Father Was Not Forgotten

Bay of Plenty Times, Volume LXIX, Issue 13137, 11 September 1940, Page 6

Father Was Not Forgotten

« The top feminine star of a big Hollywood picture made a house to house canvass—to get her father a job after she had obtained a miraculous' break for herself. She is Betty Brewer, 13 years old, playing the feminine lead in Paramount’s “Rangers of Fortune,” 'Which stars Fred MacMuj’ray. Little Betty got her own job in the movies because of her tremendous resourcefulness: In an effort to attract the attention of producers day after day she gave an impromptu performance of songs, imitations and dramatic renditions on the pavement outside the Brown Derby. Most of the famous producers and directors who lunched in the restaurant were mildly amused and passed on. Then, one noontime, Sam Wood-—director of “Mr Chips”— spotted her, watched her, listened to her. He was then casting “Rangers of Fortune.” There was the leading, part intended for Virginia Weidler, but she was not available. Instantly, he recognised Betty’s talent. He had her come over to Paramount for a test and she was given a lucrative contract. I am told the child is sensational. Established herself, Betty determined to find work for her father, a carpenter. She went from house to house in her neighbourhood, explaining that she represented the Brewer Carpenter Company, specialists in minor work around the house. Within 24' hours the child had half-a-dbzen jobs for her dad. He, too, is now happy at work. Strange town, this.