Marguerite Roberts, born on September 21, 1905, in Colorado, had a passion for writing from a young age. After graduating from high school, she moved to Hollywood in search of opportunities in the film industry. She started out as a secretary at Fox Studios while also working on her own screenplays.
In 1931, Roberts sold her first script, marking the beginning of her successful career as a screenwriter. She quickly gained a reputation for her talent and soon caught the attention of major studios.
Roberts signed a lucrative $2,500 a week contract with MGM, making her one of the highest-paid screenwriters in Hollywood at the time. Her scripts were well-received, and she continued to establish herself as a prominent figure in the industry.
However, Roberts' career took a drastic turn when she was targeted by the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) during the Red Scare. She refused to cooperate with the committee's demands to name names, leading to her blacklisting in Hollywood.
Despite her refusal to betray her principles, Roberts faced significant consequences for her actions. Her contract with MGM was terminated, and she struggled to find work in the industry for the next nine years. The blacklist imposed by HUAC cast a shadow over her career, but Roberts remained steadfast in her beliefs.
During this difficult period, Roberts continued to write in exile, honing her craft and preparing for her eventual return to Hollywood. Her resilience and determination would ultimately pay off, as she was given a second chance to prove herself.
In the 1960s, Roberts was re-hired by Columbia Pictures, marking her official return to the industry. She seized this opportunity to showcase her talent once again, writing the screenplay for the acclaimed film "True Grit" in 1969.
This film, starring legendary actor John Wayne, earned Roberts critical acclaim and solidified her reputation as a talented screenwriter. It also earned John Wayne his only Academy Award, a testament to Roberts' skill and dedication to her craft.
Throughout her career, Roberts was supported by her husband, John Sanford, who was a member of the American Communist Party. Despite the challenges they faced, the couple stood by each other through thick and thin, united in their beliefs and commitment to their work.
Roberts' legacy as a trailblazing screenwriter continues to inspire aspiring writers and filmmakers, demonstrating the power of perseverance and artistic integrity in the face of adversity.
Marguerite Roberts' contributions to the film industry are undeniable, and her legacy lives on through the timeless classics she brought to the screen. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up for one's beliefs, even in the most challenging of circumstances.