Hollywood’s Enduring Casting Couch: A Shocking Timeline of Scandals

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Hollywood’s history with sexual harassment is shockingly persistent, highlighted by numerous high-profile cases from Roscoe Arbuckle to Harvey Weinstein. Colossal scandals from the past—like Joan Collins losing a role over sexual propositions—echo through time, revealing that the casting couch is still very much a reality. Women like Shirley Temple and Judy Garland faced their share of misconduct, leading us to question whether some Hollywood behaviours will ever change.

In Hollywood, the infamous casting couch just refuses to retire. Recent allegations against Harvey Weinstein prove that the industry’s sordid history with sexual harassment is more than just a story from yesteryears—it’s still very much alive.

The first major scandal erupted in 1921 when Roscoe “Fatty” Arbuckle attended a wild bash that ended with actress Virginia Rappe in agony and later dead. Although Arbuckle faced murder charges, those were downgraded, and he walked free after three trials. Talk about a Hollywood plot twist!

Errol Flynn had his own infamous escapade with young Beverly Aadland, who started their affair at just 15. She recalled being terrified, crying, and being whisked away into a different room after Flynn tore her dress. It sounds more like a tragic rom-com than a romance!

Joan Collins shared how she lost the role of Cleopatra because she refused to comply with the studio head’s unwelcome suggestion to “be nice.” She fled his office in tears instead of succumbing to his charming euphemism. Elizabeth Taylor snatched the role while Collins got a round of applause for her integrity.

Little Shirley Temple wasn’t exempt, either—during a 1940 meeting, an MGM producer apparently revealed himself and was shocked when she laughed nervously. Lucky for her, she had already signed a contract, but this was clearly not a fairytale meeting!

Marilyn Monroe had her fair share of encounters with men she called “vicious and crooked”; she described Hollywood as “an overcrowded brothel” in her memoir. The more things change, the more they stay the same!

Judy Garland faced unwanted attention from studio moguls like Louis B. Mayer, who loved to ‘compliment’ her singing while inappropriately groping her. The odd mix of admiration and harassment was truly dizzying!

Filmmaker Roman Polanski made headlines when he plead guilty to unlawful sex with a 13-year-old in 1977, yet he fled and still evades justice. Just when you think we’ve seen it all, someone like Polanski reappears like a bad sequel.

Meanwhile, Bill Cosby’s legacy as “America’s Dad” is now marred by allegations of drugging and abusing women, leading to a retrial. With dozens more claims against him, it seems he’s lost the family-friendly guise faster than you can say “sweater vest.”

Charlize Theron recounts a close call at an audition that felt more like a bad date gone wrong. The Saturday night meeting at a director’s house had all the signs of an awkward encounter, and she swiftly declared, “Not going to happen! Got the wrong girl, buddy!” Cue the exit music!

On the other hand, Casey Affleck faced accusations from two women on set who claimed he acted inappropriately and was settled out of court. But, in true Hollywood fashion, a scandal didn’t stop him from snagging an Oscar soon after.

Hollywood has a long history marred by sexual harassment accusations, often masked under euphemisms and power dynamics. From the early days of silent films to recent events, numerous celebrities have been embroiled in scandals that show a disturbing trend of exploitation, particularly against young and vulnerable women. This ongoing issue highlights the darker side of the glitzy film industry, where power and fame can often breed predatory behaviour.

In summary, Hollywood’s casting couch culture hasn’t just persisted; it has taken on new shapes and forms, with many stars recounting experiences that reveal a troubling pattern. From flamboyant flings to sexual misconduct, the entertainment industry continues to grapple with its past and present. Despite progress, many victims are still waiting for justice, reminding us that while the curtains may lift on performances, the lights sometimes dim on accountability.

Original Source: www.detroitnews.com

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