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I Loved Her in the Movies: Memories of Hollywood's Legendary Actresses
Film and television actor and New York Times bestselling author Robert Wagner’s memoir of the great women movie stars he has known.
In a career that has spanned more than sixty years Robert Wagner has witnessed the twilight of the Golden Age of Hollywood and the rise of television, becoming a beloved star in both media. During that time he became acquainted, both professionally and socially, with the remarkable women who were the greatest screen personalities of their day. I Loved Her in the Movies is his intimate and revealing account of the charisma of these women on film, why they became stars, and how their specific emotional and dramatic chemistries affected the choices they made as actresses as well as the choices they made as women.
Among Wagner’s subjects are Joan Crawford, Bette Davis, Marilyn Monroe, Gloria Swanson, Norma Shearer, Loretta Young, Joan Blondell, Irene Dunne, Rosalind Russell, Dorothy Lamour, Debra Paget, Jean Peters, Linda Darnell, Betty Hutton, Raquel Welch, Glenn Close, and the two actresses whom he ultimately married, Natalie Wood and Jill St. John. In addition to offering perceptive commentary on these women, Wagner also examines topics such as the strange alchemy of the camera—how it can transform the attractive into the stunning, and vice versa—and how the introduction of color brought a new erotic charge to movies, one that enabled these actresses to become aggressively sexual beings in a way that that black and white films had only hinted at.
Like Wagner’s two previous bestsellers, I Loved Her in the Movies will be a privileged look behind the scenes at some of the most well-known women in show business as well as an insightful look at the sexual and romantic attraction that created their magic.
In a career that has spanned more than sixty years Robert Wagner has witnessed the twilight of the Golden Age of Hollywood and the rise of television, becoming a beloved star in both media. During that time he became acquainted, both professionally and socially, with the remarkable women who were the greatest screen personalities of their day. I Loved Her in the Movies is his intimate and revealing account of the charisma of these women on film, why they became stars, and how their specific emotional and dramatic chemistries affected the choices they made as actresses as well as the choices they made as women.
Among Wagner’s subjects are Joan Crawford, Bette Davis, Marilyn Monroe, Gloria Swanson, Norma Shearer, Loretta Young, Joan Blondell, Irene Dunne, Rosalind Russell, Dorothy Lamour, Debra Paget, Jean Peters, Linda Darnell, Betty Hutton, Raquel Welch, Glenn Close, and the two actresses whom he ultimately married, Natalie Wood and Jill St. John. In addition to offering perceptive commentary on these women, Wagner also examines topics such as the strange alchemy of the camera—how it can transform the attractive into the stunning, and vice versa—and how the introduction of color brought a new erotic charge to movies, one that enabled these actresses to become aggressively sexual beings in a way that that black and white films had only hinted at.
Like Wagner’s two previous bestsellers, I Loved Her in the Movies will be a privileged look behind the scenes at some of the most well-known women in show business as well as an insightful look at the sexual and romantic attraction that created their magic.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published November 15, 2016
217 people are currently reading
1173 people want to read
About the author
Robert J. Wagner
13 books50 followersRobert John Wagner, Jr an American actor of stage, screen, and television, best known for starring in the television shows It Takes a Thief (1968–70) and Hart to Hart (1979–84). In movies, Wagner is known for his role as Number Two in the Austin Powers trilogy of films, as well as for The Pink Panther, The Towering Inferno, and more.
Wagner was married twice to the late actress Natalie Wood and is currently married to actress Jill St. John.
Librarian’s note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Wagner was married twice to the late actress Natalie Wood and is currently married to actress Jill St. John.
Librarian’s note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 170 reviews
December 4, 2016
A trip down memory lane. Not that I'm old enough to have been alive when many of these ladies were at the height of their career, but it did trigger memories of a very important time in my life. When I was a preteens and young teen, my younger sister and myself spent nearly every weekend with my grandparents, they spoiled us shamelessly, not so much with things but with their undivided attention and love. Every Saturday, late afternoon my younger sister and grandmother would go to one of my aunts houses to play cards or bunco. I stayed home with my grandfather, by choice, and we would watch the oldies on the television. Remember falling in love with Gene Tierney, Carol Baker and others, my grandfather had a major crush on Maureen O'Hara. Wonderful times.
Love the way this book is divided by decades, what actresses had the most pull in those particular years. Where they came from, what movies they were in, how they were perceived in Hollywood. Robert Wagner, now in his eighties, dated some,, acted with others and of course married a few. While reading this I wondered how he would handle his life with Natalie Wood, never knew they actually married twice. He does address his marriage, her personality but only in a few pages. Her death he addresses not at all, but in fairness this was a book about these amazing women and what they accomplished. So many things I never knew, including the fact that Gene Tierney had a very sad life.
Hollywood today does not have the cache of the old Hollywood. There was so much glamour though to be fair these actresses in this book did many of the same things that are done today but now everything is so much more public, social media and all, that the old mystique is gone. There was no such thing as reality TV stars, think of a world without the Kardashians, if only we could. Anyway, I gulped this one right down and enjoyed every single minute.
Love the way this book is divided by decades, what actresses had the most pull in those particular years. Where they came from, what movies they were in, how they were perceived in Hollywood. Robert Wagner, now in his eighties, dated some,, acted with others and of course married a few. While reading this I wondered how he would handle his life with Natalie Wood, never knew they actually married twice. He does address his marriage, her personality but only in a few pages. Her death he addresses not at all, but in fairness this was a book about these amazing women and what they accomplished. So many things I never knew, including the fact that Gene Tierney had a very sad life.
