94 years ago in Harlow History, October 19, 1932: Solemn and sad-eyed (but still beautiful) Jean Harlow makes a modest appearance in probate court following her husband Paul Bern’s death the previous month. Here, she was named executrix of his estate. At least the last photograph was taken by Frank Bentley (photo and accompanying credit courtesy TESSA).
Stepfather Marino Bello, of course, felt the need to accompany her (he doesn’t seem to be the only opportunistic presence: the pairs of eyes behind Harlow’s shoulders, are interesting, too).
Judge May Lahey read the will. Some period press dispatches quoted Harlow as making this mild wisecrack to her (one of her “Harlowisms”, if you will): “I’m just petrified. I always am when I come into court. I know I couldn’t do anything wrong, ever. I’d be too afraid of court.”
While tongues wagged in various circles about the plentiful bounty Harlow had nabbed with Bern’s estate, there was actually only $360.86. Festooned with the dead man’s debts, Harlow now found herself in a stalemate: she could only advance, personally and publicly, by taking it on the chin and paying them.
