The Battle for Scarlett O'Hara: Vivien Leigh’s Triumph Over Rivals
The role of Scarlett O'Hara in the iconic 1939 film GT;Gone with the Wind GT; was one of the most sought-after parts in Hollywood history. The screen battles for this role were fierce, with many talented actresses vying for the part, but it was ultimately Vivien Leigh who emerged victorious, beating out fierce competitors like Bette Davis, Joan Crawford, and Paulette Goddard.
A Catalogue of Contenders
Primarily, the role was offered to Paulette Goddard, who was the favorite at one point. However, a series of events led to Goddard’s disqualification. Goddard was under contract with Charlie Chaplin, making any possibility of changing her contract to appear in the film nearly impossible. Therefore, the search for Scarlett O'Hara continued.
Vivien Leigh’s Winning Performance
As the search deepened, the roles of Scarlett O'Hara were considered by some of the most renowned actresses of the time, including Bette Davis, Joan Crawford, Tallulah Bankhead, and Katharine Hepburn. Among them, Vivien Leigh stood out, impressing the producers, especially David O. Selznick, who was behind the production of the film. It was during the screen test phase that Vivien Leigh made her mark.
Delving Deeper into the Acting Contenders
The process to find the perfect actress was extensive, with over 1,400 actresses auditioning for the role, and 90 undergoing screen tests. Notable names like Katherine Hepburn, Bette Davis, Joan Crawford, Susan Hayward, Lana Turner, and Lucille Ball were among those who auditioned. However, Hepburn defied the producers' request to screen test, showing her reluctance and ensuring her rejection from the role.
The last round of auditions was a critical juncture, with the final four actresses—Paulette Goddard, Jean Arthur, Joan Bennett, and Vivien Leigh—competing for the coveted role. Among them, it was Vivien Leigh who stood tall, ultimately securing her place as Scarlett O'Hara.
The Physical and Emotional Fit
Both physically and emotionally, Vivien Leigh was the ideal fit for Scarlett O'Hara. Her portrayal complemented the screenplay and captured the essence of the character, leading to a masterpiece that is still celebrated today. This success paved the way for Vivien Leigh to become the second-highest paid actress at the time and an international sensation.
Industry Impact and Legacy
The battle for Scarlett O'Hara highlighted the competitive yet collaborative nature of the film industry. It also underscored the importance of physical appearance, casting choices, and the personal charisma of the actors. For Vivien Leigh, the victory was not just a professional milestone but a significant moment that shaped her career and solidified her place in cinematic history.
In conclusion, Vivian Leigh’s triumph in landing the role of Scarlett O'Hara in GT;Gone with the Wind GT; was a testament to her talent, determination, and the perfect fit both physically and emotionally with the character. This unforgettable performance stands as a milestone in the annals of cinema history, forever etching her name alongside the greats of the silver screen.