., 7, F-45 McCaffrey, Robert H., T-28 McCall, Jr., Mary, F-33, F-37, F-39, F-41, F-42, F-44, F-45, F-48, F-51 McCarey, Leo, T-15 McCarthy, Charlie, R-10, R-19, R-25 McCoy, Jack, RS-2 McDonald, Ray, PS-69 McDowell, Malcolm, 16 McGeehan, Patrick, RS-2 McLeod, Norman, F-43, F-45, F-48 McLure, Doug, T-35 McNear, Howard, PS-104, AS-6, AS-53, AS-55 McQueen, Butterfly, R-33 Meadows, Jayne, AS-46 Medical Story, T- 4 3 Melchoir, Lauritz, R-38 Melody in Spring, F-8, B-43, B-94, B-143, B-208, B-412 Melton, Sid, AS-14, AS-22 Men from Shiloh, The, T-35 Meredith, Burgess, 15, F-30 F-66, F-67 Merman, Ethel, F-12, P-13, D-3, D-4, B-291, B-309, B-375 Merman in the Movies, 1930-1938, D-4 Merv Griffin Show, The, P-12, T-50 MGM, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, F-35, F-59, T-56, B-73, B-75, B-112, B-142, B-170 B-321, B-330, B-332, B-340, B-370, B-406, B-4 MGM Parade, F-43 MGM Theatre of the Air, R-43 Miami Herald, A-13 Michael, Gertrude, PS-46 Miles, Ken, RS-1 Milland, Muriel "Mai," 8, 9 B-65, B-71, E-323 Milland, Ray, 8, 17, B-65 Miller, Marilyn, 3, P-l Miller, Marvin, RS-2 Miller, Sidney, TS-2, TS-4 Millhollin, James, TS-2, AS-82, AS-91

Index Milton Berle Show, The, 10, T-7 Milwaukee Journal, 2 Minardos, Nico, AS-61 Mineo, Sal, AS-40 Minneapolis J o u r n a l , 2 , 3 Minnelli, Vincente, F-43, F-45 Miranda, Carmen, F-59, D-15 Mitchell, Guy, AS-67, AS-90 Modern People, F-65 Mogambo, F-37 Moonstruck, F-70 Moore, Alvy, PS-23, MMC-3 Moore, Candy, TS-3 Moore, Gary, T-20 Moore, Victor, F-31, P-4, R-ll Moran, Lois, 3, P-4, B-319, B-320, B-433, B-449 Morgan, Frank, 8, F-49, R-26, D-12, B-442, B-443 Morgan, Henry, T-20 Moritz Hospital, 17 Moroztyn, Countess, 2 Morris, Chester, R-41 Morrow, Vic, T-41, T-44 Morton, Gary, TS-3 Mothers-in-Law, The, 14 Motion Picture, 4, 6, F-2 5 Movie Classic, 2 Movie M i r r o r , 1 , 4 Movie Show, 4 Movies, F-50 Mowbray, Alan, F-45, PS-6 Mullaney, Jack, TS-2 Murphy, Ben, T-39 Murphy, George, F-12, F-42, F-45, F-52, T-18, D-3, B-303 Murray, Ken, T-24 Murrow, Edward R., T-16 My American Wife, F-21, R-4, B-143 My Daughter, Your Son, P-16, B-330 My Mother the Car, 13-14, TS-4, B-ll, B-22, B-109, B-149, B-228, B-294, B-304, B-366 My Three Sons, 16 Myerson, Bess, T-20 Mykowsky, Anita, 18 Nancy Goes to Rio, 9, F-59,

