The studio did soften Sissy's characterization due to a libel suit filed by Smith's cousin, Sadie Grandner, who claimed that the character had been based on her and that she had suffered "scorn and ridicule" as a result. 20th Century Fox settled out of court with Grandner for the sum of $1,500.
The studio modified Sissy's portrayal due to a lawsuit filed by Smith's relative, Sadie Grandner, who alleged the character was based on her and that she had experienced public humiliation as a result. 20th Century Fox settled with Grandner for $1,500.