original full name: Dorla Jeanne Hood
revised full name: Darla Jean Hood
born Nov. 4, 1930, in Leedey, OK
died June 13, 1979, in Los Angeles, CA, of heart failure after contracting Hepatitis C.
Special note: There is some variation on the reports of Darla's birthdate, with Maltin & Bann listing it as Nov. 4, 1931, her grave marker listing it as 1931, the Social Security
Index listing it as Nov. 4, 1930, and both Wikipedia and IMDb listing it as Nov. 8, 1931 (a claim corroborated in a few of the late 1935 newspaper articles). Studio publicity, and the
resultant newspaper coverage, perpetuates 1931 as the year of birth by consistently reporting Darla's age accordingly. However, several articles in local Oklahoma newspapers remove any doubt
that she was born on Nov. 4, 1930, so contrary to what her parents and the studio would have anybody believe, she wasn't three-going-on-four when she joined the Our Gang series,
she was four-going-on-five. Darla herself told Earl Wilson of the Tulsa Daily World in 1963 that she spent most of her childhood thinking she was a year younger than she really
was.
Also of note: Most sources list Darla's place of death as North Hollywood, but newspaper reports at the time state that she died at a hospital in Canoga Park, which is a Los Angeles
neighborhood in the San Fernando Valley. She was reported to have lived in North Hollywood in the late '70s, so perhaps this got conflated with her place of death.
Also of note: Darla's mother reportedly made up the name Dorla, but as the well-known story goes, somebody at the studio misspelled it as Darla, and that name stuck. Since her
contract was reportedly signed when she was still in New York, this could have been where the mistake was made, since newspapers began to call her Darla right after the signing. It's also
been reported that the misspelling happened at the hospital where she was born, but every reference to her prior to September 1935 (and there are several of them) refer to her as Dorla.
Also, the longer spelling of her middle name seems to be accurate, not only because it was consistently spelled this way in the earliest sources, but there was also a 1938 legal notice in the
Taloga Times-Advocate of Taloga, OK, which identified her as Dorla Jeanne Hood, suggesting that, at least by that time, this was still her legal name.
1930
- On November 6th of this year, The Leedey Times (OK) reported the following: "Last Tuesday (the 4th) about noon J. C. Hood, of the First National Bank, was
noticed hurrying to and fro about the bank building and seemed much excited. It being election day his many friends thought his strange behavior was caused over the possible defeat of one of his
favorite candidates, but discovered that he was only overjoyed over the arrival of a beautiful baby daughter which took up her abode at the Hood home that morning. Mrs. Hood and baby are doing
nicely, and Claud, though possessing that proud manner, is able to be at his post of duty." The Sayre Headlight of November 9th and the Elk City Daily News of November 12th both
specifically state that the baby was born on the 4th of November. It's also worth noting that the 4th was indeed Election Day in 1930. Also, throughout the rest of 1930 and the whole of 1931,
The Leedey Times reported on the Hoods every time they visited with relatives, or vice-versa, usually referring to Darla generically as their "baby" or "infant
daughter," but occasionally calling her by her name, Dorla Jeanne. These short items turn up about twice a month during this period.
1931
- On March 12th of this year, The Leedey Times (OK) reported the following: "The prize for the largest family of children present at the family night service at the
Methodist church was won by Mrs. L. D. Jones. There were seven children present. Mrs. J. M. Faust and son Richard, were chosen from a field of close competition. Mr. Claud Hood and daughter, Dorla
Jeanne, received the prize for the daughter and father with the closest resemblance. Prizes given were small testaments. A large crowd attended the services."
- On June 11th, The Leedey Times (OK) reported the following: "Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Hood moved yesterday into their beautiful new home in the east part of the city, which
has just been completed."
1932
- On March 17th of this year, The Leedey Times (OK) reported the following: "Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Hood left last night for Oklahoma City where they are taking their small
daughter, Dorla Jeanne, to the hospital. The baby has been very ill for several days of intestinal flu, and is in a critical condition. The many friends here are anxiously awaiting a favorable
report."
- On April 7th, The Leedey Times (OK) reported the following: "Claud Hood went to Sayre Sunday (the 3rd) and brought Mrs. Hood and his little daughter home. Mrs.
Hood had spent the week in Sayre, following an eight day stay at the hospital in Oklahoma City on account of the serious illness of the baby. They report her to be rapidly regaining her normal
health."
1934
- As Darla told Richard Lamparski years later: "My mother apparently made up her mind, like two minutes after I was born, that I was gonna be the ticket out of Leedey, Oklahoma. She
started teaching me to sing and dance almost the same time I learned to talk and walk." It's been reported that Darla's mother began teaching her daughter to sing and dance at the age
of two. So, does this mean that it started around 1933, during most of which she was two years old? Or has her age been adjusted to conform to the idea that she joined Our Gang at the age of
three, a claim that was consistently made during Darla's childhood, but which wasn't true? If it's the latter, then she may have been three when this process began.
- On September 27th of this year, The Leedey News (OK) reported that the American Legion and Auxiliary met the previous Monday (the 24th). "A short program was given
by Tryphena Cloyd, tap dancing, and Dola(sic) Jean Hood, singing."
- On October 11th, The Leedey News (OK) reported that Dorla Jeanne Hood did "vocal solos" at a meeting of the Leedey Woman's Club at the home of Mrs. S. H. Moore on
October 5th.
- On November 11th, Dorla Jeanne Hood did a "solo" as part of the Armistice Day Program at the High School Auditorium in Leedey, Oklahoma.
1935
- On January 27th of this year, Dorla Jean Hood sang "I Washed My Hands This Morning" as part of a musical program sponsored by the Ladies' Missionary Society at the M. E. Church
in Leedey.
- On March 5th, Dorla Jean Hood sang at a meeting of The Leedey Lions.
- On March 15th, Dorla Jean Hood sang two songs at a meeting of the Y. W. S. Club and the Leedey Womans Club in the Leedey City Hall.
