The Dick Cavett Show Season 3 Episode 5 November 17 1971 Bette Davis

On November 17, 1971, The Dick Cavett Show welcomed one of Hollywood's most legendary leading ladies, Bette Davis, for an insightful and captivating interview. As she sat down with host Dick Cavett, Davis appeared regal and poised in a black dress, a string of pearls around her neck.

Cavett starts off the interview by asking Davis about her recent play, "The Night of the Iguana," which had just opened on Broadway. Davis speaks animatedly about the challenges of rehearsing for the play, as well as her admiration for its playwright, Tennessee Williams. She even recites lines from the play, showcasing her impressive acting skills, and Cavett marvels at her delivery.

The conversation then takes a more personal turn, as Davis talks about the ups and downs of her career, from her early days as a contract player at Warner Bros to her later successes in films like "All About Eve" and "Whatever Happened to Baby Jane?" She describes the complex characters she's played over the years and the joys and sorrows that have come with being a Hollywood icon.

Throughout the interview, Davis proves herself to be a witty and engaging guest, offering anecdotes and insights about her life and career with humor and insight. At one point, Cavett asks her about the famous line from "All About Eve," in which Davis's character, Margo Channing, declares, "Fasten your seat belts, it's going to be a bumpy night." Davis admits that the line wasn't in the original script, but rather something she ad-libbed on set.

As the interview draws to a close, Cavett asks Davis about her plans for the future, and she reveals that she's currently working on a book about Hollywood. She also reflects on the joys of being a grandmother and how her relationships with her children and grandchildren have enriched her life.

Overall, the November 17, 1971 episode of The Dick Cavett Show featuring Bette Davis is a must-watch for fans of classic Hollywood and anyone interested in hearing from one of the most compelling and iconic figures of the silver screen. With her wit, charm, and undeniable talent, Davis proves herself to be not just a Hollywood legend but a true national treasure.