I love this 1940 film, where Katherine Hepburn plays the snooty-patooty socialite, Tracy Lord, who has thrown aside her husband, C.K. Dexter Haven, played by Cary Grant. As plans for the next marriage ensues, more fun arrives in the likes of reporters James Stewart and Ruth Hussey. Of course, Cary Grant makes his way back on stage, as wedding gifts begin to accumulate for Tracy’s next marriage.

The movie has some interesting trivia. First of all, it was written as a play and based on Katherine Hepburn’s public image at the time. Then to make matters more interesting and socially snobby, billionaire Howard Hughes bought her the film rights. Now that’s a gift. And I guess she needed the help at that point in her career. She’d had a bad review in a previous play.

At first, Katherine wanted Clark Gable and Spencer Tracey to play the roles of first husband, C.K. Dexter Haven and reporter, Mike Connor. But they were busy elsewhere.
The film was directed by George Cukor and all the actors/actresses were a big hit. James Stewart got an Oscar for best actor. It was shot in eight weeks with no retakes. Cary Grant was given a choice of characters, and a big fee — $100,000 — all of which he donated to the British War Relief Fund. And Miss Hepburn’s career took a turn for the better.

 

First husband, C.K. Dexter Haven (Cary Grant)  giving the eye to Tracy’s new fiance:
  A little mishap with the reporter:

 

And here are some behind the scenes shots — Cary Grant:

 

 

 Cukor advising Katherine Hepburn:

 

Katherine Hepburn and James Stewart with Cukor:
Cary Grant gets a manicure on the set:

 

Katherine Hepburn with Cukor: