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The nine-year-old child John Wayne couldn’t stand working with: “He would have a screaming fit”
The article recounts claims that John Wayne became frustrated with nine-year-old co-star Lee Aaker during the making of the 1953 western *Hondo*. According to actor Geraldine Page, Wayne repeatedly made Aaker perform scenes and tried to pressure him into following his direction, highlighting the difficult atmosphere reportedly created by the production’s conditions and Wayne’s temperament.
*Hondo* cast Wayne as cavalry dispatch rider Hondo Lane, alongside Page as a homesteader and Aaker as her son. Page said harsh weather, delays and Wayne’s alleged hangovers contributed to his outbursts; she nevertheless credited him with an on-screen honesty and leadership quality. John Farrow was the credited director, although the article says Wayne exerted considerable influence over the production.
In short
- Page alleged Wayne pressured child co-star Lee Aaker on *Hondo*.
- Harsh weather and delays reportedly heightened tensions on set.
- Despite criticism, Page praised Wayne’s screen presence.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Those emphasising accountability argue that a star's treatment of child actors represents a fundamental professional responsibility, regardless of era or production conditions. Pressure and emotional outbursts directed at a nine-year-old demonstrate a misuse of institutional power and reveal something important about working conditions in classic Hollywood. Documenting such incidents matters for understanding both individual conduct and systemic issues in the entertainment industry.
The case against
Those counselling caution note that a single recollection from decades ago should be weighed carefully and contextually. The 1950s had notably different professional standards; the production faced documented difficulties; and Wayne was reportedly struggling personally. Evaluating historical figures fairly requires contextual understanding rather than applying contemporary standards anachronistically, and reducing complex people to negative anecdotes risks obscuring the fuller truth.
Explained simply
*Hondo* is a 1953 western starring John Wayne as Hondo Lane, a cavalry dispatch rider, with Geraldine Page as a homesteader and Lee Aaker as her young son. It was directed by John Farrow, though accounts say Wayne also had considerable influence on the production.
The film was made amid difficult conditions, including harsh weather and delays. Page later described tensions between Wayne and Aaker during filming, while also praising Wayne’s honesty on screen and his leadership.
The account offers a glimpse of how working conditions and relationships on a film set can shape a production. It also distinguishes between Wayne’s public screen presence and the behaviour co-stars said they experienced behind the scenes.