Discover the behind the scenes with these rare photos from the Golden Age of cinema. They’re moments that give a small flashback to the untold stories of the stars, the secrets behind camera. These anecdotes include Elvis Presley practicing karate, Jim Morisson’s battle with fame and more.
The Flip Wilson Show’s Trio
The Flip Wilson Show broke many barriers when it aired in 1970. Hosted by comedian Flip Wilson, the show featured a mix of comedy sketches, musical performances, and guest appearances by celebrities of the era. The show was groundbreaking for its time, as it was one of the first major network television shows hosted by an African American. In 1971, the show brought together Tim Conway and Burt Reynolds with Wilson for a skit performance. Indeed an iconic time in American television.
Stevie Ray and His Guitar
In 1971, Stevie Ray Vaughan was just a struggling musician trying to make a name for himself in the music scene of Austin, Texas. This rare photo was taken the same year, on a night when he and his band were supposed to open for singer Muddy Waters. Despite his incredible talent, he faced many challenges and setbacks in his personal life. The singer, thankfully, persevered to become one of the most influential and celebrated guitarists of all time.
Rocking in Switzerland
For musical talents back in the day, wild days weren’t unusual. This snapshot was taken in Zurich, Switzerland, in 1968 and included Jimi Hendrix, Eric Burdon, Stu Leathwood, Noel Redding, Trevor Burton, John Mayall, Keith Ellis, Roy Wood, Carl Wayne, Steve Winwood, and Roy Morris. The photo captures a moment of camaraderie and creative energy among the artists. Each of them had their unique sound and style, but together they helped shape the landscape of rock music for generations to come.
The Graceful Sophie Loren
With a career spanning over six decades, Sophia Loren is one of the most accomplished actresses of all time. Loren’s unique combination of talent, charisma, and beauty made her a beloved icon in the film industry. Her attitude and inner strength helped her navigate the challenges of the film industry and carve out a successful career for over six decades. This rare and candid photo, taken in 1955 by The Canal Grande in Venice, proves that the Oscar winner embodies grace.
The Founders of Desilu Studios
The photo of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz standing outside Desilu Studios in 1960 is a rare and captivating glimpse into the history of TV. The couple, once the reigning monarchs of the television industry, founded the production house in 1950 to make the kind of shows they wanted to make. This couple’s expertise in the world of TV is visible in the kind of shows they produced, including the groundbreaking I Love Lucy and the long-running The Andy Griffith Show.
The Founders of Desilu Studios
A Nervous Burt Reynolds
Burt Reynolds, the larger-than-life actor of his time, captivated an entire generation of moviegoers, whether with his tough-guy role in Gator or his memorable portrayal of Bo ‘Bandit’ Darville in Smokey the Bandit. However, despite all his greatness, Reynolds still struggled with his confidence. During the filming of The Longest Yard, he would get nervous when having to film dialogue-heavy scenes. However, director Robert Aldrich allowed Reynolds to improvise in some takes, resulting in some of the film’s most memorable moments.
The Ultimate ’90s Action Hero
Long before he was a Hollywood action star, Steven Seagal was a highly skilled martial artist with a black belt in Aikido. He discovered his passion for Aikido when he was young, spending most of his free time training at the local dojo and blasting loud rock music. Seagal’s dedication to martial arts eventually led him to Japan, where he further honed his skills — becoming one of the most iconic action stars of the ’90s.
A Little Shop of BTS
The 1986 musical-horror Little Shop of Horrors centers around a nerdy florist named Seymour, who discovers a strange and monstrous plant. The film features an all-star cast, including Rick Moranis, Ellen Greene, Steve Martin, and Bill Murray. Behind the scenes, the film’s production was fraught with challenges, including a tight budget and difficulties with the film’s climax. However, despite these setbacks, the film was a critical and commercial success and has since gained a devoted following. Here is a BTS photo of the monstrous plant looking not so scary.
The Garden of Sound
Soundgarden was an American rock band formed in 1984 in Seattle, Washington. Chris Cornell was the lead vocalist and primary songwriter of Soundgarden. He was known for his powerful and distinctive vocal range and his introspective and poetic lyrics. When they were starting out, one of the band’s most significant obstacles was the constant comparison they faced. Soundgarden was often compared to other grunge-era bands such as Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Alice in Chains. Here’s a rare photo of Cornell wearing a Nirvana T-shirt.