261

D-15, D-16, B-142, B-208, B-259, B-305, B-437, B-441 Nelson, Frank, R-38, PS-88, PS-102 Nelson, Rick, T-40 New York Herald Tribune, 2, 6 New York Times, 9, 13, 15 Nicholas Brothers, F-12, D-3 Nickelodeon, 16, B-274, B-298, B-314, B-357, B-450, B-453 Nightclub act (1954), 10, F-33, P-8, B-26, B-113, B-150, B-284, B-322, B-468 Nightclub act (1957), F-33, P-9 Niles, Ken, R-ll Nilson, Hans (grandfather), 1 Nolan, Jim, AS-27 Norwood, 14 Novello, Jay, PS-71 Nyby, Christian, TS-1, B-283 Nye, Louis, TS-2, AS-68 Oakie, Jack, F-27, B-386, B-421 O'Brien, Edmund, T-31, T-36 O'Brien, Hugh, T-18 O'Brien, Margaret, F-46, F-49 O'Brien, Virginia, F-42, F-43, F-45, F-49, PS-92, D-6, D-7, D-8, D-21, B-96 O'Day, Molly, 2, F-l O'Hanlon, George, TS-2, AS-10, AS-76, AS-93 O'Mahoney, Nora, AS-35 O'Neal, Patrick, AS-32, T-39 O'Neill, Sally, 2, F-l O'Sullivan, Maureen, F-41, R-22 Of Thee I Sing, 3-4, 5, P-4, B-156, B-157, B-194, B-290, B-318, B-319, B-320, B-433, B-447, B-449 Olsen and Johnson, R-7 Once in a Lifetime, B-45 3 Opatashu, David, AS-28 Orth, Frank, F-39, TS-1, PS-50, PS-74

262

Ann Sothern

Outsider, The, T-31 Over Easy, T-45 Owen, Reginald, F-35, F-43, F-47 Paige, Janis, F-33, AS-70 Paige Orchestra, Raymond, R-4, R-6, R-ll Palmer, Betsy, T-20 Panama Hattie, 7, F-44, F-45, D-8, D-9, D-10, D-ll, B-92, B-142, B-157, B-170, B-208, B-215, B-291, B-329, B-380, B-437 Pangborn, Franklin, F-14, F-19, F-24, TS-1, PS-9, PS-42, PS-65, PS-91 Paramount, B-143 Parker, Jean, PS-83 Parsons, Louella, 9, R-4, R-6, R-ll Party's Over, The, F-11 Pastarnak, Joe, F-49, F-59 Paul, Taffy, see Powers, Stefanie Pearce, Alice, AS-81, AS-92 Peary, Harold, PS-82, MMC-9, MMC-10 Pennington, Ann, 3, P-3 People Weekly, 16, 18 Perkins, Tony, T-20 Perry: _Co?PP .Shpw^ .The, 11 T-12 " Person to Person, T-16 Personal Appearance, P-19, B-106 Personalities on Parade, D-5 Pettet, Joanna, T-41, T-44 Philbin, Regis, T-26 Photoplay, 6, T-15 Pied Pipers, The, R-38 Pierce, Maggie, TS-4 Pilots, PS-10, AS-1, AS-87, AS-90, MMC-1, T-31, T-38, T-40, B-19, B-185, B-186, B-190, B-265 Piotter, Ginger, 17 Pitts, Zasu, PS-101 Porter, Cole, F-45, D-8, D-9 Porter, Don, 12, 13, 18, TS-1, PS-99, TS-2, AS-23, AS-37, TS-4, T-47, B-294, B-350, B-432 Post Toasties Time, R-26