- Around April, Darla's mother began driving her daughter 150 miles to Oklahoma City to take lessons at Kathryn Duffy's Studio of the Dance.
- On April 21st, Dorla Jean Hood won a large goose egg as a prize during an Easter Egg Hunt put on by the Sunday School teachers of the Methodist and Church of Christ Churches in Leedey.
- On June 3rd, Darla appeared in Kathryn Duffy's production of Follies de Paree at the Shrine Auditorium in Oklahoma City. As The Leedey News described it on June 6th:
"Dorla Jean Hood made her debut at Kathryn Duffy school of Dance Monday night to an estimated crowd of approximately 3000 people...Dorla Jean sang two numbers and danced one. She was the
only one in the entire cast to be called back the third time. While she had prepared only two numbers, this made it necessary for her to give one of her older songs. The Master of Ceremonies
announced her as the child with the best personality, which gave her the best sendoff of the entire cast."
- On June 25th, The Sayre Daily Headlight-Journal (OK) reported the following: "Dorla Jean Hood, 3-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. Claud Hood, Leedey,
will sing at the 'night club' in the Theatre Cabaret to be given Saturday night (the 29th) in Oklahoma City by the Kathryn Duffy school of dancing for the milk and ice fund. Little
Miss Hood has been studying dancing and some voice under Miss Duffy the past two months. She is considered one of Miss Duffy's 'finds.' Her mother and father formerly lived in Sayre.
She is a granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Danner." It's notable that Darla is already being passed off as a year younger than she actually was, a couple of months prior to hooking up
with Hal Roach Studios.
- On June 27th, The Leedey News (OK) reported the following: "Dorla Jean Hood, three year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Hood will add another laurel to her wreath of
triumph when she appears on the Milk and Ice Fund Theatre Cabaret next Saturday night (the 29th) at the Criterion Theatre in Oklahoma City. A picture of Dorla Jean appeared on the
front page of the Daily Oklahoman Tuesday morning (the 25th), captioned as a 'Good Samaritan' who would lead the crowd to the theatre for the benefit performance. Dorla Jean is a
student of Kathryn Duffy, and made her initial appearance in Oklahoma City on June 3 when she appeared in the Kathryn Duffy School of Dance Frolic at the Shrine Auditorium."
- On July 1st, The Oklahoma Banker of Oklahoma City reported the following: "J. C. Hood is the cashier of the First National Bank, Leedey. His connection with this news item is
that he happens to be the daddy of Miss Dorris Jane Hood (sic), who is the four-year-old wonder of the State of Oklahoma. The child is very beautiful. She has been trained in the
fine art of singing and dancing by her mother and other artists, including Kathryn Duffy of Oklahoma City. She made her first appearance in Oklahoma City at the Criterion Theater as a star number
on its benefit milk and ice fund preview. She displayed such talent that Kathryn Duffy started at once with her on a tour of eastern cities where Dorris is appearing on the stage and in radio
programs. Such cities as Chicago and New York are listed on her circuit and it is expected that she will soon appear on Major Bowes Amateur Hour, Radio Center, New York City." As Darla later
told Richard Lamparski: "...She (her mother) used to drive me 150 miles to Oklahoma City to take dancing and singing lessons. And, of course, this is before I really remember
anything. The dancing teacher there, Kathryn Duffy, who incidentally lives in New York now, became very fond of me. She had no children. She thought I had potential, and she used to put me in her
shows doing little spots. And finally she convinced my parents that when she came to New York to get some ideas for choreography, that I should come along because this would be the trip of my
life, and I think I was three at the time. And I must confess, I don't remember too much about the trip."
- On July 18th, the The Sayre Headlight (OK) published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On August 1st, The Sayre Sun (OK) reported the following: "Dorla Jeanne Hood, Western Oklahoma's Shirley Temple, is still climbing toward the pinnacle of fame in
the east. Word has reached us that she has sung her way into the hearts of Peggy Hopkins Joyce and Charles Thomas, noted singers, who autographed a menu for her. Spectators almost went wild with
applause when she sang at the Hollywood club. At present she is singing and dancing three nights a week in the Green Room at the Edison hotel. Saturday (July 27th) she was guest artist
over WMCA on Nick Kinny's(sic) hour. She was so good in Chicago that she has been offered a return engagement at the Frayland in the Stevens hotel. It is relably rumored that she is
dated to sing before that other famous singer - Sayre's own Joe Benton." Nick Kenny had a Saturday night radio program called Nick Kenny's Frolics, though it was actually
on WHN, while on other nights he was on WMCA.
- On September 1st, Don O'Malley reported the following in his syndicated column: "Watch out for Darla Jean Hood, who's going to be the successor of Shirley Temple in the
movies. Little Darla, who is three years old, came to California from Oklahoma City a few weeks ago, took a screen test and is now on her way to Hollywood to work with Hal Roach. The kid is a
natural. I watched her over in the Green Room of the Hotel Edison, where she was showing some friends her singing and dancing routine. For variety she got up on a chair and led the orchestra,
waving a baton bigger than herself, and throwing the place into an uproar. And from the way she wheedled me into signing her autograph book, the gal's got appeal a-plenty." Just to be
clear, the Hotel Edison was in New York, which is where the contract with the Roach studio was signed. Darla returned to Oklahoma from there a few days after this column was written and then
moved on to California.
- On September 5th, Darla arrived back in Leedey after her eastern tour (this according to The Leedey News of the next day). Previously it had been reported that Kathryn Duffy
returned to Oklahoma City on the 3rd, but perhaps she hung on to Darla for a couple of days while they did some local appearances.
- On September 6th, The Daily Oklahoman of Oklahoma City published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- Also on September 6th, the Associated Press reported the following: "Darla Jean Hood, Oklahoma's newest and youngest for film fame, left late today for Hollywood to
begin rehearsals Tuesday (the 10th) as the lead for 'Our Gang Follies of 1936.' Darla Jean is 3½ years of age." This would indicate that other reports of Darla leaving
"next week" weren't accurate, but perhaps the idea was that she'd be arriving at her destination at that time. According to The Leedey Star of Dec. 31, 1936, Darla
arrived in Hollywood on September 11th, which implies that she didn't make it to the rehearsals on the 10th.