Hollywood today does not have the cache of the old Hollywood. There was so much glamour though to be fair these actresses in this book did many of the same things that are done today but now everything is so much more public, social media and all, that the old mystique is gone. There was no such thing as reality TV stars, think of a world without the Kardashians, if only we could. Anyway, I gulped this one right down and enjoyed every single minute.
June 12, 2017
There's a difference between a man who loves women and a man who likes women. Men who love women often only love the way they look but not much else. A man who likes women actually sees them as humans who are equal or even better than men.
Robert Wagner not only loves women but he likes them. In fact he wrote this book about some of his favorite women. While he of course acknowledges these women's physical beauty he also focuses on their work ethic, the struggles they faced as women, and their triumphs. Wagner profiles the well know actresses like Monroe, Davis, Turner, and Taylor. He also spotlights less well know actresses from yesteryear like Claire Trevor, Joan Blondell, Linda Darnell, and Ann Rutherford.
While I did enjoy this book I'm not rating it higher because all the women profiled are white with the exception of Sophia Loren and Raquel Welch. He makes no mention of great actresses of color like Dorothy Dandridge, Lena Horn, or Rita Moreno. Had this book been slightly less white and had he not defended Clark Gable against charges he may have raped Loretta Young by saying that Gable was "just too classy a guy"(Yes you read that right) it might have been a 5 Star book for me.
I still recommend I Loved Her In The Movies to classical film lovers.
Silver Screen Book Club.
Popsugar 2017 Reading Challenge: Book With A Red Spine.
Robert Wagner not only loves women but he likes them. In fact he wrote this book about some of his favorite women. While he of course acknowledges these women's physical beauty he also focuses on their work ethic, the struggles they faced as women, and their triumphs. Wagner profiles the well know actresses like Monroe, Davis, Turner, and Taylor. He also spotlights less well know actresses from yesteryear like Claire Trevor, Joan Blondell, Linda Darnell, and Ann Rutherford.
While I did enjoy this book I'm not rating it higher because all the women profiled are white with the exception of Sophia Loren and Raquel Welch. He makes no mention of great actresses of color like Dorothy Dandridge, Lena Horn, or Rita Moreno. Had this book been slightly less white and had he not defended Clark Gable against charges he may have raped Loretta Young by saying that Gable was "just too classy a guy"(Yes you read that right) it might have been a 5 Star book for me.
I still recommend I Loved Her In The Movies to classical film lovers.
Silver Screen Book Club.
Popsugar 2017 Reading Challenge: Book With A Red Spine.
October 4, 2023
Robert Wagner (one of my favorite actors) and Scott Eyman (top biographer of the Golden Years of Hollywood), team up for their 3rd book. There really is nothing disappointing in this book, as Wagnjer looks at the female actresses he has known and worked with since the 1930's thru today. At the time write this Wagner is now 93 years old (really!!!) and so he is one of the few remaining actors who has first-hand knowledge of these lovely ladies. Lots of fun stories about the movies which were not covered in his other books, including the fact that he once dated Gloria Swanson's daughter! Insight on these actresses and now they worked in the studio system which was all set up to make them stars. Why did Greer Garson work in certain films and not other? What was Bette Davis like, as well as a bit about Barbara Stanwyck, and so many others from the 30's and 40's. A short chapter on Natalie Wood, and another on Jill St. John (two of his wives), and a lot of reflection why actresses have it so hard in Hollywood, and why only a few have careers over 15 years. Super stories about Joan Blondell, Loretta Young, Irene Dunne and the list goes on and on. A fast fun read, makes we want to rush out and read the first two books. If you like movies, the Golden Era of Hollywood, and if you are addicted like I a to TCM then this is the perfect book for you!!!
January 8, 2018
Amid the many reminiscences of the legendary actresses Mr. Wagner has worked with sits a fine passage on the Studio Club.
Hollywood was a wild and wooly place in the 1920s. The streets teemed with beautiful people who yearned to be filmed; those whose days were spent in diligent pursuit of being discovered and whose nights, with any luck, might find them rubbing shoulders at a party, a club or a restaurant with all the many movie stars streaming from the lots, intent on loosening their ties and blowing off a little steam. It is rarely a good idea to pair decadence with such naked ambition. Scandal is often the result, and the town had been rocked by several - in specific those of Fatty Arbuckle's manslaughter trial, William Desmond Taylor's murder, and the overdose of Wallace Reid.
The Hollywood Studio Club was the brainchild of Los Angeles librarian Eleanor Jones who worried about the young actresses she knew, their miserable living conditions, and the desperate choices they were forced to resort to as they struggled to make ends meet. Initially a modest arrangement with the local YWCA, the concept was soon adopted by luminaries like Mary Pickford and Mrs. Cecil B. DeMille and grew, through the backing of both the studios and the stars, into a three-story Mediterranean enclave just south of Sunset Boulevard, designed to supply affordable (and safe) lodging for women in the entertainment industry. Eighty girls could be admitted, all between the ages of eighteen and thirty, for a maximum stay of three years - during which it was hoped they'd find the means to solidly support themselves. Two meals a day were provided, along with free telephone privileges and the critical sense of community so many of these young women required, toiling as they were in what often proved to be a threatening and physically coercive profession.