Powell, Dick, F-5, R-4, R-6 Powell, Eleanor, F-43, F-49, D-6, D-7, D-21, B-96, B-321 Powell, Jane, F-59, D-15, D-16, B-259 Powell, William, F-35, R-23, R-32, R-34 Power, Tyrone, F-28, R-12, R-13, B-146 Powers, Stefanie, AS-82, T-30 Price, Vincent, 16, F-70, B-187 Price Is Right, The, T-21 Private Secretary, 10-11, 12, 16, F-35, P-ll, P-18, TS-1, AS-8, AS-13, AS-51, T-13, A-5, A-6, A-8, A-9, A-ll, B-2, B-17, B-21, B-23, B-36, B-48, B-54, B-55, B-56, B-59, B-60, B-100, B-149, B-155, B-162, B-172, B-211, B-220, B-226, B-231, B-239, B-265, B-267, B-272, B-274, B-280, B-282, B-283, B-294, B-298, B-311, B-314, B-328, B-337, B-340, B-350, B-351, B-352, B-353, B-354, B-355, B-356, B-357, B-358, B-373, B-376, B-382, B-391, B-417, B-418, B-425, B-426, B-432, B-448, B-450 Pryor, Priscilla Mitchell, 5 Pryor, Roger (husband), 5-6, 7, F-16, P-6, R-7, R-15, B-l, B-7, B-24, B-25, B-44, E-46, B-102, B-112, B-123, B-128, B-138, B-207, B-210, B-244, B-255, B-262, B-268, B-306, B-312, B-327, B-360, B-367, B-416 Pygmalion, B-409 Raft, George, T-38 Ragland, Rags, F-42, F-43, F-44, F-45, D-ll Ramo, Tony, 11, B-211 Randall, Tony, T-14, T-15 Ratoff, Gregory, F-6, F-7,

Index F-34 Raymond, Gene, 5, F-15, F-22, F-23, F-26, F-31, F-61, R-6, R-ll, B-40, B-217 Reagan, Ronald, T-24 Red Dust/ F-37, R-18, D-19, D-20 Red Skelton Show, The, 11, T-5 Redmond, M a r g e , A S - 3 8 , MMC-20 R e e d , P h i l i p , AS-16 R e e s e , D e l i a , T -2 3 Reeves, Richard, AS-34 R e g i s Phiii>il>_Shpw a _ T h e T-2 6 Reiner, Carl, 18, T-22, T-23, T-24 Rice, Florence, F-35 Richards, Jr., Danny, PS-30, PS-35, PS-48, AS-8 Richards, Zoe, see Lake, Bonnie Richman, Rebecca, AS-66 Ridge, Ray, 3 Ringside Maisie, 8, F-42, B-142, B-331 Ritter, Thelma, 15, F-56, T-52 RKO, 4, 5, 6, 9, 14, F-57, B-236, B-286, B-365 Roberts, Doris, T-52, B-132 Robertson, Gloria, AS-38 Rodgers, Richard, 3, F-55, P-2, D-13, D-14, B-278 Rodgers and Hart, 3 Rogers, Ginger, T-6, B-124, B-309 Rogers, Roy, T-22 Romero, Cesar, F-28, PS-78, AS-74, T-13, B-227 Rooney, Mickey, F-10, F-55, R-15, T-23, T-40, D-13, D-18 Roy, Lisa, R-38 Ruben, J. Walter, 6, F-33, F-37, F-39, F-41, F-42, F-44 Rudolph, Oscar, TS-1, TS-2 Rudy Vallee Show, The, R-20 Ruggles, Charles, F-8, R-8 Ruman, Sig, PS-100 Russell, Connie, F-43, D-6 Russell, Rosalind, F-35, B-129

263

Sahl, Mort, T-22 Santley, Joseph, F-22, F-23, F-30, F-31 Sarracino, Ernest, PS-55, PS-77, PS-82, AS-13 Saturday, Ginny, 11, B-61, B-211 S a v e_a„ L_aJy, B-286 Schafer, Natalie, PS-25 Schlitz Piayhouse of "stars," "l"6, T-2 Scholl, Danny, F-59, D-15, D-16 Schreiber, Avery, TS-4 Schwab, Laurence, 3, P-2 Scott, Jacques, TS-2, B-242 Screen Guide, 5 Screen Gui1d Theatre, 7, F-37, R-15, R-17, R-18, R-23, R-27, R-30, R-32, D-19, D-20, B-306 Sea11i e_Times, 2 Seiden,~Stanley, 13, P-10 Seller, Tom, TS-1, TS-2 Selznick, David 0., R-20 Shadow_pn _the Wal 1 , 9, F-58, B-142, B-378 Shalit, Gene, T-55 Shaw, Artie, 1 Shaw, Oscar, 3, P-3, P-4, B-153, B-319 Shaw, Reta, TS-2, AS-23, LS-2 Shearer, Harry, PS-84 Shell Chateau, R-7 She 's Got Everythi rig., 5 , F-31, R : li Shore, Dinah, T-15 Show of Shows, 2, F-l, B-79, B-92, B-209, B-320 Showbiz Today, T-54 Showboat./ B-27 5 Siegel, Max, 3 Sikking, Jim, MMC-23 Silo, Susan, AS-87 Silver, Jeffrey, R-38 Silver Screen, F-3 2 Silver Theatre, 7, R-21, R-24, R-29 Silvers, Lou, B-79 Simon, Neil, P-17, T-14 Singleton, Doris, AS-54 Singleton, Penny, 11, F-61 Skelton, Red, 18, F-43,

