Lauren Bacall handwritten letter to John Wayne

• A Lauren Bacall handwritten and signed letter to John Wayne

Lauren Bacall (1924 – 2014) was an American actress, and one of the biggest female stars from the 'Golden Era' of Hollywood.

She featured in 50 films throughout her long career, including To Have and Have Not, The Big Sleep, Key Largo and How to Marry a Millionaire.

A handwritten, signed letter from Lauren Bacall to John Wayne.

Post dated May 7, 1979 on the original mailing envelope.

The letter reads in part:

“Dear Duke,

“You have been so very much in my thoughts.

“I have never been able to tell you how much your standing up for me in 'Blood Alley' days meant to me. I wanted to say it on 'The Shootist' - never could somehow...

“You have the guts of a lion... I want you to know how terrific you are and how really glad I am to know you - you give more than (you) know - I send you much love- constant thoughts, Betty.”

Written by Bacall in blue felt-tip ink on her personalized stationery.

Letter measures 7" x 9" and is in good condition.

Bacall and Wayne were good friends who starred together in Blood Alley and Wayne's final film The Shootist.

A touching letter from one of Hollywood's greatest stars to another, sent to Wayne just a month before his death in June 1979.

Provenance: Heritage Auctions

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