The Case Of Dandridge V.

When Dandridge met with Preminger, he admitted that he had not considered Dandridge because he thought she was too "ladylike" for the role. In real-life, Dandridge always prided herself on being elegant and conducting herself like a lady. She had gone to the interview with Preminger dressed in a fashionable but plain suit and light makeup. He wanted her to read for the part of Joe's demure sweetheart, Cindy Lou, but Dandridge refused. She pleaded for the opportunity to return the next day and read for Carmen. He reluctantly agreed. The next day Dandridge, decked out in floozy garb, wind-blown hair and heavy makeup showed up late for the interview and shocked Preminger into giving her a screen test. The test was made with actor James Edwards.