264

Ann Sothern

F-44, F-45, F-49, T-5, D-6, D-7, D-li, D-21, B-321 Skinner, Edna, PS-78 Skjerdtingstad-Dahl, Sophie, 2 Smartest Girl in Town, 5, F-23, B-236 Smiles, 3, P-l, B-6, B-15, B-79, B-167, B-194, B-200 So's Your Old Man!, T-36 Solid Gold Cadillac, The, 14, P-ll, B-366, B-392, B-414 Song Stylings Featuring Ann Sothern, D-l Soule, Olan, AS-33, AS-47 Sothern, Ann, (Harriette Lake), business interests, 11, 12; car accidents, B-34, B-35, B-37, B-219, B-229; character parts, 4, 13, B-41, B-47, B-62, B-192, B-196; childhood, 1-2, B-39, B-193, B-473; divorce from Robert Sterling, 9, B-28, B-30, B-31, B-58, B-175, B-335, B-341; divorce from Roger Pryor, 7-8, B-25, B-44, B-138; hospitalization, 7, 9, 17, RS-2, B-33, B-45, B-165, B-218, B-219, B-237, B-334; Jacksonville accident, 15, P-20, B-3, B-133, B-196, B-248, B-249, B-264, B-370, B-390, B-393, B-417; lawsuit with Jack Chertok, 11, B-48, B-54, B-55, B-56, B-59, B-155, B-311, B-337; lawsuit with mother, 12, B-3S, B-49, B-53, B-64, 3-66, B-205, B-299, B-300, B-301, B-346; life in Idaho, 11, 17, B-126, B-288, B-316, B-366, B-415, B-417; marriage to Robert Sterling, 8, 9, F-50, B-74, B-117, B-271, B-281, B-336, B-435, B-444, B-457, B-458; marriage to Roger Pryor, 5-6, B-24, E 112, B-128, B-255, B-263, B-312, B-360; musical composition, 2, 17, F-65, AS-8, AS-40,

A-l; name changes, 4, B-226; praise from colleagues, 17-18; religion, 9, B-115, B-196, B-226, B-229, B-233, B-240, B-393, B-402, B-470; tributes to, 16, T-57, A-19, A-22, B-146, B-230, B-282, B-325 Sothern, E.H., 4, B-94 Sothern Exppjsujrp, 11, D-l, '•'B-147" ™ Spelling, Aaron, PS-52, T-36 Spotlight on Ann Sothern and the Broadway Blues, D-l Stafford, Hanley, R-16, R-42 Stanley, Fred, 7 Stanley, Kim, 15, T-37 Steenburgen, Mary, 16, F-70 Stephenson, Henry, R-22 Sterling, Patricia Ann (daughter), see Sterling, Tisha Sterling, Robert (husband), 8, 9, F-42, F-50, B-28, B-30, B-31, B-42, B-58, B-74, E-102, B-117, B-175, B-271, B-281, B-332, B-335, B-336, B-341, B-349, B-367, B-435, B-444, B-457, B-458, B-470 Sterling, Tisha (daughter), 8-9, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, F-67, F-70, P-12, AS-69, T-37, T-45, B-10, B-20, B-37, B-42, B-57, B-69, B-74, B-76, B-115, B-140, B-145, B-152, B-155, B-162, B-168, B-169, B-197, B-211, B-213, B-219, B-226, B-229, B-233, B-287, B-345, B-369, B-395, B-419, B-428, B-441 Steve Al 1en Show, . The , 1 T-ll, T-15 Stevens, Connie, AS-1 Stevens, Craig, PS-56 Stevens, Onslow, F-17, F-30 Stoll Orchestra, R-8 Stone, Ezra, P-10 Stone, George E., TS-1,