Sharon Stone Poses
At the beginning of her career, Sharon Stone was getting minor roles, but she wasn’t yet a household name. Stone knew that she was attractive, but she also knew that Hollywood was a tough place for actresses and that looks were often just as important as talent. She decided to pose for a magazine and was able to showcase her beauty to a broader audience. She ultimately landed the iconic role of Catherine Tramell in Basic Instinct, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Emergency of TV
For Grey’s Anatomy and Law and Order to fly, it was an itty-bitty show called Emergency! that first walked. The show focused on the daily lives of paramedics and firefighters in Los Angeles, California. It was the first show of its kind and aired from 1972 to 1979 for six seasons. Emergency! was groundbreaking in its portrayal of first responders, inspiring a generation of viewers to pursue careers in emergency services.
Some More of Demi Moore
In 1982, Demi Moore posed for the French edition of a controversial magazine, which sparked controversy and made headlines worldwide. While some criticized the decision as exploitative, others praised Moore for controlling her image. The shoot was tastefully done and showcased Moore’s natural beauty, which helped establish her as a rising star in Hollywood. Today, Moore is regarded as a trailblazer for women in the entertainment industry and has hits like Ghost under her belt.
Debbie Harry the Punk
Debbie Harry was the punk rock queen in the 1970s, and her style was as scandalous as it was iconic. With her bleach-blonde hair, leather jackets, and smokey eye makeup, Harry personified the rebellious spirit of the punk movement. She was a role model for women who wanted to break free from traditional roles. If there were a punk rock hall of fame, Debbie Harry would be the first inductee – and she’d probably celebrate by smashing a guitar or two.
A Spanish Love Affair
In the 1950s, Brigitte Bardot was the IT girl, the French beauty that had everyone weak at the knees. But despite her success, Bardot found it challenging to work outside of France. However, when she finally got to film in Spain, she discovered the wonders of the country. A Spanish Love AffairShe fell in love with everything, from the paellas to the flamenco dancing. She soon had the Spaniards wrapped around her fingers, with the locals calling her Guapa, meaning beautiful, and the Spanish media following her every move.
Wood Out
In the mid-1970s, Natalie Wood briefly retired from acting to focus on her personal life. She had already succeeded with films like Rebel Without a Cause and West Side Story. During her break, Wood focused on her family and took up various hobbies, including painting and horseback riding. She also reconnected with her former husband, Robert Wagner, and the two eventually remarried in 1972. Wood’s sister, Lana Wood, commented that her hiatus was the most relaxed Natalie had ever looked. Wood eventually returned to acting to much acclaim.
Banded in Comedy
Did you know that a group of musicians once won an Outstanding Comedy Award at the Emmys? In 1967, The Monkees, a rock band created for a TV show, took home the prestigious award for their hit series The Monkees. Despite being known for their music, The Monkees’ wacky antics and hilarious sketches made them a hit with audiences and critics alike. Their Emmy wins even beat out the likes of popular comedies like The Dick Van Dyke Show and Bewitched.
Spy on Call
Ah, Get Smart — the show that brought us the infamous shoe phone. It’s hard to forget the iconic image of leads Don Adams and Barbara Feldon with their shoes to their ears, ready to take on the forces of evil. But did you know that the shoe phone wasn’t just a prop? Don Adams used it to make actual phone calls during filming! Whether you’re a show fan or love a good spy spoof, Get Smart has some of the wackiest spy gadgets.
The Right Men
When Clint Eastwood and Lee Van Cleef were cast in For a Few Dollars More, they weren’t the original choices for their respective roles. The parts were initially offered to Henry Fonda and Charles Bronson, but they needed more time to complete the project. However, it’s hard to imagine anyone else playing the iconic Man with No Name and ruthless bounty hunter Colonel Mortimer. The two actors had great on-screen chemistry and helped to elevate the Spaghetti Western genre to new heights.
Ginger in Paradise
Get ready to take a trip to Gilligan’s Island, where the glamorous Ginger Grant, played by Tina Louise, reigns supreme. With her flowing red hair and sultry voice, Ginger was the epitome of Hollywood glamor amid a tropical paradise. But did you know that Tina Louise initially turned down the role of Ginger because she thought it was too one-dimensional? Luckily, the show’s creators convinced her to participate, and she quickly became one of the show’s most beloved characters.
