Written by: Thomas Blackwood

Evelyn Keyes: The Unsung Heroine of Hollywood's Golden Age

Evelyn Keyes, the sultry, Southern belle of Hollywood's Golden Age, is best remembered for her iconic portrayal of Suellen O'Hara in the 1939 epic historical romance, Gone with the Wind. This role catapulted her to stardom, earning her a permanent place in the annals of cinematic history.

Early Life and Discovery

Born on November 20, 1916, in Port Arthur, Texas, Evelyn Louise Keyes was the daughter of Omar Dow Keyes, a Methodist minister, and Maude Ollive Keyes. After her father's untimely death when she was just three years old, Keyes moved to Atlanta, Georgia, with her mother, where they lived with her grandparents. Her early life was marked by hardship and tragedy, including a traumatic experience of sexual molestation at the age of five.

Rise to Fame

Despite the challenges she faced, Keyes found solace in dance and performance. She took dancing lessons as a teenager and performed for local clubs, eventually becoming a chorus girl by the age of 18. Her big break came when she was introduced to Cecil B. DeMille, who signed her to a personal contract without even making a screen test.

Breakthrough Roles and Notable Performances

Keyes' early film career saw her starring in a handful of B-movies at Paramount Pictures before landing the role of Suellen O'Hara in Gone with the Wind. Although she initially auditioned for the part of Scarlett O'Hara, her Southern charm and accent won her the role of Scarlett's younger sister. This breakout performance led to a contract with Columbia Pictures, where she went on to star in a string of successful films, including Here Comes Mr. Jordan (1941), The Jolson Story (1946), and The Mating of Millie (1948).

Personal Life and Later Years

Keyes' personal life was marked by tumultuous relationships and struggles with depression. She officially retired from film in 1956, although she continued to act intermittently. Her autobiography, Scarlett O'Hara's Younger Sister, published in 1977, offered a candid look at her life, including her experiences as a woman in Hollywood and her struggles with mental health.

Legacy and Impact

Evelyn Keyes' contribution to Hollywood's Golden Age is undeniable. Her performances continue to captivate audiences, and her iconic portrayal of Suellen O'Hara remains an integral part of cinematic history. As a symbol of Southern charm and femininity, Keyes' legacy extends beyond her film career, inspiring generations of actresses and filmmakers alike.

Trivia and Fun Facts

• Evelyn Keyes was a natural blonde, but she dyed her hair brunette for her role in Gone with the Wind.
• She was a talented dancer and performed in several musical numbers throughout her film career.
• Keyes was known for her striking features and was often cast as the femme fatale or ingénue in her films.

In conclusion, Evelyn Keyes' life and legacy are a testament to the enduring power of Hollywood's Golden Age. Her remarkable performances, coupled with her striking beauty and Southern charm, have cemented her place as one of the most beloved and unsung heroines of Hollywood's Golden Age.