We're overpaying him, but he's worth it

We're overpaying him, but he's worth it

Samuel Goldwyn, the legendary Hollywood producer and co-founder of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM), was known for his shrewd business acumen and keen eye for talent. Throughout his career, Goldwyn was willing to pay top dollar for the best actors, directors, and writers in the industry, believing that their talent and creativity would ultimately pay off in the form of box office success.

Goldwyn was not afraid to spend big on talent, even if it meant overpaying them. He famously said, "I don't pay them to act. I pay them to leave me alone." This statement encapsulates Goldwyn's belief that by paying top dollar for the best talent, he could ensure that they would deliver their best work without interference or micromanagement.

One of the most famous examples of Goldwyn's willingness to overpay for talent was his relationship with actress Bette Davis. In the 1930s, Davis was one of the biggest stars in Hollywood, and Goldwyn was determined to have her star in his films. Despite Davis demanding a higher salary than any other actress in Hollywood at the time, Goldwyn agreed to her terms, believing that her talent and star power would make his films a success.

Goldwyn's willingness to overpay for talent paid off in spades. Throughout his career, he produced some of the most iconic films in Hollywood history, including "The Best Years of Our Lives," "Wuthering Heights," and "The Little Foxes." These films were not only critical and commercial successes but also helped to solidify Goldwyn's reputation as one of the most successful producers in Hollywood.