Overnight Success
Ready — People remember John Wayne as one of Hollywood’s greatest stars. His success, however, was anything but overnight. Born Marion Morrison in 1907, Wayne entered the movie business doing whatever work he could find. He moved props, worked around sets, performed stunts, and accepted small parts. His first opportunity as a leading man came in The Big Trail in 1930, but the film failed to make him a star.
Set — Even though he was discouraged, Wayne went back to work appearing in low-budget Westerns, serials, and minor pictures—38 films before the role that finally propelled him to stardom. During those years, he learned his craft by watching experienced actors, listening to directors, and studying how to move in front of a camera, deliver a line, and create a believable character.
Wayne’s success came because he . . .
Kept working. Wayne accepted small assignments while waiting for larger opportunities.
Stayed humble. He listened to directors who saw weaknesses he could not see himself.
Remained teachable. Wayne viewed every picture as another opportunity to improve.
Learned from others. He observed experienced actors and incorporated what he learned into his own style.
Maintained vigilance. Years of preparation positioned him to take advantage of his opportunity when it arrived.
Grow! — In 1939, John Ford cast Wayne as the Ringo Kid in Stagecoach. The movie was a major success launching John Wayne as a major Hollywood star. To audiences, Wayne was an overnight success. But the "overnight" took years.
Two Questions
In what ways might your present role be preparation for your Stagecoach?
Are you listening and learning how to improve?