Harry Ransom CenterThe University of Texas at Austin

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Lana Turner

Gone With The Wind
The Search For Scarlett
Lana Turner

Lana Turner was just 18 years old at the time of her screentest for the role of Scarlett. Legend has it she was playing hooky from school and was discovered at the counter of Schwab's Drugstore. She started her film career with a bit part in Selznick's A Star is Born and after playing a wide variety of roles found her niche in the 1940's in melodramas such as The Postman Always Rings Twice, Peyton Place and Imitation of Life.



SELZNICK INTERNATIONAL PICTURES, INC.

Inter-Office Communication

TO: Mr. Selznick

DATE: Sept. 8, 1938

FROM: Mr. Arnow

SUBJECT:

Had a discussion with Datig at Metro this morning and ran tests of their
younger players. There was no one of interest to us except a boy by the
name of Jack Hubbard and this test did not seem to do him justice. I
therefore secured a test of Hubbard and Mimi Lilligren from R.K.O. on
which test Metro signed them after R.K.O. failed to contract them.
M.G.M. have no test of Lilligren.

The only other likely looking youngster was Lana Turner who, although
she screens very well, is yet too inexperienced to assay any of the
principal roles in GONE WITH THE WIND. However, she might be suitable
for one of the smaller parts.

I have contacted the other major companies and have an appointment to-
morrow at Paramount with Bagnall and Bottsford and Warner Brothers is
sending over a new girl they have just signed. By Monday or Tuesday you
will have a detailed report of the young stock players in every studio.

MA
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