Kirk Douglas the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City, which gave him a special scholarship. One of his classmates was Betty Joan Perske (later known as Lauren Bacall), who would play an important role in launching his film career. Bacall wrote that she "had a wild crush on Kirk," and they dated casually. Another classmate, and a friend of Bacall's, was aspiring actress Diana Dill, who would later become Douglas's first wife. During their time together, Bacall learned Douglas had no money, and that he once spent the night in jail since he had no place to sleep. She
Joan Perry Joan Perry Joan Perry (July 7, 1911 – September 16, 1996), born Elizabeth Rosiland Miller, was an American film actress, model, and singer. She was known as Betty Miller when she was a model. Perry was born in Pensacola, Florida, the daughter of Fred A. and Laura Ophelia (née Satterwhite) Miller. She attended Plant High School in Tampa, Florida. Perry gained early acting experience by participating in class plays in Tampa, Florida. In the early 1930s, Perry worked as a model in New York City. In 1935, she went to Hollywood, was signed under contract to Columbia Pictures and during