Filmed in the 1960s, The Longest Day is widely considered one of the greatest war films ever made. However, despite its success, the production encountered numerous challenges. It is reported that major tension developed between Western star John Wayne and producer Darryl Zanuck, ultimately leading Wayne to take a stand against Zanuck.
The Longest Day (1962)
Filming for The Longest Day began in March 1961, following the acquisition of the book rights. Styled as a docu-drama, the movie thoughtfully introduces each major character as they prepare for the historic D-Day invasion. Its expansive storyline delivers a complete and genuine portrayal of this crucial historical event.
The narrative tracks the Allies from their initial preparations through the beach landings and intense battles at important locations like Pointe du Hoc and Pegasus Bridge, showing the operation’s vast scope. This project became a labor of love for producer Darryl Zanuck, who assembled an impressive cast that included Henry Fonda, Sean Connery, Richard Burton, Kenneth More, and the legendary John Wayne.
John Wayne publicly punishes Darryl Zanuck
John Wayne’s role in The Longest Day was shorter compared to his co-stars. While most of the cast members were paid $25,000, Wayne turned down that amount and insisted on a substantial $250,000 for his brief role. To everyone’s surprise, producer Darryl Zanuck agreed to Wayne’s demands, enabling him to earn ten times more than the film’s leading actors for his limited screen time.
John Wayne never served in the US military
The large payment generated heavy controversy, particularly because John Wayne lacked military experience, unlike several of his co-stars. This distinction did not sit well with the audience. Despite the generous amount he was paid, Wayne was eventually credited only at the film’s conclusion.
Years later, Wayne remarked, “It was highway robbery. But I needed the money at the time, and that b****** Zanuck had it coming.”
An earlier snub
How did the rivalry between Darryl Zanuck and John Wayne originate?
The discord between Darryl Zanuck and John Wayne traces all the way back to Wayne’s choice to take on both the roles of producer and director for the 1960 film, The Alamo, in which he also played Davy Crockett. It focused on the 1836 battle of the same name, saw Wayne heavily invested, pouring a substantial amount of his own money into the project. Despite his efforts, the film was a commercial failure, unable to recoup its expenses, and this resulted in a notable setback for Wayne.
Darryl Zanuck called out John Wayne specifically
Sometime after The Alamo was released in theaters, Darryl Zanuck participated in an interview, where he mentioned John Wayne. In particular, he commented on how he didn’t like when actors decide to make their own production companies.
He didn’t leave his comments as vague generalizations – he said “poor old Duke” was one of many who’d done this.
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Having heard Zanuck’s comments, Wayne decided that he wanted to make him pay… Literally.
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