William Powell and Myrna Loy were among one of Hollywood’s most famous onscreen couples starring in 14 films together during the 1930s and 1940s. However, their most famous pairing has to be in the six Thin Man movies in which they play America’s favorite pair of wealthy, alcoholic, and crime solving pet owners Nick and Nora Charles.

Of course, my last post was quite long. However, I promise that my later posts in this series won’t take up as much space as the last one since the first one was just introductory. Not to mention, there will be some star profiles that won’t be quite as long. Now this selection pertains to some other famous screen legends you may or may not be familiar with. Yet, they weren’t as noteworthy as the previous ten you’ve just seen. To start off, you have two pioneering African American actresses Dorothy Dandridge and Lena Horne who’ve both achieved fame as black leading ladies during segregation and Jim Crow. Then we have William Powell and Myrna Loy who appeared in 14 films together but are best known as the Dashiell Hammett characters Nick and Nora Charles. Next, you have Richard Widmark and Fred MacMurray who both usually play nice guys but their greatest performances usually consist them playing evil men. After that you have legendary song and dance man Gene Kelly as well as 6 time Academy Award loser Deborah Kerr best known for playing Boris Karloff’s great-aunt from The King and I (I’m not kidding, look it up). Then you have Swedish actress Greta Garbo best known for her sexual allure, husky Swedish voice, and her reclusive nature after she retired in the 1940s. And finally, there’s the one and only Peter Lorre best known for being one of the creepiest men on earth as well as having a voice cartoons have imitated ever since. So for your pleasure, here are 10 more movie stars who never made their Oscar speech after being announced for beating their fellow nominees during the ceremony.

11. Richard Widmark

Richard Widmark’s portrayal of Tommy Udo in Kiss of Death in which he pushes a poor wheelchair bound woman down the stairs has been ranked as one of the greatest villains in movie history as well as an inspiration for the Joker in Batman. Unfortunately, when nominated around Oscar time, Academy voters weren’t very comfortable with having a guy win the Best Supporting Actor prize to a man playing a complete psycho. So they gave the Oscar to a man playing Santa Claus.

Personal Life: (1914-2008) Born in Sunrise Township, Minnesota and grew up in Princeton, Illinois. Father was a traveling salesman of Swedish ancestry. Studied and taught acting at Lake Forest College. First acting jobs were for radio in the late 1930s and early 1940s. Debuted on Broadway in 1943 and film in 1947. Married for 45 years to Jean Hazelwood and had a daughter married to Sandy Colfax from 1969-1982. In 1999, he married Susan Blanchard, the former 3rd Mrs. Henry Fonda and stepdaughter to Oscar Hammerstein II. Retired in 2001 and died in Roxbury, Connecticut after a long illness 7 years later at 93.
Famous for: American actor originally typecast as villains or antiheros in film noir but later branched out into leading and support heroic roles in westerns, mainstream dramas, and horror films among others. Notable roles are Tommy Udo from Kiss of Death, Dude from Yellow Sky, Harry Fabian from Night and the City, Ray Biddle from No Way Out, Jim Bowie from The Alamo, Col. Tad Lawson from Judgment at Nuremberg, Captain Thomas Archer from Cheyenne Autumn, and Ratchet/Cassetti from Murder on the Orient Express as well as countless cowboys, gangsters, police officers, and military men.
Nominated for: Only nominated as Best Supporting Actor in 1947 for Kiss of Death.
Most Crushing Loss: Sure Widmark may have had stiff competition against Edmund Gwenn and Robert Ryan in 1947, but you have to admit playing a complete psycho and losing the Oscar race to Santa Claus as particularly humiliating. Still, his Tommy Udo might’ve been the inspiration for Heath Ledger’s Joker from The Dark Knight and is every bit as villainous. It’s no question he should’ve won.
Reasons: For one, Kiss of Death was Widmark’s first film. Secondly, I’m not sure if the Hollywood establishment was ready to award an Oscar for to an actor playing a psychopathic gangster who pushes a wheelchair bound woman down the stairs just for giggles. He was also subject to a lot of typecasting afterwards.
Trivia: Was a big Batman fan and his Tommy Udo performance might’ve inspired the Joker. Had a ranch during the 1950s and 1960s near Green City, Missouri where he raised funds for an airport named in honor. Despite that his characters were mostly armed, was as staunch supporter of gun control.

12. Fred MacMurray

Fred MacMurray is probably best known by your baby boomer parents as playing the kind single dad from My Three Sons. Of course, while mostly playing nice guys, he did play a few not so wholesome characters in movies like The Apartment, The Caine Mutiny, and Double Indemnity. See my thing about these roles in my post on bad movie bosses.

Personal Life: (1908-1991) Born in Kankakee, Illinois and grew up in his mother’s hometown of Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. Attended Carroll College on a full scholarship but didn’t graduate though he participated in local bands and even played the saxophone. Before Hollywood, he’d recorded songs as a featured vocalist for the Gus Arnheim Orchestra as well as with Bob Hope and Sydney Greenstreet on Broadway. Married twice but was never divorced. Adopted 2 children with first wife Lillian Lamont and adopted twin girls with second wife June Haver to whom he was married to for 37 years. Retired in 1978. Suffered throat cancer in the 1970s and late 1980s. Suffered from a severe stroke in 1988 which left his right side paralyzed though he managed a 90% with therapy. Died of pneumonia at 83 after a battle with leukemia for over a decade.
Famous for: American actor who appeared in more than 100 films and a successful TV show during a career spanning nearly half a century. Originally typecast nice guys in romantic comedies, melodramas, and musicals, he broke that with Double Indemnity as well as played outright scumbags in The Caine Mutiny and The Apartment. Spent a lot of his later career making Disney movies. Notable roles are Arthur Russell from Alice Adams, Walter Neff from Double Indemnity, Lt. Tom Keefer from The Caine Mutiny, Jeff Sheldrake from The Apartment, Wilson Daniels from The Shaggy Dog, and Professor Ned Brainard from The Absent-Minded Professor. Also known for playing the Steven Douglas from My Three Sons.
Nominated for: Murray was never nominated for an Oscar.
Most Crushing Loss: Not being nominated for Best Supporting Actor in The Caine Mutiny (also the same for Jose Ferrer as well) or The Apartment. Also, not being nominated for Double Indemnity for Best Actor. Often said that his best roles were when he played against type.
Reasons: For one, he spent his early career being typecast and I’m sure playing assholes didn’t go well with the Hollywood establishment at the time. Also, made Disney movies.
Trivia: Said to be one of the wealthiest actors in Hollywood mostly because he had a reputation for being cheap as well as bringing a brown paper bag lunch with a hard-boiled egg, sometimes a leftover dyed one from Easter. Was also a skillful investor in California real estate. Appeared in commercials for Greyhound and Korean chesinbop math calculation program. Insisted that all his scenes for My Three Sons be filmed first so he could have plenty of time making movies and playing golf. Established the MacMurray Ranch in Northern California where he raised prize winning Aberdeen Angus cattle. Sold the ranch to Gallo in 1996 which planted vineyards for wine sold in the MacMurray Ranch name. First person honored as a Disney Legend in 1987. Played saxophone on The Jack Benny Program.

13. Lena Horne

Lena Horne is better known for her singing career and civil rights activisim. Yet, she’s one of the first big African American female movie stars who refused to play maids her movie career during Jim Crow. Of course, being a black woman, that’s a reason why she made so few.

Personal Life: (1917-2010) Born in Bedford-Stuyvesant in Brooklyn, New York City. Father was a numbers kingpin and gambler. Mother was an actress from a black theater troupe. Lived in New York, Pittsburgh, Georgia, and Pennsylvania. Moved to Pittsburgh at 18 and lived there for 5 years until she joined the Cotton Club as a chorus girl. Made her first film in 1938 and her first recording some time before that. Married twice and had 2 children to her first husband Louis Jordan. Second husband was a white man named Lennie Hayton for 24 years (yet they separated in the 1960s and she said she only married him to advance her career but she loved him very much). Retired in 1980. Died in New York City of heart failure at 92.
Famous for: American singer, actress, dancer, and civil rights activist. From a Cotton Club chorus girl at 16 and nightclub performer before moving to Hollywood where he had both bit and substantial roles. Notable roles are Ethel Andrews from The Duke Is Tops, Georgia Brown from Cabin in the Sky, and Glinda the Good from The Wiz.
Nominated for: Horne was never nominated for an Oscar.
Most Crushing Loss: Not receiving an honorary Oscar for lifetime achievement due to making so few films. Yet, I really think she should’ve gotten one since she refused to play maids.
Reasons: She was black. She refused to play maids (which really limited the quantity of movies she made). And she found herself blacklisted for a time due to her left leaning views and civil rights activism during the Red Scare that she only made 2 movies during the 1950s.
Trivia: Uncle was an adviser to Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Granddaughter of inventor Samuel R. Scottron. Refused to perform to segregated audiences and was only able to do a show for the US during WWII in front of African American servicemen and German POWs. Lost her father, husband, and son in the same year. Worked with Eleanor Roosevelt to pass anti-lynching laws. Spoke and performed during the March on Washington. Was not thrilled about the potential prospect of Janet Jackson playing her in a biopic, especially after her 2004 Super Bowl wardrobe malfunction. Granddaughter was the screenwriter for Rachel Getting Married. Daughter became a best-selling author.

14. Dorothy Dandridge

Dorothy Dandridge was the first African American woman nominated for a Best Actress Academy Award in the 1950s. However, her life was rather tragic with failed marriages, a special needs kid, substance abuse, and financial troubles. And despite her success in Carmen Jones, her career would decline because the racist climate at the time didn’t allow her access to very good leading or possibly supporting roles.

