Cinema’s master of suspense is notable for his films as well as his eccentric personality and iconic image.
And while most of his movies were successful and certainly thrilling, his famous remark that “actors should be treated like cattle” outlines the mentality he held for his stars.
His first of many recorded instances of actor abuse occurred on the set of his 1935 film, The 39 Steps.
He would announce lead actress Madeline Carroll’s presence on-set by yelling, “Bring on the Birmingham tart!” and would leave her handcuffed to her costar for hours on end, claiming to have lost the key (an act that caused bruises).
Other times, when he wanted a sincere reaction of surprise or shock, Hitchcock would undo his belt as if he was going to expose himself to the actress.
