Just for Fun: Gone with the Wind Screen Tests

Just for Fun: the Many ‘Potential’ Faces of Scarlett…

As many of us know, the casting for Gone with the Wind was quite an endeavor. Many actresses were considered for the much-sought-after role of Scarlett, and about 30 actually screen-tested for it, including Tallulah Bankhead, Lana Turner and Susan Hayward. Although different actresses were serious contenders at different times, by December 1938, four actresses were still in the running… Paulette Goddard, Vivien Leigh, Joan Bennett and Jean Arthur (apparently in that order).  Of course, we all know that Leigh won the coveted role, the announcement being made in January 1939 — but it is interesting to note that Goddard almost won the part and, if she would have been able to produce a copy of her marriage license to Charlie Chaplin, it is widely believed that Goddard would have been Scarlett instead of Leigh!

That said, here’s a wonderful video that includes some Gone with the Wind screen tests… Your thoughts???

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–Annmarie for Classic Movie Hub