She Didn’t Tell A Soul
Schafer, aka Mrs. Howell, played the character of Thurston Howell’s wife. Throughout the filming of the show, she kept a secret to herself. The entire crew members, cast members, and even the show’s producers did not have a single idea about it the whole time. Years after the last episode, it was revealed that she was actually 13 years older than Jim Backus, her on-screen husband!
She Didnt Tell A Soul
Special Mention In Her Contract
How was Natalie Schafer able to keep her age secret for so long? The answer to this is the special clause in the actress’ contract. Included there was a statement that prohibited close-up takes of her face. Apparently, she wanted to hide her wrinkles. And no one ever suspected this to be the real reason of the special request in the contract! When you think about it, Schafer is a pretty brilliant woman.
Special Mention In Her Contract