A tribute to Constance Bennet
Born into theatrical royalty in 1904 in New York City, this natural-born talent was the eldest of three and would later in the 1930’s become enormously popular as a stage, film, radio and television actress. Her parents, stage matinee idol Richard Bennett and actress and literary agent Adrienne Morrison, had 2 more daughters, including Joan Bennet. Together these girls would become the fifth generation of actors on their mother's side of the family. Because of her pedigree and grooming, Constance possessed a self-assurance and chutzpa that was rarely seen in women of her generation. Known to be assertive with studio heads and press, she negotiated shrewdly, like the clever businesswoman she was. Her agent’s fees and even income tax was paid for up front on top of her generous salary, making her a top-earning actress for a time. It would have been rare for a man to accomplish such a feat and unheard of for a woman, but if Constance didn’t get what she wanted, she simply walked away. That woman was aware of her value. It is also said that she was a highly skilled poker player who would join in all-men games and usually win. Having inherited her father’s photographic memory, it appears she used it for more than just memorizing scripts. Constance invested well becoming a very wealthy woman, eventually starting her own clothing and cosmetic company. “If an unsympathetic role is more powerful and human than that of a likable heroine, I prefer it.” ~Constance Bennet