Surprised Claudette Colbert took the role

1934 was a banner year for Claudette Colbert with several big hits including "It happened One Night", "Cleopatra", and "Imitation of Life". I notice she was lent to Universal or this film by her home studio Paramount. I don't know if this was a role she wanted or was forced on her.

Most actresses the 1930s were very conscious of their age and taking a role that portrayed them as older was something they were usually reluctant to do. Colbert was 31 when she played this part, a woman with a grown daughter. She's very good, very believable in the role but I'm surprised she took it. Vanity usually got in the way casting a major star in such a part.
"It costs extra to carve 'Schmuck' on a tombstone, but you would definitely be worth it."