Some Like it Monroe
Even captured relaxing on the set of Some Like it Hot, Marilyn Monroe exuded effortless glamor and beauty. The 1959 film was a classic comedy, with Monroe playing the role of Sugar Kane, a ukulele player and singer in an all-girl band. Monroe’s talent shone through in her performance, bringing a sense of vulnerability and depth to the character. From her sparkling dresses to her unforgettable rendition of “I Wanna Be Loved by You”, Marilyn Monroe’s work in the movie is a true masterpiece.
Smile Please
John Ritter was a beloved actor with a smile as warm and inviting as his personality. He was best known for his work on the sitcom Three’s Company, and he loved to make people laugh with his work on the show. He once joked that most people didn’t realize how accomplished an actor he was. Whether he was making audiences laugh or bringing them to tears, John Ritter’s talent and charisma made him a true icon of Hollywood.
Punk-Ed
The iconic 1977 photo of Joan Jett, Debbie Harry, David Johansen, and Joey Ramone captures the essence of the emerging punk rock scene. The four musicians were at the forefront of the punk movement, characterized by a raw, rebellious sound. The punk movement gained momentum in 1977, with bands like The Ramones and Blondie paving the way for a new sound. The music and fashion of punk were a form of rebellion, challenging the status quo and inspiring a new generation of artists and musicians.
The Flute Player
In 1969, Ian Anderson was the charismatic frontman of the progressive rock band Jethro Tull, known for his distinctive voice and virtuoso flute playing. The band’s concept albums, such as Thick as a Brick and Aqualung, were hugely popular and helped define the progressive rock genre. After that, Jethro Tull remained a popular live act, selling out arenas worldwide. Anderson’s stage presence was theatrical, often dressed in his trademark codpiece and one-legged stance. His influence on rock music and flute playing is still felt today.
A Woman of Experience
In the golden era of European cinema, one actress shone brighter than most — Luigina Gina Lollobrigida. With her stunning looks and remarkable talent, Lollobrigida quickly became one of the most famous actresses in Europe during the 1950s and 1960s. During her later years, the actress acknowledged that getting older can be a challenge for women but thanked her past experiences for giving her the courage to face that head-on. She emphasized the importance of staying positive and living life to the fullest, regardless of age or gender.
The Raleigh Chopper
This 1971 photo of model Annie Walker with a Raleigh Chopper bike symbolizes the bike’s dedicated fan base and enduring popularity. The bike was a cultural phenomenon of the decade, and its coolness factor was off the charts. Acquiring a Raleigh Chopper was challenging, as premium prices and waiting lists were commonplace. Even today, the Chopper remains highly sought after by collectors. Darren Sykes, a collector, once witnessed a deal for over $8,700 (£7,000) for a still unboxed Mkl 10-speed.
Tom Impossible
In 1982, Tom Cruise wasn’t quite the megastar he is today, but he was still a total dreamboat. For six months, he dated Heather Locklear, the Melrose Place star. But let’s just say that things didn’t exactly go swimmingly. According to Locklear, Cruise was a bit of a handful to be around. One time, Cruise started doing that infamous dance from Risky Business while the two were out. Locklear was mortified and didn’t quite know what to do. It’s an endearing, albeit awkward, look into the megastar’s life.
The Denim Way
In the 1970s, high-waisted bell-bottom pants were all the rage. The style perfectly blended chic and comfortable, quickly becoming a fashion staple. The bell bottom design was known for its dramatic and eye-catching silhouette. Among all the fabrics used for high-waisted bell-bottom pants, denim truly stole the show. They became an instant hit, and everyone from celebrities to everyday fashion lovers sported them with pride.
Knotts Funny
In 1961, the iconic comedian and actor Don Knotts were named an ambassador for McCulloch’s Go-Karts. Knotts was a naturally funny man who made everyone around him laugh, so it was a natural fit for him to represent the fun and excitement of go-kart racing. According to Knotts’ daughter, he had a blast filming commercials and promotions for the go-karts, and he loved getting behind the wheel and tearing up the track. Even while he was sick, his daughter recalled how he had his loved ones laughing with his natural comedic charm.
