Ep 13. Old Hollywood: Silent Stars, Deadly Secrets

City Confidential season 2 episode 13 is titled "Old Hollywood: Silent Stars, Deadly Secrets." The episode explores the glitz and glamour of Hollywood's Golden Age, when silent films ruled the screen and stars were larger than life. However, beneath the surface of this glamorous world, there were dark secrets and scandals waiting to be uncovered.

The episode takes viewers back in time to the early 20th century, when Hollywood was just starting to gain traction as the movie-making capital of the world. The episode sets the scene with beautiful black-and-white footage of Hollywood in its heyday, showcasing the opulent movie theaters, bustling film studios, and exquisite mansions that dotted the landscape.

As the episode unfolds, viewers are introduced to some of Hollywood's most famous stars of the silent era, including Rudolph Valentino, Virginia Rappe, and Olive Thomas. These actors may have led glamorous lives on screen, but off screen they were plagued by personal demons and scandals that would ultimately lead to their downfalls.

Viewers will learn about the mysterious death of Olive Thomas, a beautiful young actress who died under suspicious circumstances after a night of partying with her husband Jack Pickford. They will also hear about the scandalous trial of Fatty Arbuckle, a beloved comic actor who was accused of raping and murdering Virginia Rappe at a party. Although Arbuckle was eventually acquitted, the scandal destroyed his career and reputation.

The episode also delves into the rise of the Hollywood studio system, which allowed movie moguls like Louis B. Mayer and Jack Warner to exert control over their stars and keep their personal lives out of the public eye. However, as the episode reveals, this system also created an environment in which sexual harassment and abuse could thrive.

Viewers will hear about the experiences of actresses like Clara Bow and Joan Crawford, who were subjected to unwanted advances from powerful studio executives. They will also learn about the tragic fate of Peg Entwistle, a struggling young actress who committed suicide by jumping off the Hollywood sign after years of rejection and disappointment.

Overall, "Old Hollywood: Silent Stars, Deadly Secrets" offers a fascinating look at a bygone era in Hollywood history. While the episode doesn't shy away from the scandals and tragedies that haunted the stars of the silent era, it also celebrates the beauty and artistry of the films that they left behind. Whether you're a fan of classic Hollywood or simply interested in the darker side of celebrity culture, this episode is not to be missed.