Index PS-19 Strasberg, Susan, F-64, F-68 Strauss, Robert, AS-57, MMC-30, T-7 Sumac, Yma, T-40 Summers, Hope, PS-101 Sundberg, Clinton, F-53, F-55 Super-Sleuth, F-27, B-236, B-333, B-421, B-422 Susie, see Private Secretary Suspense, R- 3 6 Sutton, Grady, PS-46, AS-61 AS-66, T-7 Swing Shift Maisie, F-48 B-13, B-142, B-331 Sylvia, 13, F-63, B-47 B-62, B-143, B-380 Taka, Miko, T-12 Talbot, Lyle, PS-85, AS-27 Talmadge, Constance, F-40 Tandy, Jessica, 17 Taylor, Robert, R-5 Television Programs of America (TPA), 11, B-59, B-337 Temple, Shirley, F-28, F-45, B-222 Tetley, Marion, see Lake, Marion Tetley, Walter, R-38 That Forsyte Woman, 9 That's Entertainment, Part Two, F-43 Theatre Guild on the Air, R-40 There Goes My Girl, 5, F-26, B-236 There Goes the Groom, F-30, B-236 There's Always Juliet, R-7 Thin Man, F-3 5 This Is My Best , R-31 This Is_ Show Busines_s , B-265~ Thorpe, Richard, F-24, F-47, F-50, B-457 Thousands Cheer, 8, F-49, D-12, B-142, B-208, B-437, B-442, B-443 Three Hearts for Julia, F-47, R-42, D-23, B-142 Through the Years, B-275 Time, 7, T-28

265

Tobias, George, F-33, F-57 Today, T-49, T-55 Todd, Mike, F-50 Todman, Bill, 13, B-185, B-186 Tolkin, Mel, T-14 Tomack, Sid, AS-11 Tone, Franchot, F-35 Topper, 9 Totter, Audrey, F-64, RS-2, AS-65, T-31 Tracy, Lee, F-61, R-41 Tracy, Spencer, 7, B-112 Trade_Wijids, 6, F~32, F-33, B-83, B-179, B-434, B-471 Treen, Mary, AS-20, AS-63 Truex, Ernest, 12, TS-2, AS-10, AS-23, B-432 Tufts, Sonny, MMC-12 Tuttle, Lurene, F-68, RS-1, RS-2, AS-52, AS-86 TV Guide, 10, 14, 20th Century-Fox, 7, 9, 16, F-34, F-56, B-439 Tyrrell, Ann, 12, TS-1, TS-2, T-47 Umeki, Miyoshi, T-12 Undercover Maisie, F-53, B-142, B-331 United Artists, B-83 Universal Studio, 14 University of Washington, 2, B-9, B-269 Untouchables, The, 12, B-227 Up Goes Maisie, F-52, B-74, B-142, B-331 Up Pops the Devil, 3, P-3 USA Weekend, 17 Vallee, Rudy, 3, R-1, R-20, T-13 Van Cleef, Lee, MMC-5 Van Dyke, Jerry, TS-4, MMC-2 9 Van Dyke, Kelly, MMC-29 Vance, Vivian, TS-3, T-13 Varden, Norma, PS-87, AS-76 Variety, 11 Vaudeville appearance (1936), 5-6, P-5 Vaudeville appearances (1939), P-6, B-l, B-207,

