Vanguard of Hollywood

Hollywood and the Movies of the Fifties with Foster Hirsch

In this interview special, Shannon welcomes back film historian Foster Hirsch to discuss his new book, Hollywood and the Movies of the Fifties. Listen to discover which mogul saved Hollywood, if the blacklist could have been avoided, and what Jimmy Stewart and Marlon Brando have in common.

A Lucky Interview with Mimi Gibson

In this special episode, Shannon interviews Mimi Gibson, one of the most sought-after child actresses of the 1950s and 1960s. Mimi is best known as the voice of Lucky in 101 Dalmatians (1961) and as Cary Grant's daughter in Houseboat (1958). Listen as Mimi shares her stories and experiences from working during the most exciting time in movies and television, and her post-acting work to better the lives of today's working kids in Hollywood.

The Importance of Thank You Notes: A Lesson from Jackie Robinson

Classic baseball history and a thank you note written by Jackie Robinson inspire this episode about the importance of giving thanks.

Joe E. Brown: Hollywood’s Nicest Guy

Shannon offers a birthday tribute to comedian and actor Joe E. Brown, Hollywood's nicest guy

Hud (1963), Pat Neal’s Oscar, and Newman’s Villain

Paul Newman ages youthfully, Patricia Neal wins the Oscar, and Paul was not mean to Patricia. From 1963, it's Hud.

Paul Newman Was Not Mean to Patricia Neal. Here’s Why It Matters

Was Paul Newman mean to Patricia Neal? Shannon's research reveals the truth and why a rumor has been accepted as fact for decades.

The Long, Hot Summer (1958) & The Newmans

 Paul Newman Almost Fails in Hollywood, Orson Welles Hates the Method, Joanne Wins an Oscar, & the Newmans Put Their Marriage First. It's The Long, Hot Summer (1958).

Paul Newman: Old Hollywood Class and Modern Cool

Paul Newman goes to Yale, Sells Encyclopedias, Races Cars, Gets Better with Age, and Prefers Steak at Home.  Join Shannon for her birthday tribute to Paul Newman.

Was Vera-Ellen Anorexic in White Christmas (1954)?

Was Vera-Ellen Anorexic in White Christmas (1954)? Here's what we know about Vera-Ellen's complicated relationship with food and body image.

They Are Wisest: O. Henry’s ”The Gift of the Magi”

Shannon reveals the story behind the answer to yesterday's trivia question and recites one of her favorite Christmas stories: O. Henry's "The Gift of the Magi"