Personal Life: (1922-1965) Born in Cleveland. Mother was an aspiring entertainer. Father was a cabinet maker and minister. Mother created a song and dance act for her and her 2 sisters called “The Wonder Children” who appeared in nightclubs for several years as well as later became The Dandridge Sisters. Made her first film in 1935. Married twice and had a daughter to first husband Harold Nicholas. Second husband was a white man, abuser, and gold digger who used all her money before abandoning her. Was swindled by those who handled her finances of $150,000 and was in $139,000 debt in back taxes that she was forced to sell her Hollywood home. Daughter was officially diagnosed with brain damage but was probably autistic (problems were associated with social and verbal skills) and eventually sent to a state mental institution when she couldn’t afford to keep her. Was also plagued by drinking problems later in life. Died either of an embolism or drug overdose at 42.
Famous for: American actress, singer, and dancer. Mostly appeared in uncredited roles before stardom. Notable roles are Dorothy from Teachers Beau, Thalia from Bahama Passage, Kipsang’s Bride from Sundown, Felice from Lady from Louisiana, Melmendi, Queen of the Ashuba from Tarzan’s Peril, Jane Richards from Bright Road, Ann Carpenter from The Harlem Globetrotters, Carmen Jones, Margot Seaton from Island in the Sun, Aiché, Reiker’s mistress from Tamango, Mahia from The Decks Ran Red, Bess from Porgy and Bess, and Gianna from Malaga.
Nominated for: Dandridge was nominated for Best Actress in 1954 for Carmen Jones.
Most Crushing Loss: Losing to Grace Kelly for Best Actress in 1954. Sure I know she wasn’t going to win but she should’ve at least lost to Judy Garland. Yet, what’s more crushing about this is that she was probably the nominee who received the least amount of votes which was probably due to her skin color.
Reasons: Most of the time, African American actresses nominated for Best Actress usually never win, even today with the sole exception of Halle Berry in 2002. Since Dandridge was nominated for Best Actress during segregation in the 1950s, her race was an even bigger mark against her. Not to mention, the Hollywood Studio System and the Hays Code made it even more difficult for her to get any good non-stereotypical parts as well. Her career also declined after her nomination.
Trivia: First African American actress nominated for an Oscar in a leading role. She and Maureen O’Hara were the only two stars who testified against Hollywood Research Inc. for libel, a tabloid magazine company that gave blatantly false accounts of them having casual sex with multiple individuals. Was romantically linked to Otto Preminger.

15. William Powell

William Powell may not have been a handsome leading man, but his voice and fashion sense made him perfect in movies like My Man Godfrey and The Thin Man series. Was married and divorced to Carole Lombard, engaged to Jean Harlow, and starred with Myrna Loy in 14 films (though they never dated in real life).

Personal Life: (1892-1984) Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania but attended high school in St. Louis, Missouri where lived a few blocks away from his future fiancée Jean Harlow’s family whom he didn’t meet until after they were established actors. Attended the American Academy for Dramatic Arts after graduating high school and got his start on vaudeville, stock companies, and Broadway. Married 3 times with his second marriage being to Carole Lombard (yet even though they divorced after 2 years, he was still devastated when she died in a 1942 plane crash). Had a son who became a producer and writer to Eileen Wilson. Yet his son would commit suicide in 1968. Married to Diana Lewis for 44 years. As far as his personal life goes, he’s best known for marrying Carole Lombard and dating Jean Harlow. Survived a bout of cancer in 1937. Retired from acting in 1955. Died from heart failure at 91.
Famous for: American actor who typically played highly self-confident characters, with sophistication and sense of wit. Originally started acting in movies in 1922 mostly playing in a supporting capacity until talkies. Made 14 films with Myrna Loy including the six Thin Man films. Notable roles are Nick Charles from the Thin Man series, Godfrey Parke from My Man Godfrey, Lev Andreyev from The Last Command, Philo Vance from The Canary Murder Case, Bill Chandler from Libeled Lady, George Carey from I Love You Again, Clarence Day Sr. from Life with Father. J. D. Hanley from How to Marry a Millionaire, and Lt. “Doc” from Mister Roberts.
Nominated for: Powell was nominated 3 times for Best Actor consisting of: 1934 for The Thin Man, 1936 for My Man Godfrey, and 1948 for Life with Father.
Most Crushing Loss: It’s hard to say Oscar wise since he lost to guys like Clark Gable, Paul Muni (whose Oscar was long overdue), and Ronald Colman who were all very talented actors. Yet, what probably stings the most is that he died at 91 without an honorary Oscar for Lifetime Achievement.
Reasons: Most of Powell’s films were comedies, which doesn’t win Oscars even today. Not to mention, being burned by the competition whenever he was nominated.
Trivia: Married wife #3 after knowing her for 3 weeks (luckily this one worked out). Said to place a white gardenia and unsigned note reading, “Good night, my dearest darling” in Jean Harlow’s hands before she was interred in the $25,000 9 x 10-ft private room he paid for in the “Sanctuary of Benediction” of the Great Mausoleum at Forest Lawn Memorial Park (then again, she was the love of his life).

16. Gene Kelly

Gene Kelly is noted to have said, “If Fred Astaire is the Cary Grant of dance, I’m the Marlon Brando.” Of course, he’s best known for his contributions to the Hollywood musical. Yet, unlike Fred Astaire, he ceased being relevant after film musicals fell out of fashion in the late 1950s.

Personal Life: (1912-1996) Born Eugene Curran Kelly in the East Liberty in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Father was a phonograph salesman. Mother made him and his brother James take dance lessons. Graduated high school at 16. Attended Penn State for journalism but dropped out to help his family due to the crash of 1929. He and his brother Fred performed in local talent contests for prizes and nightclubs. Studied economics at the University of Pittsburgh, member of Phi Beta Kappa and the Cap and Gown Club, and was admitted to Pitt Law School (but dropped out after 2 months). Also worked as a dance teacher in his family dance studio at Squirrel Hill for 7 years soon called the Gene Kelly School of Dance. Started his show biz career on Broadway and the stage before signing on to David O. Selznick. Married 3 times with Betsey Blair as his first wife. Had 3 children including a daughter to Blair as well as a daughter and son to second wife Jeanne Coyne. Retired in 1994 due to a stroke and would die in his sleep at 83.
Famous for: American dancer, actor, singer, film director, producer, and choreographer. A dominant force in Hollywood musical films from the mid-1940s until it fell out of fashion in the late 1950s. His many innovations transformed the Hollywood musical film and is almost single handedly credited with making ballet form commercially acceptable to audiences. Notable roles are Joseph Brady from Anchors Aweigh, D’Artagnan from The Three Musketeers (1948), Joe D. Ross from Summer Stock, Gabey from On the Town, Jerry Mulligan from An American in Paris, Don Lockwood from Singin’ in the Rain, Tommy Albright from Brigadoon, Ted Riley from It’s Always Fair Weather, E. K. Hornbeck from Inherit the Wind, Barry Nichols from Les Girls, and Danny McGuire from Xanadu.
Nominated for: He was only nominated for Best Actor in 1945 for Anchors Aweigh. Luckily he received an honorary Oscar for 1952.
Most Crushing Loss: The fact that Singin’ in the Rain managed to only be nominated for 2 Oscars and didn’t win either in 1952. This is one of the best musicals of all time and should at least set a record Academy Award nominations at the time. Not to mention, Kelly shouldn’t have been snubbed for Best Actor or Best Director with Stanley Donen. Also, the fact that Pittsburgh still won’t erect that fucking statue of him (c’mon, just do it already).
Reasons: Well, this might’ve been due to Kelly’s politics as well as that by the Red Scare he basically threatened MGM that he’d pull out from It’s Always Fair Weather if his wife Blair didn’t get the lead female role in Marty. At the time, she was under considerable pressure to withdraw from the American Legion because she was suspected as a Communist sympathizer. Still, 1950s film awards were the stuff of brutal competition. Not to mention, Kelly’s glory days were over by 1960.
Trivia: Stopped attending Mass when the Catholic Church sided with the Nationalists during the Spanish Civil War in 1939 (then again, the other side wasn’t much better). But he was said to have donated money to the IRA during the 1970s. Was a huge Pittsburgh Pirates fan (and had a childhood dream of playing shortstop for the team). Him and Blair held weekly parties with an intensely physical completion of charades they called, “The Game.” Part of the Committee for the First Amendment that protested during the House Committees on Un-American Activities hearings. The Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera has an award named after him.

17. Myrna Loy

Though best known as playing William Powell’s wife in The Thin Man series and 8 other films, Myrna Loy was a highly popular actress in her own right during the 1930s that she was known as “The Queen of Hollywood.” She was also John Dillinger’s favorite actress. Yet, she also championed causes for military veterans and black actors, fought housing discrimination, and was the first Hollywood celebrity to become a member of UNESCO.

