Standing tall at 45 feet above Los Angeles’ hills, the iconic “HOLLYWOOD” sign captivates over 10 million visitors annually, serving as a beacon of hope for aspiring stars dreaming of fame and success in the entertainment industry.
However, beneath its glamour, the Hollywood sign harbors a dark history.
On a fateful night in September 1932, Peg Entwistle, a promising young actress, tragically ended her life by jumping from the letter “H” of the sign at just 24 years old.
This heart-wrenching tale has resurfaced in the new Netflix series Hollywood, produced by Ryan Murphy, which reimagines the golden age of cinema post-World War II.
Entwistle’s untimely death becomes a pivotal moment in the show, inspiring a screenplay that reflects the struggles and aspirations of those pursuing stardom in Tinseltown.
Many viewers may ponder the enigmatic figure of Peg Entwistle and the circumstances that led to her abrupt and somber demise.
Originally reading “HOLLYWOODLAND,” the sign was originally erected in 1923 as an advertisement for a burgeoning real estate market.
By 1932, the era of silent films had given way to the dominance of “talkies,” with major studios like 20th Century Fox and Warner Bros. reigning supreme.
Born Millicent Lilian Entwistle in Wales, Peg ventured to America with her father at a young age, facing numerous familial tragedies along the way.
Despite her tumultuous upbringing, she pursued a career in theater, captivating audiences on Broadway and catching the admiration of budding talents like Bette Davis.
In a twist of fate, Peg’s marriage to fellow actor Robert Lee Keith crumbled, marking the beginning of a downward spiral exacerbated by the economic hardships of the Great Depression.
Relocating to Los Angeles in pursuit of silver screen success, she struggled to secure substantial roles amidst the fierce competition of Hollywood’s heyday.
Her big break in the film Thirteen Women turned bittersweet as significant portions of her performance were left on the cutting room floor.
This setback, coupled with a terminated contract and financial instability, pushed Peg to her tragic decision on that fateful September night.
The aftermath of Peg’s death painted a haunting portrait of loss and missed opportunities.
Her legacy lives on in Hollywood folklore, with tales of ghostly apparitions and unfulfilled promises lingering around the iconic sign she chose to depart from.
As Peg Entwistle’s narrative finds new life in Ryan Murphy’s Hollywood, it stands as both a source of inspiration and a cautionary tale for those navigating the turbulent waters of show business, reminding us of the fragility of dreams in the harsh spotlight of fame.
