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
Star Stage Star Stage Star Stage was a half-hour US anothology series. It was sponsored by Campbell Soup Company and hosted by Jeffrey Lynn, who became host on the November 18th telecast. Thirty-nine episodes aired on the National Broadcasting Company (NBC) from 1955-56. Two-thirds of the episodes were done live and the remainder were filmed. Guest stars included Sylvia Sidney, Greer Garson, Dennis Morgan, Joseph Cotten, Dan Duryea, Joan Fontaine, Betty Grable, Paul Douglas (actor), Polly Bergen, Cornel Wilde, Eddie Bracken, Jeanne Crain, Ralph Bellamy, Alan Young and Mary Astor. Directors included feature film directors, Robert Stevenson (director), Sidney Lanfield, Felix E.