Alfred Hitchcock’s Controversial Conduct on Set Exposed

The Dark Side of the Legendary Director's Filmmaking Style

Alfred Hitchcock, the renowned director, was known for his exceptional talent in the world of cinema.

However, behind the scenes, his behavior and treatment towards actors has been a subject of much discussion.

While some argue that he had good relationships with certain actors, others have revealed a tyrannical and alarming side to his filmmaking.

One actress who experienced the darker side of Hitchcock's directing was Tippi Hedren, the leading lady in “The Birds” and “Marnie.”

In her memoir titled “Tippi,” published in 2016, she disclosed the terrifying experiences she encountered while working with the acclaimed director.

According to The Guardian, Hedren claimed that Hitchcock had an unhealthy obsession with her, forbidding other cast members from socializing with her.

In one disturbing incident, he even attempted to kiss her forcefully during a limo ride.

The aftermath of this encounter was equally distressing for Hedren.

The following day on the set of “The Birds,” she was met with a horrifying surprise.

A mechanical bird shattered a glass window, resulting in a shard flying into her face.

To her horror, she discovered that a live bird was attached to her shoulder, which nearly pecked her eye.

Throughout the filming, real birds were thrown at her, causing actual cuts and injuries, as reported by The Guardian.

Despite these traumatic experiences, Hedren found herself under a seven-year contract with Hitchcock, leaving her with little choice but to continue working with him.

Indie Wire reveals that during the filming of “Marnie,” the director exerted control over her personal and professional life.

He prevented her from collecting a Photoplay award from Johnny Carson on “The Tonight Show” and even blocked Universal from submitting her performance in the movie for an Oscar consideration.

In her memoir, Hedren also alludes to an incident in Hitchcock's office where he allegedly assaulted her, describing it as a perverse and repulsive act.

Hedren's account is not the only one that sheds light on Hitchcock's questionable methods.

Janet Leigh, who starred in “Psycho,” disclosed that the director personally stabbed at her with a prop knife during the famous shower scene to elicit a genuine reaction.

This ordeal left Leigh with a lasting fear of showers, according to Screenwriting in LA.

Furthermore, other actresses have come forward with similar experiences.

Brigitte Auber, who appeared in “To Catch A Thief,” revealed that Hitchcock had also attempted a forced kiss with her in a car, echoing the accusations made by Hedren.

She expressed her disappointment, stating that their relationship was entirely different from what she had anticipated.

According to an account in Lithub, Auber mentioned that she had heard of two other actresses who encountered similar issues with Hitchcock.

Alfred Hitchcock's on-set behavior has undoubtedly sparked controversy and debate.

While some argue that he was simply employing unconventional methods to elicit authentic performances, others condemn his actions as tyrannical and abusive.

Regardless of the truth behind these claims, one thing remains certain: the legendary director's conduct will forever be remembered as a complex and unsettling aspect of his filmmaking legacy.