Letter from Katherine Hepburn to G. G. Killinger, U.S. Board of Parole

Actress Katharine Hepburn wrote to the U.S. Board of Parole on September 1, 1950, on behalf of screenwriter Ringgold Wilmer “Ring” Lardner, Jr. Early during the Cold War, the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) investigated allegations of Communist activity in the film industry. In 1947, Lardner, Jr., and with 19 others suspected of being Communists were called to testify. After they refused to answer the Committee’s questions, Lardner, Jr., and nine others were found guilty of contempt of Congress. Blacklisted from Hollywood, they became known as the “Hollywood 10,” and Lardner was imprisoned. By signing this letter, Hepburn opened herself to the risk of having her career destroyed.