The Shocking Truth: The Most Infamous Scandals in Hollywood History

The Fatty Arbuckle Scandal (1921)

One of the earliest scandals to rock Hollywood involved silent film superstar, Fatty Arbuckle. Arbuckle’s career came to a screeching halt in 1921 after he was accused of raping and accidentally killing actress Virginia Rappe at a drunken party. Despite being acquitted of all charges, Arbuckle’s reputation was forever tarnished.

The Roscoe “Fatty” Arbuckle Scandal (1920s)

Following the scandalous death of Virginia Rappe, a group by the name Women’s Committee on Public Morals attempted to clean up Hollywood. Secrecy and infiltration of Hollywood’s private affairs were some of the ways the committee used to carry out their objectives.

The Clark Gable Affair (1940s)

Clark Gable was one of the most iconic and handsome actors of his generation, but behind the scenes, he was also quite the womanizer. In 1941, Gable had an affair with actress and dancer Joan Crawford while filming their movie, “Strange Cargo.” Crawford’s co-star, Franchot Tone, was so angered by the fling that the two men reportedly came to blows on set.

The Marilyn Monroe Affair (1960s)

Marilyn Monroe was one of Hollywood’s biggest stars of this era. In late 1962, Monroe died of a drug overdose, most likely self-inflicted, that shocked the world and left many theories to circulate regarding her death.

The Woody Allen Scandal (1990)

One of the most notorious Hollywood scandals of the 90s was centered around filmmaker Woody Allen, who was accused by his ex-partner, Mia Farrow, of molesting their daughter, Dylan. While Allen was never criminally charged, the scandal left a black eye on his reputation and sparked a larger conversation about sexual abuse in Hollywood.

The Bill Cosby Scandal (2010s)

In 2014, a series of allegations regarding sexual assault by then-top TV performer Bill Cosby became popular news around the world casting a harsh spotlight, once more, on Hollywood figures’ alleged abuses of power. Cosby was convicted in 2018 and is currently serving prison time.

Conclusion

Hollywood has had its fair share of scandals over the years, with many high-profile actors, directors, and producers finding themselves in hot water. While some scandals may be forgotten over time, others continue to be remembered for decades, demonstrating just how deeply ingrained these issues are in the entertainment industry.