Are you a fan of classic Hollywood films? Honestly, even if you are under the age of 18, the chances are high that you love a few of these iconic movies. Gone with the Wind, The Wizard of Oz, Bringing Up Baby, The King and I are just a few of the gorgeous films the California studio produced during its heyday. Ranging from epics to lighthearted comedies, these movies will forever hold a special place in our hearts. However, there is a much darker side to some of these films that we may not have realized. So, how would you feel if you found out that actors and actresses were high while filming some of the most memorable scenes in art history? Some of you might be shocked. Others not so much. Let’s take a closer look at some dark secrets about drug addiction during the Golden Age of Hollywood.
Teens and Kids Pushing Pills
In her memoirs (published in 2013), the late actress Debbie Reynolds provided a detailed account about the popularity of drugs in filmmaking. After being cast as Kathy Selden in Singin’ in the Rain, the then-19-year old actress had been partnered with screen legend Gene Kelly. She was required to match every step he made. Later, she was instructed to get “vitamin shots”, better known as pep pills or amphetamines. Reynolds described pep pills as the same poison that killed Judy Garland. After seeking help from her doctor, Reynolds believes her life was saved from taking the same turn.
According to actress Shirley Temple, the situation was even worse for child actors. During that time, children were required to be subjected to rigorous labor laws preventing “overworking,” but Hollywood directors pushed the envelope one too many times. As Elizabeth Taylor points out, this was a far cry from the situation at MGM. It was truly one of the dark secrets of Hollywood.
Falling into Despair
Another young star who suffered from drug addiction during the Golden Age was Judy Garland. She was best known for playing Dorothy Gale in The Wizard of Oz. While filming her movies, Garland’s mother gave her a series of “pep pills,”. Those of which were also consumed by fellow actor Mickey Rooney. Afterward, both of them were taken to a hospital to be sedated before being given pep pills to work 72 hours straight.
Addiction Help in Los Angeles
Always remember that drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation. They are ready to guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504. Learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
