BETTE DAVIS BABY JANE (1962)

In 1961 she placed an advertisement for "job wanted" in the trade papers. Davis later observed that, although she intended it as a joke there was considerable truth in it and that, above all else, she simply wanted the opportunity to continue working.

Bette's performance in 1962's over-the-top What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?, directed by Robert Aldrich and co-starring long-time rival Joan Crawford, earned her another Oscar nomination. Her performance as a demented former child star living in a decaying mansion with her wheelchair-bound sister was a smash hit and a top-grosser that year.

Contrary to Hollywood legend asserting that Davis and Crawford engaged in a bitter feud during filming, Robert Aldrich commented that both actresses understood that their careers were at a crossroads and that the film may prove to be an important one for each of them, and therefore behaved with professional courtesy during filming. While touring the television talk-show circuit to promote the film, Davis told one interviewer that when she and Crawford were first suggested for the leads, Warner studio head Jack Warner replied: "I wouldn't give a plugged nickel for either of those two old broads." Recalling the story, Davis laughed at her own expense, but the following day, she reportedly received a telegram from Crawford: "In future, please do not refer to me as an old broad!" The ill feeling developed into a lifelong enmity when Crawford actively campaigned against Davis when the latter was nominated for an Academy Award. For the remainder of her life, Davis criticised Crawford for her behaviour.