Shelley Fabares starred in three movies alongside the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley. These films, quintessential examples of the musical comedy genre popular in the 1960s, remain a significant part of both Fabares’ and Presley’s filmographies, showcasing their combined talent and undeniable on-screen chemistry.
A Deeper Look into Their On-Screen Collaborations
While often remembered for his musical prowess, Elvis Presley was also a prolific actor, starring in numerous films throughout his career. Shelley Fabares, a beloved actress known for her roles in television and film, became a frequent co-star during a specific period of Presley’s cinematic journey. Examining their collaborative work reveals a shared space of light-hearted entertainment that defined a generation.
The Three Films: A Breakdown
Their three collaborations are Girl Happy (1965), Spinout (1966), and Clambake (1967). Each film showcased Elvis’s musical talents while also providing Fabares with opportunities to display her acting abilities and comedic timing.
-
Girl Happy: In this beach-themed romp, Fabares plays Valerie Frankwell, a college student being chaperoned by Elvis’s character, Rusty Wells, while on spring break in Fort Lauderdale. The film features several memorable songs, including the title track and “Do Not Disturb.” Girl Happy showcases the playful dynamic between Fabares and Presley, with their characters engaging in witty banter and a lighthearted romance.
-
Spinout: Spinout sees Presley as Mike McCoy, a race car driver and singer being pursued by three different women, one of whom is Cynthia Foxhugh, played by Fabares. This film allows Fabares to portray a more sophisticated and assertive character, as Cynthia actively competes for Mike’s affection. The soundtrack includes songs like “All That I Am” and “Spinout.”
-
Clambake: In Clambake, Presley portrays Scott Heyward, a wealthy oil heir who swaps identities with a water ski instructor to see if people like him for himself, not his money. Fabares plays Dianne Carter, a woman who is initially drawn to Scott because of his perceived wealth. This film offers a somewhat different dynamic, with Fabares’ character undergoing a transformation as she learns to appreciate Scott for who he truly is. The film’s title track and songs like “Who Needs Money?” add to the film’s charm.
Shelley Fabares’ Perspective on Working with Elvis
Fabares has spoken fondly of her experiences working with Elvis, often describing him as a generous and kind individual. She has highlighted his professionalism on set and his willingness to collaborate with his co-stars. She has also mentioned the surreal experience of being surrounded by adoring fans during filming, providing a unique insight into the life of a Hollywood actress working alongside one of the world’s biggest stars. Her accounts offer a glimpse into the man behind the legend, further solidifying Elvis’s image as a genuine and charismatic performer.
FAQs: Deepening Your Understanding
These FAQs delve deeper into the films starring Shelley Fabares and Elvis Presley, providing additional insights and trivia.
FAQ 1: Were Shelley Fabares and Elvis Presley romantically involved off-screen?
No, there is no confirmed evidence of a romantic relationship between Shelley Fabares and Elvis Presley beyond their professional collaborations. Both were known for their respective romantic relationships with others during that period. While their on-screen chemistry was undeniable, it remained confined to the roles they portrayed.
FAQ 2: Which of their three films was the most successful at the box office?
Girl Happy was the most commercially successful of the three films. It reached the top ten at the box office, solidifying its place as a popular Elvis Presley movie.
FAQ 3: Did Shelley Fabares sing in any of the movies with Elvis?
No, Shelley Fabares did not sing in any of the films she made with Elvis. These were primarily Elvis Presley musical vehicles, and Fabares’ role focused on her acting abilities.
FAQ 4: What was Shelley Fabares doing before she starred in movies with Elvis?
Before her collaborations with Elvis, Shelley Fabares was already a well-established actress, having gained popularity for her role as Mary Stone in the television sitcom The Donna Reed Show from 1958 to 1963.
FAQ 5: What happened to Shelley Fabares’ career after working with Elvis?
Shelley Fabares continued to have a successful career after her collaborations with Elvis Presley. She continued to work extensively in television, starring in series like The Practice, and making numerous guest appearances in other popular shows. She also continued to act in films.
FAQ 6: Where were the movies with Shelley Fabares and Elvis Presley filmed?
The movies were filmed in various locations, including Hollywood studios, on-location shoots in Florida for Girl Happy, and on-location shoots in California for Spinout and Clambake.
FAQ 7: Are the Shelley Fabares/Elvis Presley movies available on DVD or streaming services?
Yes, all three movies – Girl Happy, Spinout, and Clambake – are generally available on DVD and through various streaming services. Availability may vary depending on your region.
FAQ 8: Were there any other actresses considered for the roles Shelley Fabares played in the Elvis movies?
It’s difficult to definitively say who else was considered, as casting decisions are often confidential. However, it’s likely that multiple actresses were auditioned for the roles before Shelley Fabares was ultimately chosen.
FAQ 9: What is the overall critical reception of the films featuring Shelley Fabares and Elvis?
The films generally received mixed to negative reviews from critics at the time of their release, with many criticizing their formulaic plots and reliance on musical numbers. However, they remain popular with fans of Elvis Presley and are often viewed as lighthearted entertainment from the era.
FAQ 10: What are some of the most memorable scenes featuring Shelley Fabares in these films?
Some memorable scenes include the witty banter and romantic interactions between Fabares and Presley in Girl Happy, her assertive pursuit of Presley in Spinout, and her character’s transformation in Clambake.
FAQ 11: Did Elvis Presley and Shelley Fabares ever collaborate on any other projects outside of these three movies?
No, Shelley Fabares and Elvis Presley only worked together on these three films. Their collaboration was limited to their roles in Girl Happy, Spinout, and Clambake.
FAQ 12: Are there any documentaries or behind-the-scenes footage featuring Shelley Fabares discussing her experiences working with Elvis Presley?
While there might not be dedicated documentaries solely focused on Fabares and Presley, she has discussed her experiences in various interviews and retrospective documentaries about Elvis Presley and the era. Searching for these interviews online can provide valuable insights.
A Lasting Legacy
The collaborations between Shelley Fabares and Elvis Presley remain a significant part of their individual careers and a nostalgic reminder of a bygone era of Hollywood entertainment. While the films might not be considered cinematic masterpieces, they offer a glimpse into the popular culture of the 1960s and showcase the undeniable charm and talent of both performers. Their three films together represent a distinct chapter in the history of musical comedies and continue to be enjoyed by fans around the world.