Personal Life: (1905-1993) Born Myrna Adele Williams in Helena, Montana. Father was banker, real estate developer, and youngest man ever elected to the Montana state legislature. Spent her childhood living between Montana and California and took up dancing lessons. Made her stage debut at Helena’s Operetta Theater at 12. Father died of Spanish flu, in 1918 and family moved to California permanently. Performed at Grauman’s Chinese Theater at 18. Was discovered by Rudolph Valentino when he was looking for a co-star in Cobra while both visited a photography studio. Made her first film in 1925. Married 4 times. Had 2 mastectomies for breast cancer in 1970s. Died from surgical complications at 88.
Famous for: American actor, once trained as a dancer devoted herself fully to an acting career following a few minor roles in silent films. Originally typecast in exotic roles, often as a vamp or a woman of Asian descent, but her career prospects improved greatly following her portrayal of Nora Charles in The Thin Man. Appeared with William Powell in 14 movies. Notable roles are Becky Sharp from Vanity Fair, Fah Lo See from The Mask of Fu Manchu,
Gertie Waxted from Penthouse, Eleanor from Manhattan Melodrama, Nora Charles from The Thin Man series, Linda from Wife vs. Secretary, Connie Allenbury from Libeled Lady, Milly Stephenson from The Best Years of Our Lives, Margaret from The Bachelor and the Bobby-Soxer, Kay Wilson from I Love You Again, Muriel Blandings from Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House, Alice Tiflin from The Red Pony, Mrs. Lillian Gilbreth from Cheaper By the Dozen, Aunt Bea from Midnight Lace, Mrs. Devaney from Airport 1975, and Maureen Lawson from The End.
Nominated for: Loy was never nominated for an Oscar.
Most Crushing Loss: Not being nominated for Best Supporting Actress in 1946 for The Best Years of Our Lives. Yes, she’s not much of an overburdened wife on the receiving end of her husband’s PTSD yet she’s a wife whose husband can no longer relate to. It’s pretty crushing that she wasn’t nominated for an Academy Award despite all the work she did both on and off screen. It’s nice that she had celebrity friends who lobbied extensively for the Academy to give her an honorary Oscar, which she greatly deserved.
Reasons: Loy is probably one of the most surprisingly underrated Hollywood actresses ever and she was enormously popular in her lifetime even voted as the Queen of Hollywood by her fans in the 1930s while Clark Gable was voted King. Of course, she had a deceptively straightforward artistry that kept her from getting the types of flashy roles that usually netted nominations.
Trivia: Romantically linked to Spencer Tracy and Leslie Howard. Father sold a considerable amount of land to Charlie Chaplin where he constructed his studio. Posed for her high school sculpture in the Fountain of Education, which stood for decades which has been featured in Grease. Was John Dillinger’s favorite actress and was shot to death after seeing one of her films. Worked with the Red Cross during WWII and was so fiercely outspoken against Hitler her name appeared on his blacklist. Also helped run the Naval Auxiliary Canteen and toured to raise funds for the troops. Championed the rights of black actors and characters to be depicted with dignity on film. Was Co-Chairman of the Advisory Council of the National Committee Against Discrimination in Housing and the first Hollywood celebrity to become a member of UNESCO in 1948. Had a performing arts center in Helena, Montana named after her. Was a personal friend of Eleanor Roosevelt.

18. Greta Garbo

Greta Garbo was an international superstar in the 1920s and 1930s for her magnetic performances in sometimes mediocre films. But her 1942 retirement and lack of desire for Hollywood publicity have only enhanced her legendary mystique.

Personal Life: (1905-1990) Born Greta Lovisa Gustafsson in Stockholm, Sweden. Father was a laborer who worked as a street cleaner, grocer, factory worker and butcher’s assistant while her mother soon worked in a jam factory. Was a shy day dreamer as a child who hated school but was interested in theater at an early age. Grew up in the city’s working class district regarded as the municipal slum. Dropped out of school at 13 and never attended high school. Father became ill with Spanish flu in 1919 that resulted in him losing his job and died in 1920. Worked as a soap lather girl in a barbershop and ran errands in the millinery department at the PUB Department Store. Soon started modeling hats and became a fashion model for the store’s catalog. Later filmed commercials advertising the store’s women’s clothing. Studied at The Royal Dramatic Theatre’s Acting School in Stockholm and made her first film in 1924. Was discovered by Louis B. Mayer the next year. Retired in 1941 and spent the rest of her life as a recluse in which made no public appearances. Suffered from depression and moodiness as well as gastrointestinal and periodontal ailments. Became a US citizen in 1951. Was successfully treated for breast cancer in 1984. Died of pneumonia and renal failure at 84.
Famous for: Swedish American actress as well as international star and icon during Hollywood’s silent and classic film periods. Husky Swedish voice gave her an easy transition from silents to talkies. Appeared in 28 films. Notable roles are Elena from The Temptress, Felicitas from Flesh and the Devil, Marianne from The Divine Woman, Tania Fedorova from The Mysterious Lady, Anna Christie, Madame Rita Cavallini from Romance, Mata Hari, Grusinskaya from Grand Hotel, Queen Christina, Katrin Koerber Fane from The Painted Veil, Anna Karenina, Marguerite Gautier from Camille, Countess Marie Walewska from Conquest, Nina Ivanovna “Ninotchka” Yakushova from Ninotchka, and Karin Borg Blake from Two-Faced Woman.
Nominated for: Garbo was nominated 3 times for Best Actress consisting of 1930 for Anna Christie and Romance, 1936 for Camille, and 1939 for Ninotchka.
Most Crushing Loss: Losing to Luise Rainer during the 1936 Best Actress race, since Rainier was a white actress playing a Chinese woman. Garbo really should’ve won that year even if she did play a high class call girl slowly dying of tuberclerosis.
Reasons: Well, she didn’t have a long career and retired at 35 due to the failure of Two-Faced Woman. Not to mention, during her whole career, she signed no autographs, avoided industry social functions, answered no fan mail, refused permission to arrange publicity contracts with the studio, and never made any appearances at awards ceremonies, even when she was nominated. Rumored to be gay or bisexual (which is unproven though she did have lesbian friends and played Queen Christina). Not to mention, she was a 1930s sex symbol.
Trivia: Was unable to speak any English when she first arrived in Hollywood in 1925. Contrary to the conventional reclusive image, she had many friends with whom she socialized and traveled. Was an avid art collector who purchased paintings by Renoir, Rouault, Kandinsky, Bonnard, and Jawlensky which was worth millions when she died. Was a White House dinner guest in 1963. Wore large sunglasses in her later years and was known for taking long walks. Romantically linked to Louise Brooks, John Gilbert, Marlene Dietrich, Josephine Baker, and Mercedes de Acosta. Estate was worth $57,000,000 due to her wise investments in stocks and bonds. Highest paid actress at MGM during most of her career. Designated as the most beautiful woman who ever lived by Guinness Book of World Records.

19. Deborah Kerr

Though Scottish born, Deborah Kerr is best known for playing proper and sophisticated English ladies, particularly in period pieces. Yet, she occasionally played against type since she and Burt Lancaster did have a famous make out scene in From Here to Eternity.

Personal Life: (1921-2007) Born Deborah Jane Kerr-Trimmer in Helensburgh, Scotland. Father was a WWI veteran captain who lost a leg during the Battle of the Somme and later became a naval architect and engineer. Trained as a ballet dancer and first appeared on stage in 1937. Trained in acting by her aunt who ran the Hicks-Smale Drama School in Bristol. Made her West End debut in 1943. Made her first film in 1940. Married twice and had 2 daughters with her first husband Anthony Bartley. Married to second husband Peter Viertel for 47 years (though they lived apart in later years so she could be closer to her children as her health began to deteriorate). Retired in 1986 possibly due to suffering Parkinson’s Disease that would later claim her life at 86.
Famous for: Scottish actress best known for being nominated 6 times for Oscars and never won. Specialized in playing high souled ladies of quality and one of Hollywood’s favorite redheads from the 1940s to 1960s. Made a lot of period films and starred in 4 movies with Robert Mitchum. Notable roles are Jenny Hill from Major Barbara, Edith Hunter/Barbara Wynne/Johnny Cannon from The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp, Sister Clodagh from Black Narcissus, Kay Dorrance from The Hucksters, Evelyn Boult from Edward, My Son, Elizabeth Curtis from King Solomon’s Mines, Lygia from Quo Vadis, Princess Flavia from The Prisoner of Zenda, Catherine Parr from Young Bess, Portia from Julius Caesar, Karen Holmes from From Here to Eternity, Anna Leonowens from The King and I, Laura Reynolds from Tea and Sympathy, Sister Angela from Heaven Knows, Mr. Allison, Terry McKay from An Affair to Remember, Sibyl Railton-Bell from Separate Tables, Sarah Miles from The End of the Affair, Sheilah Graham from Beloved Infidel, Miss Giddens from The Innocents, Hannah Jelkes from Night of the Iguana, and Agent Mimi/Lady Fiona McTarry from Casino Royale.
Nominated for: Kerr was nominated for Best Actress 6 times consisting of 1949 for Edward, My Son, 1953 for From Here to Eternity, 1956 for The King and I, 1957 for Heaven Knows, Mr. Allison, 1958 for Separate Tables, and 1960 for The Sundowners.
Most Crushing Loss: Losing to Elizabeth Taylor in 1960 for Best Actress. I mean Taylor is a great actress but Butterfield 8 is one of her more forgettable films. Not to mention, even Taylor felt she only received the Oscar because she had to undergo a tracheotomy. Still, Kerr should’ve at least lost to Shirley MacLaine or Greer Garson. I’d also add losing to Ingrid Bergman in 1956 since Anastasia is perhaps one of the most historically inaccurate movies of all time and not nearly as memorable as The King and I or The Bad Seed or as controversial as Baby Doll.
Reasons: Kerr was simply burned by the competition most of the time she was nominated. And even if the best actress didn’t win, there was always one who was better than her. She also suffered from typecasting as a proper English woman or nun. Luckily she received an honorary Oscar for Lifetime Achievement.
Trivia: Recipient of the Sarah Siddons Award for Tea and Sympathy (so yes, the award Eve received in All About Eve is a real thing). Romantically linked to Burt Lancaster.

