Jean Harlow photographed strolling outside the recently constructed Star Suites on the MGM lot during the production of Suzy, spring 1936. (Thread) I’ve posted these “candid” portraits before, but revisiting one of my favorite books gave me a new appreciation for them—realized this lovely picture of soon-to-be fellow platinum gal Lana Turner was taken in … Continue reading MGM’s “Star Suites”
From My Collection: Harlow by Hurrell (April 1937)
From my collection: an original press photo of Jean Harlow, from a portrait taken by George Hurrell in his Hollywood studio for Saratoga publicity, April 1937. One of the last professional portrait sittings with her before she crossed through the mortal plane. Snipe on verso from day of publication, the day after Harlow’s funeral, June … Continue reading From My Collection: Harlow by Hurrell (April 1937)
From My Collection: Harlow in Franklin Canyon (December 1934)
From my collection: A rare behind-the-scenes candid of (L to R) cinematographer George Folsey, director Victor Fleming, Rosalind Russell, and Jean Harlow filming Reckless (1935) on location in Franklin Canyon, December 1934. There are angles of this moment, but this one seems the most elusive. Close-up of Harlow and Russell. Original MGM studio stamp on … Continue reading From My Collection: Harlow in Franklin Canyon (December 1934)
Harlow History with Eleanor Roosevelt
Eleanor Roosevelt and Jean Harlow celebrating FDR’s fifty-fifth birthday inside the Wardman Park Hotel eighty-six years ago tonight, January 30, 1937. This was just one leg of the festivities, as previously mentioned; FDR’s fourth annual birthday ball was held in numerous hotels throughout D.C. and was being celebrated nationwide. Harlow pairs a white ermine wrap … Continue reading Harlow History with Eleanor Roosevelt
Harlow and Handwriting
Hopping on the “National Handwriting Day” bandwagon as it pertains to the Two Jeans, who are undoubtedly an interesting example of movie star autographs. (I’m glossing over secretarial autographs in this post, but those too exist and are a slightly rarer variant of extant Harlow autographs.) For those unaware, Harlow’s mother handled the bulk of … Continue reading Harlow and Handwriting
From My Collection: Harlow Poolside at Beverly Glen (March 1934)
This poolside March 1934 William Grimes session, and this particular portrait, will probably look familiar to longtime followers as it was my profile picture for quite some time. This, in general, is also one of my favorite Harlow publicity sessions. Grimes was a powerhouse. This March 1934 portrait session, in which Jean modeled a handful … Continue reading From My Collection: Harlow Poolside at Beverly Glen (March 1934)
From My Collection: Harlow on the Reckless Set (Late 1934)
Here’s a pair of reproduction stills, one a closeup, from Reckless (1935) that I love for multiple reasons. Number one: Harlow’s stature is incredibly obvious here and quite endearing. I mean, she’s in heels! Number two: I love the more obscure figures that populated Hollywood, and this is a great look at the extra girls. … Continue reading From My Collection: Harlow on the Reckless Set (Late 1934)
Harlow and Haines
A priceless candid of Jean out on the town at the Troc I can’t help but sharing—even if the quality is a little low. (This is a Lantern scan, and I tweaked the brightness/contrast on this a little bit for ease of viewing). Photo by none other than candid photographer extraordinaire Hyman Fink, whose other … Continue reading Harlow and Haines
Harlow in Hessercolor
Jean Harlow photographed using a resplendent early color process by Edwin Bower Hesser, aptly named “Hessercolor”, 1931: Hessercolor, another tricolor process, first got popular this same year (1931). It was in decline by the time Kodachrome took over after its introduction in 1935. The artsy “glazed” quality you see here was desirable for a little … Continue reading Harlow in Hessercolor
Harlow and Chuck McGrew
Thought about “Chuck” McGrew and his role in young Harlow’s life after noticing an upcoming date: September 21. It seems I have a disease called “remembering Jean Harlow milestones on their anniversaries”, so thought I’d put my thoughts on the blog while they’re relevant. They’re too wordy for social media and too brief for much … Continue reading Harlow and Chuck McGrew
Harlow Heaven 