The search for Scarlett
Scarlett O’Hara is undoubtedly one of cinema history’s most memorable leading ladies yet the casting of the iconic part proved to be a mammoth task. The search for Scarlett would last two years, with a reported 1,400 actresses auditioning for the role of the tempestuous Southern belle. After coming in for a last minute screen test, the lovely Vivien Leigh would land the part of the precocious central character. The choice proved controversial because many Southerners were offended by the thought of a British actress playing the part of the iconic Southern role. Despite the public disapproval, Leigh would go on to with the Academy Award for Best Actress for her outstanding portrayal of O’Hara.