Gardner’s Path to Success
Gardner did not set out to become an actor; he fell into it by chance. When she was 18, she went to New York City and was photographed by her brother-in-law, a professional photographer. He displayed her portrait in his studio, and several clients inquired about who the girl was. One of those clients was Barnard Duhan, who claimed to be an MGM talent scout. It turns out that Duhan was a law clerk who pretended to be a scout to meet girls. The receptionist at the studio was not duped by Duhan, but when he recommended that they actually send her portrait to MGM, Gardner’s brother-in-law recognized it was not such a horrible idea.
Gardner’s Path To Success
The Audition
Gardner was eventually offered a screen test by the company, and she flew to New York for it. Gardner’s agency encouraged her not to talk due to her loud southern accent. Gardner was awarded a contract with MGM in 1941, despite her dubious acting skills. They originally cast her in pin-ups and publicity photographs, and she played over a dozen minor roles that few people noticed, but she eventually worked with an MGM-provided speech coach and singing teacher, receiving the skills she needed to one day become a leading lady.
The Audition