20. Peter Lorre

Despite never winning an Oscar in his lifetime and being mostly typecast in villain and supporting roles, Peter Lorre is perhaps one of the most iconic and better known actors ever mostly for being one of the creepiest movie stars ever. His bug eyes, cherub face, and Austrian accent were a favorite target of comedians and cartoonists who’ve basically immortalized him as a screen legend.

Personal Life: (1904-1964) Born László Löwenstein in the present day Slovakia town Ružomberok during the waning days of the Austrian Hungarian Empire. Father was a Jewish chief bookkeeper at a textile mill and served as a lieutenant in the Austrian army reserve. Mother died when he was 4, possibly of food poisoning. Father remarried his mom’s best friend to help raise his 4 motherless sons but he didn’t get along with his stepmother. Moved to Vienna in 1913 and father served on the eastern front during the winter of 1914-15 and was put in charge of a prison camp. Started acting on stage at after a stint as a bank clerk performing in Vienna, Poland, and Zurich. Career took off when he caught the eye of Bertolt Brecht and moved to Berlin in the late 1920s. Yet, he was forced to flee in 1933 due to the rise of Nazism and his Jewish heritage. First went to Paris and then London but eventually settled in London with a contract from Columbia Pictures. Moved to Warner Brothers in 1941 when he became a US citizen and legally changed his name. Married 3 times and had a daughter Catherine to Anne Marie Brenning. She would make headlines in 1977, in which a noted serial killer confessed to stop her with an intent to kidnap and murder her but let her go when they realized who she was. Suffered from a chronic gall bladder infection for years which led to a morphine addiction, which he successfully overcame but didn’t fully recover. Later in his career he would gain 100lbs. Died of a stroke at 59.
Famous for: Hungarian-American actor who became an international sensation in the Fritz Lang film M where plays a serial killer who targets little girls. Yet, he’d soon find himself in enforced exile and have to learn English for Hitchcock’s first filming of The Man Who Knew Too Much. Once in Hollywood, he’d be a featured player in movies ranging from crime, mystery, film noir, and horror since he was one of the creepiest men ever. Yet, he’d also appear in a Disney movie and do an occasional comedy. Frequently typecast as a sinister foreigner, his post war career was erratic. Notable roles are Hans Beckert from M, Abbott from The Man Who Knew Too Much, Dr. Gogol from Mad Love, Raskolnikov from Crime and Punishment, The General from Secret Agent, Col. Glimpy from Crack-Up, Mr. Moto from the Mr. Moto series, Joel Cairo from The Maltese Falcon, Ugarte from Casablanca, Victor Emmeric from The Verdict, Dr. Karl Roth from The Lost One, and Conseil from 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.
Nominated for: Lorre was never nominated for an Oscar.
Most Crushing Loss: Not getting at least a nomination for Best Supporting Actor in 1941 for The Maltese Falcon.
Reasons: For one, the Hollywood establishment simply not interested in giving film prizes for foreign film performances. Not to mention, Lorre’s friendship with blacklisted playwright Bertolt Brecht didn’t help either and actually got him kicked out of Warner Brothers. This put his career on the decline and declare personal bankruptcy in 1949.
Trivia: Was a supporter of the Committee for the First Amendment during the Red Scare. Played a James Bond villain on television. Was referred to as “the World’s Greatest Actor,” by Charlie Chaplin and got along famously with Hitchcock. Vincent Price did the eulogy at his funeral. Tried to help many of his Jewish friends get out of Europe and was an ardent anti-Nazi. Refused to entertain in a hospital during WWII, opting to sit with the troops and listen to their stories instead. Reputed to have said at Bela Lugosi’s funeral, “Do you think we should drive a stake through his heart just in case?”

Richard Burton and Peter O’Toole in the 1964 Becket which pertains that the relationship King Henry II shared with his friend and eventual martyred Archbishop of Canterbury, Thomas Becket as having a gay subtext. Also it’s costume design would be the equivalent of a Revolutionary War picture in which the Founding Fathers are dressed in 20th century business suits. Still, O’Toole and Burton: Drinking buddies with a combined total of 15 Oscar nominations but not a single win.

Sure this 20 part series may be a vanity project that I’ve been working on since January. Yet, I did this series just to make a point as to how many actors in Hollywood and around the world don’t win competitive Oscars in their lifetime. We all know that winning one is every actor’s dream, especially with a role of a lifetime. Sure many of them are famous and talented stars we know and love while some are distinguished character actors we may or may not recognize unless we look them up. However, despite all the glitz and glamor associated with winning an Oscar, it may as come as a surprise that most actors don’t win Oscars during their career. Of course, this isn’t a surprise since most actors aren’t the big movie stars you hear in the magazines and newspapers anyway. In fact, most players in Hollywood usually are extras, bit players, or have supporting roles. Stars usually consist of the top 10% of Tinseltown anyway. Not to mention, a lot of your movie stars have unpredictable and sometimes brief careers, especially actresses hired for their looks in action movies. Let’s face it, you’re more likely to see Jennifer Lawrence doing movies well into her 80s than Kristen Stewart ever giving an Academy Award winning performance. And even if you are a movie star, your chances of making the Oscar speech are slim since most of them don’t even get nominated in the first place. And if they receive a nomination, they aren’t likely to be nominated again. Now my series on those who never won Oscars consist of 200 on the list with many legendary names in their own right and even they may consist of a small sample. And by Oscar, I mean a competitive Oscar usually from the 4 acting categories of Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actor, and Best Supporting Actress. However, this series doesn’t include movie stars who are:

1. Still alive and still working. This is the main reason why actors like Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, Alan Rickman, Tom Cruise, Johnny Depp, and Glenn Close aren’t on the list since they still have chance (albeit a very small one, but still). This is a list of people who haven’t won an Oscar and won’t win one in the future since they aren’t making movies anymore. Most of these people featured are from the Golden Age of Hollywood for this very reason.
2. Who have won competitive Oscars in other categories like Warren Beatty for directing Reds, Richard Attenborough for directing Gandhi, Orson Welles for co-writing Citizen Kane, and Charlie Chaplin for his Limelight score in the 1970s.
3. Anyone mostly active during the Silent Era before 1927-1928 Oscars mostly because the Academy Awards weren’t around at the time and many of their careers ended once sound became a mainstay in the movies. This explains why actors like Rudolph Valentino aren’t on the list (though he was dead by then). John Barrymore, Conrad Veidt, Douglas Fairbanks Jr., and Lillian Gish get in since they’ve made sound films.
4. Famous people who achieved acclaim in a very different line of work like Harry Belafonte best known as a Calypso singer and Richard Pryor, Eddie Cantor, Jerry Lewis, and Bob Hope are better recognized as comedians. Dean Martin doesn’t get in because he’s better recognized as a singer.
5. Also more recognizable as TV stars like Lucille Ball, Robert Young, Peter Falk or Andy Griffith. Fred MacMurray, Richard Griffiths, William Demarest, and James Garner get in since their film roles are just as equally significant and will be known better for younger audiences as movie stars anyway.
6. Actors known mostly as child stars, explaining why Freddie Bartholomew, Shirley Temple, and Margaret O’Brien don’t get in. After all, child actors normally don’t win Oscars anyway. Yet, Mickey Rooney and Natalie Wood get in since they acted in films as adults.

Now this selection pertains to some of the better known names in movie history almost anyone is sure to recognize. First, you have the famous Peter O’Toole and Richard Burton who both received the most Oscar nominations without a single win. Next, you have the suave and gentlemanly Cary Grant best known for his screwball romantic comedies, debonair looks and fashion sense, and performances in Hitchcock movies. Then we have movie tough guys like Robert Mitchum, Steve McQueen, and Edward G. Robinson known for playing crooks, gangsters, and action heroes that pushed these men to iconic status. Next, there’s Judy Garland who sang the Academy Award winning song, “Over the Rainbow” as Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz but never nabbed a competitive statuette herself though her character Vicki Lester did in-universe in A Star Is Born. Then you have Brooklyn accented Barbara Stanwyck who basically did anything during her 60 year career after spending a childhood as an orphan from the streets of New York City. Finally, you have Ava Gardner and Lauren Bacall best known for being sensual beauties as well as being married to famous men like Mickey Rooney, Frank Sinatra, Humphrey Bogart, and Jason Robards Jr. So without further adieu, here are the first 10 actors in my first installment of stars who’ve never won an Oscar.

1. Peter O’Toole

Peter O’Toole was best known for playing the eccentric WWI officer T. E. Lawrence in David Lean’s 1962 epic Lawrence of Arabia. Of course, he had the terrible tendency of getting nominated for Oscars in years where another actor gave a performance that would quickly overshadow his.

