Hollywood’s Unrevealed Tale: Humphrey Bogart’s 17-Year Relationship with His Wig Maker

In the realms of Hollywood romance, the saga of Bogie and Bacall reigns as one of the most iconic love stories.

The tough and charismatic Humphrey Bogart and the seductive femme fatale Lauren Bacall set ablaze the silver screen in four unforgettable films.

Beyond the glamour of their on-screen chemistry, their off-screen bond endured for 12 years, from 1945 to 1957, as they navigated the highs and lows of marriage.

Yet, concealed from the prying eyes of movie buffs, existed another significant chapter in Bogart's personal life.

Verita Bouvaire Thompson, a spirited brunette with a penchant for revelry that matched Bogart's own, shared a clandestine 17-year affair with the legendary actor.

Their liaison commenced two years prior to Bogart's encounter with Bacall on the set of ‘To Have and Have Not' in 1944 and persisted until his passing in 1957.

This well-guarded secret was unveiled to the world through Thompson's revealing memoir in 1982, titled ‘Bogie and Me: A Love Story.'

Thompson, a feisty individual who once humorously labeled herself as “Bacall's worst nightmare,” entered this world in Arizona, born to an Irish father and a Mexican mother.

Initially, she aspired to dazzle in the limelight of Hollywood after securing a contract.

However, a twist of fate led her to Mexico City following an unfortunate horse-riding incident during a Western shoot, where she crossed paths with a French wig-maker aspiring to establish himself in the U.S. Serendipity struck, and the duo decided to embark on a professional journey together.

Immersing herself in beauty school, Thompson ascended to become a highly sought-after hairstylist in Hollywood, catering to numerous actresses and even aiding follically-challenged leading men such as Charles Boyer, Ray Milland, and Gary Cooper.

The serendipitous encounter between Thompson and Bogart transpired at a celebratory wrap party for ‘Casablanca,' held at Warner Bros. studio.

Actress Ann Sheridan, a mutual acquaintance, extended an invite to Thompson, catching Bogart's eye instantly.

Despite both being entangled in marital unions — Bogart with his tumultuous third wife, May Methot, and Thompson with film technician Robert Peterson — they embarked on a passionate affair.

Following the dissolution of their respective marriages, a shocking revelation shook Thompson in 1945 when Bogart swiftly wed his 20-year-old co-star, Betty Bacall.

Surprisingly, their clandestine relationship persisted, shrouded in secrecy to evade the repercussions of infidelity prevalent in that era.

Thompson's role as a wig-maker served as a convenient cover for their liaison, allowing her to accompany Bogart discreetly.

Carrying a collection of meticulously named hairpieces, including the ‘Cocktail Wig' and the ‘Shaggy Wig,' Thompson discreetly supported Bogart's toupee needs.

Their association, veiled under the guise of a professional relationship, shielded them from prying eyes.

Despite the eventual end of their affair due to Thompson's marriage to producer Walter Thompson in 1955, she maintained a friendship with the couple until Bogart's demise in 1957.

Thompson's enduring connection with Bogart culminated in a poignant moment as he bid her farewell, entrusting her with the care of his treasured boat, the Santana.

Following her husband's passing in 1975, Thompson transitioned into the realm of hospitality, establishing ‘Verita's La Cantina' in Sunset Boulevard.

Eventually relocating to New Orleans, she inaugurated a piano bar, ‘Bogie and Me,' in 1982, cementing her legacy amidst the backdrop of Bogart's memory.

In the face of adversity during Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Thompson defiantly stood her ground, echoing her resilient spirit by asserting, “Katrina won't force me out of New Orleans.”

Her unwavering resolve endured until her peaceful passing in 2008 at the age of 89, reuniting her with her cherished companion, Bogart, in the great beyond.