Billy Haines Defies MGM Marriage

The first openly gay Hollywood star is widely considered to have been actor William "Billy" Haines. During the 1920s, he became a major star through films including The Midnight Express, Little Annie Rooney, and Navy Blues while sharing his life with partner Jimmie Shields. In 1933, MGM chief Louis B. Mayer reportedly ordered Haines to enter a sham marriage or give up Shields, and Haines chose his partner. MGM terminated his contract, but Haines made several minor films through 1934 before leaving acting and building a successful interior-design career.

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