- On September 10th, The Sayre Daily Headlight-Journal (OK) published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On September 12th, The Leedey News (OK) published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- As the Los Angeles Times of Dec. 25, 1977, reported: "Once in California, she (Darla) and her mother lived in an apartment in West Hollywood. Her father, skeptical
about the whole situation, remained in Oklahoma until he saw that Darla's contract option would be picked up (a year later)."
- On September 21st, Darla, along with Spanky, Alfalfa, Buckwheat and Scotty, hosted an event at the California Pacific International Exposition at Balboa Park in San Diego, in which droves
of young kids could gain admission for only a nickel and meet their heroes. The kids were also scheduled to lead a parade of home-made cars.
- On September 25, 1935, the Hollywood Citizen-News published an article by Dallas MacDonnell, which had this to say about Darla: "Darla's poise is astonishing, and her
voice is deep and big and clear...when she begins to sing 'Here Comes Cookie,' we let our jaw drop and stay that way, in our amazement...no wonder they brought this wee brunette all the
way from New York, where Joe Rivkin of the Hal Roach organization discovered her singing and dancing in the Green Room of the Edison Hotel...with Darla on the set is Gordon Douglas, assistant
director, Kathryn Duffy, her teacher and manager, and the latter's husband, H. L. Braudis, who took her from her home in Oklahoma City to Chicago and New York on the two months' tour,
which resulted in her Hal Roach contract...Miss Duffy has 500 other youngsters in her school back home, but she left them to launch Darla on her career..."
- On September 26th, The Leedey News (OK) published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On October 4th, The Lindsay News (OK) reported the following: "Darla Jo Hood, not yet 4 years old, of Leedey, Okla., has secured a good contract for a term of 7 years
to perform in 'Our Gang' comedy, and is now at Hollywood on the job. Dancing is the main feature of her work. This little star took her first dancing lessons under the direction of Mrs.
J. J. Dimmitt, nee Miss Mary Frances See, a former Lindsay girl, when she taught dancing lessons in Western Oklahoma." Presumably, this would have been prior to taking lessons from Kathryn
Duffy.
- As Maltin & Bann described it, Darla was to play Thelma Todd's role as a child in "The Bohemian Girl," with Todd wearing a brunette wig. But then Todd died suddenly, and her
role went to the blonde Jacqueline Wells. This required Darla to get her hair bleached blonde, a procedure that took place at Westmore's Beauty Salon in Hollywood where she met Shirley Temple.
Two problems arise with this story, though. First, Darla's involvement with the film, and seemingly everything else having to do with the shooting of the film, took place prior to Todd's
December 16th death. In addition to that, Todd's role in the film (which was reduced through editing after her death) was not the character played as a child by Darla.
- In spite of Darla receiving a weekly salary from the moment she arrived at the studio, her contract was apparently dated October 11th. This is according to an amendment made to the agreement
on April 8, 1937. Perhaps a second contract was prepared after the completion of her first Our Gang film.
- On October 17th, The Leedey News (OK) reported the following: "Through the courtesy of Hal Roach, the screen test of Dorla Jeanne Hood, taken in New York last summer,
was sent to her father J. C. Hood, and a special showing was held at the Rex Theatre Tuesday afternoon (the 15th). In this test Dorla Jeanne introduced herself, sang two songs, tapped, and
enacted a scene from Shirley Temple's picture, 'Little Miss Marker.' Dorla's voice registered perfectly, and her performance was so natural that it is no small wonder she has
received the adoration of Hollywood. With her talent and training past and future, and the opportunities now opened, there is no alternative but for Dorla Jeanne to travel far along the path to
success."
- On October 22nd, the Associated Press reported the following: "At the age of four, Darla Hood, petite and blond, was legally launched today on a film career as a leading
lady. Her contract with Hal Roach studios was approved in superior court after it was stated she will play the principal feminine role in future 'Our Gang' comedies. Over a
seven-year period, she will receive from $75 to $750 a week. A daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Hood of Leedey, Okla., where her father is engaged in the banking business, Darla made
her debut recently in 'Our Gang Follies of 1936.' " According to the Chicago Tribune of July 18, 1937, this approval of Darla's contract took place the previous day, on the
21st.
- On October 23rd, the Parade of Youth reported the following: "Darla says she likes Hollywood because there are so many nice and pretty youngsters there for her to play with.
But she isn't overwhelmed by the movie city, nor is she greatly impressed at the thought of being a part of the great screen colony. It's all right, but the sophisticated little miss has
been places and seen things too often to let Hollywood atmosphere affect her."
- On October 24th, The Sayre Headlight (OK) published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On October 29th, the Cache American of Logan, UT, reported the following: "Another baby starlet who will most likely succeed Miss Temple with the fans unless her dimpled
babiness makes her own place in the stratum of stars is little Miss Darla Hood. She is as cute as a kitten with big brown eyes and dark brown curls, will be four years on November 8. Watch for
her in 'Our Gang Follies of 1936.' She learned to dance when she was a year and a half old, and it was because of her dancing ability that she won her place in films. She will be
featured in Laurel Hardy production 'Bohemian Girl' as a tiny princess. For the role which demanded a blonde they bleached her hair."
- On November 27th, Darla, along with Alfalfa, Buckwheat and Porky, made a personal appearance at the Four Star Theater in Los Angeles for the western premiere of "Our Gang Follies Of
1936."
- On November 30th, the Y.M.C.A. Older Boys' Conference took place at Whittier College. In the evening, the conference moved on to the Wardman Theater, where a 25-minute stage show was
given. Fahy Johnson introduced the two Switzer brothers, along with Darla Hood, the latter of whom did some singing and tapdancing. This was followed by a screening of "Little
Sinner."
