klondike mediumtitle Ann as: Kathleen O'Day Columbia / 1943 Directed by: William Castle Tom Neal <span class="synital">Klondike Kate</span>–Ann’s first leading role, and her first teaming with Tom Neal. <span class="annquote">“I was so excited to get the lead! It was the biggest thing that had ever happened to me! Harry Cohn was very nice to me and everyone at Columbia pulled out the stops to support this picture.”</span> It was a big production, a period piece set in the gold rush of Alaska. <span class="annquote">“The wardrobe was just gorgeous, the hats, everything, and they spent a fortune on publicity. They brought the real Klondike Kate to Hollywood. She was a real live wire, full of colorful stories about the old miners and the towns that sprang up overnight.”</span> Getting to know Tom Neal wasn’t as easy. <span class="annquote">“I learned right away I had to be on my toes with Tom. The first day he was on the set, I was standing to be lit, I had to stand perfectly still, and he came up to me and said, ‘I have something to tell you.’ I just nodded my head slightly and he leaned over to my ear and stuck his tongue in it. I slapped him so hard he fell right over. Knocked him flat on his ass.”</span> <span class="annquote">“I wish his life had been easier. He was a very handsome guy, and truly talented.”</span> Klondike_02.jpg Klondike_01.jpg Klondike_03.jpg Klondike_04.jpg Klondike_07.jpg Klondike_08.jpg Klondike_10.jpg