A man like Harvey Weinstein would not have surprised anyone staying at the Hollywood Studio Club in the 1930s, 1940s or 1950s. But the club is gone now, and with it both the support and the community it fostered. You'd like to think the movie business evolved beyond the need for such measures, but it seems it simply forgot about its population of predators.
Hollywood was a wild and wooly place in the 1920s. The streets teemed with beautiful people who yearned to be filmed; those whose days were spent in diligent pursuit of being discovered and whose nights, with any luck, might find them rubbing shoulders at a party, a club or a restaurant with all the many movie stars streaming from the lots, intent on loosening their ties and blowing off a little steam. It is rarely a good idea to pair decadence with such naked ambition. Scandal is often the result, and the town had been rocked by several - in specific those of Fatty Arbuckle's manslaughter trial, William Desmond Taylor's murder, and the overdose of Wallace Reid.
The Hollywood Studio Club was the brainchild of Los Angeles librarian Eleanor Jones who worried about the young actresses she knew, their miserable living conditions, and the desperate choices they were forced to resort to as they struggled to make ends meet. Initially a modest arrangement with the local YWCA, the concept was soon adopted by luminaries like Mary Pickford and Mrs. Cecil B. DeMille and grew, through the backing of both the studios and the stars, into a three-story Mediterranean enclave just south of Sunset Boulevard, designed to supply affordable (and safe) lodging for women in the entertainment industry. Eighty girls could be admitted, all between the ages of eighteen and thirty, for a maximum stay of three years - during which it was hoped they'd find the means to solidly support themselves. Two meals a day were provided, along with free telephone privileges and the critical sense of community so many of these young women required, toiling as they were in what often proved to be a threatening and physically coercive profession.
A man like Harvey Weinstein would not have surprised anyone staying at the Hollywood Studio Club in the 1930s, 1940s or 1950s. But the club is gone now, and with it both the support and the community it fostered. You'd like to think the movie business evolved beyond the need for such measures, but it seems it simply forgot about its population of predators.
November 7, 2016
I was a lucky goodreads giveaway winner of Robert Wagner's book. Robert Wagner wrote this book as a homage to the many talented women who have been in the movies. He writes of these actresses by decades. He starts in the thirties and ends in the 80s and beyond. There are also two "intermission" chapters that focus on actresses who were character actors. There is not real mudslinging or mean spirited writing in his book. He is fair about actresses who have had hard lives or had their careers cut short. I liked reading about all these famous ladies. I was happy to see him write about some of the actesses such as Audrey Hepburn. I was very happy to get the chance to read this well done and interesting book.
March 26, 2017
This was quite a letdown because I was curious to hear Wagner's views on some of his (and my) favorite ladies of the silver screen. However, the book is written in a way where it just comes off as disjointed and confusing. It is almost like the authors had notes on different actresses written on notecards and were in the process of arranging them to make a coherent narrative, and then the publisher called and said he needed the final draft by the next morning or the deal was off. So, in haste, they scrambled to get the writing done and this is the result.
And do NOT say Jean Harlow wasn't 'particularly attractive.' You shut your mouth with that nonsense, Mr. Wagner.
And do NOT say Jean Harlow wasn't 'particularly attractive.' You shut your mouth with that nonsense, Mr. Wagner.
November 26, 2025
Film and television actor and New York Times bestselling author Robert Wagner’s memoir of the great women movie stars he has known, and now at the age of 95 years old, and just around in the late 40's and 50's, a long and great career. Also enjoyed his own autobiography.
In a career that has spanned more than sixty years Robert Wagner has witnessed the twilight of the Golden Age of Hollywood and the rise of television, becoming a beloved star in both media. During that time he became acquainted, both professionally and socially, with the remarkable women who were the greatest screen personalities of their day. I Loved Her in the Movies is his intimate and revealing account of the charisma of these women on film, why they became stars, and how their specific emotional and dramatic chemistries affected the choices they made as actresses as well as the choices they made as women.
Among Wagner’s subjects are Joan Crawford, Bette Davis, Marilyn Monroe, Gloria Swanson, Norma Shearer, Loretta Young, Joan Blondell, Irene Dunne, Rosalind Russell, Dorothy Lamour, Debra Paget, Jean Peters, Linda Darnell, Betty Hutton, Raquel Welch, Glenn Close, and the two actresses whom he ultimately married, Natalie Wood and Jill St. John. In addition to offering perceptive commentary on these women, Wagner also examines topics such as the strange alchemy of the camera—how it can transform the attractive into the stunning, and vice versa—and how the introduction of color brought a new erotic charge to movies, one that enabled these actresses to become aggressively sexual beings in a way that that black and white films had only hinted at.
Like Wagner’s two previous bestsellers, I Loved Her in the Movies is a privileged look behind the scenes at some of the most well-known women in show business as well as an insightful look at the sexual and romantic attraction that created their magic.
I must mention this book is filled with great Hollywood names, great legends, the good old days of films.
Also of course the worst two stars to work with.... can you guess.