Personal Life: (1932-2013) may have been born in Conemara, Ireland or Leeds, England (though he resided in Conemara as an adult and had his ashes spread there). Worked as a journalist, photographer, and signaler for the Royal Navy. Mother was a Scottish nurse while father was a metal plater, soccer player, and racecourse bookmaker. Started acting at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and as a Shakespearean actor for the Bristol Old Vic before debuting in 1959. Married to Sian Philips from 1959-1979 with which he had 2 daughters. Also had a son with longtime girlfriend and model Kate Brown. Had a reputation for hard drinking and partying that it caused him all sorts of health problems it nearly killed him in the 1970s. Yet, he only quit drinking for good when he was 75. Retired in 2012. Died at 81.
Famous for: Anglo-Irish actor best known for holding the record of the most Academy Award nominations without a single win. Notable roles include T. E. Lawrence from Lawrence of Arabia, Henry II from Becket and The Lion in Winter, Lord Jim, Mr. Chips from Goodbye Mr. Chips, Lord Jack Gurney, 14th Earl of Gurney from The Ruling Class, Miguel Cervantes/Don Quixote from Man of la Mancha, Eli Cross from The Stunt Man, Alan Swann from My Favorite Year, Reginald Johnston from The Last Emperor, and Maurice from Venus.
Nominated for: Had 8 Oscar nominations without winning a single one all for Best Actor: 1962 for Lawrence of Arabia, 1964 for Becket, 1968 for The Lion in Winter, 1969 for Goodbye, Mr. Chips, 1972 for The Ruling Class, 1982 for My Favorite Year, and 2006 for Venus.
Most Crushing Loss: I would have to say either 1968 or 1969 would be the years he was robbed the most. Sure the other times were bad, too, but at least to guys who at least deserved to win like Gregory Peck, Rex Harrison, Marlon Brando, Ben Kingsley, and Forrest Whittaker. Of course, Cliff Roberson was great in the Flowers for Algernon adaptation Charly but I couldn’t say that it was better than O’Toole’s Henry II in The Lion in Winter (a movie robbed for Best Picture by Oliver!, bastards. Then again, the Academy awarded an Oscar for Tom Hanks for Forrest Gump, so that loss isn’t surprising). And while the 1960s version of Goodbye, Mr. Chips isn’t nearly as good as the 1939 original but surely O’Toole should’ve at least lost to a better actor than the eternally talentless and overrated John Wayne.
Reasons: Most likely being burned by the competition. Whenever O’Toole got nominated for an Oscar, he was usually against some other actor playing a role of a lifetime whether it be Gregory Peck, Marlon Brando, Ben Kingsley, or Forrest Whitaker. Of course, since he kept getting nominated, the Academy just reasoned that O’Toole would probably get his chance someday until they got smart and awarded him an Honorary Oscar in the 1990s so even if he didn’t win a competitive one, he’d at least get the statuette he deserved.
Trivia: Helped write the modern version of the Irish folk song “Carrickfergus” with Dominic Behan and wore green socks for good luck (which didn’t help him at the Oscars though, yet with all the health issues and bad habits he’s had it’s a wonder he lived to 81). Said he could quote all of Shakespeare’s 154 sonnets, which he read daily. Has had an award named after him at the Old Vic, where he got his start. Wrote 2 memoirs.

2. Richard Burton

Though Richard Burton was a Welsh coal miner’s son who managed to become a classically trained Shakespearean actor with 7 Oscar nominations without a win, most people remember him for his dysfunctional 2 marriages to Elizabeth Taylor and his legendary alcoholism.

Personal Life: (1925-1984) born in Wales as Richard Jenkins and the 12th of 13 children in a Welsh-speaking coal miner’s household. Absentee father was a gambler and drunk who’d often go on sprees for weeks and wouldn’t acknowledge his famous son’s talents, achievements, and acclaim. Unsurprisingly, he was raised by his sister Ceilia after his mom died giving birth to his younger brother Graham at the age of 43 when he was less than 2 years old. Earned pocket money by running messages, hauling horse manure, and delivering newspapers. Earned a prize as a boy soprano as well as served in the RAF during the mid to late 1940s but couldn’t be a pilot due to his poor eyesight. Started smoking at 8 and drinking at 12. Took the name of Burton after his favorite teacher, Air Training Corps commander, and father figure who encouraged him to pursue an acting career. Married 5 times but his best known part about his love life are his 2 turbulent marriages to Elizabeth Taylor (who considered him among the 3 loves of her life along with Mike Todd and jewelry. Yet, her deepest wish was to see him win the Oscar he deserved.) Had 4 daughters consisting of the biological 2 he had with first wife actress/producer Sybil Williams, a stepdaughter he legally adopted (who was Taylor’s by Mike Todd), and a girl he and Taylor adopted from Germany. He’s also best known for his chronic alcoholism, chain smoking, causing a lot of controversy in the British press, moving to Switzerland as a tax exile, lifelong socialism, and experiencing all kinds of health problems before a cerebral hemorrhage took his life at 58 (which might’ve been genetic since his dad died from the same thing in 1957).
Famous for: Welsh actor known for his mellifluous baritone voice and great acting talent that he was called “the natural successor to Olivier” after establishing himself as a formidable Shakespearean actor in the 1950s that included a memorable performance of Hamlet. Was one of the top box office stars and highest paid actors in the mid to late 1960s receiving fees of $1 million or more as well as a share of the gross receipts. Yet, his legendary alcoholism was his undoing since he failed to live up to such high expectations that he disappointed his colleagues and critics which fueled his reputation as a thespian wastrel. Also known for having 7 Academy Award nominations without a single win making him a runner-up to Peter O’Toole’s record. Notable roles are Philip Ashley from My Cousin Rachel, Marcellus Gallio from The Robe, Alexander the Great, Mark Antony from Cleopatra, Archbishop Thomas Becket from Becket, Rev. Dr. T. Lawrence Shannon from The Night of the Iguana, Hamlet, George from Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, Alec Leamas from The Spy Who Came in from the Cold, Petruchio from The Taming of the Shrew, Doctor Faustus, Major John Smith in Where Eagles Dare, King Henry VIII from Anne of the Thousand Days, Martin Dysart from Equus, and O’Brien from Nineteen Eighty-Four.
Nominated for: Had 7 Oscar nominations without winning a single one with the first one for Best Supporting Actor and Best Actor for the other 6: 1952 for My Cousin Rachel, 1953 for The Robe, 1964 for Becket, 1965 for The Spy Who Came in from the Cold, 1966 for Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, 1969 for Anne of the Thousand Days, and 1977 for Equus.
Most Crushing Loss: I’d have to say 1969 would’ve been his most upsetting loss Oscar wise. Sure the other years weren’t much better but at least he’s lost to guys like theater veterans Rex Harrison and Paul Scofield who were perfect for their parts as well as legends like Anthony Quinn, William Holden, Lee Marvin, and Richard Dreyfuss. He was a way better actor than the extremely overrated John Wayne and thus, should’ve either won or at least lost to Jon Voight, Dustin Hoffman, or Peter O’Toole.
Reasons: Like Peter O’Toole, he was also burned by the competition with a rival nominee having a role of a lifetime whenever he got nominated. And he got nominated so much that the Academy thought he might get his chance someday. Yet, he never did nor did he live long enough to receive an honorary Oscar either. Another factor might’ve been his alcoholism (but probably not his scandalous marriages to Elizabeth Taylor since she won an Academy Award during their time together).
Trivia: Had an excellent singing voice and won a Tony for Camelot in 1961. Said in an interview that he experimented with homosexuality as well as got into a sonnet quoting contest with Robert F. Kennedy. Kept a diary from the time he was 14, wrote memoir about Christmas during his childhood as well as occasional magazine articles. Buried in a red suit as a tribute to his Welsh roots and a copy of Dylan Thomas poems. Though he and Taylor discussed being buried together, his widow purchased the plot next to him and erected a large headstone across both before Taylor had the chance.

3. Cary Grant

Cary Grant’s rise from an impoverished childhood in Bristol to one of Hollywood’s most iconic leading men is no less impressive. Yet, his life was marred by inner demons, failed marriages, mood swings and tripping on LSD, which he thought was awesome. Still, his story bears a lot of similarities to The Great Gatsby.

