Vanguard of Hollywood

Joy Harmon is a baker, actress, author, mother, and grandmother. From her many television and film roles, you undoubtedly recognize Joy best as the beautiful blue-eyed blonde from the iconic car wash scene in the 1967 Paul Newman classic, Cool Hand Luke. Joy left her acting career behind in 1973 to focus on raising her family, and along the way began a successful bakery, Aunt Joy’s Cakes, that serves individuals, cafes, and Hollywood studios. Listen to be inspired by the faith, strength, and sweetness that, to quote the celebrated line from Cool Hand Luke, make Joy Harmon “a natural born world-shaker.”

You probably know Beverly Washburn best as Lizabeth Searcy in the 1957 Disney classic, Old Yeller, or from the 1967 horror cult classic, Spider Baby, but Beverly’s film and television credits boast countless memorable performances. This Emmy nominated actress has worked with such Classic Hollywood legends as Bing Crosby, Jimmy Stewart, Alan Ladd, Loretta Young, Lon Chaney, Jr., Jack Benny, Lou Costello, Barbara Stanwyck, and Frank Capra. Beverly’s rare ability to cry on cue naturally was put to good use from the start of her career, and contributed to her reputation as one of the best kid actors of her generation. Listen for all about Beverly’s remarkable career, and be inspired by her boundless kindness and gratitude.

Donna Loren was the quintessential “It” girl of the 1960’s who caught America’s eye as the one and only Dr. Pepper Girl. But Donna held America’s interest with her impossibly beautiful singing voice. From the Mickey Mouse Club to her roles in the beloved Beach Party films, TV’s Batman, The Monkees, and as a cast member of America’s first live rock n’ roll television show, Shindig, Donna Loren proved herself to be one of the most talented singers of her generation. Listen as Donna shares all about her fascinating life and career.

Shannon joins Gene Kelly’s widow, film historian Patricia Ward Kelly, in the Gene Kelly Archives for this special interview. As Gene’s wife and official biographer, Patricia brings a unique perspective to her work: No one knows Gene like Patricia, and she is the definitive source on all things relating to her legendary husband. Listen as Patricia shares about her life with Gene, debunks several Singin’ in the Rain (1952) myths, and highlights Gene’s rich creative legacy in front of, and behind, the camera.

As one of the most featured child actors of the Golden Age, Scott Morrow has more than 95 television credits and 16 feature films to his name. From Peyton Place to An Affair to Remember and The Donna Reed Show, Scott worked with the best of the best. Listen as Scott shares highlights from his remarkable career, and memories of his sweet brother-sister relationship with Marilyn Monroe.

In this special episode, Shannon interviews Mimi Gibson, one of the most sought-after child actresses of the 1950s and 1960s. Mimi is best known as the voice of Lucky in 101 Dalmatians (1961) and as Cary Grant's daughter in Houseboat (1958). Listen as Mimi shares her stories and experiences from working during the most exciting time in movies and television, and her post-acting work to better the lives of today's working kids in Hollywood.

Shannon offers a birthday tribute to comedian and actor Joe E. Brown, Hollywood's nicest guy

Was Paul Newman mean to Patricia Neal? Shannon's research reveals the truth and why a rumor has been accepted as fact for decades.