In a tragic turn of events, beloved film actor Carole Landis has taken her own life after her lover, fellow actor Rex Harrison, refused to leave his wife, Lilli Palmer, for her.
Despite the affair, Harrison denies any responsibility for Landis's death and continues to enjoy a successful career in film.
Carole Landis, known for her beauty, intelligence, and ability to sing her own songs without dubbing, seemed to have it all.
However, her love life was plagued by four failed marriages and numerous unsuccessful affairs.
One of these affairs was with the notorious Rex Harrison, who was married to Lilli Palmer at the time.
Despite their connection, Harrison chose not to divorce Palmer and marry Landis.
The youngest of five children, Landis came from a broken home and experienced the tragic loss of two brothers during her childhood.
Fascinated by the glamour of Hollywood, she moved to California with her family and quickly became enamored with the entertainment industry.
Determined to become a star, Landis dropped out of school at a young age and pursued various jobs to save money.
Eventually, Landis made her way to San Francisco, where she changed her name, dyed her hair blonde, and started landing roles as a dancer and singer.
She even worked alongside renowned choreographer Busby Berkeley and had a contract with Warner Bros.
Despite her rising success, rumors of her past as a call girl hindered her relationship with Berkeley.
Landis's breakthrough role came in the Hal Roach production “One Million B.C.”
(1940), where she played a cave girl and showcased her stunning figure.
Although the film had a low budget, it received Oscar nominations for its special effects and musical score.
Landis's personal life continued to face challenges, with another failed marriage and high-profile relationships with Charles Chaplin, Victor Mature, George Montgomery, and Cesar Romero.
During World War II, Landis actively participated in war-bond rallies, flew with the Civilian Air Patrol, and entertained soldiers at the Hollywood Canteen.
She even traveled to Europe and North Africa alongside other celebrities to boost morale among U.S. troops.
Landis chronicled her experiences in a book titled “Four Jills in a Jeep,” which was later adapted into a film featuring herself and other Hollywood stars.
In 1945, Landis appeared in a musical comedy on Broadway and developed a close relationship with future novelist Jacqueline Susann.
Some believe that Susann's best-selling novel “Valley of the Dolls” was inspired by Landis, while others argue it was based on Marilyn Monroe.
Regardless, Landis continued to face personal challenges, including her turbulent relationship with Rex Harrison.
Harrison, already married to Lilli Palmer, engaged in a passionate affair with Landis.
Their relationship gained public attention, and many speculated that they would eventually marry.
However, their love affair took a tragic turn when Landis learned that Harrison would be returning to England for a play.
Filled with despair, she tragically took her own life, leaving behind letters from Harrison.
Upon discovering Landis's body, Harrison promptly burned the letters and claimed that there was no romantic involvement between them.
Lilli Palmer expressed her love for Harrison and defended their happy marriage.
The coroner's inquest attracted significant media attention, but Harrison testified that he had no knowledge of why Landis would choose to end her life.
Carole Landis's funeral was attended by thousands of people, including Harrison and Palmer.
Despite their attempts to avoid the press and public, their presence did not go unnoticed.
The tragic loss of Carole Landis leaves behind a legacy of talent and beauty, but also serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of unrequited love.
