Throwback Thursday: Errol Flynn’s Controversial Statutory Rape Trial in 1934

Long before the recent accusations against Bryan Singer, Hollywood was captivated by the notorious statutory rape trial of Errol Flynn in 1943.

Flynn, a 33-year-old actor, was accused by two 17-year-olds, Peggy Satterlee and Betty Hansen.

Flynn, known for his fondness for young women, expressed bewilderment at the accusations, claiming he had hardly touched Hansen.

He was released on $1,000 bail while the trial gained significant media attention.

Some suspected that the charges were motivated by Warner Bros.' failure to provide sufficient kickbacks to local police, according to Kenneth Anger's book “Hollywood Babylon.”

Jerry Geisler, Flynn's powerful attorney, attempted to discredit the girls by revealing their past affairs with married men and abortions.

After deliberating for 13 hours, the jury, consisting of nine women and three men, returned a not-guilty verdict.

Satterlee revealed her disappointment in the outcome, believing that the female jurors were biased towards Flynn.

Despite the legal ordeal, Flynn's attraction to young women persisted.

During the trial, he met 19-year-old Nora Eddington, who worked at a snack bar in the court complex and was the daughter of a Los Angeles County Sheriff's captain.

They soon married in 1944 after Eddington became pregnant.

Flynn continued his relationships with younger women, including Beverly Aadland, whom he met when she was just 15.

Arthur Hiller, who directed Flynn in a NBC drama shortly before his death, remembers the actor as someone who struggled with alcohol and memory loss.

Despite his problems, Flynn was still seen as a nice guy with a complicated personal life.

Errol Flynn's legacy is a complex one, marked by scandal, legal battles, and controversial relationships.

His story serves as a reminder of the dark side of Hollywood's glamorous past.