Paul Bern, a multifaceted individual, was a German-born American film director, screenwriter, and producer who made a significant impact in the industry, particularly at MGM. Born Paul Levy on December 3, 1889, in the charming town of Wandsbek, which is situated in the Prussian province of Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. His parents, Julius and Henriette (née Hirsch) Levy, were a Jewish couple who played a pivotal role in his early life and upbringing.
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Julius Levy, a man of great entrepreneurial spirit, began his career as a clerk for a shipping company, no doubt honing his skills in the intricacies of international trade. However, his true passion lay in the sweet world of confectionery, and he eventually took the bold step of opening his own candy store. Little did he know that his life was about to take a dramatic turn.
As the years went by, the economic landscape of his native Wandsbek began to shift, and Julius found himself facing a daunting reality: unemployment and anti-Jewish attitudes were on the rise. Faced with this uncertain future, Julius made the courageous decision to uproot his family and make the arduous journey to the United States in 1898. The family eventually settled in the bustling metropolis of New York City, where they would begin anew.
Though Julius's life was marked by many triumphs, his story was not without its tragedies. He passed away in 1908, leaving behind a legacy that would be forever remembered by his loved ones. His wife, Henriette, would go on to face her own struggles, ultimately taking her own life in 1920. Despite the challenges they faced, Julius's story serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit, a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for a brighter future.
Paul Bern's journey in the performing arts began with a stint on the stage, where he honed his skills at the prestigious American Academy of Dramatic Arts, ultimately adopting the stage name that would become synonymous with his professional endeavors. However, as he delved deeper into the world of acting, Bern came to a profound realization - his natural talents lay elsewhere, and he soon redirected his focus towards the behind-the-scenes aspects of theatre production.
Initially, Bern worked as a stage manager, overseeing the technical aspects of various productions before making the bold decision to relocate to the burgeoning film industry in Hollywood during the early 1920s. Upon arrival, Bern began his Hollywood career as a film editor, carefully crafting the visual narrative of numerous movies. As his skills and reputation grew, he gradually transitioned into scenario writing, bringing his unique perspective to the world of screenplays.
The culmination of his professional journey led to a full-time position as a producer at Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, the preeminent film studio of its era, ultimately resulting in his appointment as the trusted production assistant to the esteemed Irving Thalberg.
Irving Thalberg, a renowned film executive, entrusted Bern with vital responsibilities, overseeing the production of numerous films, including the critically acclaimed Grand Hotel, which premiered mere days following Bern's passing.
Notably, Grand Hotel, a cinematic masterpiece featuring an all-star cast, went on to win the coveted Best Picture Academy Award for the 1931-1932 season, although Bern and Irving Thalberg were inexplicably omitted from the film's credits.
Paul Bern, a prominent figure in the film industry, first crossed paths with the talented actress Jean Harlow in the spring of 1930, mere weeks prior to the highly anticipated premiere of the iconic film Hell's Angels. Through his influential connections, Bern played a pivotal role in nurturing Harlow's burgeoning career, fostering a lasting bond between the two that would eventually blossom into a romantic partnership.
As their friendship deepened, Bern and Harlow's relationship evolved, culminating in a public announcement of their engagement in June 1932. The couple's joy was palpable as they exchanged vows on July 2, 1932, surrounded by friends, family, and the glamour of old Hollywood.
Tragedy struck just two months into their marriage, as Paul Bern's life was cut short on September 5, 1932. The circumstances surrounding his untimely demise were shrouded in mystery, with the coroner ultimately ruling his death a suicide. The exact events leading up to Bern's fatal gunshot wound, discovered in the couple's Beverly Hills residence on Easton Drive, California, remain a subject of speculation and intrigue to this day.