Four stars
In a career that has spanned more than sixty years Robert Wagner has witnessed the twilight of the Golden Age of Hollywood and the rise of television, becoming a beloved star in both media. During that time he became acquainted, both professionally and socially, with the remarkable women who were the greatest screen personalities of their day. I Loved Her in the Movies is his intimate and revealing account of the charisma of these women on film, why they became stars, and how their specific emotional and dramatic chemistries affected the choices they made as actresses as well as the choices they made as women.
Among Wagner’s subjects are Joan Crawford, Bette Davis, Marilyn Monroe, Gloria Swanson, Norma Shearer, Loretta Young, Joan Blondell, Irene Dunne, Rosalind Russell, Dorothy Lamour, Debra Paget, Jean Peters, Linda Darnell, Betty Hutton, Raquel Welch, Glenn Close, and the two actresses whom he ultimately married, Natalie Wood and Jill St. John. In addition to offering perceptive commentary on these women, Wagner also examines topics such as the strange alchemy of the camera—how it can transform the attractive into the stunning, and vice versa—and how the introduction of color brought a new erotic charge to movies, one that enabled these actresses to become aggressively sexual beings in a way that that black and white films had only hinted at.
Like Wagner’s two previous bestsellers, I Loved Her in the Movies is a privileged look behind the scenes at some of the most well-known women in show business as well as an insightful look at the sexual and romantic attraction that created their magic.
I must mention this book is filled with great Hollywood names, great legends, the good old days of films.
Also of course the worst two stars to work with.... can you guess.
Four stars
February 23, 2017
I Loved Her in the Movies is the follow up to Wagner and Eyman's previous collaborations, You Must Remember This and Pieces of My Heart. This is the first one of these I've read and I enjoyed it. It's a light read, perfect for someone who needs a palate cleanser after a hefty tome or for those who are intimidated by in-depth biographies. I don't usually comment on book covers but this one is exceptionally beautiful. The cover image above doesn't do it justice. You have to see it in person. The gorgeous image of Lana Turner with the author's name in gold makes it one you'll want to display face out. I don't even keep this book on my bookshelves. Instead I keep it on my vanity next to my framed portrait of Norma Shearer and Irving Thalberg on their wedding day and my autographed copy of Conversations with Robert Osborne DVD.
Full review here: http://www.outofthepastblog.com/2017/...
Full review here: http://www.outofthepastblog.com/2017/...
April 13, 2017
An insider's insight on many of Hollywood's greatest female actresses from it's Golden Age to present. While it is fun to relive the past, nothing new is being revealed; the past scandals and relationships explored and detailed have been through the gossip mill many times. After reading this book, I feel like Robert Wagner is trying to capitalize on his past to make a buck for his old age. Still, there is always an audience for this who remember his acting career fondly and like to reminisce.
February 24, 2018
4.5 Stars
I loved this book - but then, I love old movies and the actresses who starred in them. Bette Davis, Joan Crawford, Norma Shearer, Gloria Swanson, Claudette Colbert, etc., etc., etc. I loved them all!
If you are an aficionado of old movies or a fan of Turner Movie Classics, you will enjoy this book. All actresses are dealt with lovingly and respectfully - Robert Wagner is always the discreet gentleman. The closest he came to digging the dirt was his remark that Shelley Winters was difficult on her best days and a pain in the ass on her worst. I love Winters, but based on multiple accounts of her life, I would have to agree.
Brief, incisive and insightful remarks about the actresses who populated the silver screen during Wagner’s life. If you like this sort of stuff, you will enjoy it. I certainly did.
I loved this book - but then, I love old movies and the actresses who starred in them. Bette Davis, Joan Crawford, Norma Shearer, Gloria Swanson, Claudette Colbert, etc., etc., etc. I loved them all!
If you are an aficionado of old movies or a fan of Turner Movie Classics, you will enjoy this book. All actresses are dealt with lovingly and respectfully - Robert Wagner is always the discreet gentleman. The closest he came to digging the dirt was his remark that Shelley Winters was difficult on her best days and a pain in the ass on her worst. I love Winters, but based on multiple accounts of her life, I would have to agree.
Brief, incisive and insightful remarks about the actresses who populated the silver screen during Wagner’s life. If you like this sort of stuff, you will enjoy it. I certainly did.
July 11, 2017
Very enjoyable, relaxing reading. I wasn't looking for a tell-all, or the dishing of dirt, and I didn't get it, thank goodness. If Robert Wagner had anything negative to say about an actress, he stated it in a sentence or two, and moved on. His personal memories of the actresses he knew and/or worked with are very warm and insightful. Reading this book was an enlightening, positive experience for me.
January 22, 2022
Wagner displays the sort of mad devotion to Hollywood actresses that's vanishingly rare outside the realms campy male homosexuals. Simply by mixing his (amazing!) personal memories with off-the-cuff opinions and silver screen factoids, he's created a delightfully entertaining book of absolutely no consequence. Read it and let the horrors of the real world recede from your mind.
February 21, 2017
Some people have the serendipity to encounter a large number of celebrities in their life, and subsequently become one themselves. Look at Lauren Bacall for example, randomly having tea with Bette Davis as a gangly theater usherette. Or Robert Wagner who packed off to a miserable military boarding school as a kid, met Norma Shearer and stayed over at her house, playing with Irving Jr. during the filming of Marie Antoinette. Hanging out with Shirley Temple in orthodontist waiting rooms or helping Greer Garson on her horse as a groom. And yes, many Bette Davis encounters in his future (as well as Bacall). I wonder if this would have been better if I listened to him narrate the audiobook--I sort of suspect it might be.