- On December 5th, the Logan County News of Crescent, OK, published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On December 19th, The Leedey News (OK) reported the following: "Darla Jeanne Hood, 4 year old movie star of Leedey and Hollywood, and her mother, Mrs. J. C. Hood, are
expected from Hollywood this weekend for a visit with their husband and father, J. C. Hood, and their many old friends in the Leedey community. Homefolks in general are proud of the talented and
ambitious Darla Jeanne, and her return home at Christmas time brings additional Christmas cheer to one and all. Thrice welcome to 'Leedey's Leading Lady!' "
- On December 21st, The Sayre Daily Headlight-Journal (OK) reported on a planned "Christmas Carol" benefit on December 23rd. Among other things, it stated:
"An effort is being made by the program committee to have Darla Jean Hood, popular Hollywood screen star and granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Danner of Sayre to appear on the benefit
program. The little screen actress is due to arrive in Sayre tonight or Sunday (the 22nd) and definite plans for her appearance can not be made until she arrives, the committee
reported."
- On December 23rd, the Woodward Daily Press (OK) reported the following: "Tomorrow will be a gala day in Leedey. It will be Christmas eve, of course, but there is
another reason. 'Leedey's sweetheart,' Darla Hood will be there from Hollywood. The four year old daughter of Banker and Mrs. J. C. Hood has been in Hollywood for several months where
she has worked in three pictures, making her debut in 'Our Gang Follies of 1936,' completing 'The Bohemian Girl' and now busy in a third. Mrs. Hood, who is with her talented
daughter, will bring Darla home for her first visit since signing a long long term contract and 'getting her pictures in all of the papers.' January issue of Modern Screen carries a
picture of Darla and the rest of the 'Our Gang' cast. January of 'Up Town,' published at Oklahoma City, carries a full page picture and proclaims the western Oklahoma youngster as
one of the coming stars. A special reception is being held at 2 o'clock tomorrow afternoon in Leedey for Darla and her mother. Several Woodward folk have received invitations and plan to
attend."
- On December 24th, The Daily Oklahoman of Oklahoma City reported the following out of Leedey: "Darla Jean Hood, Leedey's sweetheart, was met at the train Tuesday (Dec.
24th) by a procession of 150 cars and was paraded through town to the accompaniment of horns and sirens. Little Miss Hood, 3 years old, was the star of 'Our Gang Follies,' and has a
contract with Hal Roach. She came home from Hollywood for the Christmas holidays. After the band had finished playing, Darla and her mother both spoke over the public address system. Darla
appeared at the community Christmas tree program. The child actress will be honored by the Leedey Lions club."
- On December 26th, The Leedey News (OK) reported the following: "Last Monday and Tuesday (Dec. 23rd and 24th) and specially Tuesday were considered by many as
history-making days in Leedey, for on Tuesday Leedey's very own Darla Hood and her mother, Mrs. J. C. Hood, arrived home from Hollywood. What a greeting the 1000 old neighbors and
friends gave the little movie star at the bank corner where loud speakers and mikes were set up. Introductions of Darla, mother, and father followed, then Darla appeared at the local theatre,
later appearing on the Community Christmas Tree program, when a picture was taken of her and the crowd. It was a great day for Darla, her parents, and their hundreds of friends in the old home
town."
- On December 27th, The Sayre Daily Headlight-Journal (OK) published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On December 28th, The Sayre Daily Headlight-Journal (OK) reported on the last church rites of 1935, and included the following: "Among the special features
planned for the last Sunday rites will be the unusual program at the First Methodist church in which Darla Jean Hood, granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Danner of Sayre and popular new
Hollywood screen star, will sing a number of songs. The young movie star will sing a number of selections before the worship hour service begins."
- On December 30th, The Emporia Daily Gazette (KS) reported on a local citizen leaving for Oklahoma City, where she would attending on this night a party given by Kathryn Duffy
in honor of Darla Hood.
- untitled (lead role)
- prem. Oct. 15, 1935 - screen test
- Darla's screen test, shot in New York in August, was givn a private showing at the Rex Theatre in Leedey, OK. Darla sings "I'll Never Say 'Never Again' Again,"
"You've Got Me Walking On The Tip Of My Toes" and "The Hats On The Side Of My Head."
- 141. Our Gang Follies Of 1936 (supporting role: Cookie)
- prem. Nov. 27, 1935 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-34 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Sep. 9 to 14, and Sep. 23 to 28, 1935. ©Oct. 29, 1935. Earliest verified screening: Nov. 4, 1935, in Leedey, OK. Released Nov. 30, 1935. Darla sings "I'll Never Say
'Never Again' Again."
- Hearst Metrotone News (appearance)
- Dec. 1935 - Hearst - 1 reel - newsreel
- Featuring the Our Gang kids.
1936
- On January 1st of this year, the Woodward Daily Press (OK) published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On January 2nd, The Leedey News reported that Darla and her mother had left Leedey for Hollywood on Wednesday, which was the 1st. This contradicts what the Woodward Daily Press
of the previous day which stated that they would leave for Hollywood on the 2nd. Either way, Darla was reportedly to do some retakes for "The Bohemian Girl" when she got back.
- On January 30th, The Sayre Sun (OK) reported the following: "Two of Oklahoma's contributions to Hollywood appeared on a benefit program at one of the Hollywood
theaters recently. The performers were Darla Jean Hood, grand daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Danner of this city who has made a hit as a juvenile singer and tap dancer, and Johnny Marvin,
Oklahoma's Lonesome Cowboy singer from Butler, Oklahoma. Darla Jean sang a song standing on a grand piano in a costume of yellow satin slacks and blouse. Other stars present were, Sybil
Jason, Fred Stone, Dorothy Stone, and Bill Robinson, sensational negro tap dancer."
