John Wayne — tough as rawhide and larger than life on screen — was a secret softy!
Never-before-seen letters, exclusively obtained by The National ENQUIRER, reveal the true soul of the Hollywood legend!
The ENQUIRER has taken a sneak peek at “Duke in His Own Words,” a blockbuster treasure trove of Hollywood history available via Amazon.com.
“The guy you see on screen really isn’t me,” said John.
“I’m Duke Morrison, and I never was and never will be a film personality like John Wayne.”
John’s soft side is evident through his personal letters, especially one to Lucille Ball in 1955 in which he credited his performance on “I Love Lucy” to her hard work.
“It is always such a great pleasure working with you, Lucy — you’re so dedicated and so talented,” he said.
In 1961, he penned a congratulatory letter to Elizabeth Taylor after she won her first of two Academy Awards for “BUtterfield 8,” despite it being up against John’s film, “The Alamo,” that year.
“Dear Liz … I am more happy that you received your award than if ‘The Alamo’ had received all that it was nominated for … Affectionately, Duke.” John’s wry humor is also on display in the book, notably in a 1972 letter he wrote regarding public calls for him to become the next commander-in-chief to then-President Richard Nixon.
“Dear Mr. President, Look out! Watch your Ps and Qs!”
Nixon responded two days later: “Dear Duke: Don’t do it. After all, Duke is a better title than President! Sincerely, RN.”
