Stars Over Hollywood 42-06-27 057 Guest - Jane Wyman

Summary

Podcast Summary: Stars Over Hollywood 42-06-27 057 Guest - Jane Wyman

Podcast Information

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Description: Delving into the classic radio shows from the Golden Age of Radio, this podcast transports listeners back to an era before television, where families gathered around the radio to enjoy timeless shows like The Shadow, Abbott & Costello, Amos & Andy, Dragnet, and many more.
• Episode: Stars Over Hollywood 42-06-27 057 Guest - Jane Wyman
• Release Date: May 14, 2025

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Episode Overview

In this episode of Stars Over Hollywood, listeners are introduced to the behind-the-scenes dynamics of Hollywood's golden era through a compelling narrative featuring prominent characters such as Carl Von Dorn, Yvonne Tremaine, Robin Radcliffe, and Jimmy Sullivan. The story revolves around casting decisions, professional rivalries, and personal ambitions that shape the careers of those involved in the film industry.

Key Characters

• Carl Von Dorn: A Hollywood producer seeking the perfect leading lady for his new picture.
• Yvonne Tremaine: A well-known actress recommended for the lead role.
• Robin Radcliffe (Gerd): A rival actress with a history intertwined with Yvonne.
• Jimmy Sullivan: A columnist whose advice influences casting decisions.

Detailed Summary

1. The Casting Conundrum

The episode opens with Carl Von Dorn experiencing a positive turn in his affairs as he secures a small part for Robin. However, Carl faces the challenge of selecting a leading lady for his upcoming film. Seeking counsel, he turns to columnist Jimmy Sullivan, who suggests Yvonne Tremaine for the role.

Notable Quote:

Narrator [00:01]: "Robin's affairs have taken on a more cheery aspect now that Carl Von Dorn has definitely promised her a small part."

2. Yvonne Tremaine's Introduction

Yvonne Tremaine arrives at Carl's office, eager to discuss the potential role. Their initial interaction showcases Yvonne's charm and professionalism, yet Carl senses a deeper dynamic at play.

Notable Quotes:

Carl Von Dorn [00:24]: "Oh, Ms. Tremaine, I believe."

Yvonne Tremaine [02:47]: "Oh, it is a compliment then. You know, it's going to be a pleasure working with you, my dear Mr. Van Dorn."

3. Business vs. Personal Interests

Yvonne attempts to steer the conversation away from business, hinting at personal interests. Carl remains focused on the professional aspects, highlighting the demands of film production.

Notable Quotes:

Yvonne Tremaine [02:57]: "No, no, I don't discuss salary. You'll have to see my agent."

Carl Von Dorn [03:35]: "Oh, yeah, yeah. But I merely wanted to assure myself that you are just the character I see in the park."

4. Robin Radcliffe's Intervention

As Yvonne continues her persuasive tactics, Robin Radcliffe enters the scene, confronting Carl about Yvonne's true nature. Robin reveals her longstanding acquaintance with Yvonne, warning Carl about her temperamental behavior.

Notable Quotes:

Robin Radcliffe [06:27]: "Gertie hasn't got just a little temperament. She's full of it. Old headache Tremaine. And she's no bad little girl. She's a wicked woman, that dame."

Carl Von Dorn [07:26]: "You mustn't lose sight of the fact, Robin, that she is also an actress. A very excellent actress."

5. The Role of Jimmy Sullivan

The conversation shifts to Jimmy Sullivan, who had recommended Yvonne to Carl. Robin expresses her frustration with Sullivan's influence and the unintended consequences of his advice, which led to Yvonne securing the lead role.

Notable Quotes:

Robin Radcliffe [09:03]: "You sent her up to see him."

Jimmy Sullivan [09:08]: "Well, Mr. Sullivan recommends her."

6. Tensions Rise

Robin confronts Jimmy, accusing him of sabotaging her chances by promoting Yvonne. Jimmy defends his actions, highlighting Yvonne's talent despite her difficult personality. The tension culminates in Robin demanding that Jimmy focus solely on his column, leaving their professional relationship strained.

Notable Quotes:

Robin Radcliffe [10:05]: "I'm not. I've been around here long enough to know this business. And I'm not asking Carl for a thing."

Jimmy Sullivan [10:12]: "You think I want the part, don't you? ... I'm not."

7. Cliffhanger Conclusion

The episode concludes with unresolved tensions and impending conflicts, leaving listeners eager to discover how Carl will navigate his professional dilemmas and mend the strained relationships between the characters.

Notable Quote:

Narrator [10:44]: "Once again, Jimmy Sullivan seems to have complicated the affairs of Robin. How will they work it out? And how will Carl Von Dorn solve his problem? Listen to the next chapter."