But most old movie stars that like to write memoirs turn to the quick chatty memoir--Davis, Crawford--after David Niven turned it into an art form. If I had to pick one word that describes this book it would be: "gallant" -- and it really is, with Robert Wagner popping up to defend the ladies that he (and often Natalie who had been in the business even longer than him) had worked with over the past 80 years. He says at the start that it's not intended to be a negative book and he's true to that--once again the largest scorn is reserved for Raquel Welch (who really must be a bitch, so many autobiographies that are dully nice make an exception for her), Freddie Brisson (which was interesting--the nickname of Lizard of Roz has made me suspect he was unpleasant), and Shelley Winters. If you want they juicy moment of the book, this is it: "I began this book by saying it wouldn't be a procession of negativity, but honesty compels me to say that Shelley was a difficult woman on the best of days, and a massive pain in the ass on the worst of them"
I think Robert genuinely likes and sympathizes with women, and he points out how much harder his costars had it--and I think had some nice analysis too on the ways that the stars of the golden age were a lot luckier than ones today. He points out actresses that were only popular for a short time still had careers longer than many today and with the number of films that were churned out, actors and actresses had a lot more time to hone their craft and shine (see early Cary Grant versus later 2.0 version for example). He also has many good observations on the studio system and how it varied studio by studio--how the stars each studio fashioned, and the "look" that most had--with how different MGM, WB, and Paramount were from each other.
As for Loretta Young, because I know that's a hot topic, his defense of Clark Gable is a little weak. Too classy of a guy? Many of his costars have written about his wandering hands, even if his oblivious wife was on the other side of him, and there's enough of a dark side of Gable reported on for me not to be totally shocked (like I was with I think falsehood on George Brent). Was it date rape? No way to know. Loretta said it was before death. Her asking for the definition of date rape as a little old lady, hearing it, and going "yep, that's what happened to me" makes sense. It partially explains her coldness to her daughter, vomiting when her daughter heard the news of who her dad was, never saying anything really positive about Clark again, only allowing one visit--but then she was also sort of a strange duck in general.
Robert Wagner dated Gloria Swanson's daughter, happily pounced on by the cougars of Stanwyck and Crawford, did charity work with Irene Dunne, helped by Claudette Colbert (and it was nice to once again read something positive about Claudette, sitting through endless takes as Robert keeps blowing his lines without being a jerk about it), taught not to be a jerk by crew's dislike of Betty Hutton, knew fellow Fox stars like Gene Tierney and Linda Darnell, pals with Kate Hepburn, Joan Blondell, Claire Trevor, Jennifer Jones, Ida Lupino, Bette Davis, June Allyson, Thelma Ritter, Maureen Stapleton, Ann Rutherford, Marilyn Monroe, Janet Leigh, Susan Hayward, Joanne Woodward, Lana Turner, Sophia Loren, Liz Taylor, Debbie Reynolds, etc. Wagner knew everybody and has has pretty sweet things to say about them.
Nothing hard hitting, but I awwwed through most of this book--and it makes a palate cleanser to some of the more sleazy and absurd Hollywood histories.
But most old movie stars that like to write memoirs turn to the quick chatty memoir--Davis, Crawford--after David Niven turned it into an art form. If I had to pick one word that describes this book it would be: "gallant" -- and it really is, with Robert Wagner popping up to defend the ladies that he (and often Natalie who had been in the business even longer than him) had worked with over the past 80 years. He says at the start that it's not intended to be a negative book and he's true to that--once again the largest scorn is reserved for Raquel Welch (who really must be a bitch, so many autobiographies that are dully nice make an exception for her), Freddie Brisson (which was interesting--the nickname of Lizard of Roz has made me suspect he was unpleasant), and Shelley Winters. If you want they juicy moment of the book, this is it: "I began this book by saying it wouldn't be a procession of negativity, but honesty compels me to say that Shelley was a difficult woman on the best of days, and a massive pain in the ass on the worst of them"
I think Robert genuinely likes and sympathizes with women, and he points out how much harder his costars had it--and I think had some nice analysis too on the ways that the stars of the golden age were a lot luckier than ones today. He points out actresses that were only popular for a short time still had careers longer than many today and with the number of films that were churned out, actors and actresses had a lot more time to hone their craft and shine (see early Cary Grant versus later 2.0 version for example). He also has many good observations on the studio system and how it varied studio by studio--how the stars each studio fashioned, and the "look" that most had--with how different MGM, WB, and Paramount were from each other.
As for Loretta Young, because I know that's a hot topic, his defense of Clark Gable is a little weak. Too classy of a guy? Many of his costars have written about his wandering hands, even if his oblivious wife was on the other side of him, and there's enough of a dark side of Gable reported on for me not to be totally shocked (like I was with I think falsehood on George Brent). Was it date rape? No way to know. Loretta said it was before death. Her asking for the definition of date rape as a little old lady, hearing it, and going "yep, that's what happened to me" makes sense. It partially explains her coldness to her daughter, vomiting when her daughter heard the news of who her dad was, never saying anything really positive about Clark again, only allowing one visit--but then she was also sort of a strange duck in general.
