In 1932, at a time when single-parent adoption was illegal in most states, she adopted a baby boy while between marriages. She adored her son, Michael, and always called him the most important man in her life.
In July, 1972, despite concerns about her health and a premonition that she shouldn't travel, she flew to New York to attend the special screening of "Story of Temple Drake," celebrating the 60th anniversary of Paramount Pictures, followed by a gala party in her honor at the Museum of Modern Art. Just as she had feared, she suffered a major heart attack and died in her hotel suite before getting back to her California home.
Is portrayed by Sheilah Wells in The Scarlett O'Hara War (1980) (TV)
Miriam Hopkins rejected the part of Ellie in It Happened One Night.
She was Margaret Mitchell's first choice to play Scarlett O'Hara in Gone with the Wind (1939).
Turned down the part of Ellie Andrews in It Happened One Night (1934). Claudette Colbert was then given the role and won a Best Actress Oscar for her performance.
Was good friends with actress Kay Francis.