Gossip Friday: A New Kind of Star

From March 1932:

Yes sir, there’s no two ways about it: the old town’s changing. It’s no longer quite as mad as a hatter. Slowly but surely it’s gaining sense and balance.

A few years ago, for instance,  a star as brilliant as Clark Gable, would have set out with all his new found riches, to dazzle the town with 15 room mansions, swanky cars, yachts, scandals and parties.

Listen to Gable. “I own two cars which I paid cash for. I rent an apartment. Just for six months at a time and not a year. I don’t even own furniture. I’m saving my money.”

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This makes me think of Sunset Boulevard—how slowly those silent movie stars’ way of life became passe. Already in 1932, they’re talking a new type of star. Clark lived pretty humbly for the rest of his life, by Hollywood standards.