Robert Wagner dated Gloria Swanson's daughter, happily pounced on by the cougars of Stanwyck and Crawford, did charity work with Irene Dunne, helped by Claudette Colbert (and it was nice to once again read something positive about Claudette, sitting through endless takes as Robert keeps blowing his lines without being a jerk about it), taught not to be a jerk by crew's dislike of Betty Hutton, knew fellow Fox stars like Gene Tierney and Linda Darnell, pals with Kate Hepburn, Joan Blondell, Claire Trevor, Jennifer Jones, Ida Lupino, Bette Davis, June Allyson, Thelma Ritter, Maureen Stapleton, Ann Rutherford, Marilyn Monroe, Janet Leigh, Susan Hayward, Joanne Woodward, Lana Turner, Sophia Loren, Liz Taylor, Debbie Reynolds, etc. Wagner knew everybody and has has pretty sweet things to say about them.
Nothing hard hitting, but I awwwed through most of this book--and it makes a palate cleanser to some of the more sleazy and absurd Hollywood histories.
November 16, 2016
The truth is that the book reads like a series of short Wikipedia entries on the most famous and talented film actresses of the 30s-80s if they were written by someone lucky enough to meet them and know some of their secrets.
Wagner takes on a reverential tone and you can tell that he really did love and respect these women, but there's nothing particularly new or revelatory in the book if you're a fan of classic movies. I knew almost all the facts he presents long before reading so it's not like I learned anything new or interesting. It might be really interesting for someone else, but it missed a bit with me on that note.
It also takes for granted that the reader be informed about Wagner's life. He breezes thru comments or events as if the reader should be familiar with what's being mentioned, but I had no idea what he was referring to most of the time.
What the book does have in its favor is that the before mentioned love that Wagner obviously has for them shines thru every word and it permeates into the narrative to help the reader follow in the example of loving them in the movies.
Mandatory note: Got my copy thru GoodReads' First Reads.
Wagner takes on a reverential tone and you can tell that he really did love and respect these women, but there's nothing particularly new or revelatory in the book if you're a fan of classic movies. I knew almost all the facts he presents long before reading so it's not like I learned anything new or interesting. It might be really interesting for someone else, but it missed a bit with me on that note.
It also takes for granted that the reader be informed about Wagner's life. He breezes thru comments or events as if the reader should be familiar with what's being mentioned, but I had no idea what he was referring to most of the time.
What the book does have in its favor is that the before mentioned love that Wagner obviously has for them shines thru every word and it permeates into the narrative to help the reader follow in the example of loving them in the movies.
Mandatory note: Got my copy thru GoodReads' First Reads.
December 9, 2017
I am the perfect audience for this book, and I was bored. Who, then, is the audience for this book?
Actor Robert Wagner goes loosely by decade and talks about actresses he knew and/or loved. He specifically makes a point of staying away from the negative as much as possible, so there isn't anything in the way of gossip, which is fine, but there aren't more than a handful of behind-the-scenes reminiscences, either. Each actress is given a rough overview of some aspect of her career that Wagner wants to discus; if you are familiar with the actress, you'll know this stuff already, and if you aren't, you probably aren't reading this book.
I was thrilled to see one of my favorite, and now mostly forgotten, actresses, Ruth Chatterton, brought up for discussion, but even that was not enough to make me feel like picking up the book each day. The overly-long chapters made it less of an enticement, too, because I'd never feel as if I was making progress--"still the Forties? Sigh..."
You can skip this one and read Wagner's first memoir, a much more entertaining book.
Actor Robert Wagner goes loosely by decade and talks about actresses he knew and/or loved. He specifically makes a point of staying away from the negative as much as possible, so there isn't anything in the way of gossip, which is fine, but there aren't more than a handful of behind-the-scenes reminiscences, either. Each actress is given a rough overview of some aspect of her career that Wagner wants to discus; if you are familiar with the actress, you'll know this stuff already, and if you aren't, you probably aren't reading this book.
I was thrilled to see one of my favorite, and now mostly forgotten, actresses, Ruth Chatterton, brought up for discussion, but even that was not enough to make me feel like picking up the book each day. The overly-long chapters made it less of an enticement, too, because I'd never feel as if I was making progress--"still the Forties? Sigh..."
You can skip this one and read Wagner's first memoir, a much more entertaining book.
February 17, 2017
This was an enjoyable read. As someone else said in another review you could find most of what was written about these actresses on Wikipedia. While some of this may be true, I believe different. This is different due to the author not only telling us about the actresses, but also telling us his experiences in personally knowing these women not just as actresses but as normal people too. Well worth the read. I was given a copy through a goodreads giveaway.
November 25, 2016
As a long time actor (now 86) he worked with and knew a great many of the actresses from the 30's, 40's, 50's, 60's, etc. He tells interesting stories about them all, mostly good but once in awhile he gets a little gossipy, which is fun to read. If you're a movie fan, you'll love this revealing book about Hollywood and the great ladies who made movies there.
March 30, 2020
This was an entertaining and enlightening book about the actresses from classic Hollywood up to the '80s and a little of present day. I listened to the audiobook and with the way that Robert Wagner narrated, it felt like I was having a fun brunch with him, taking in all the fascinating stories he had to share.