Eastwood and the Ape
Every Which Way But Loose was a 1978 movie centered around a man named Philo Beddoe, a truck driver who also happened to be a bare-knuckle fighter, and an orangutan he befriends on the way. The movie vastly differed from lead Clint Eastwood’s previous roles in Dirty Harry and other gritty films and was initially met with low expectations. However, the movie’s rating of PG opened up a new audience for Eastwood, and the inclusion of the orangutan added a unique element to the film loved by audiences.
No Beard Nelson
After Willie Nelson’s stint in Nashville, he found his footing in Texas. Nelson’s popularity increased, and he started touring with his entourage, the Rolling Smoke Revue. According to Rolling Stone, the group traveled incognito using aliases, with Nelson adopting the name ‘Fast Eddie,’ his manager dubbed ‘Poodie,’ and his bodyguard known as ‘Snake.’ Although Nelson is often associated with his signature long hair and beard, during the hot summers of the late 1970s, he would often shave it all off for comfort.
Marilyn on the Roof
In 1955, Marilyn Monroe’s career was on the rise, and she was determined to become a serious actress. That same year, she took private acting lessons from the renowned acting coach Lee Strasberg. He recognized that Monroe had a sensitive nature that could be channeled into her acting, and he helped her develop a deeper understanding of her craft. She worked closely with him for three years. Strasberg later praised her as one of the best actors he had ever taught, along with Marlon Brando.
The Never-Ending Night
Carrie Fisher and John Belushi had wild parties while filming The Blues Brothers in 1980. Instead of returning to their hotel rooms after a long day on set, the crew would party well into the night, often continuing the revelry to the next day. According to some stories, Fisher once showed up at the set still wearing the same clothes from the night before, and Belushi had to be woken up on set after falling asleep from the previous night’s festivities.
Don the Navyman
Before Don Rickles became a legendary comedian, he served in the U.S. Navy. During his time in the Navy, he quickly became known for his comedic talents and entertained his fellow troops whenever possible. However, despite his reputation for making others laugh, Rickles himself found the experience of being in the Navy challenging. He later revealed that he didn’t want to go and cried when he was drafted and that it was the last time he ever cried.
The Rare Volvo
The two-door sports car P1800 Volvo is a classic car model from 1961 to 1973. It’s most famous for its role in the hit TV series, The Saint, driven by the show’s star, Roger Moore. However, with less than 8,100 of these cars made available for sale, spotting one of these cars on the road was rare. It eventually went out of production in 1973, and it remains a sought-after classic car by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The Infamous Morrison
Jim Morrison, the iconic frontman of The Doors, shot to fame at the young age of 23. Morrison’s charismatic stage presence and poetic lyrics made him an instant star, alongside the band’s constantly successful albums. However, fame proved to be a double-edged sword for him, and soon he began to struggle with the pressure of living up to his rockstar image. In a 1967 interview, Morrison spoke about the media’s control over the public’s mind, further contributing to his disillusionment with fame and the music industry.
The Bond Girl
Kim Basinger’s insecurities ran deep when she auditioned for the role of Domino Petacchi in the Bond film Never Say Never Again. Despite her stunning looks, she was so unsure of herself that she suggested other actresses play the role during the casting session. However, after extensive research and meeting with the producers, she eventually found herself in the Caribbean acting alongside Sean Connery in his final James Bond film. Basinger admitted in an interview that Connery’s wife persuaded her to audition and eventually won the part.
A War for Star Wars
In 1977, a queue was waiting to see the Star Wars premiere, but for movie theaters, it was a challenging decision to screen the movie. 20th Century Fox had to practically beg movie theaters to screen the film since they weren’t thrilled about showing what they perceived as a kiddie flick. However, the theaters were soon eating their words as the movie became a smash hit. One theater in Minneapolis, St. Park, struggled until the film, then it made $250,000 in its first week.
The Secret Inspiration
Stevie Nicks is known for her soulful voice and poetic lyrics, but did you know she’s also a true romantic at heart? The Fleetwood Mac front-woman has always believed in love, which shows in her music. Her song “Secret Love” is about the thrill of a new romance, but Nicks has admitted that she can’t even remember who she wrote it about! In a 2011 interview, Nicks revealed that she still remembers being in love even though she doesn’t remember the inspiration behind the iconic song.
