![John Wayne Faced a Reprimand from Fox Executive Darryl F. Zanuck Over Xenophobic Remarks 2 l intro 1716938560](https://i0.wp.com/theubj.com/uae/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/l-intro-1716938560.jpg?w=1170)
Fox film publicist Fred Hift, who worked on films like “Exodus,” “The Hustler,” and “Wake in Fright,” was involved in a telling incident on the set of “The Longest Day” with John Wayne. Wayne entered Hift’s office one day, conversing with Hift’s secretary and asking about her heritage. When the secretary identified as half-French, half-American, Wayne dismissively claimed, “There is no such thing. You’re either 100 percent American or nothing.”
This interaction was relayed to Darryl F. Zanuck, a Fox executive with a complicated legacy including a difficult temperament and allegations of sexual misconduct, yet Zanuck took Wayne’s comment seriously. He confronted Wayne on set in front of the French crew members, demanding Wayne repeat his words. When Wayne refused, Zanuck shared the story himself. This revelation led to the French crew shunning Wayne for the duration of the production.
Zanuck’s actions left a strong impression on Hift, who later stated that this incident was a moment when he felt a sense of pride in Zanuck. Although Wayne’s viewpoints may have persisted, as evidenced by a controversial interview he gave in Playboy years later, he momentarily faced embarrassment for his xenophobic stance during the production of “The Longest Day.”
FAQs About John Wayne’s Incident on The Longest Day Set
Who was Fred Hift?
Fred Hift was a film industry publicist known for his work on “Exodus,” “The Hustler,” “Wake in Fright,” and “The Longest Day.”
What was John Wayne’s controversial comment?
John Wayne stated to a secretary that “You’re either 100 percent American or nothing,” implying there was no legitimacy to her being half-French and half-American.
How did Darryl F. Zanuck respond to John Wayne’s comment?
Darryl F. Zanuck confronted Wayne on the film’s set, demanding he repeat his comment in front of the French crew, which Wayne refused to do. Zanuck then relayed the incident to the crew members himself.
What was the French crew’s reaction to Wayne’s remark?
The French crew was disgusted by John Wayne’s xenophobic remark and refused to speak to him for the remainder of the film’s production.
Did John Wayne face any long-term repercussions for his remarks?
The text does not mention any long-term repercussions; however, Wayne was briefly shunned by the French crew. His viewpoints on race and nationality continued to draw criticism, such as the viewpoints expressed in his later Playboy interview.