John Wayne Endured Harsh Conditions on Stagecoach Set

John Wayne’s breakthrough film, “Stagecoach,” was released in 1939 and played a crucial role in establishing his iconic status in Hollywood. Directed by John Ford, this Western featured a narrative centered on diverse characters traversing perilous Apache territory.

Significance of Stagecoach in John Wayne’s Career

“Stagecoach” marked a turning point for Wayne, who was cast as the Ringo Kid. His participation in the film followed several rejections and a battle between Ford and producer Walter Wanger, who preferred Gary Cooper for the lead role. Ultimately, Ford’s insistence led to Wayne being given the opportunity, something he described as if he had been “hit in the belly with a baseball bat” due to his initial fear of being replaced.

Filmmaking and Influence

The film gained critical acclaim, with Orson Welles famously watching it over 40 times to study its techniques while preparing for “Citizen Kane.” Welles regarded “Stagecoach” as exemplary filmmaking.

Harsh Set Conditions

Despite its success, the filming process was far from amiable. Ford was known for his abrasive directing style and often bullied his cast to elicit stronger performances. This included harsh remarks directed at both Wayne and his co-stars.

Notable Incidents with Cast Members

• Ford verbally berated actor Andy Devine, calling him a “big tub of lard.”
• When addressing Thomas Mitchell, who played Doc Boone, Ford was met with a sardonic comment about his recent film failure.
• Wayne, who endured severe criticism from Ford concerning his line delivery and physical mannerisms, was often called “a big oaf” and other degrading terms.

One of the most memorable but startling moments included Ford shaking Wayne by the chin and instructing him to act with his eyes rather than his mouth. Actors on set, including Claire Trevor, recalled Ford’s harsh methods in detail, illustrating the tough environment that characterized the film’s production.

Legacy of Stagecoach

Despite the challenging working conditions and Ford’s treatment of his cast, “Stagecoach” solidified Wayne’s position as a leading man in Western cinema. His performance helped to launch a career that would span decades, marking him as a legend of the genre.