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The Duke. Duke Wayne died on this date in 1979, 44 years ago. “Talk low," he said, "talk slow, and don't say too much.” A man's man: "I want to play a real man in all my films, and I define manhood simply: men should be tough, fair and courageous, never petty, never looking for a fight, but never backing down from one either." He dominated cinema by innately knowing what was in American hearts: God Bless John Wayne. God Bless America.

Actress and novelist Mary Astor was born on May 3rd, 1906. In making the 1941 movie “The Great Lie”, Bette Davis insisted that a difficult to cast role be given to Astor because Davis liked to work with good actresses who would bring out the best in her. Astor understood this type of risk taking, as opposed to dull self-protective caution, later writing: “Our security must be threatened in order for us to appreciate it.” Astor won the movie's only award, the supporting actress Oscar for her portrayal of pianist Sandra Kovak. In her acceptance speech, Astor thanked Bette Davis...

Did Hollywood or The Sixties or both drive either or both of these babes to their deaths? .......... Popular but lonely. Stars. Inger was 35. Gia was 38. Such a waste.