Collaboration and Rivalry: Bette Davis and Joan Crawford in 'Whatever Happened to Baby Jane'

Despite the significant rivalry and tension existing between the two iconic actresses, Bette Davis and Joan Crawford managed to collaborate on just one film, the 1962 psychological horror thriller 'Whatever Happened to Baby Jane?'

Working Together in 'Whatever Happened to Baby Jane'

The film revolved around the intense relationship between two aging sisters, one a former child star (Bette Davis portraying 'Baby Jane' Hudson), and the other a paraplegic former movie star (Joan Crawford as 'Blanche' Crawford). The film portrayed their notorious rivalry and the impact of fame on their lives.

Together Yet Torn Apart on Screen and Off

The collaboration between Bette Davis and Joan Crawford in 'Whatever Happened to Baby Jane' was hardly a welcoming experience, marked by animosity and tension both on and off the set. This 1962 project became a psychological thriller that is widely regarded as a classic in its genre due to its nuanced and dark portrayal of their bitter rivalry.

The film explored themes of sibling rivalry, aging, and the devastating effects of fame. Both Davis and Crawford were praised for their powerful and complex performances. The intensity of their on-screen chemistry and the depth of their on-screen animosity were enough to captivate audiences and cement the film's place in cinema history.

The Feud that Spanned Decades

The feud between Davis and Crawford was a long-standing one, dating back to the height of Hollywood's Golden Age. Their enmity was fueled by a personal vendetta over a love interest, with Davis claiming that Crawford had only taken interest in a rising star called Franchot Tone after Davis confessed her feelings for him. This incident left a profound impact on both actresses, influencing their later interactions in the industry.

Protective Measures on Set

The fear and distrust were so escalated that Joan Crawford demanded a body double for herself during critical scenes where her character 'Baby Jane' was depicted as violently attacking 'Blanche'. This fear stemmed from real instances where Davis had a reputation for being highly competitive and confrontational on set, and Crawford did not want to risk her safety or reputation.

Their intense rivalry was not only evident on the set but also in various interviews and public discourse. Both actresses spoke about each other for years after their respective deaths, revealing their true feelings and the depth of their animosity. Their legacy is indelibly linked to the film 'Whatever Happened to Baby Jane', and their long-standing feud remains one of the most enduring in Hollywood history.

Conclusion

While Bette Davis and Joan Crawford worked together on only one film, the bond formed in 'Whatever Happened to Baby Jane' was neither a friendly nor a harmonious one. Their notable rivalry is a fascinating chapter in the history of Hollywood, showcasing the intense personal and professional relationships that shaped an entire era of filmmaking.