- On February 28th, The Woodward Daily Press (OK) reported the following: "Darla Jean Hood and other members of 'Our Gang' troupe have completed another two
reeler, entitled 'Arbor Day.' Her mother, Mrs. J. C. Hood, writes that two more pictures will be made before the group leaves on a 10 weeks personal appearance tour. A publicity man, a
teacher and a trainer will be in the tour that starts April 14th. Darla Jean realized a big thrill the other day when she met Shirley Temple." Interesting item, as the usual story states that
Darla met Shirley when she had her hair dyed blonde for "The Bohemian Girl," which would have been about four months earlier. Is it possible that they met when Darla's hair was
restored to its original brunette, and that perhaps instead of happening "the other day," it happened in early February prior to the shooting of "Arbor Day"?
- On March 19th, The Elk City Journal (OK) reported the following: "This coming Monday (the 23rd) will find Darla (Darla Jean Hood) working in a
feature with Charlie Chase, playing the part of his little girl. Her wardrobe for this picture is being made at the studio. Patsy Kelly has finished a clever comedy called, 'Pots and
Pans.' She and Darla have their moments together, chatting about their knitting, etc. Darla Jean, Sibyl Jason and Jane Withers, all young players, meet often at the Hollywood Association of
Dance, as they all study there. These two little stars are very outstanding. Jane Withers is ten and Sibyl Jason is seven years old. - Mrs. J. C. Hood, writing from Hollywood to the Leedey
Star."
- On April 4th, Darla, along with Spanky, Alfalfa, Buckwheat, Harold Switzer, Pete the Pup and MC Joe Cobb, appeared at the Fox Arlington theater in Santa Barbara for afternoon and evening
performances.
- On April 8th, the Evening Vanguard of Venice, CA, reported the following: "Culver City loses part of its population tonight when the members of 'Our Gang' leave
on their private car for a personal appearance tour. They open in Duluth Sunday (Apr. 12th). Those going include Spanky McFarland, Darla Hood, 'Alfalfa' and Harold Switzer,
Buckwheat Thomas, and Pete the dog. Joe Cobb the former fat boy will act as master of ceremonies. They will be accompanied by their parents, their teacher Mrs. Fern Carter, who has been the
Gang teacher for fifteen years and Jack Sidney, company manager. All of the old-timers of the Gang who are in Southern California will be on hand to wish them luck including Johnny
Downs, Mary Kornman, Farina and Mickey Daniels." On April 12th, The Davenport Democrat and Leader (IA) added that the kids would have their own special
"play-car" on the train.
- On April 9th, the Our Gang entourage stopped in Ogden, UT, on their way to the first stop in their personal appearance tour: Duluth.
- On the evening of April 10th, the Our Gang entourage stopped briefly at the Union Station in Omaha, NB, where they took questions from reporters.
- On April 12th, the Our Gang kids opened their personal appearance tour in Duluth, MN, where they performed for three days. As the Sayre Daily Headlight-Journal (OK)
reported on Apr. 22nd: "The group makes five appearances daily, in a vaudeville act of 23 minutes. During this short time each member of the cast makes three changes in
costumes."
- Also on April 12th, The Minneapolis Journal published an article about the kids' plans for the future, with this to say about Darla: "Darla Hood, the
four-year-old leading lady of the 'Gang' is the lone would-be movie star. She conscientiously works at her singing and dancing with the goal of film stardom in
view."
- On April 14th, Louella Parsons reported the following in her syndicated column: "Even Greta Garbo herself could not have brought a bigger crowd to the Duluth movie theater than
the members of the Our Gang comedy troupe who are making a personal appearance. The Duluth youngsters were so delighted with Spanky McFarland, Darla Hood, Alfalfa Switzer, Billy
(Buckwheat) Thomas and Fatty Joe Cobb, master of ceremonies, that they came to the theater early and stayed late. Hal Roach's celebrated infants will be gone most of the Summer on
tour."
- On April 17th, the Our Gang kids arrived in Minneapolis in the morning for a week's engagement at the Minnesota Theater. The act was described as mostly consisting of songs by the
various kids, with Alfalfa and Harold singing hillbilly songs.
- On April 19th, The Daily Oklahoman of Oklahoma City reported that the Gang's 2-month tour was being extended to three months.
- On April 22nd, The Minneapolis Journal published a version of Merle Potter's column in which the various Our Gang kids filled in for him. This is what Darla had to say:
"Do you like tea parties? I do, too, and every afternoon I give one for my dolls. We have milk, toast and fruit. Sometimes Mama makes us cocoa. On my birthday, though, we had something
even more special. We had ice-cream and a big cake and candies. Each one of us blew out a candle but I had to help my baby dolls blow out their candles. At the studio where we make Our Gang
comedies, they always let me have my tea parties right on the set. One time Mr. Laurel and Mr. Hardy gave us a party and Sparky(sic), Alfalfa and the rest of the kids came that time. I
have quite a family. There's Sunshine, who wears a great big sun bonnet over her blonde curls; Betty Boop; Darla Sue, she looks like me; Santa Claus, who's a nice
roly-poly doll that Santa brought me; and lots of others. Every day I give them a dancing lesson just like the one I've had."
- Also on April 22nd, The Sayre Headlight-Journal) (OK) reported the following: "Darla Jean Hood, granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Danner, is now on a tour
with the 'Our Gang,' troupe of juvenile movie actors making personal appearances in the larger cities in the north and east. The troupe opened April 12 at Duluth, Minnesota, for a
three-day showing. The second appearance of the troupe was in Minneapolis on April 17. Darla Jean is the only girl to be taken on the tour. The other members traveling with her are: Spanky
McFarland, Alfalfa Switzer, Harold Switzer, and Buckwheat Thomas, the little negro boy. The group makes five appearances daily, in a vaudeville act of 23 minutes. During this short time each
member of the cast makes three changes in costumes. Mrs. J. C. Hood is traveling with Darla Jean. Parents of Spanky, Alfalfa and Harold are also with the troupe. 'Buckwheat' is
accompanied by his mother. The 'Gang' will appear in Chicago on April 24 and in Detroit May 1.