Personal Life: (1904-1986) Born Archibald Alexander Leach in Bristol, England. Father was a pants presser in a factory but was often absentee as well as a philanderer and alcoholic. Mother was clinically depressed since the death of a previous child and didn’t show much love for him. At 9, dad placed his mom in a mental institution and lied to his son that was on a “long holiday” and later that she died (but Cary wouldn’t find out the truth until he was 31 but he reconnected with her). At 10, dad shacked up with his girlfriend and basically abandoned him. Expelled from school at 14 and joined a theater troupe he once worked with while he was 6. Immigrated to the United States in the early 1920s while in his mid teens. Spent the 1920s working the vaudeville and Broadway circuit as a stilt walker, acrobat, juggler, and mime before signing onto Hollywood as Cary Grant in 1931. Legally changed his name to Cary Grant once he became a US citizen in 1942. Married 5 times though there were rumors about him being bisexual (especially while he was living with Randolph Scott). Had a lot of demons in his life (which isn’t unusual for someone who had a very unhappy and lonely childhood as well as grew up poor). Retired from filmmaking after having a daughter Jennifer Grant with Dyan Cannon. Died of a stroke in Iowa.
Famous for: British and American actor known for his transatlantic accent, debonair demeanor, and dashing good looks who’s considered one of Hollywood’s biggest stars and was said to be the Greatest Male Star of All Time after Humphrey Bogart. Considered one of Hollywood’s definitive leading men as a leading box office attraction for nearly 30 years as well as acting in 72 films. Notable roles are Jerry Warrier from The Awful Truth, Dr. David Huxley from Bringing Up Baby, Johnny Case from Holiday, Sgt. Cutter from Gunga Din, Walter Burns from His Girl Friday, C. K. Dexter Haven from The Philadelphia Story, Mortimer Brewster from Arsenic and Old Lace, Johnnie Aysgarth from Suspicion, Roger Adams from Penny Serenade, T. R. Devlin from Notorious, Ernie Mott from None But the Lonely Heart, the angel Dudley from The Bishop’s Wife, Capt. Rochard from I Was a Male War Bride, John Robie from To Catch a Thief, Roger Thornhill from North By Northwest, Nickie Ferrante from An Affair to Remember, Phillip Adams from Indiscreet, and the Spy from Charade as well as others. His range spanned from screwball and romantic comedies to drama and thrillers.
Nominated for: Despite his appeal, popularity, and fame that he was able to go independent, he was only nominated twice and both times for Best Actor: 1941 for Penny Serenade and 1944 for None But the Lonely Heart.
Most Crushing Loss: Oscar wise, I’d have to say 1944 would be the most crushing for him since he lost to Bing Crosby who I didn’t really think deserved it (though I’m not familiar with his work). Even if Grant didn’t win, he should’ve at least lost to Charles Boyer (who was phenomenal in Gaslight and should’ve won that year anyway). At least Grant lost to Gary Cooper in 1941. Still, what I think is more of a crushing loss to Grant is that he made all these great movies during his long career, he was continually passed over for film industry and critics awards. Being snubbed for his 4 Hitchcock movies were probably the most crushing at all. At least he got an honorary Oscar in 1970 for his career which he certainly deserved. Also received Kennedy Center Honors in 1981.
Reasons: Well, you can argue that Grant was constantly passed over for awards mostly since he made a lot of comedies (screwball, romantic, and otherwise). His relationships with Randolph Scott as well as some of his troubled marriages and personal life might’ve been a factor as well.
Trivia: Was introduced to LSD therapy by his third wife Betsy Drake and was one of the first major celebrities to espouse the virtues of psychedelic drugs. Until California abolished it in 1966, he had booked 100 sessions for himself, tried to get as many Hollywood friends on it as he possibly could, and basically talked about it glowingly with Good Housekeeping and Time magazine (basically saying to millions of housewives that getting high was awesome). All this before the Beatles, Timothy Leary, and Frank Zappa. Had a onetime infatuation for Sophia Loren but she turned him down (since she’d been in love with Carlo Ponti since she was 15). Served on the boards of Fabrege, Hollywood Park, Western Airlines, the Academy of Magical Arts, and MGM. Owned many classic cars many of which were Cadillacs. Went on lecture tours across the US, making 36 public appearances between 1982-1986 and was on one of them when he died. May have thought he was Jewish and donated to Jewish causes but probably wasn’t. Yet, despite leaning Republican in his political views, condemned McCarthyism when his friend Charlie Chaplin was blacklisted (saying his artistic value outweighed political concerns, yet the fact they were friends isn’t too surprising since they’re both from similar backgrounds), befriended the Kennedys and the Mankiewicz family, and supported gun control after RFK’s assassination. Turned down a lot of roles that eventually went to Gregory Peck.

4. Robert Mitchum

Robert Mitchum was one of the most iconic film noir stars who played wide range of characters from supportive father figures, indifferent drifters, doomed anti-heroes, and incredibly sadistic villains. His performance as the Rev. Harry Powell is perhaps one of the most iconic as well as doomed to keep the lights on at night.

Personal Life: (1917-1997) born into a Methodist Bridgeport, Connecticut family as the second of 3 children to a shipyard and railroad worker and a Norwegian immigrant and sea captain’s daughter. Father was crushed to death in a railyard accident when he was less than 2 years old. Mother quickly married a former Royal Navy officer just out of economic necessity and had a daughter named Carol as well as worked as linotype operator for the Bridgeport Post. Brother and sister were also in showbiz while it was his sister who talked him into acting. His reputation as a prankster often involved in mischief and fights led to him being sent to his grandparents in Delaware at 12, expelled from middle school for scuffling with the principal, sent to live with his sister in New York’s Hell’s Kitchen at 13, and expelled from high school at 14. After dropping out, he became a train hopping hobo taking odd jobs like ditch digging for the Civilian Conservation Corps and professional boxing. Was arrested for vagrancy in Savannah, Georgia for vagrancy and was put on a chain gang before escaping to Delaware to nurse the injured leg he nearly lost and joining his sister in Long Beach, California. There, he worked as an operator for Lockheed Aircraft, a ghostwriter for an astrologer, and wrote song lyrics and monologues for his sister’s nightclub performances. Began acting in theater and started out in Hollywood as an extra before working his way up to B-Westerns and supporting roles before his big break in Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo. Yet, he had to take 8 months off from filmmaking due to being drafted in the army in 1946. Married to Dorothy Spence for 57 years and had 3 children named James, Christopher, and Petrine. Said to have numerous affairs. Sons had show biz careers as well. Was a heavy lifelong smoker as well as heavy drinker and died 5 weeks shy of his 80th birthday from lung cancer and emphysema complications.
Famous for: American actor who rose to prominence for his starring roles in several major film noir works and considered a forerunner to anti-heroes in film during the 1950s and 1960s. However, he also played a lot other character types to from indifferent to jaded drifters and supportive father figures to truly sadistic villains. Acted in over 110 films and TV series. Notable roles are Bobby Gray from Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo, Lt. Walker from The Story of G. I. Joe, Keeley from Crossfire, Jeff Bailey from Out of the Past, Max Calder in The River of No Return, the Rev. Harry Powell from The Night of the Hunter, Cpl. Allison USMC from Heaven Knows Mr. Allison, Lucas Doolin from Thunder Road, Paddy Camody from The Sundowners, Max Cady from Cape Fear, and Charles Shaughnessy from Ryan’s Daughter.
Nominated for: Despite his long career of appearing in over 110 films, he was only nominated for Best Supporting Actor in 1945 for The Story of G. I. Joe.
Most Crushing Loss: Actually his Oscar loss in 1945 isn’t the worst for at least received some recognition for his role and it was early in his career. Not to mention, he lost to James Dunn who played the alcoholic dad in A Tree Grows in Brooklyn which isn’t bad either. However, what does more injustice to Mitchum is that he should’ve at least received an Oscar nomination for his roles in The Night of the Hunter and Cape Fear.
Reasons: Despite his popularity and natural acting talent, Mitchum was a loveable bad boy both on and off screen which might’ve been fine by today’s standards. Yet, back in the 1940s and 1950s, his reputation as a loveable scamp didn’t sit well with much of the Hollywood establishment. Though he was certainly a serious actor, he often pretended he wasn’t as well as said he only took some roles for the money. Also said to have spent 50 days in jail for marijuana possession. Nevertheless, he didn’t really many film awards until later in life and mostly for life achievement. Still, he’s one of the greats.
Trivia: Had a sideline career in music both as a singer and songwriter. Used his own singing voice whenever his characters sang in films. Wrote and recorded the theme song to Thunder Road which topped at No. 69 on the Billboard Singles Chart. Also recorded a Calpyso album as well as a country one. He even composed an oratorio produced by Orson Welles at the Hollywood Bowl. Provided the voice for American Beef commercials that touted, “Beef…it’s what’s for dinner from 1992 until his death. His son James played his brother in Thunder Road, a part which was said written for Elvis Presley. Helped Charles Laughton direct The Night of the Hunter since Mitchum had 3 kids and Laughton had none.

5. Barbara Stanwyck

Though starting as an orphaned impoverished girl on the streets of Brooklyn, Barbara Stanwyck was known for her versatility and professionalism that she was well loved by directors like Frank Capra, Fritz Lang, and Cecil B. DeMille. Her roles range from romantic comedy leads to the evil blonde lady from Double Indemnity.

Personal Life: (1907-1990) Born Ruby Catherine Stevens in Brooklyn, New York City. Parents were working class. At 4, her mother died from miscarriage complications after a drunk stranger accidentally knocked her off a moving streetcar. Two weeks after her mom’s funeral, alcoholic and womanizing father joined a work crew digging the Panama Canal and was never seen again basically leaving parental responsibilities to her 9 year old sister. When Mildred became a showgirl, she and her brother were placed in a series of foster homes which she often ran away from. At 14, she dropped out of school and wrapped packages at a Brooklyn department store as well as filled cards for a telephone company for $14 a week. Was fired from a job cutting dress patterns from Vogue magazine and would soon be a typist for the Jerome H. Remick Music Company. Despite her sister’s chagrin, she pursued her showbiz career joining the Ziegfeld Follies at 16. Debuted on Broadway in 1926 which was when she adopted “Barbara Stanwyck” as a stage name. Made her first film in 1927. Married twice with her second marriage to Robert Taylor. Adopted a son with her first husband Frank Fay. Was robbed and assaulted at her Beverly Hills home in 1981. Was a smoker from the age of 9 until 4 years before her death. Died of congestive heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease at 82.
Famous for: American actress known for her 60 year career as a consummate and versatile professional with a strong, realistic screen presence and a favorite of directors Cecil B. DeMille, Frank Capra, and Fritz Lang. Made 85 films in 38 years before turning to television. Notable roles are Lora Hart from Night Nurse, Selina Peake De Jong from So Big!, Megan from The Bitter Tea of General Yen, Lily from Baby Face, Annie Oakley, Lady Lee from The Gambling Lady, Stella Dallas, Mollie Monahan from Union Pacific, Lorna Moon from Golden Boy, Lee Leander from Remember the Night, Jean from The Lady Eve, Ann Mitchell from Meet John Doe, Sugarpuss O’Shea from Ball of Fire, Hannah Sempler Hoyt from The Great Man’s Lady, Deborah Hoople, aka Dixie Daisy from Lady of Burlesque, Phyllis Dietrichson from Double Indemnity, Elizabeth Lane from Christmas in Connecticut, Martha Ivers from The Strange Love of Martha Ivers, Sally Morton Carroll from The Two Mrs. Carrolls, Sandra Marshall from Cry Wolf, Leona Stevenson from Sorry, Wrong Number, Jessie Bourne from East Side, West Side, Julia Sturges from Titanic, Sierra Nevada Jones from Cattle Queen of Montana, Helen Stilwin from Jeopardy, Gwen Moore from Escape to Burma, and Irene Trent from The Night Walker.
Nominated for: Stanwyck was nominated for Best Actress 4 times consisting of in 1937 for Stella Dallas, 1941 for Ball of Fire, 1944 for Double Indemnity, and in 1948 for Sorry, Wrong Number.
Most Crushing Loss: Losing the Best Actress prize to Luise Rainer in 1937 for she was playing a Chinese woman (which is kind of offensive to Asians, no offense). Stanwyck should’ve at least lost to Greta Garbo. Ingrid Bergman and Joan Fontaine were much more worthy competition.
Reasons: Stanwyck might’ve been popular among the public and very well liked in Hollywood, but she was burned out by the competition every time. Didn’t help that she was nominated what the Hollywood prestige would view as inferior films. At least she received an honorary Oscar for her career.
Trivia: Was romantically linked to Robert Wagner, Farley Granger, and Henry Fonda. Best known in her later career as Victoria Barkley from The Big Valley and Mary Carson from The Thorn Birds. Was an Ayn Rand fan who persuaded Warner Brothers to buy the rights for The Fountainhead and admired Atlas Shrugged. Often called, “The Best Actress Who Never Won an Oscar.” Stage name was inspired by a theatrical poster that read “Jane Stanwyck in ‘Barbara Frietchie.'”. Was the highest paid woman in 1944 according to the US government. Made 3 to 4 films a year at one point in her career. Marriage to Frank Fay may have been the inspiration for A Star Is Born (and yes, he did become an unemployed drunk).

