Skip to main content

Hollywood outside the Theater

bhp0124_standard.jpg

Hollywood Victory Caravan 1942

During the war, Hollywood also had a large presence outside of theaters. Actors were popular celebrities and used their status and influence to raise enlistment and monetary support for the war. The Hollywood Caravan was a group of Actors who traveled across the country encouraging the public to donate to the Army and Navy Relief Fund.  Throughout its two-week tour, the Victory Caravan raised $800,000 dollars by performing music, skits, plays, and other entertainment events.

1eb8c1e0f66f10d8519ac1f855e15850.jpeg

Hollywood Hall of Honor 1943

Another example of Hollywood's contribution beyond movie screens was the Hollywood Canteen which provided entertainment and refreshments for American soldiers. U.S. troops and its allies could enjoy a free meal in the Los Angeles-area venue while being served and entertained by movie stars. Within the restaurant, the Hall of Honor displayed all the prominent Hollywood actors and film industry workers who gave up a "glamorous" lifestyle to serve their country.