- It appears that the Our Gang kids arrived in Chicago on April 24th and stayed until the end of the month. The Chicago Daily Tribune ran ads during the week for the Chicago State
theater, which featured the kids in person. Oddly, one of these ads was for May 1st, but it's pretty clear that they were no longer in town on that date.
- On May 1st, the Our Gang kids arrived in Detroit in the morning for a week's engagement at the Michigan Theatre. Spanky stayed in his hotel bed this evening with a cold, according to
reports. Turned out it was the measles.
- On May 4th in Detroit, the Associated Press reported the following: "Measles invaded 'Our Gang,' child motion picture troupe making a personal appearance at a
theater here, and three members were in quarantine today. 'Spanky' McFarland, the 7-year-old 'leading man,' has the disease, and Darla Hood, 4, and William
(Buckwheat) Thomas Jr., 4, were quarantined for lack of immunity. The remainder of the cast, including the dog, Pete, will continue their performance." There's some
conflicting information on this matter. In Julia Lee's Our Gang book, she states that the Chicago Defender, having previously noted that Buckwheat was required to stay at
a "colored hotel" while in Detroit, had thusly avoided coming down with the measles. She also states that the Baltimore Afro-American reported that all three kids had
come down with the disease.
- On May 5th, The Detroit Free Press ran an ad for their Michigan theater engagement, mentioning Alfalfa, Harold, Pete, Buckwheat and Joe, but not Spanky or Darla.
- The next stop on the Gang's tour was Cleveland, but it appears that they never honored this engagement. Spanky was reported to be in Cleveland visiting an aunt, and was shown in a
newspaper photo doing some fishing there, but apparently, the others remained behind to finish up their Detroit engagement, and then returned home.
- On May 6th, Darla and her parents arrived in Sayre, OK, in the afternoon to visit her maternal grandparents. It isn't entirely clear whether or not the tour continued without Darla and
Spanky, but the idea at this early point was that Darla would rejoin the tour after a couple of weeks, presumably to be sure she hadn't caught the measles. In the evening, she and her parents
proceeded to Elk City, and then home to Leedey, where her father was still living. According to Mrs. Hood, doctors believed that Darla probably avoided getting infected. This is all according to
The Sayre Headlight and The Elk City Daily News, both from May 7th.
- On May 8th, Darla gave three song and dance numbers at the Mother-Daughter banquet at the First Methodist Church in Sayre in the evening, according to The Sayre Headlight of May
14th. She sang "I've Got a Feelin' You're Foolin'," "Everything" and "Music Goes 'Round and Round.'" The Woodward Daily Press of May
8th reported that a phone conversation from the previous evening revealed that her parents would be glad to come to Woodward sometime prior to May 20th (presumably the date they were to return
to the tour). The same paper on May 9th reported that Darla was invited to take part in a concert program given by the Gage High School Band on May 17th. As it turns out, Darla managed to come
down with the measles, and appears to have missed this engagement.
- On May 12th, The Clinton Daily News (OK) relayed a message from Darla's mother that Darla would be rejoining the tour in about a week.
- On May 14th, the Beckham County Democrat of Erick, OK, published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- Also on May 14th, The Leedey Star (OK) reported the following: "Darla Hood's only appearance since her return from the 'Gang' tour was made at the
Mother-Daughter banquet at Sayre last Friday night (the 8th). At present Darla and Mrs. J. C. Hood are in Sayre with the latter's mother, Mrs. J. N. Danner. Darla was running a
temperature and was thought to be taking the measles. She was exposed to them in Chicago."
- Also on May 14th, The Sayre Headlight (OK) reported the following: "Each first grade pupil, taught by Miss Bertha Thompson, Tuesday (the 12th) presented Darla
Jean Hood, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Hood, who is visiting her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Danner, with a letter and several bouquets of flowers. Darla Jean, who is a popular juvenile
movie actor, is confined to her home with the measles. The children made their own stationery for the letters and brought the flowers from their own flower beds."
- Also on May 14th, the Fairview Republican (OK) reported the following: "The Fairview Lions club will attend the last zone meeting of the year at Seiling Monday
night (the 18th). At this meeting officers for the ensuing year will be elected and stunts picked to attend the state convention at Ada in June. M. L. Dague is the present zone
governor and will preside at the meeting. Little Darla Jean Hood, the four-year-old movie actress and daughter of the president of the Leedy Lions club, will be at the meeting and appear
on the program. Darla Jean is at home from Hollywood for a brief visit and Zone Governor Dague arranged the meeting so she could be present." It appears that Darla may have missed out on this
engagement due to her illness.
- On May 21st, The Sayre Sun (OK) reported the following: "Mrs. Nora Hood, Erick, was a guest in the home of Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Danner, Thursday (the 21st). She
came to spend the day with her granddaughter, Darla Jean Hood, who is recovering from a case of measles."
- Also on May 21st, The Sayre Sun (OK) published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On May 22nd, the Woodward Daily Press reported the following: "Darla Jean Hood, Leedey member of 'Our Gang' comedies, is recovering rapidly from the measles. Her
parents, Mr. and Mrs. Claude Hood, will be guests of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Bowman Tuesday (the 26th) for the Major Bowes' amateur show."
- On May 30th, Darla appeared at the Ritz Theatre in Crescent, OK. She was presented on stage, but didn't perform. She was spending the weekend in town with her aunt and uncle. This is
according to the Logan County News of June 4th, which also stated that Darla would be remaining in Oklahoma until mid-July. So basically, the Our Gang tour was over. Oddly, the article
describes Darla as being blonde, but this would no longer have been the case.
- On June 2nd, Darla appeared at the Bison Theater in Shawnee, OK, with the Kathryn Duffy Glamorous Revue.
