While filming Saratoga in 1937 with Clark Gable, she collapsed on set and was rushed to the hospital, diagnosed with uremic poisoning. She died days later, at 26 years old. The original blonde bombshell, predating Marilyn Monroe as a blonde sex symbol. Jean was the first blonde to be cast in “bad girl roles.” Before Harlow, bad girls in movies were always dark-haired and exotic-looking. She made over thirty films during a career that lasted only ten years. Fabulous 3.5 x 5.25 postcard portrait of Jean posing with her dog, Oscar, on a lawn, signed and inscribed in fountain pen “To Wayne - A grand person, from Jean and Oscar.” The collector’s notation on the reverse reads “1933.” According to the consignor’s notes, this photograph was purchased from Al Morley in West Hollywood. The inscribee, Wayne, was a friend of Harlow’s secretary. In fine condition, with adhesive residue on the reverse from a previous mounting, moderate contrast to the writing, but quite legible. By the year this photo was taken, Harlow was becoming a superstar. She had a great comedic part in Dinner at Eight, and later that year she starred in Bombshell. Because of Harlow's affair with boxer Max Baer, Mrs. Baer threatened divorce proceedings naming Harlow as a co-defendent for "alienation of affection.” MGM diffused the situation by arranging a quick marriage between Harlow and cinematographer Harold Rosson. Still reeling from the mysterious Bern death, the studio didn't want another scandal on its hands. Rosson and Harlow were friends, and the cameraman went along with the plan. They divorced quietly seven months later. She is buried at the Forest Lawn Memorial Park, in Glendale, California. William Powell paid for her tomb, which bears the inscription "Our Baby." PSA/DNA COA and R&R COA.