6. Steve McQueen

Steve McQueen was called, “The King of Cool” and one of the biggest box office draws for his generation. His persona struck a cord with the counterculture of the Vietnam War era even though his movies tend to be quite violent.

Personal Life: (1930-1980) born in Beech Grove, Indiana. Father was a stunt pilot for a barnstorming flying circus who abandoned his mom 6 months after meeting her. Mom was said to be an alcoholic prostitute and was raised by his maternal grandparents and uncle (who was like a father to him) at his uncle’s Missouri farm and from 8-14 he’d live between that and his mother’s home whether it be in Indianapolis or Los Angeles. Ran away from home at 9 to escape an abusive stepfather and committed acts of petty crime with a street gang. After leaving his uncle’s farm a final time at 14, he ran away with the circus before joining his mom and second abusive stepfather in California, resuming his life as a petty crook. Was caught by police for stealing hubcaps who handed him over to his stepfather which ended him thrown down the stairs. McQueen threatened to kill him. Spent 2 years at a juvenile detention center at Chino where he finally shaped up. At 16, he joined his mom at Greenwich Village. Worked as a sailor, towel boy for a brothel, oil rigger, carnival trinket salesman, and lumberjack. Joined the Marines in 1947 and though he was demoted 7 times and put on a brig for 41 days, he embraced the discipline, saved 5 of his fellow Marines during an exercise, and assigned to guard Harry S. Truman’s yacht. All before his honorable discharge in 1950 and drifted into acting school thanks to the G. I. Bill. Was dyslexic and partially deaf since childhood. Married 3 times with Ali McGraw being his second wife. Had 2 children with his first wife Nelie Adams. Was known for his prolific drug use and was said to carry a handgun at all times after the Charles Manson murders of Sharon Tate and Jay Sebring. Died of malignant pleural mesothelioma at 50 while undergoing some kind of alternative treatment in Mexico.
Famous for: American actor called, “the King of Cool” for his antihero persona developed at the height of Vietnam War Era counterculture, making him a box office draw for the 1960s and 1970s. Became the highest paid movie star in the world in 1974. Known for being combative with directors and producers with directors and producers but his popularity placed him in high demand and able to command such high salaries. Notable roles are Steve Andrews from The Blob, Vin Tanner from The Magnificent Seven, Capt. Virgil Hilts “The Cooler King” from The Great Escape, The Cincinnati Kid, Nevada Smith, Jake Holman from The Sand Pebbles, Thomas Crown from the Thomas Crown Affair, Lt. Frank Bullitt from Bullitt, Doc McCoy from The Getaway, Henri ‘Papillon’ Charriere from Papillon, and Chief Mike O’Hallorhan from The Towering Inferno.
Nominated for: Only had one nomination for Best Actor in 1966 for The Sand Pebbles.
Most Crushing Loss: Well, he was never going to beat Paul Scofield in 1966. However, with a career like his, he should’ve received at least a Life Achievement Award, but he died too young.
Reasons: McQueen was more of an action star and acted in movies that usually didn’t get Oscar consideration. Also was known as combative with producers and directors.
Trivia: Had an unusual reputation for demanding free items in bulk from studios when agreeing to do a film such as electric razors, jeans, and other items. It was later found out that McQueen donated these items to the Boys Republic Reformatory School where he spent his teen years. He’d even make occasional visits there to play pool with the students and speak about his experiences. Was an avid motor and race car enthusiasts as well as enjoyed dirt bikes and flying. Had a daily 2 hour exercise regimen. Performed many stunts in his own films. Was good friends with James Garner. As of 2007, he’s among one of the top earning dead celebrities.

7. Edward G. Robinson

Though his looks and short stature prevented him from becoming a romantic leading man, Edward G. Robinson achieved Hollywood greatness playing 1930s gangsters from Warner Bros. Yet, despite his onscreen persona and imitable New York accent, he was a sensitive soft spoken man who spoke 7 languages, collected fine art, and hated guns. Yet, when he’s Little Caesar, he’s best known for, “Mother of mercy, is this the end of Rico?” not, “Pizza, Pizza.”

Personal Life: (1893-1973) Born Emanuel Goldenberg in Bucharest, Romania to a Yiddish speaking Jewish family. Father was a builder. Family decided to immigrate to the US after his brother was attacked by an anti-semitic mob and arrived to America at 9 on Valentine’s Day, 1903. Grew up in New York City. Attended the American Academy for Dramatic Arts on a scholarship and made his Broadway debut in 1915. Married twice and had a son to Gladys Lloyd named Edward G. Robinson Jr. who was an actor and playboy as well as adopted her daughter. Died of bladder cancer at 79.
Famous for: Romanian-American actor who was a popular star during Hollywood’s Golden Age and best remembered for playing gangsters in the 1930s for Warner Brothers. Made 101 films in his 50 year career. Notable roles are Caesar Enrico “Rico” Bandello, Turou from Confessions of a Nazi Spy, Paul Ehrlich from Dr. Ehrlich’s Magic Bullet, Paul Julius Reuter from A Dispatch from Reuter’s, Johnny Rocco from Key Largo, Dathan from The Ten Commandments, Barton Keyes from Double Indemnity, Joe Keller from All My Sons, Martinius Jacobson from Our Vines Have Tender Grapes, and Sol Roth from Soylent Green as well as numerous roles as gangsters.
Nominated for: Robinson was never nominated for an Oscar, though he received an honorary Oscar 2 months after his death, which he certainly deserved.
Most Crushing Loss: Never being nominated for an Oscar, especially for Little Caesar in 1931.
Reasons: Well, depends on the times. If it’s before WWII, it was because he worked at Warner Brothers playing gangsters which wasn’t considered up to prestigious Hollywood award standards. If it’s after WWII, then it’s because of his refusal to testify in front of the House Committee on Un-American Activities. Though he tried to clear his name, he refused to name any Communist sympathizers yet his career would suffer until The Ten Commandments.
Trivia: Contrary to his onscreen persona, he was a sensitive, soft spoken, and cultured man who spoke 7 languages and hated guns. Was a passionate art collector and even ran a gallery with Vincent Price. But he had to sell his collection in 1956 to a Greek shipping tycoon Starvos Niarchos to pay for his divorce and for being underemployed. Also loved collecting record from the world’s leading concerts. Though too old to serve in the military during WWII, he was an outspoken critic of fascism and Nazism as well as donated more than $250,000 to 850 charitable groups between 1939 and 1949. Also signed a declaration to boycott all German made products in 1938.

8. Ava Gardner

Ava Gardner was one of the foremost dark haired sex symbols of the 1950s even though she was a talented actress. Yet, she’s better known for being labeled as a femme fatale whom Frank Sinatra left the mother of his children for as well as their turbulent relationship and marriage. Of course, she did help revitalize his career for helping him get his Oscar-winning role in From Here to Eternity (sorry, Godfather fans).