January 12, 2017
In I Loved Her In The Movies, actor Robert Wagner wrote about the women he interacted with during his life and career in Hollywood. The book's description led me to believe that this book would focus on a few famous women in Hollywood that Wagner actually knew and interacted with. While he knew several of the stars discussed, he did not know all of them. Instead, this book was more like a snapshot of every well known actress in Hollywood from the 1930's to the present.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading a small biography of all of my favorite stars, but I didn't get what I thought the book would provide. Namely, an intimate look at these glamorous women through Wagner's own interactions with them. I expected that by focusing on only a handful of women, he would really delve into his experiences with them. I looked forward to reading about their time on set together or how he spent his time with the women in an informal setting. There weren't many of those stories, and when they were present, they were told quickly and without much substance.
For each female described, Wagner talked about their background, rise to fame, and approach to acting. Basically he summarized their lives down to just a few pages while focusing on the details that defined their career. For some actresses it was a desire to be a great actress for others it was their never ending quest to be a star. When he could, he mixed in his personal interactions with them and the impact they had on his life. Those were my favorite parts of the book because I got to know the women in a more personal light.
Even though I had read biographies about many of the stars mentioned here I found the content to be fresh, and thought Wagner's unique approach to retelling their biographies was interesting. This would be an excellent book for someone to pick up who wants to know more about Classic Hollywood starlets but isn't sure whose biography they should start with. I liked this even though it was more expansive and superficial than I anticipated.
Please read more of my reviews on my blog: http://fastpageturner.wordpress.com
or follow me on twitter at @dana_heyde
I thoroughly enjoyed reading a small biography of all of my favorite stars, but I didn't get what I thought the book would provide. Namely, an intimate look at these glamorous women through Wagner's own interactions with them. I expected that by focusing on only a handful of women, he would really delve into his experiences with them. I looked forward to reading about their time on set together or how he spent his time with the women in an informal setting. There weren't many of those stories, and when they were present, they were told quickly and without much substance.
For each female described, Wagner talked about their background, rise to fame, and approach to acting. Basically he summarized their lives down to just a few pages while focusing on the details that defined their career. For some actresses it was a desire to be a great actress for others it was their never ending quest to be a star. When he could, he mixed in his personal interactions with them and the impact they had on his life. Those were my favorite parts of the book because I got to know the women in a more personal light.
Even though I had read biographies about many of the stars mentioned here I found the content to be fresh, and thought Wagner's unique approach to retelling their biographies was interesting. This would be an excellent book for someone to pick up who wants to know more about Classic Hollywood starlets but isn't sure whose biography they should start with. I liked this even though it was more expansive and superficial than I anticipated.
Please read more of my reviews on my blog: http://fastpageturner.wordpress.com
or follow me on twitter at @dana_heyde
March 1, 2017
This book was like a visit with a particularly chatty uncle who had been in the movie business.
Robert Wagner dishes not so much the dirt on the people he net, knew and/or worked with during his extremely long and prodigious career as he speaks of his experiences and observations regarding the many actresses (and to some extent actors, directors and studio executives) with whom he has crossed paths. I found the premise of examining the women within the context of how they succeeded (or not) in a world that viewed them as commodities to be both a bit odd for a non-academic memoir and engaging as it showed a side of a man who is, in addition to being an actor with a remarkable career, a loving husband, father and friend. The big take-away from this book, for me, was that Robert Wagner really likes people and what makes them tick -- in an armchair psychologist sort of way.
The writing was chatty and friendly. The editing could have been a bit tighter as the text rambled in spots but that might have detracted from the feeling that the author was sharing his story directly with you. If you are looking for "true tales" or Hollywood dirt, keep looking. Robert Wagner does not shy away from the unpleasant histories we all are aware of but he does not revel in them. He mentions them, when appropriate, in context and may share an observation or two on the reality of life as he sees it but does so in a gentle and caring manner. Either he is a great actor both on the screen and on the page or he is genuinely a very nice person. Regardless, this was an enjoyable read about Hollywood from one man's perspective.
Robert Wagner dishes not so much the dirt on the people he net, knew and/or worked with during his extremely long and prodigious career as he speaks of his experiences and observations regarding the many actresses (and to some extent actors, directors and studio executives) with whom he has crossed paths. I found the premise of examining the women within the context of how they succeeded (or not) in a world that viewed them as commodities to be both a bit odd for a non-academic memoir and engaging as it showed a side of a man who is, in addition to being an actor with a remarkable career, a loving husband, father and friend. The big take-away from this book, for me, was that Robert Wagner really likes people and what makes them tick -- in an armchair psychologist sort of way.
The writing was chatty and friendly. The editing could have been a bit tighter as the text rambled in spots but that might have detracted from the feeling that the author was sharing his story directly with you. If you are looking for "true tales" or Hollywood dirt, keep looking. Robert Wagner does not shy away from the unpleasant histories we all are aware of but he does not revel in them. He mentions them, when appropriate, in context and may share an observation or two on the reality of life as he sees it but does so in a gentle and caring manner. Either he is a great actor both on the screen and on the page or he is genuinely a very nice person. Regardless, this was an enjoyable read about Hollywood from one man's perspective.
May 15, 2017
most of the film books I usually read don't talk about actresses very much, or at least don't talk about them as positively as this one, unless it's a bio. One of my go to film books, the biographical dictionary of film, which the author, David Thomson, always manages to sound sexist.
