E! True Hollywood Story Season 2 Episode 26 Jeanne Carmen
- October 4, 1998
Jeanne Carmen was a famous pinup model and actress who graced the pages of Playboy and starred in numerous B-movies throughout the 1950s and 60s. However, her life off-screen was equally or even more intriguing. In this episode of E! True Hollywood Story, we delve into the life and times of Jeanne Carmen.
Born in 1930 in Arkansas, Jeanne grew up in a dysfunctional family. Her parents divorced when she was young, and she moved around constantly with her mother. Despite her chaotic upbringing, Jeanne was determined to make something of herself. At age 13, she hitchhiked to Hollywood, where she landed her first acting job playing a mermaid in a movie.
From there, Jeanne's career took off. She became a popular pinup model, appearing in magazines like Playboy and Modern Man. Her curvaceous figure and sultry gaze captivated audiences, and she soon became a fixture in the Hollywood party scene. Jeanne had affairs with many high-profile men, including Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, and Joe DiMaggio. She even claims to have had an affair with President John F. Kennedy.
But behind the glitz and glamour, Jeanne was hiding a dark secret. She had a son, who she gave up for adoption as a young mother. For years, she kept this a secret from everyone, including her closest friends. It wasn't until later in life that Jeanne reunited with her son, and they formed a close bond.
Despite her success as a model and actress, Jeanne's career began to decline in the 1970s. She struggled with alcoholism and drug addiction, which led to multiple arrests and stints in rehab. Her finances suffered as well, and she turned to stripping to make ends meet. But through it all, Jeanne maintained her sense of humor and resilience, and continued to be a beloved figure in the Hollywood community.
In the latter part of her life, Jeanne became an advocate for several causes, including animal rights and veterans' rights. She was a patriotic American, and even flew fighter planes as part of the Civil Air Patrol for many years. Jeanne passed away in 2007, but her legacy lives on as one of Hollywood's most intriguing and colorful characters.
This episode of E! True Hollywood Story includes interviews with Jeanne's friends and family members, as well as fellow actors and Hollywood insiders who knew her well. Through archival footage and photos, we see Jeanne's rise to fame and her struggles with addiction and personal demons. We also get a glimpse of her fun-loving, adventurous spirit, and the impact she had on those around her.
Whether you're a fan of vintage Hollywood or just love a good story, this episode of E! True Hollywood Story is not to be missed. Jeanne Carmen's life was a wild ride from start to finish, and this show gives us an up-close look at one of Hollywood's most fascinating figures.