Understanding MGM’s Decisions: Julie Andrews and 'Mary Poppins'

The casting history of Hollywood, especially that of American film studio Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM), is replete with intriguing stories. One of the most fascinating involves the rejection of Julie Andrews by MGM, a decision that seemed to impact Andrews' career trajectory. However, an in-depth analysis reveals that the situation is not as straightforward as it initially appears.

The Rejection and its Aftermath

When Julie Andrews was a child, she had the opportunity to audition for MGM in England. This was before she gained fame from the musical film Audrey Triumphs (My Fair Lady) which was filmed at Warner Bros. Unfortunately, her audition did not go well. MGM commented that she was not photogenic, an opinion that stayed with her for years. This incident is often cited in biographies and interview features that discuss the path to Andrews' success. However, a closer look at the events reveals a more nuanced story.

A Nuanced View of MGM’s Decisions

It is important to note that when discussing decisions by a company as extensive and diverse as MGM, one must consider the complexity and multifaceted nature of their operations. MGM is known for its significant production and distribution of feature films and television programs, with hundreds of locations, dozens of subsidiaries, and a large workforce, working on numerous films and projects simultaneously.

The statement that 'MGM in its entirety' made a 'single unified decision' to reject one actress is a broad generalization. It is more likely that specific divisions within the company were involved in the decision-making process. For instance, Abrams mentions that certain recruiters were interested in Andrews for a music revue, but another actress was ultimately selected. This is a common occurrence in the film industry, where different scouts or producers can have varied opinions and make independent decisions.

Another aspect to consider is that of individual decisions by executives. For example, Walt Disney, rather than MGM, brought the opportunity to Andrews, ultimately leading to her success in the films such as “Mary Poppins”. It was Disney who provided significant support in initiating Andrews' film career, which eclipsed any earlier rejections by MGM.

Julie Andrews’s Journey

In her 85th year, Andrews still reflects on these experiences, often attributing her career success to Disney. This perspective highlights the role of Walt Disney in helping Andrews transition from a child star in England to a successful actress. It demonstrates both the importance of individual decision-makers and the supportive networks that often play a crucial role in the success of an artist.

It is also worth noting that Andrews made several movies for MGM, including her notable role in The Americanization of Emily. Her subsequent successes in films like Victor/Victoria and Mary Poppins further illustrate that the initial rejection was not indicative of her entire film career.

Conclusion

The decision by MGM to not choose Julie Andrews for a particular role, or roles, while regrettable, is not as detrimental as it often seems. It is a reminder of the complex and multifaceted nature of the film industry, where individual opinions, the influence of new opportunities, and the supportive networks of industry figures can significantly affect an artist's journey.

While it is important to understand and acknowledge past events, it is equally crucial to view them through a lens that considers the broader context of an artist's career and the broader dynamics within the industry. In the case of Julie Andrews, her journey from a young actress in England to a beloved icon, highlights the transformative power of both individual decisions and supportive networks.

Key Points:

MGM's decision to not choose Julie Andrews can be seen within the broader context of the film industry, not as a single unified rejection. Walt Disney played a significant role in Andrews' career, leading to her success in 'Mary Poppins'. Despite the rejection, Andrews went on to make several films for MGM and built a successful career.