John Wayne, the epitome of the American West, was filming “The Conqueror” near St. George, Utah, in 1954 during the period of above-ground atomic bomb testing at the Nevada Test Site. This proximity to nuclear blasts ultimately linked the iconic actor to a tragic chapter in Hollywood history, highlighting the dangers of radiological exposure.
The Conqueror: Epic Scope, Atomic Shadow
The year was 1954. Hollywood was captivated by epic historical dramas, and John Wayne, at the height of his career, was cast as Genghis Khan in Howard Hughes’ ambitious production, “The Conqueror.” The film, notorious for its historical inaccuracies and questionable casting choices, is now remembered more for the devastating health consequences suffered by its cast and crew than for its artistic merit.
Why St. George, Utah?
The location of St. George, Utah, was chosen for its striking resemblance to the Mongolian landscape where Genghis Khan’s story unfolded. However, this picturesque backdrop came with a dangerous secret: the Nevada Test Site, a mere 137 miles away. The US government conducted eleven above-ground nuclear tests that year, including “Operation Upshot-Knothole,” releasing significant amounts of radioactive fallout across the region.
Fallout’s Invisible Threat
While the government assured residents of the area that the fallout posed no health risks, history has proven otherwise. Prevailing winds carried radioactive dust directly over St. George and the surrounding areas, exposing the cast and crew of “The Conqueror” to significant doses of radiation. Unbeknownst to them, they were working in a contaminated environment.
The Tragic Legacy of “The Conqueror”
The consequences of this exposure were devastating. Years later, a disproportionately high number of cast and crew members, including John Wayne, Susan Hayward, Agnes Moorehead, and director Dick Powell, succumbed to various forms of cancer.
Documented Cases and Statistical Anomalies
Of the 220 people involved in the film’s production, 91 developed cancer, and 46 died from it. While a direct causal link is impossible to definitively prove in every case, the statistical anomaly is undeniable. Considering typical cancer rates, the cluster among the “Conqueror” crew far exceeded expectations.
John Wayne’s Battle with Cancer
John Wayne himself battled lung cancer in 1964, which was successfully treated initially. However, he later developed stomach cancer, ultimately leading to his death in 1979. While his heavy smoking habit was undoubtedly a contributing factor, the potential role of radiation exposure from “The Conqueror” remains a topic of speculation and concern.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about the filming of “The Conqueror” and its connection to atomic bomb testing:
FAQ 1: What specific atomic tests were conducted near St. George during filming?
During the filming of “The Conqueror” in 1954, the US government was conducting Operation Upshot-Knothole. This series of eleven atmospheric nuclear tests released significant amounts of radioactive fallout.
FAQ 2: How did the film crew become exposed to radiation?
Exposure occurred primarily through inhalation and ingestion of radioactive dust carried by prevailing winds from the Nevada Test Site. They also spent extended periods of time working outdoors in a contaminated environment.
FAQ 3: Were the cast and crew aware of the potential dangers?
At the time, the government maintained that the levels of radiation were safe. Therefore, the cast and crew were largely unaware of the long-term health risks. They were reassured by official statements and had no reason to suspect the true dangers.
FAQ 4: What types of cancer were most prevalent among the cast and crew?
A wide range of cancers were reported, including lung cancer, breast cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, and stomach cancer. This variety suggests a broad-spectrum impact from radiation exposure.
FAQ 5: Was John Wayne the only prominent actor affected by cancer?
No. Susan Hayward and Agnes Moorehead both died from cancer, and director Dick Powell also succumbed to the disease. Many other less well-known members of the cast and crew suffered similar fates.
FAQ 6: Did Howard Hughes, the film’s producer, acknowledge the risks?
Howard Hughes was reportedly deeply affected by the health problems that plagued the cast and crew. He eventually bought up every print of “The Conqueror” for $12 million, allegedly out of guilt and remorse.
FAQ 7: Where did the studio source the soil used in the film?
To enhance the authenticity of the Mongolian setting, the studio reportedly transported tons of soil from the contaminated area to Hollywood for use in reshoots. This further exposed studio personnel to radiation.
FAQ 8: What were the long-term health consequences for the residents of St. George, Utah?
The residents of St. George, often referred to as the “Downwinders,” experienced significantly higher rates of cancer, particularly leukemia, thyroid cancer, and breast cancer.
FAQ 9: Has the US government compensated victims of the atomic tests?
The US government established the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) to provide financial assistance to individuals who developed certain cancers after being exposed to radiation from nuclear testing.
FAQ 10: Is “The Conqueror” still available to watch?
Yes, after Howard Hughes’ death, “The Conqueror” was eventually released and is now available on DVD and for streaming. However, viewing it today is often accompanied by a sense of unease and awareness of its tragic history.
FAQ 11: What lessons can be learned from this tragic event?
The story of “The Conqueror” serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of downplaying or ignoring potential health risks, especially when it comes to radiation exposure. It highlights the importance of transparency, independent scientific assessment, and prioritizing public health over political expediency.
FAQ 12: Where can I learn more about the effects of atomic testing in Nevada?
There are numerous resources available, including books, documentaries, and online articles. Organizations like the National Cancer Institute and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also provide valuable information on the health effects of radiation exposure. Researching the “Downwinders” movement provides further insight.