266

Ann Sothern

B-244, B-262, B-416 Veron, Elmo, F-35, F-48 Vidal, Gore, F-61, T-7 Vigran, Herb, AS-47, AS-48 Village Store, The, R-3 5 Vincent Productions, 11, B-5, B-56, B-61, B-211, B-445 Wagner, Jack, TS-2, AS-47 Walburn, Raymond, R-16 Wald, Jerry, T-15 Walking on Air, 5, F-22, R-6, B-208, B-236, B-286, B-365 Wallace, Helen, AS-20 Walter, Jessica, T-39 Walters, Mary Jo, P-17, P-19 Wanger, Walter, 6, F-32, B-434 Warde, Anthony, F-47, PS-22, PS-55 Waring, Fred, T-l Warner Bros., 2, 7, 9, B-63, B-209, B-438 R-9 Warnow Orchestra, Mark, R Washington Square, 11, TT-10 Waterloo Bridge, 7 Watters, George M., R-40 Webb, Jack, R-38 Weekend Nun, The, 15, T-4 Weil, Kurt, T-5, D-17, DWentworth, Martha, PS-81, PS-88 Whales of August, The 16 17, 18, F-70, A-21," b-93 B-107, B-144, B-176B B-181, B-187, B-196 B- 198, B-201, B-202, B-204 B- 235, B-238, B-243, B-285 B- 289, B-292, B-298, B-313. B- 315, B-316, B-323, B-328 B- 344, B-362, B-370, B-377 B- 388, B-415, B-417, B-427 B- 428, B-429, B-430, B-440 B- 451, B-454, B-456, B-464 What's My Line?, T-4 Whipple, Randy, TS-4 White, Alice, AS-11 White, Jesse, 12, 14, 17- 18, TS-1, PS-19, PS-54, TS- 2, AS-51, AS-55, T-47, P-11 B-392, B-414 Whiting, Jack, 3, P-2, B-14, B-16, B-78, B-177 Whoopee, 2, 3, B-99

Whorf, Richard, P-7, TS-2 Wilcox, Frank, TS-1, PS-38, PS-71, PS-104 Williams, Andy, T-19 Williams, Guinn "Big Boy," F-40, PS-31 Williams, Tennessee, P-12 Willson, Henry, 8 Willson, Meredith, R-16 Wilson, Dick, MMC-25 Wilson, Frank, RS-2 Winslowe, Paula, MMC-14 Winters, Shelley, 15, T-37 Winwood, Estelle, AS-63 Wgpdburx PJayhpuse, R-12, R-13, R-14 Woods, Donald, RS-1 Woods, Ilene, R-35 World of Entertainment, The, F- 45 Wprd_s._and Musi_c, 9 / 16, F-55, D 13, D-l4 / B-142 B-170, B-208, B- 437 Wrangler, Jack, 18 Wright, B en, RS-2 Yde-Lake, Annette (mother) 1/ 2, 3 / 12, B-9 , B-38, B-49, B -53, B-64 , B-66, B-135, B-205, B- 299, B-300, B-301, B- 346, B-369, B-403, B- 457 You, John Jones, 8 , F-46, B-105 You May B e Next, FYoungLo retta, 2, 11, F-l, T-8 A- 5, B-288 Young, Ro bert, F-2 4, F-33, F-43, R 17, R-28 / D-6, D-7 , D 21 Youngman Henny, T -15 Your Hit Parade, R -9 Your Show of Shows, T-14 Zanuck, DDarryl F., F-l, F-13, F -28, F-34 , FZiegfeld, Florenz, 3, P-l, B-15 Ziegfeld Follies, B-17 0

About the Author MARGIE SCHULTZ is a Cincinnati-based free-lance writer, specializing in the entertainment field. In addition to being a contributing editor for Hollywood Studio Magazine, she has written articles for Classic Images, Show Music, Classic TV, and Art Beat.

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