The Bette Davis and Joan Crawford Feud: A Tale of Rivalry and Independence

Long before the iconic film "Baby Jane" (1962), the legendary actresses Bette Davis and Joan Crawford were not just rivals but bitter enemies. This essay delves into the roots of the Bette Davis and Joan Crawford feud, exploring the reasons behind their mutual disdain and the lasting impact of their long-standing animosity on Hollywood history.

The Origins of the Feud

Bette Davis and Joan Crawford were both immensely talented actresses with their own unique style and star power. However, their paths to fame and recognition took different routes, which contributed to the tension between them. Crawford, with her commanding presence and glamorous image, was a star at Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) in the 1930s and 1940s, consistently topping the studios’ box office success. By the time Davis joined Warner Bros. in 1941, she had already earned a formidable reputation, but their careers were distinctly rooted in different companies.

The story of how the feud began is complex and multifaceted. Crawford, after being dropped by MGM, decided to join Warner Bros., where Davis was already a leading star. This move likely caused Davis to feel that her position and stardom were being threatened, fueling a deep-seated jealousy and resentment. When Crawford debuted at Warner Bros., it was a direct challenge to Davis's dominance, leading to a escalating rivalry that would define the latter years of their careers.

The Personal Struggles and Ego

Both women were known for their egocentric tendencies, but Davis's jealousy knew no bounds. Crawford, a relentless self-promoter, often received the spotlight for her glamorous lifestyle and public persona, even when Davis's own work was equally praiseworthy. Crawford's penchant for emotional drama and her relationships with long-time friend Barbara Stanwyck as well as others who were not as genuine as she believed, further complicated their dynamics. Barbara, a close friend of Crawford's, was also known to be quite dramatic, adding to the volatile atmosphere.

Davis, on the other hand, was rumored to be even more envious and unhappy when she discovered that her former co-star and lover, Errol Flynn, was more interested in Joan Crawford. This personal rejection and missed opportunity only heightened Davis's feelings of inadequacy and resentment. In Davis's later years, she admitted to feelings of self-loathing, further emphasizing the depth of her emotional turmoil.

The Hollywood Feud in Popular Culture

Their feud eventually made its way into popular culture through various media, including the critically acclaimed miniseries "Feud" (2015). Directed by Ralph Feuerman and starring Jessica Lange as Crawford and Susan Sarandon as Davis, the miniseries provided a nuanced look into their relationship and the longevity of their animosity. The storyline, while dramatized, captured the essence of their on-screen and off-screen battles, making it a compelling watch for fans of both actresses.

One of the most notable adaptations of their feud was the 1962 film "Whatever Happened to Baby Jane?" directed by Robert Aldrich. The film starred Joan Crawford and Bette Davis, and while it may not have started there, it certainly amplified the conflict. The movie, which is a psychological horror flick, is a stark and intense portrayal of their on-screen rivalry, featuring sophisticated performances and visually striking scenes.

Legally and Ethically Challenged

Even in modern times, the legacy of the Davis-Crawford feud remains controversial. The 2017 miniseries "Feud" faced legal challenges, with Olivia de Haviland, another actress at the center of the drama, objecting to her portrayal by Catherine Zeta-Jones. This led to the series being pulled from streaming services. The Supreme Court declined to hear the case, and it remains a contentious issue. However, the legal challenges only serve to underscore the continuing interest and historical significance of their feud.

Whether or not these portrayals are entirely accurate, they provide a fascinating glimpse into the complex dynamics of Hollywood in the mid-20th century. The Davis-Crawford feud stands as a testament to the cutthroat world of entertainment, where personal and professional egos often collide with dramatic and lasting consequences.

Amidst the drama and contention, both Davis and Crawford were undeniably formidable talents, contributing significantly to the golden age of cinema. Their lives, marked by both success and tragedy, continue to captivate audiences today, providing endless material for discussions and analyses of talent, rivalry, and the business of Hollywood.