The Tragic 1932 Death Of Paul Bern

May 2024 · 2 minute read

As described in SFGate, Jean Harlow was one of the most recognized actresses of her time and was most famous for her role in 1930's "Hell's Angels." Despite the eighteen-year age gap between her and Paul Bern, their romance quickly blossomed and the couple married after only two months of dating. But their marriage didn't last long as Bern was found dead in the couple's bathroom on September 5, 1932 from a gunshot wound to the head. Bern's death was only two months after he and Harlow tied the knot.

SFGate states that Bern's body was found by his household staff. However, instead of calling the police, they called MGM. The studio sent fixers (including infamous Hollywood fixer Eddie Mannix, as stated in Smithsonian Magazine) to his home to find a way to relate the story to the press without ruining the studio's reputation. They eventually called Harlow and it wasn't until two hours after the discovery of Bern's body that police were notified. There are various theories floating around about what could've provoked Bern to die by suicide. Some of the theories include that it was because of depression brought on by the film industry or being married to one of the most famous women in the world. His friends said that Bern talked about suicide for some time before he committed the tragic act (per SFGate).

If you or anyone you know is having suicidal thoughts, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline​ by dialing 988 or by calling 1-800-273-TALK (8255)​.

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