How Did Katharine Hepburn Describe Her Scandalous Role In THIS 1935 Rom-Com That ‘Fueled Rumors’ About Her Sexuality? Find Out

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As an ardent fan, I find myself captivated by the fascinating life of Katharine Hepburn, a Hollywood icon who dared to defy conventions and carve her own path. Her portrayal of Sylvester Scarlett in Sylvia Scarlett was more than just a cross-dressing role; it was a bold statement against the norms of the time, a testament to her courage and audacity.

Katharine Hepburn played cross-dressed and drag characters long before they became popular. She starred in the 1935 romantic comedy Sylvia Scarlett, in which she was seen as a young woman who pretends to be a boy named Sylvester as part of a con with Cary Grant. Unfortunately, the film was a significant disappointment and did not enhance her career. 

The book titled “Moxie: The Remarkable Women of Classic Hollywood,” authored by Ira M. Resnick and Raissa Bretaña, features sections devoted to iconic figures such as Hepburn, Marlene Dietrich, Bette Davis, and Lauren Bacall. Controversially, a movie it discusses had a flop at the box office but sparked speculation regarding its leading actress’ sexuality. This film defied the conventional standards of femininity that female characters were expected to uphold.

The movie featured a controversial kiss between Hepburn and her female co-star, Dennie Moore. Hepburn, who passed away in 2003, was quoted in a book as calling it a “real disaster.” This unconventional portrayal of gender roles sparked rumors about Hepburn’s sexuality. These rumors gained traction following her divorce from her husband [Ludlow Ogden Smith] in 1934 and subsequent living arrangement with a woman companion, as discussed in the book.

According to the account, the actress openly disliked the glamour and fame associated with celebrity culture and refused to perpetuate the image of a movie star. Consequently, she rarely donned fancy attire, declined autograph requests, and avoided giving interviews. The book further reveals that in a 1934 interview with Motion Picture Magazine, she stated, “I’m not chasing Hollywood or publicity; I never will be. Why should I have to alter my true self?

Katharine Hepburn was known for being in a long-term partnership with Spencer Tracy, whom she worked alongside nine times. However, there are whispers from Hollywood that their relationship was more of a close friendship, intended to hide the fact that both stars preferred relationships outside traditional heterosexual norms. Despite her personal challenges, Hepburn built a lasting legacy through her unwavering commitment to her career, as noted in the book.

Moxie: The Daring Women of Classic Hollywood will be published by Abbeville Press on November 5. 

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2024-11-03 20:43