Insights and Themes

• Professional Rivalries: The episode highlights the competitive nature of Hollywood, where personal relationships can significantly impact career trajectories.
• Influence of Media: Jimmy Sullivan's role as a columnist underscores the power of media in shaping public perception and influencing industry decisions.
• Character Complexity: Yvonne Tremaine is portrayed as a multifaceted character—talented yet temperamental—reflecting the complexities of real-life Hollywood personas.
• Power Dynamics: The interactions between Carl, Yvonne, Robin, and Jimmy illustrate the intricate power dynamics and negotiations inherent in the film industry.

Conclusion

Stars Over Hollywood offers a captivating glimpse into the golden age of film production, emphasizing the intricate interplay between talent, ambition, and personal relationships. Through well-crafted dialogue and character development, the episode provides an engaging narrative that resonates with listeners familiar and unfamiliar with the era.

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End of Summary

Transcript

[Narrator]

Robin's affairs have taken on a more cheery aspect now that Carl Von Dorn has definitely promised her a small part.

[Carl Von Dorn]

In his new picture.

[Narrator]

But as yet, Carl has not selected his leading lady. In a conversation with Jimmy Sullivan, he asked the columnist for his advice. Jimmy responded by sending Yvonne Tremaine, well known actress, to interview Carl. Ms. Tremaine is just entering Carl's office.

[Carl Von Dorn]

Oh, Ms. Tremaine, I believe.

[Yvonne Tremaine]

And your. Mr. Van Doorn. I'm so glad to meet you.

[Carl Von Dorn]

It is a pleasure, let me assure you. Will you be seated?

[Yvonne Tremaine]

Have you a cigarette? I've been simply perishing for one.

[Carl Von Dorn]

Oh, yeah, yeah, of course. I'm so sorry.

[Yvonne Tremaine]

Yes, thank you. And now a light.

[Carl Von Dorn]

Oh, yeah, yeah. Here.

[Yvonne Tremaine]

Thanks.

[Carl Von Dorn]

Now we get down to business, eh?

[Yvonne Tremaine]

Business? So soon, Mr. Van Dorn? Oh, I've hardly become accustomed to this simply adorable office. Nor do you.

[Carl Von Dorn]

I'm just a very plain man, quite easily impressed, but equally astonished with this crazy business.

[Yvonne Tremaine]

Oh, do you think so? Why, Hollywood's actually drab, my dear. Provincial quite aptly describes the place.

[Carl Von Dorn]

Provincial? Yeah, yeah. But sophisticated too. A paradox, eh? One never can predict what her naive children might do. The usual. It never happens in Hollywood.

[Yvonne Tremaine]

Oh, Mr. Van Dorn, you know, you're quite naive yourself. The usual always happens in Hollywood. Why, we practically keep the same hours as the tradesmen. The parties are as stodgy and as stuffy as any in Kansas.

[Carl Von Dorn]

They are, but the people of Kansas make sense. There's a reason for everything they do. There's no reason for Hollywood. It is unpredictable.

[Yvonne Tremaine]

You're quite charming. I do believe I'm going to really enjoy working for you.

[Carl Von Dorn]

Yeah, yeah. The picture, as you may know, is a story of Hollywood. Of the girl who fought her way up through everything.

[Yvonne Tremaine]

Yes, I. I do believe I heard the idea of the story. Nicky Benet is the author. Yeah, Dear little Nicky. So, such a dear boy. Ghastly, wasn't it, the way he left Hollywood.

[Carl Von Dorn]

Yeah. The part I want you to take is of course the lead. Ms. Tremayne.

[Yvonne Tremaine]

Of course, Mr. Van Dorn.

[Carl Von Dorn]

She is the girl in the script. She's much like you.

[Yvonne Tremaine]

Aha, A compliment.

[Carl Von Dorn]

I would not say so. But then you will be able to judge. She is very hard, hater of all men, independent.

[Yvonne Tremaine]

Oh, it's not a compliment, but warm.

[Carl Von Dorn]

Of heart, impulsive, generous and. And beautiful.

[Yvonne Tremaine]

Oh, it is a compliment then. You know, it's going to be a pleasure working with you, my dear Mr. Van Dorn.

[Carl Von Dorn]

Thank you, thank you. Now, about the matter of salary.

[Yvonne Tremaine]

No, no, I I don't discuss salary. You'll have to see my agent. He handles those matters for me. It's so much bother to worry about contracts, signing things and clauses and all that. Let's just forget the whole matter. Let's just talk.

[Carl Von Dorn]

I appreciate your feelings, but you see, I have so much work. There are so many details to be completed yet before we start shooting.

[Yvonne Tremaine]

Oh, now, Carl, must you? Rarely.

[Carl Von Dorn]

Well, I've scheduled interviews the rest of the day.

