Ep 5. Mae West... And the Men Who Knew Her
- September 1, 2016
- 28 min
In season 2 episode 5 of Hollywood Idols, viewers are taken on a journey through the life of one of Hollywood's most iconic actresses and screenwriters, Mae West. The episode, titled "Mae West...And the Men Who Knew Her," explores both West's rise to fame and her personal relationships with some of the most notable men in Hollywood.
Through a series of interviews with friends, colleagues, and experts in the field, we get to know Mae West both on and off the big screen. Viewers are treated to rare archival footage of some of West's most famous performances, including her iconic role in the film "She Done Him Wrong."
But what makes this episode truly unique is the emphasis on Mae West's personal life. Through interviews with friends and lovers, viewers get an intimate look at the woman behind the legend. We learn about her tumultuous relationships with some of the biggest names in Hollywood, including W.C. Fields, Cary Grant, and Gary Cooper.
The episode goes into detail about Mae West's love life, including her marriages to fellow actors Frank Wallace and Paul Novak, as well as her alleged affair with boxing legend Jack Dempsey. We hear from friends who knew West intimately, including former co-star Roger Herren, who recounts his experiences working with West on the stage play "Pleasure Man."
Throughout the episode, we see the many sides of Mae West come to life. We learn about her femininity and sensuality, as well as her wit and humor. Viewers get a sense of the strong personality that made West such a force both on and off the screen. We see her struggle with the restrictions of the Hays Code and the challenges she faced as a woman in the male-dominated world of Hollywood.
Ultimately, "Mae West...And the Men Who Knew Her" is a fascinating look at one of Hollywood's most iconic figures. Through interviews, archival footage, and personal anecdotes, viewers get a glimpse into the life of a woman who refused to let anyone else define her. It's a fitting tribute to a true Hollywood legend.