The Golden Age of Hollywood: A Showcase of the Highest-Paid Actresses
During the Golden Era of Hollywood, the film industry thrived with a plethora of stars who not only captivated audiences but also commanded significant portions of the box office. This era, spanning roughly from the 1920s to the 1960s, witnessed the emergence of some of the most influential actresses in cinematic history. This article explores the women who earned the highest salaries, showcasing the economic power and influence they wielded in the entertainment industry.
The Prestige and Pay of Top Actresses
While the term "highest paid" can vary depending on the specific year and source, we have gathered some prominent actresses who commanded significant salaries during the Golden Era of Hollywood. From Constance Bennett to Elizabeth Taylor, these actresses left an indelible mark on the film industry with their star power and negotiating skills.
Constance Bennett (1931-1933)
In the early years of the Golden Age, Constance Bennett stood out as one of the most highly paid actresses. Between 1931 and 1933, she earned a substantial sum of $300,000 for starring in two films at Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (M-G-M) and a weekly salary of $30,000 for a picture at Warner Bros. titled Bought!.
“I am a lot more sartorial than thespian. They come to see me and go out humming the costumes.”
Carole Lombard (1937)
Carole Lombard was a name synonymous with glamour and talent in the 1930s. In 1937, she achieved a career-high earnings of $460,000 by freelancing with different studios. This was a remarkable feat, considering she was not only a star but also exceeded her former boyfriend, the legendary Clark Gable, who was a major draw for audiences. Lombard's earnings were consistent, with at least $400,000 every year leading up to her untimely death in February 1942.
“A woman has just as much right in this world as a man and can get along in it just as well if she puts her mind to it.”
Barbara Stanwyck (1944)
One of the most influential actresses in the Golden Age, Barbara Stanwyck, earned a significant salary in 1944. That year, she starred in the classic film noir Double Indemnity and became the highest-paid woman in Tinsel Town, commanding a salary of $400,000.
“I had my job, my work. People talk about success; [film stars] are all very privileged people. The Good Lord gave us that much more to walk ahead of somebody and He showed us how to do it and we did it. But we were survivors. We didn't do it on our own. We had to take the rewards, but it was a team effort.”
Elizabeth Taylor (1963)
The first actress to be guaranteed a million dollars for her role, Elizabeth Taylor, played a pivotal role in the late Golden Era of Hollywood. The 1963 role of Cleopatra in Cleopatra secured her a $1 million salary, which was a groundbreaking achievement in the entertainment industry.
“If someone's dumb enough to offer me a million dollars to make a picture, I'm certainly not dumb enough to turn it down. Success is a great deodorant. It takes away all your past smells.”
Elizabeth Taylor's negotiation skills and marketability played a crucial role in her success. As she stated, she had been handed everything, from looks to fame, but she had to fight through disasters to maintain her status.
Conclusion
The Golden Era of Hollywood was a period marked by the rise of powerful and influential actresses who not only captivated audiences but also commanded significant financial success. From Constance Bennett's early achievements to Elizabeth Taylor's unprecedented million-dollar salary, these actresses left an indelible mark on the history of cinema.