Personal Life: (1922-1990) Born in Smithfield, North Carolina. Was the youngest of 7 children. Parents were poor tobacco farmers while her father would work at a sawmill and her mother would tend to a series of boarding houses. While young, her family lost their property and spent a time in Newport News, Virginia and Wilson, North Carolina. At 15, her father died of bronchitis. Attended Atlantic Christian College for a year in secretarial studies. Was discovered when her brother-in-law took and displayed her portrait in the front window at his Fifth Avenue photography studio and someone suggested he and her sister should send her to the New York MGM office. Moved to Hollywood in 1941 and made her first film that year. After divorcing Sinatra, she moved to Spain in 1957 and London in 1968 after getting an elective hysterectomy to prevent uterine cancer that claimed her mother’s life. Married 3 times with husbands consisting of Mickey Rooney, Artie Shaw, and Frank Sinatra. Due to a lifetime of smoking, she suffered from emphysema, as well as an unidentified auto-immune disorder. In 1986, she had 2 strokes that left her partially paralyzed and bedridden as well as forced to retire. Suffered a bad fall a week before she died and lay on the floor unable to move until her housekeeper returned. Died of pneumonia at 67.
Famous for: American actress who appeared mainly in bit parts until she drew attention with her performance in The Killers. Appeared in several high profile films from the 1950s to 1970s and was one of Hollywood’s foremost dark haired sex symbols. Notable roles are Kitty Collins from The Killers, Jean Ogilvie from The Hucksters, Venus from One Touch of Venus, Pauline Ostrovsky from The Great Sinner, Isabel Lorrison from East Side, West Side, Pandora Reynolds from Pandora and the Flying Dutchman, Lady Susan Ashlow from The Little Hut, Barbara Beaurevel from My Forbidden Past, Julie LaVerne from Show Boat, Cynthia Green from The Snows of Kilimanjaro, Guinevere from The Knights of the Round Table, Maria Vargas from The Barefoot Contessa, Victoria Jones from Bhowni Junction, Lady Brett Ashley from The Sun Also Rises, Maria Cayetana, Duchess of Alba from The Naked Maja, Moira Davidson from On the Beach, Eloise Y. Kelly from Mogambo, Soledad from The Angel Wore Red, Baroness Natalie Ivanoff from 55 Days in Peking, Eleanor Holbrook from Seven Days in May, Maxine Faulk from The Night of the Iguana, Empress Elizabeth from Mayerling, Lily Langtry from The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean, and Nicole Dressler from The Cassandra Crossing.
Nominated for: Gardner was nominated for Best Actress in 1954 for Mogambo.
Most Crushing Loss: Not being nominated for Best Actress in 1954 for The Barefoot Contessa. Seriously, Academy, she was awesome in this!
Reasons: Well, when Frank Sinatra dumped the mother of his children for her, she was seen as a femme fatale that led him being blasted by gossip columnists, the Hollywood establishment, fans, and even the Roman Catholic Church. Yet, her helping getting Sinatra the part in From Here to Eternity basically saved his career. Yet, their marriage was extremely tempestuous with his intense jealousy and mistrust, her two abortions, her substantial drinking habit, and his suicide attempts. Was also prone to being constantly dismissed by the critics which resulted in her being so underrated. Not to mention, she was more or less seen as a sex symbol (which doesn’t make the Hollywood establishment take her talents seriously).
Trivia: Spoke in a thick Southern accent during her first screen test in New York that the folks at MGM found her voice incomprehensible. Was only able to overcome her drawl when MGM gave her a contract and a speech coach in Hollywood with Louis B. Mayer saying, “She can’t sing, she can’t act, she can’t talk, She’s terrific!” Used considerable influence to get Frank Sinatra cast in his Oscar-winning role From Here to Eternity which revitalized his career. Was infatuated by Howard Hughes. Born on Christmas Eve. Was friends with Ernest Hemingway. Had an island in Fiji named after her called Ava Ava. Housekeeper and corgi were taken in by Gregory Peck after she died. Was known for swearing a lot.

9. Judy Garland

Judy Garland is best remembered for her role as Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz as well as singing, “Over the Rainbow.” Yet, despite her iconic status and success, her private life was hell with drug addiction, studio pressures, failed marriages, and financial difficulties later in life.

Personal Life: (1922-1969) Born Frances Ethel Gumm in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Parents were vaudevillians who settled there to run a movie theater featuring their acts. At 2, she made her first stage appearance with her 2 older sisters as “Baby Frances.” In 1926, family relocated to Lancaster, California amid rumors that her father made sexual advances toward male ushers. Enrolled in a dance school with her sisters run by Ethel Meglin in 1928 and appeared on the Vaudeville circuit as the Gumm Sisters who later changed their names to the Garland sisters in 1934. Yet, the group eventually broke up when her older sister eloped to Reno with a musician. Was signed to MGM in 1935, which was the same year her father died of meningitis. Made her first film in 1936. Struggled immensely with her personal life since she was a child. Was addicted to prescription pills from a young age as well became eventually suicidal on one occasion. Self-image was strongly influenced by film executives saying she was unattractive and constantly manipulated her physical appearance. Was plagued by financial instability, often owing hundreds of thousands of dollars in back taxes. Married 5 times and had 3 children including Liza Minnelli to second husband Vincent Minnelli. Also had a long battle with drugs and alcohol ultimately leading to her death 47 to a barbiturate overdose.
Famous for: American actress and singer renowned for her vocals and attained international stardom which continued throughout her career spanning more than 40 years. Respected for her versatility as an actress in dramatic and musical roles as well as a recording artist. Made 9 films with Mickey Rooney. Notable roles are Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz, Patsy Barton from Babes in Arms, Penny Morris from Babes on Broadway, Little Nellie Kelly, Jo Hayden from For Me and My Gal, Ginger Gray from Girl Crazy, Esther Smith from Meet Me in St. Louis, Alice Maybery from The Clock, Susan Bradley from The Harvey Girls, Marilyn Miller from Till the Clouds Roll By, Hannah Brown from Easter Parade, Veronica Fisher from In the Good Old Summertime, Vicki Lester / Esther Blodgett from A Star Is Born, Jane Falbury from Summer Stock, Irene Hoffman from Judgment at Nuremberg, and Jean Hansen from A Child Is Waiting.
Nominated for: Garland was nominated twice once for Best Actress and once for Best Supporting Actress in 1954 for A Star Is Born and 1961 for Judgment at Nuremberg.
Most Crushing Loss: Losing to Grace Kelly in the 1954 Best Actress Race. What makes it more crushing is that she just gave birth to her son Joey and would’ve broadcasted her acceptance speech through her hospital bed via camera crew. Not to mention, everyone expected her to win that year. Luckily she received a Juvenile Oscar in the 1930s.
Reasons: Garland was burned by the competition. Seriously, her loss to Grace Kelly was an upset and she lost by 6 votes total. The competition in the acting categories in the 1950s was brutal. But still, Garland should’ve won for A Star Is Born. Also, Warner Bros. basically edited the film heavily which might not have been as good as the restored edition (which had to make do with stills and the recorded dialogue).
Trivia: Romantically linked with Artie Shaw and Orson Welles. Youngest recipient of the Cecille B. DeMille Award. James Mason performed the eulogy for her funeral.

10. Lauren Bacall

Though she had a long career from the 1940s, Lauren Bacall is best remembered for her 12 year marriage to Humphrey Bogart and the 4 films they made together. Of course, we all ignore the fact that they had 2 children and she was 19 when they met (while he was 45 and previously married 3 times).

Personal Life: (1924-2014) Born Betty Joan Perske in the Bronx in New York City to Jewish parents. Father was a salesman and mother was a secretary. At 5, her parents divorced while her mother reverted back to the Romanian form of her last name Bacall (a name she’d later take since she never saw her father again and was very close to her mom who remarried a man named Goldberg). In 1941, she studied acting at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts while working at the St. James Theatre as an usher as well as a fashion model. Made her Broadway debut the next year at 17. Was recruited into films by Howard Hawks’ wife at the time, Nancy. Married twice husbands being Humphrey Bogart and Jason Robards Jr. and had 3 children. Died in her Dakota apartment from a massive stroke at 89.
Famous for: American actress known for her distinctive voice and sultry looks. Best known for appearing in film noir and romantic comedies and dramas. Made 4 movies with husband Humphrey Bogart. Notable roles are Marie “Slim” Browning from To Have and Have Not, Vivian Sternwood Rutledge from The Big Sleep, Irene Jansen from Dark Passage, Nora Temple from Key Largo, Amy North from Young Man with a Horn, Sonia Kovac from Bright Leaf, Schatze Page from How to Marry a Millionaire, Lucy Moore Hadley from Written on the Wind, Marilla Brown Hagen from Designing Woman, Sylvia Broderick from Sex and the Single Girl, Mrs. Harriet Belinda Hubbard from Murder on the Orient Express, Bond Rogers from The Shootist, Lady Westholme from Appointment with Death, Marcia Sindell from Misery, Hannah Morgan from The Mirror Has Two Faces, Witch of the Waste from Howl’s Moving Castle, and Annemarie Sterling from The Forger.
Nominated for: Bacall was nominated for Best Supporting Actress in 1997 for The Mirror Has Two Faces.
Most Crushing Loss: Not being nominated for Best Actress in 1946 for The Big Sleep. Luckily she earned an honorary Oscar in 2009. Of course, the fact most people just know her for marrying Humphrey Bogart is even more crushing.
Reasons: Face it, no matter how talented and successful she was in her own right, she was always remembered as Humphrey Bogart’s wife, even after she married Jason Robards Jr. and had a kid to him. Also, more or less seen as a sex symbol with her distinctive voice and sultry looks, especially the definitive Hawksian woman of 1940s films. Also had a tendency to turn down scripts she didn’t find interesting and had a reputation for being difficult.
Trivia: Had a daughter named after Leslie Howard (at Bogart’s insistence no doubt). Son Stephen was named after the nickname she gave Bogart’s character in To Have and Have Not, where she met him. Was a staunch opponent of McCarthyism and was on the Committee for the First Amendment though she and Bogart distanced themselves from The Hollywood Ten. Was a classmate with Kirk Douglas at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. Crowned Miss Greenwich Village in 1942. Modeled for a cover in Harper’s Bazaar. According to Howard Hawks, she had a naturally high pitched nasal voice but was trained to make it lower. Was spokeswoman for High Point (coffee) and Fancy Feast cat food.