Tag Archives: RKO

Classic Hollywood #180 – Fay Wray 1933

1 Reply

Fay Wray, Star Of King Kong – 1933

This 1933 promotional still of Fay Wray (b. 1907) from King Kong was taken by RKO Pictures studio photographer Ernest Bachrach.

The Alberta, Canada native began her career in the movies during summer vacations while attending Hollywood High School. Fay Wray was already appearing in bit parts in films at the age of 16. Talent was abundant in Wray’s family. Her grandfather, Daniel Jones was a prominent author. Older sisters Willow and Vaida were both professional singers, but neither would pursue film careers. Fay Wray was signed to the stock company of Hal Roach Comedies in 1924.

Wray’s big break came Continue reading →

Classic Hollywood #152 – Barbara Stanwyck Boxing

Leave a reply

Barbara Stanwyck, Boxer, In Breakfast For Two – 1937

Barbara Stanwyck knocks some good sense into Herbert Marshall, her playboy sweetheart, in their new RKO Radio picture, “Breakfast For Two.” Under the tutelage of ex-ring champ Tommy Herman, she developed a right upper-cut guaranteed to make any erring lover see the light…and a few stars thrown in! photo: RKO

Every month you can count on several films on TCM starring Barbara Stanwyck. Even if the film isn’t any good, Stanwyck usually is.

When I first saw this photograph of Stanwyck in boxing gloves all I could think of was Frank Fay, Stanwyck’s first husband. Stanwyck could have used the boxing gloves in real life as Fay would frequently beat Stanwyck, sometimes in an alcoholic rage, other times just to show her who was boss. Continue reading →