Photoplay (Jan-Jun 1948)

Ann Steely was only a shadow of Cathy O’Donnell THERE is no more dangerous and misleading phrase than “discover a star.” It makes talent on the screen seem like a kind of black magic. Too many young hopefuls feel that all that is needed to send them on their way to stardom is a nod. But let me tell the readers of Photoplay what I believe: I think a producer may find or recognize the seed or germ of a great talent in any beginner. Having found it, the producer has to develop and train that talent. He has to give it the benefit of his insight, his experience, his judgment. He has to give the beginner protection from mistakes. And he has to have a great faith. It is equally ilnportant for that beginner, the newcomer, the talent-in-training to try. He has to work. He has to believe in himself. iX A ^ Danny Kaye was the original contradiction boy In the old days in Hollywood, it was a common boast that a good producer could take a girl from a five and dime store, turn the star-making batteries of studio experts on her and in no time she would be a star with her name in lights. That was nonsense then, and it is more completely nonsense now. The pattern is still — what have you to begin with? What is done for you? What do you do for yourself? I think with much pride — and much affection — of the people I helped to stardom: Ronald Colman, Vilma Banky in the days of silent pictures — and Gary Cooper, Eddie Cantor, Paulette Goddard, David Niven, Betty Grable, Lucille Ball, Teresa Wright, Danny Kaye, Dana Andrews, Virginia Mayo and Cathy O’Donnell. I’ve often wondered how ( Continued on page 851