- On June 3rd, the Elk City Daily News (OK) reported the following: "Mildred Payne, back from Leedey, tells of playing marbles with Darla Hood, the little girl who
made good in the movies. Mildred reports that Darla gets a huge enjoyment out of her motion picture work and is not in the least spoiled. Darla's last picture, to be released soon, was with
Charlie Chase. She appears also in the picture, 'Bohemian Girl' with Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy showing here today. Darla told Mildred about the first time she ever met Shirley Temple,
the darling of the screen. Shirley was in the studio cafe sipping some kind of soft drink when Darla entered. Said Darla to Shirley, 'I just love every one of your pictures,' and soon
Shirley and the little Oklahoman were chatting away. Mrs. Hood says that Shirley's parents are just as charming. Darla was to entertain the Leedey Lion's club today and the first of next
week will go with her parents to attend the district Lions' convention at Ada where Darla will be one of the drawing cards of the program. She plans to pay us Elk Citians a visit
soon." The Leedey Lion Club engagement, which was to take place at the Rex Theater, had previously been announced in The Leedey Star on May 28th, and was referred to as the Lions'
All Community Night.
- Also on June 3rd, The Daily Oklahoman of Oklahoma City reported the following: "Darla Jean Hood, in Oklahoma on vacation from her duties as a Hollywood starlet, is visiting
here this week with Mr. and Mrs. H. L. Braudis of the Kathryn Duffy studios. The 4-year-old girl left the 'Our Gang' comedy troupe's tour when measles broke out in the group
in Detroit, Mich. She will go with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. P. Hood, to her home in Leedy, Tuesday (the 9th), returning here Thursday (the 11th). She will be honor guest at
the annual cabaret party in the Kathryn Duffy studios Monday and Tuesday night (the 8th and 9th)." Darla's return to Oklahoma City on the 11th may not have happened, since she was
in Altus both before and after this date.
- On June 7th, the Elk City Daily News (OK) reported the following: "Mrs. Leo J. Canavan and son, and Mrs. V. C. Tisdal and daughter Edwina returned Saturday (the
6th) from Oklahoma City where they had gone Friday (the 5th) to attend a program given by Kathryn Duffy, well known dancer, in honor of little Miss Darla Hood, former pupil of hers
from Leedey, who has achieved fame in Hollywood."
- Also on June 7th, The Oklahoma News of Oklahoma City reported the following: "Kathryn Duffy's Studio of the Dance at 16½ W. Main-st. will be transformed Monday
and Tuesday night (the 8th and 9th) into a cabaret. The purpose is to provide a setting for the Cabaret Follies, the annual review of Miss Duffy's young talent showing all the
better dances they have learned during the months of training. As an added attraction for this year's show, Darla Hood, a friend of Miss Duffy who has been featured in M. G. M. Our Gang and
Hal Roach comedies out Hollywood way, will make a personal appearance on the bill."
- On June 9th, The Altus Times-Democrat (OK) reported the following: "Darla Jean Hood, Leedy, Okla., child who has become 'leading lady of Our Gang Follies'
since her first appearance in Hollywood last year, will visit in Altus this week. The baby film star will give only one public performance here. She will entertain at 8:30 p. m. Wednesday
(the 10th) at the Empire theater with a 20-minute song and dance program. Darla Jean will be accompanied to Altus by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Hood of Leedy. They will visit
Wednesday and Thursday (the 10th and 11th) in the homes of Mr. and Mrs. Boyd McMahan, 621 North Hudson, and Mr. and Mrs. O B. Grimmett, 909 East Cypress. Tonight and Tuesday night
(the 9th), Darla Jean will appear in Kathryn Duffy's Review in Oklahoma City." Judging by its final sentence, it would appear that this article was written the previous day.
- On June 10th, The Altus Times-Democrat (OK) included the following from H. W.'s "West Side" column: "Last night we missed most of Governor
Marland's talk. It was a case of our hearing the governor or Janis seeing Darla Jean Hood and Darla Jean won out by overwhelming odds. The arguments could not be overcome. We were told we
could hear a politician two or three times a week the rest of the summer but it's seldom a genuine Hollywood movie star appears in Altus in person. And we can't say we were the least bit
disappointed in Janis' choice. Darla Jean is a lovely little star and America is sure to learn to love her more during the years to come. Another Oklahomman who has made good and her proud
father says she won't be five until October."
- Also on June 10th, The Altus Times-Democrat (OK) published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On June 12th, The Altus Times-Democrat reported the following: "Honoring Darla Jean Hood of movieland in Hollywood, Calif., and Leedy, Okla., who is a visitor in Altus
this week, a large number of children gathered on Thursday morning (the 11th) at the Altus swimming pool. Pictures were made of the children, each little boy and girl was given an
opportunity to meet the honored guest and later refreshments were served. The party was held at the pool, which on Monday night (the 15th) will be formally opened for the season
1936." The swimming pool get-together on the 11th actually happened on the 10th, as reported that same day.
- On June 14th, The Sayre Daily Headlight-Journal (OK) reported the following: "Darla Jean Hood, granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Danner of Sayre, appeared on a
Kiwanis club program at Altus Friday (the 12th). Darla Jean also appeared in a special program at the Empire theatre there Wednesday night (the 10th). Darla Jean, who with her
parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Hood of Leedy, have been visiting relatives in Sayre, is now visiting friends in Altus. She and her mother were honored guests at the Altus swimming pool Thursday
morning (the 11th). Darla Jean is the 'sweetheart' of the 'Our Gang' comedy troupe." Again, The Altus Times-Democrat of the 10th reported on the swimming
pool get-together the day it happened.
- On June 15th, The Sayre Daily Headlight-Journal (OK) reported the following: "Darla Jean Hood, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Hood of Leedy will make a personal
appearance Tuesday night (the 16th) at 8:30 at the Rio Theatre, George Stovall, manager, announced today. Darla Hood is a member of 'Our Gang Comedy.' She toured the east
with the troupe this spring. She also starred in 'The Bohemian Girl' as the small princess who was stolen by the gypsy. Darla is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Danner of Sayre
and has been visiting them for some time since her return from the tour in the east. She will give several song and dance numbers. She will be accompanied by her mother, Mrs. J. C. Hood, who has
been in Hollywood with Darla since last fall."
