On Sat, 4 Jun 1994 [log in to unmask] wrote: > I'am writing the definitive biography of Spencer tracy and am wondering if > there is any research network out there that might be of use to me. I've > covered all the obvious print and archival sources, but am always looking for > obscure sources I might have overlooked. Also interested in anuone else out > there involved in the same sort of research. > Yes and no, but mostly no: I'm writing a short biography on Veronica Lake who lead a notoriously tragic life, but ever since I learned that Tracy was an alcoholic, I've often wondered about two things that you could perhaps answer for me: *Was it mere coincidence or did the studio system contribute to the slow demise of many of its big stars from the 30's-50's? *In this age of media sensationalism, how did the major studios succeed in covering up the antics and maladies of its performers? --Patrick [log in to unmask] BTW, you might want to mail your response to my address or forward it to H-FILM--that list deals with the History of Film and is perhaps more appropriate for biographical discussion. Thanks!