The Defamation of Joan Davis

Backus and Davis, the not-so-happy couple?

It's a lonely job, but someone has to do it. I'm talking about the ongoing battle to speak in defense of Joan Davis (1912-1961), one of my favorite comediennes. Almost without exception, when her name comes up in Facebook groups or other social media outlets, someone can't wait to tell us what a horrible person she was. These are, of course, people who never met her.

This news flash is usually attributed to her sitcom husband, the late Jim Backus. It's true that the chapter on I Married Joan in his memoir (co-authored with wife Henny) does not paint a flattering picture of Joan. But I think Backus himself, who wasn't above a bit of embellishment to make a good story better, might regret what he wrote, if he could see how it's been used to bludgeon a talented performer who's no longer around to defend herself.

I can only hope that those who truly want to learn more about Miss Davis' life and career will take a look at Joan Davis: America's Queen of Film, Radio and Television Comedy. The book, which is based on a substantial amount of research, doesn't try to make Joan a saint -- or crucify her. I believe it's a balanced presentation that treats her with the respect her accomplishments deserve. I'm sorry that's in danger of becoming a minority viewpoint.