John Wayne got his revenge against producer Darryl Zanuck for a prior insult while filming 'The Longest Day'

Filmed in the 1960s, The Longest Day is widely regarded as one of the greatest war films of all time. Despite its success, the production encountered several challenges. Reports suggest that significant tension arose between Western star John Wayne and producer Darryl Zanuck, eventually prompting Wayne to take action against Zanuck.

The Longest Day (1962)

Production for The Longest Day began in March 1961 after the book rights were secured. Presented in a docu-drama format, the film meticulously introduces each key character as they prepare for the historic D-Day invasion. With its expansive storyline, it offers a comprehensive and authentic portrayal of this critical event in history.

The film follows the Allies from their initial preparations through the beach landings and intense battles at iconic locations such as Pointe du Hoc and Pegasus Bridge , emphasizing the immense scale of the operation. It became a passion project for producer Darryl Zanuck, who assembled an impressive cast that featured stars like Henry Fonda , Sean Connery , Richard Burton, Kenneth More , and the legendary John Wayne.

John Wayne publicly punishes Darryl Zanuck

Unlike his co-stars, John Wayne's role in The Longest Day was brief. While the majority of the cast received $25,000 , Wayne declined that offer and instead demanded a hefty $250,000 for his limited part. Surprisingly, producer Darryl Zanuck accepted Wayne's terms, allowing him to earn ten times more than the film’s leading actors for his short appearance.

John Wayne never served in the US military

The hefty payment sparked considerable controversy, especially since John Wayne didn’t have military experience, unlike some of his fellow cast members. This difference didn’t sit well with the audience. Despite receiving a substantial sum, Wayne was ultimately credited only at the end of the film.

Years later, Wayne remarked , "It was highway robbery. But I needed the money at the time, and that b****** Zanuck had it coming."

An earlier snub

How did the rivalry between Darryl Zanuck and John Wayne originate?

The discord between Darryl Zanuck and John Wayne traces all the way back to Wayne's choice to take on both the roles of producer and director for the 1960 film, The Alamo , in which he also played Davy Crockett. It focused on the 1836 battle of the same name, saw Wayne heavily invested, pouring a substantial amount of his own money into the project. Despite his efforts, the film was a commercial failure, unable to recoup its expenses, and this resulted in a notable setback for Wayne.

Darryl Zanuck called out John Wayne specifically

Sometime after The Alamo was released in theaters, Darryl Zanuck participated in an interview, where he mentioned John Wayne. In particular, he commented on how he didn't like when actors decide to make their own production companies.

He didn't leave his comments as vague generalizations - he said "poor old Duke" was one of many who'd done this.

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Having heard Zanuck's comments, Wayne decided that he wanted to make him pay... Literally.