Fascinating ten-year archive of correspondence from Joan Crawford to fan Robert R. Jean, comprising twenty TLS signed “Joan Crawford” and two signed “Joan,” each one page on her personal letterhead, 1951–1961. Crawford, well known among fans as a gracious and loyal correspondent, sends thanks, friendly greetings, and news of her personal life, travels, and career. The period covered includes her marriage to Pepsi CEO Alfred Steele (and her role as “ambassador” for the soft drink giant), as well as her work on several films, including her famous turn as tough-as-nails saloon owner Vienna in the Nicholas Ray–directed classic Johnny Guitar. Some highlights follow. March 7, 1953: “I am so busy from morning until night as I am getting ready to go into production on my next picture Lisbon. I love it at Paramount Studio and know I will enjoy making the picture.” February 3, 1954: “I have completed my western picture [Johnny Guitar] and will be anxious for your comments.” November 11, 1954: “Right now I am so happy for I will be in production this month. We are making Female on the Beach at U. I. with Jeff Chandler in the male lead. I adore making films so you know how thrilled I am to follow this with The Queen Bee and then The Way We Are…. I’m so grateful for your comments on Johnny Guitar.” July 16, 1955: “I loved Europe and had a wonderful vacation. I only wish everyone in the world could be as happy as I am now, and intend to be—always. I will be back in production next month at Columbia Studio.” August 23, 1955: “I was so thrilled to see the children. We did have a few days together before I returned to Columbia for my picture, The Way We Are.” March 24, 1956: “My husband and I had a delightful time in Jamaica. We thought Montego Bay and the Half Moon Hotel, where we stayed, were beautiful beyond belief.” May 31, 1956: “We are so thrilled over our new apartment. Mr. Haines’ men are planning to tear down some walls, make big rooms out of little ones, build terraces, etc. [the lavish renovation of Crawford’s New York apartment was memorably depicted in the biopic Mommie Dearest]…. I am so busy now as I am having fittings for thirty-eight costumes for the Story of Esther Costello.” July 11, 1956: “The children are in summer camp now. Cynthia and Cathy [Crawford’s adopted twins] and their governess will fly to London to spend the month of August with me.” March 25, 1958: “In April we will attend the opening of the Brussels World’s Fair, and then go on to South Africa and the Middle East on a business trip for Pepsi-Cola.” February 28, 1961: “I have been to Barbados where I did nothing but eat, sleep, read and swim…. I plan on doing some television work in the near future.” Accompanied by the original mailing envelopes. A few trivial instances of mild toning and paperclip impressions, otherwise very fine, clean condition. R&R COA.
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