[Yvonne Tremaine]

But, my dear, I've hardly got to know you. I came in and we immediately started talking business. I am Yvonne Tremaine. That's enough, isn't it?

[Carl Von Dorn]

Oh, yeah, yeah. But I merely wanted to assure myself that you are just the character I see in the park.

[Yvonne Tremaine]

Of course I am, darling. You didn't doubt it, did you? Now, now, come, come. Put those old papers away and talk to little Yvonne.

[Carl Von Dorn]

Really, my dear Ms. Tremaine, I have matters here of the utmost urgent nature. They need my immediate attention. I would enjoy, perhaps some other time, an exchange of ideas, conversation. But right now. I must beg your pardon.

[Yvonne Tremaine]

Oh, Carl, darling, really. You know you'd like me if you got to know me. Business, it's so tiring. Couldn't we talk about it some other time?

[Carl Von Dorn]

We will have to. There's yet the costume fittings, reading, rehearsal. I will have to get the script to you tonight.

[Yvonne Tremaine]

Oh, how perfectly grand. We can go over the part together. You can explain just what you want.

[Carl Von Dorn]

Yeah, yeah. I will see her in a moment.

[Yvonne Tremaine]

Then you will come up to my house tonight? Shall I accept you for dinner, darling?

[Carl Von Dorn]

Well, thank you, Mr. Romaine, but I will have to refuse the invitation. Perhaps some other time.

[Receptionist]

Hello, Carl.

[Robin Radcliffe]

Gerd. I haven't seen you in months. Have you been.

[Yvonne Tremaine]

I beg your pardon. Are you addressing me?

[Robin Radcliffe]

Why, sure. Now, don't tell me you don't remember Robin Radcliffe.

[Yvonne Tremaine]

I don't. I'm sure I can't imagine where we've met.

[Robin Radcliffe]

Think a little bit, honey. It'll come back to you.

[Yvonne Tremaine]

You must have me confused with someone else. I'm sorry. It's a date, then. Carl, darling, anytime for dinner will do. I'll just be expecting you.

[Carl Von Dorn]

Yeah, but, Mr. Maine, I do not believe that I could possibly.

[Robin Radcliffe]

Now, listen, Carl. You're not going to hire that dame for your lead. What do you think I came busting in here for if it wasn't just to stall off a crazy thing like that?

[Carl Von Dorn]

Well, I've been running. What a confusing young lady. She's like I've never met before. Oh, what a Morning. Wait until I gather my thoughts.

[Robin Radcliffe]

The old Tremaine influence. I can see that. Oh, Carl, I knew that dame when plenty when. And she hasn't changed a bit. Except her name.

[Carl Von Dorn]

Only in Hollywood would you find such a person. I started out with the usual interview and now I have a dinner engagement.

[Robin Radcliffe]

Oh, that's Tremaine. I've never seen her, miss.

[Carl Von Dorn]

Well, she is a superb actress. She was acting when she came in and acting when she left. Yeah, she is exactly what I want for the lead.

[Robin Radcliffe]

And I suppose you hired her, huh?

[Carl Von Dorn]

Yeah, I guess I have.

[Robin Radcliffe]

Well, let me extend my sympathies then. I'm sorry I didn't get you in here soon enough. To ward you off. I sat out there in the reception room until I finally figured out who was in here.

[Carl Von Dorn]

Oh, but Robin, a little temperament. I've directed temperamental actresses before. They're just bad little girls.

[Robin Radcliffe]

Gertie hasn't got just a little temperament. She's full of it. Old headache Tremaine. And she's no bad little girl. She's a wicked woman, that dame.

[Carl Von Dorn]

Robin, you exaggerate. She's an amusing young lady, quick to seize the situation and turn it to her own advantage.

[Yvonne Tremaine]

Quick?

[Robin Radcliffe]

Why, she makes a greyhound look as though it was dying on its feet.

[Carl Von Dorn]

I was ready for the usual innocuous interview and before I knew it, she had the part.

[Robin Radcliffe]

Now, isn't that a laugh? Oh, Carl, you're acting like a kid.

[Carl Von Dorn]

Is it not a good joke, Robin? A joke on Carl Von Dorn?

[Robin Radcliffe]

Yeah, I'm Slade. Tremaine's been pulling that kind of stuff for years. Did you see her give me the business?

[Carl Von Dorn]

The business?

[Robin Radcliffe]

Sure. Didn't you see her upstage me? And after all those years in the chorus, little wide eyed Gertie Myers has come a long way since those days.

[Carl Von Dorn]

Gertie Myers?

[Robin Radcliffe]

Sure. Yvonne Tremaine. Somewhere between the chorus and Hollywood, she picked up the name, the accent and a Russian wolfhound.

[Carl Von Dorn]

Oh, this dizzy business.

[Robin Radcliffe]

I've seen the day when all that dame had was a pair of silk stockings and ambition.