But this book by Robert Wagner, whom I don't know anything about and have only seen one of his films manages to put just the right mix of professionalism and personal anecdotes into all the women in his life, so they just come alive as real friends! He doesn't say anything cringeworthy about any of them, and I think there might be almost 100 that he has known either as friends, lovers, acquaintanes, etc. not one mention of Judy garland and I wonder if this is because he just was never in her presence, or her reputation for crazy ness was too messy. (Although I bet if he had to, he would find something endearing to say about her that would put other Judy garland biographers to shame).
If you want a not too thought provoking book that will leave you wanting more, this is the book for you!!
But this book by Robert Wagner, whom I don't know anything about and have only seen one of his films manages to put just the right mix of professionalism and personal anecdotes into all the women in his life, so they just come alive as real friends! He doesn't say anything cringeworthy about any of them, and I think there might be almost 100 that he has known either as friends, lovers, acquaintanes, etc. not one mention of Judy garland and I wonder if this is because he just was never in her presence, or her reputation for crazy ness was too messy. (Although I bet if he had to, he would find something endearing to say about her that would put other Judy garland biographers to shame).
If you want a not too thought provoking book that will leave you wanting more, this is the book for you!!
May 4, 2017
I was pleasantly surprised how respectful and classy this book ended up being. Instead of salacious tear-downs, this book pays homage and tribute to many of the golden ladies of Hollywood. Although not everyone got rave reviews, one of my favorite stories is about how a particular starlet used to be difficult and immature, but grew into a lovely woman; I found the story inspiring for both the actress's growth as well as the author's gracious acknowledgement of such.
Many of the stories are about infamous starlets, but looking up the names of the lesser known actresses was a fun and glamorous trip through history. Some endings were happy, others sad, but all were interesting. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys stories about Classic Hollywood.
Many of the stories are about infamous starlets, but looking up the names of the lesser known actresses was a fun and glamorous trip through history. Some endings were happy, others sad, but all were interesting. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys stories about Classic Hollywood.
May 20, 2018
I found this at my local library and was intrigued. I love the golden age of the movies and was excited to learn about a few actresses that I admired. Robert Wagner reminisces about the early days in his career and the women he shared the screen with. Of course, not all the women he mentioned actually share the screen but he knew them due to the circle of people he socialized with.
It was interesting for the most part but it got to be a little much after a while. Most of the names mentioned I have heard of but there were a few I had not. I thought it was a nice tribute to the actresses that he knew and admired.
It was interesting for the most part but it got to be a little much after a while. Most of the names mentioned I have heard of but there were a few I had not. I thought it was a nice tribute to the actresses that he knew and admired.
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February 15, 2017This book was thoughtfully put together. It showed glimpses of famous legendary stars dating from the 30's through the 80's-on. Lovely pictures of leading ladies are scattered among the stories and bio of each person. Of course, the lovely Natalie Wood, who is always tied to Robert Wagner. A true Hollywood tragedy. Jill St John is now the current wife and has been for more than
thirty years. A surprisingly interesting book of people that touched the life of Robert Wagner from a young age to present day.
A very light read.
thirty years. A surprisingly interesting book of people that touched the life of Robert Wagner from a young age to present day.
A very light read.
November 26, 2019
I enjoyed this collection of stories about Hollywood actresses that Robert Wagner knew and worked with. Interestin, and candid. It's a pleasure to read a book that is positive and not snarky, but yet not Pollyanna-ish. Glad I read it.
Edited to add: evidence points to his murdering his wife, so he is despicable and disgusting. I gave him the benefit of doubt until recently.
Edited to add: evidence points to his murdering his wife, so he is despicable and disgusting. I gave him the benefit of doubt until recently.
July 18, 2018
I've always been a Robert Wagner fan so reading his autobiography was intriguing. I hadn't realized he worked with so many actresses, many much older. He has summed up his rembrances and impressions about some very famous friends but he uses a light touch and does no damage. Fun reading.
January 5, 2019
I Love Her in the Movies is Wagner's tribute to Hollywood's leading ladies of the 30's to the 80's. He tells of his personal and professional interactions with actress such as Sophia Loren, Elizabeth Taylor and more, as casually as if talking about Karen in accounting. He confirms and dispels rumors of affairs, diva behavior, who was manic and who was an alcoholic.
Other than a brief mention of the casting couch, pay gaps and ageism that put actresses at a disadvantage, Wagner does not comment on the long standing abusive behavior that would lead to the 2018 #metoo movement. Nor does he acknowledge the lack of diversity, making the book a lighthearted love letter to the women of Hollywood.
Other than a brief mention of the casting couch, pay gaps and ageism that put actresses at a disadvantage, Wagner does not comment on the long standing abusive behavior that would lead to the 2018 #metoo movement. Nor does he acknowledge the lack of diversity, making the book a lighthearted love letter to the women of Hollywood.
June 30, 2019
Not a kiss and tell all about Hollywood actresses but can be skimmed to hear from Robert Wagner about gals he worked with over his 60 year career. Interesting to see who beat out who for what jobs, who took direction on the set the best, and who made good/bad decisions in their personal lives. Fun summer read.
February 22, 2025
Interesting book. Nothing fantastic but interesting. Wagner seemed to be more reflective of Hollywood women and it almost felt like I was listening to the biography channel. Of his few personal accounts of these women I was intrigued.
May 9, 2022
Was interesting, but at times it seems like it would jump from one person to another an back again. it was still interesting but at times I found my mind was wandering.
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