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Back Street , one of the most popular and endearing love stories of all-time, has been brought to the silver screen several times over the years. Based on the bestselling novel by Fannie Hurst ( Imitation of Life ), Back Street is a quintessential tearjerker in which a couple meets and falls in love but is unable to marry due to impossible circumstances. However, despite their situation, they carry on a lifelong illicit affair until tragedy strikes. For the lush 1961 color version, producer Ross Hunter ( All That Heaven Allows ) teamed Susan Hayward and John Gavin as the star-crossed lovers with Vera Miles, Charles Drake and Virginia Grey cast in prominent supporting roles. Directed by David Miller ( Midnight Lace ), this emotional remake garnered 1962 Academy Award® forBest Costume Design.
Original Release
10/12/1961
US Release
10/12/1961
Cast
| Name | Character |
|---|
| Susan Hayward | Rae Smith |
| John Gavin | Paul Saxon |
| Vera Miles | Liz Saxon |
| Charles Drake | Curt Stanton |
| Virginia Grey | Janey nee Smith / Janey |
| Reginald Gardiner | Dalian |
| Tammy Marihugh | Caroline |
| Robert Eyer | Paul Saxon Jr. |
| Natalie Schafer | Mrs. Evans |
| Joseph Cronin | Airport Clerk |
Directors
Writers
Fannie Hurst, Eleanore Griffin, William Ludwig
Cast
| Name | Character |
|---|
| Susan Hayward | Rae Smith |
| John Gavin | Paul Saxon |
| Vera Miles | Liz Saxon |
| Charles Drake | Curt Stanton |
| Virginia Grey | Janey nee Smith / Janey |
| Reginald Gardiner | Dalian |
| Tammy Marihugh | Caroline |
| Robert Eyer | Paul Saxon Jr. |
| Natalie Schafer | Mrs. Evans |
| Joseph Cronin | Airport Clerk |
| Doreen McLean | Miss Hatfield |
| Ted Thorpe | Hotel Clerk |
| Alex Gerry | Mr. Venner |
| Joseph Mell | Proprietor |
| Karen Norris | Mrs. Penworth |
| Dick Kallman | Sailor at USO |
| Hayden Rorke | Charley Claypole |
| Joyce Meadows | Model |
| Mary Lawrence | Marge Claypole |
| Lilyan Chauvin | Paris Airport Employee |
Producers
| Name | Role |
|---|
| Ross Hunter | Producer |
Editors
| Year | Type | Category | Won |
|---|
| 1962 | Oscar | Best Costume Design, Color | Nominated |
