More on "Ricky and the Dummy"
Although this is not a super-classic of the Hollywood arc, it's certainly an important
entry into the "story" of WHY Lucy never made it as a successful performer.
She simply didn't want it badly enough.
If Lucy REALLY wanted this opportunity, she would've signed contracts. And while it's
doubtful that a mid-30's unknown female would've become a huge star, she certainly
would've had a chance with a six-month contract, some minor roles, and HUGE
experience.
But Lucy really WAS a "dreamer", not a "doer." Even Ricky admitted he couldn't stand
in her way, so his and the Mertz's manipulation of having to return to New York (which,
of course, Ricky did) wasn't very difficult.
But let's look at what the consequences would've been. For starters, she made not one,
but TWO enemies in Hollywood - the director in her showgirl death scene (Lucy REALLY
blew that one) and Mr. Reilly himself. Hollywood is an unforgiving town, and since, in
the end, MGM really had no long-lasting interest in Ricky Ricardo, it is doubtful Lucy
would've gotten far either. She was too much of an amateur. Furthermore, had she
made something of herself there, Ricky, Fred and Ethel probably would've resented her.
All three were longtime professional performers.
Thoughts?