Filmed in the 1960s, The Longest Day is often regarded as one of the finest war films ever created. However, despite its acclaim, the production faced several obstacles. Reports suggest that significant tension arose between Western icon John Wayne and producer Darryl Zanuck, eventually prompting Wayne to take a stand against Zanuck.
The Longest Day (1962)
Filming for The Longest Day started in March 1961 after securing the book rights. Presented as a docu-drama, the film carefully introduces each prominent character as they prepare for the historic D-Day invasion. Its sweeping storyline provides a comprehensive and authentic depiction of this significant historical moment.
The narrative follows the Allies from their early preparations to the beach landings and fierce battles at key locations such as Pointe du Hoc and Pegasus Bridge, highlighting the operation’s immense scale. This endeavor became a passion project for producer Darryl Zanuck, who brought together a stellar cast, including Henry Fonda, Sean Connery, Richard Burton, Kenneth More, and the iconic 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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