10 Forgotten Scandals from the 1960s Hollywood Scene

The 1960s was an era of glamor and rebellion, with Hollywood stars making headlines for both their talents and controversial off-screen lives. Some scandals were swept under the rug, while others briefly shocked fans. Here are ten forgotten Hollywood scandals that reveal a different side of the stars of the 1960s.

1. Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton’s Scandalous Romance

Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton’s romance was a whirlwind that began on the set of Cleopatra while both were married to others. Their affair caused a scandal worldwide, with the Vatican even condemning it publicly.

Despite the outrage, the two continued their love affair, ultimately divorcing their respective spouses. They married and divorced each other twice, making their relationship one of the most talked-about of the decade. Their intense relationship brought as much media attention as their acclaimed acting.

2. Judy Garland’s Troubling Studio Contracts

Judy Garland, one of Hollywood’s biggest stars, was under immense pressure from her film studio, MGM. To maintain her “girl-next-door” image, the studio allegedly encouraged diet pills, which affected her health and well-being.

Her struggles with addiction and mental health issues were rumored in Hollywood but hidden from the public. Garland’s experiences reflected the darker side of studio contracts during the 1960s, as studios often controlled stars’ public images at any cost.

3. Rock Hudson’s Secret Life

Rock Hudson was one of Hollywood’s leading men, but his personal life was a well-kept secret. During a time when being openly gay could end a career, Hudson’s sexuality was hidden by carefully managed public relationships.

Behind closed doors, he faced immense pressure to maintain his Hollywood heartthrob image. The secrets he kept revealed the lengths actors went to in order to protect their careers in an era of rigid social norms.

4. Marilyn Monroe’s Presidential Connections

Marilyn Monroe’s alleged affairs with both President John F. Kennedy and his brother Robert made her one of the decade’s most mysterious figures. While rumors circulated, the truth behind her relationships with the Kennedys was never fully confirmed.

Her sudden death in 1962 fueled even more speculation, with conspiracy theories about her connections to the political world. Monroe’s links to the Kennedy family added an air of mystery to her already glamorous and troubled life.

5. Errol Flynn’s Legal Troubles

Errol Flynn was a major star, but his off-screen life attracted as much attention as his films. In the early 1960s, he faced accusations of statutory crimes, which severely damaged his career and reputation.

Though he was eventually acquitted, the scandal stayed with him, and he struggled to restore his image afterward. Flynn’s legal troubles became an unfortunate chapter that followed him until his untimely death.

6. Alfred Hitchcock’s Obsession with Tippi Hedren

Director Alfred Hitchcock had a troubling fixation on actress Tippi Hedren, whom he cast in The Birds. He allegedly attempted to control every aspect of her life, and she later accused him of harassment.

Hedren’s claims revealed a darker side of Hitchcock, tarnishing his reputation as a legendary director. The scandal highlighted the challenges faced by actresses under powerful directors in the 1960s film industry.

7. Natalie Wood’s Mysterious Drowning Incident

Natalie Wood’s tragic drowning in 1961 has remained one of Hollywood’s most perplexing mysteries. Wood had been on a yacht with her husband, Robert Wagner, and co-star Christopher Walken, sparking countless theories and questions.

The circumstances surrounding her death were never fully explained, leading to rumors that still linger. Her untimely passing became a part of Hollywood lore, reminding the world of the darker side of fame and fortune.

8. Peter O’Toole’s On-Set Drinking

Peter O’Toole was known for his incredible talent—and his hard drinking. During the filming of Lawrence of Arabia, he reportedly drank heavily, which led to tension on set and affected his performance.

Despite his behavior, O’Toole delivered an iconic performance, though his drinking became a lasting part of his legacy. His issues with alcohol were no secret and later became a well-known part of his Hollywood image.

9. Frank Sinatra and the Mafia Rumors

Frank Sinatra’s alleged connections to the mafia were frequently discussed but rarely proven. The singer’s friendships with influential figures sparked controversy, adding a dangerous allure to his public image.

Sinatra faced numerous rumors, but he always denied any direct involvement with organized crime. Despite the whispers, his music career flourished, though the mafia rumors followed him throughout his life.

10. Jayne Mansfield’s Publicity Stunts

Jayne Mansfield was a Hollywood bombshell known for pushing boundaries. Her publicity stunts, like attending events in revealing outfits, often raised eyebrows and stirred controversy.

Mansfield’s need for attention led her to make bold moves that some considered scandalous. Her stunts showcased the lengths stars would go to stay in the public eye, even if it meant defying traditional Hollywood standards.