[Carl Von Dorn]

You mustn't lose sight of the fact, Robin, that she is also an actress. A very excellent actress.

[Robin Radcliffe]

Of course she is, Carl. But surely there are other girls around who'd be a little easier to work with. I don't see how you happen to even consider her in the first place.

[Carl Von Dorn]

Very simple. Mr. Sullivan recommended her.

[Robin Radcliffe]

Sullivan?

[Carl Von Dorn]

Yeah. Of course. He did not interfere. I. I asked him for his advice.

[Robin Radcliffe]

Oh, I think I'll have to go and see Mr. Sullivan, I've got a lot of advice. I.

[Receptionist]

Hollywood Argus. I'll connect you with the circulation department. Hollywood Argus. Sorry, Mr. Flint's gone for the afternoon. Hollywood Argus. I'll connect you with the circulation department. May I help you, miss?

[Robin Radcliffe]

Yes, I'd like to see Mr. Sullivan.

[Receptionist]

I'll see if he's in your name, please.

[Robin Radcliffe]

Tell him Ms. Radcliffe would like to see him.

[Receptionist]

Ms. Radcliffe to see Mr. Sullivan. Mr. Sullivan didn't answer. I'll have to. Oh, here he comes.

[Jimmy Sullivan]

Oh, lovely. Well, the magic of your name brought me bounding out of my office like an antelope. Ah, here. Right through this little gate here.

[Robin Radcliffe]

Thank you.

[Carl Von Dorn]

Huh.

[Jimmy Sullivan]

Now, right down this little aisle here. That's right. Hey, you're looking practically ravishing today. Lovely. These guys around here are burning with jealousy.

[Robin Radcliffe]

This your office?

[Jimmy Sullivan]

Yes. Sullivan's torture chamber. Enter. Well, all this litter and stuff is just the natural course of events. So just push that stuff off on the floor. Well, it's a red letter day for the August.

[Robin Radcliffe]

Sullivan.

[Jimmy Sullivan]

Never in the day, huh? Now, what have I done?

[Robin Radcliffe]

Plenty.

[Jimmy Sullivan]

Oh, wait a minute. Don't tell me. I'll check back over my sins in the past. All right. When did it happen?

[Robin Radcliffe]

You don't have to guess.

[Jimmy Sullivan]

Look at my face. It's as open as a clock. I haven't the least idea of the crime. What is it?

[Robin Radcliffe]

Conspiracy. What's the idea of sicing that Tremaine dame on Carl Von Dorn?

[Jimmy Sullivan]

I didn't sic her on him.

[Robin Radcliffe]

You sent her up to see him.

[Jimmy Sullivan]

Well, I warned him for three hours after I happened to just mention her name.

[Robin Radcliffe]

Well, it didn't take.

[Jimmy Sullivan]

She set for the lead.

[Robin Radcliffe]

What do you think?

[Jimmy Sullivan]

Well, that's a scoop for little Jane.

[Robin Radcliffe]

You would think of that. You've got printer's ink in your veins.

[Jimmy Sullivan]

And love in my heart. Oh, Von Dorn could have done worse.

[Robin Radcliffe]

I don't know where he's got you to thank for it.

[Jimmy Sullivan]

Remain. All right. Lovely just wants her way once in a while. Von Dorn will get along with her, all right.

[Robin Radcliffe]

I seem to be in the minority on that. I know that gal from long, long ago, and neither you or Carl do. She's tnt.

[Jimmy Sullivan]

Look, Robin, you're getting yourself all worked up. I know. Let's go out and get a hamburger.

[Robin Radcliffe]

Wait a minute. I haven't explained the purpose of my call yet. Briefly, it's this. You'll be doing me a favor and Carl a favor if from now on you'll tend to your column exclusively.

[Jimmy Sullivan]

But didn't I try to get you the part. You're not jealous, are you?

[Robin Radcliffe]

What do you mean by that?

[Jimmy Sullivan]

Well, I didn't exactly.

[Robin Radcliffe]

Oh, I know what you mean. And only a fathead like you would think of that.

[Jimmy Sullivan]

Just when we were getting along so beautifully.

[Robin Radcliffe]

You think I want the part, don't you? You think I'm like all the rest of the dames in this town, huh? Well, just put it down in your book. I'm not. I've been around here long enough to know this business. And I'm not asking Carl for a thing. And I wish you wouldn't. I've taken care of myself all these years without your help, and I can continue to do it. Now, stuff that in your typewriter and see how you like it.

[Jimmy Sullivan]

Gee, Robin, you're pretty when you're mad.

[Narrator]

Once again, Jimmy Sullivan seems to have complicated the affairs of Robin. How will they work it out? And how will Carl Von Dorn solve his problem? Listen to the next chapter.