Vivien Leigh Cast as Scarlett O'Hara in Gone With The Wind

Name: Vivien Leigh Cast as Scarlett O'Hara in Gone With The Wind
Start: 1938-12-25
Location: Unspecified

The Historic Announcement of Vivien Leigh

Vivien Leigh’s Role as Scarlett O'Hara

In 1938, the renowned director George Cukor made a monumental announcement that would change cinema history forever: Vivien Leigh was set to portray the iconic character of Scarlett O'Hara in the cinematic adaptation of Margaret Mitchell's novel, Gone With The Wind. This casting choice sparked excitement and debate, as the world was eager to see how this British actress would embody the fiery Southern belle.

Vivien Leigh’s Preparation for the Role

To prepare for the role of Scarlett O'Hara, Vivien Leigh immersed herself in the character's complex personality. She portrayed Scarlett as a strong, determined woman, battling the societal constraints of the Civil War era. Leigh's commitment to understanding the character brought depth to her performance, earning her widespread acclaim.

The Impact of the Casting Decision

The Cultural Significance of Scarlett O'Hara

Scarlett O'Hara is not just a character; she became a symbol of resilience and determination. Gone With The Wind depicts the trials of the South during the Civil War and has since become a significant cultural touchstone. The decision to cast Vivien Leigh helped to solidify the film’s legacy, as her portrayal captivated audiences worldwide.

Reactions to the Casting of Vivien Leigh

The announcement of Vivien Leigh as Scarlett O'Hara was met with mixed feelings. Some fans were excited to see a new face take on the role, while others questioned how a British actress could authentically represent a Southern character. However, Leigh's performance ultimately quelled the doubts, turning her into a household name and an eternal icon of American cinema.

Fun Fact

Vivien Leigh's Journey to Stardom

Before landing the role of Scarlett O'Hara, Vivien Leigh was relatively unknown in Hollywood. She had previously achieved acclaim in the UK for her stage performances, but it was her portrayal of Scarlett that catapulted her to international fame.