- On June 18th, The Sayre Sun (OK) reported the following: "Darla Jean Hood, western Oklahoma's contribution to Hollywood gave the home folks a treat Tuesday night
(the 16th) when she performed at the Rio theater. Darla, who has been sojourning in Sayre and Leedey while one of the 'Our Gang' members recuperated from measles, sang several
numbers, including 'The Music Goes 'Round and 'Round,' 'I've Got a Feelin' You're Foolin',' and 'Wa-Hoo,' and tap danced. The 'Our Gang
' beauty will return to Hollywood soon to make a feature picture entitled 'A Sale of Two Tickets.' "
- Also on June 18th, The Elk City Journal (OK) published the following: "Darla Jean Hood, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Hood of Leedey and star of Our Gang comedies,
will be a guest of the Kiwanis club at its regular luncheon Friday noon (the 19th) at the Casa Grande hotel. The youthful movie star, who has been on a tour of eastern states, has been
visiting relatives in western Oklahoma for several weeks. Mrs. Hood accompanied Darla Jean on the tour and they are now visiting Mr. Hood in Leedey. Mr. Hood has resigned his position in a
Leedey bank and will accompany them to the west coast soon. Wives of Kiwanis members will attend the meeting as guests. A girls' quartet from the Southwestern State Teachers college will
also be on the program."
- On June 19th, the Elk City Daily News (OK) reported the following: "A personal appearance by Darla Hood, Leedey, child motion picture star, was the highlight of the
Kiwanis luncheon program today at the Casa Grande hotel. Darla entertained with several songs and dances, accompanied at the piano by her mother, Mrs. J. C. Hood. In a fetching manner, the
little brunette sang, 'I Gotta Feelin' You're Foolin',' 'Wahoo,' 'I'll Bet You Tell That To All The Girls.' She tap danced to several of these numbers.
Darla and her mother were introduced by Ed Mayer." According to the Logan County News of June 25th, she also sang "The Music Goes Round And Round."
- Also on June 19th, The Marshall Tribune (OK) reported the following: "Little Miss Darla Jeanne Hood of Hollywood, will appear in person at Yenzer Brothers Amateur
Hour, at their store in Crescent, Saturday evening (the 20th) at 7:30. Darla Jeanne Hood appears in 'Our Gang' in Hollywood, and is an excellent entertainer. She has
visited in Crescent many times. Don't fail to see her in person Saturday evening at 7:30 in Crescent."
- Also on June 19th, The Elk City Daily News (OK) published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On June 23rd, The Guthrie Daily Leader (OK) reported the following: "Mrs. Robert Hood entertained Sunday afternoon (the 21st) in honor of her niece, Darla
Jean Hood, who spent the week-end visiting Mr. and Mrs. Hood. Those present were Joan Graff, Mary Ann Bridal, Lovell Jeanne Baker, and Joyce Graff. Miss Hood appeared Saturday night (the
20th) on the Yenzer Bros. Amateur Hour. She was accompanied by her mother, Mrs. Claude Hood."
- On June 25th, the Logan County News of Crescent, OK, reported the following: "Making her second public appearance at Crescent during recent weeks was Darla Jean Hood (star
of the 'Our Gang' comedy), when she appeared on the amateur hour sponsored by Yenzer Brothers Saturday evening (the 20th). Little Miss Darla Jean sang, 'Wahoo' and
'The Music Goes Round and Round' to an admiring audience, and with her last number she also gave a tap dance. She was accompanied at the piano by her mother, Mrs. J. C. Hood. Darla Jean
recently appeared on the stage at the Ritz theatre, but gave no demonstration of her abilities. She, together with her parents, spent several days visiting Mm's. W. R. Hood, her aunt and uncle
here at Crescent. She will be leaving soon for Hollywood where she will continue her work in the 'Our Gang' comedies."
- During this year, an ad for Royal Cherry Gelatin included an Our Gang comic strip. Among the characters was Darla.
- From a press release by Fred A. Purner: "Producer Hal E. Roach has appointed Dr. Henry Dietrich, Los Angeles pediatrician, to supervise the diet and direct the health of the
children who enact the 'Our Gang' film comedies. Spanky McFarland, Darla Hood, Alfalfa Switzer and Buckwheat Thomas, who recently were taken down with the measles in Detroit and had
their personal appearance tour terminated, will undergo individual examinations with recommendations to be made for essentials in their health and well-being. 'Baby Patsy' May
and 'Porky' Lee, other 'little rascals' of 'Our Gang', will be included and there will be periodical inspections and medical treatments with the consent and
co-operation of the parents. A special pediatrician for child actors is something new in Hollywood. The 'Our Gang' members have had their own school room and teacher right at the
Roach Studios during the fifteen years the various members have been appearing on the screen and they have their own playgrounds and recreation periods."
- On July 2nd, The Sayre Sun reported the following: "After having spent several weeks with her grand parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Danner, Darla Jean accompanied by her parents,
Mr. and Mrs. Claud Hood, left last Thursday (June 25th) for Hollywood, California, where she will continue her work in moving pictures. Thursday they were guests of Mr. Hood's sister,
Mrs. T. T. Norton and husband of Erick. Darla Jean made an appearance at the theatre there that night and also at Amarillo the following night as they were on their way to Calif." Previously,
on June 18th, The Beckham County Democrat of Erick announced Darla's June 25th engagement, stating that she would "appear in a 15 minute program of song and dance in conjunction
with the regular picture program." The report in The Elk City Daily News of June 19th about Darla leaving for Hollywood on the 22nd is evidently false.
- On July 3rd, Darla made her final public appearance before returning to the Our Gang series, this time in Amarillo as the family was traveling west.
- On July 18th, Hal Roach Studios held its 15th anniversary celebration of the Our Gang series. Needless to say, Darla was in attendance.
- On October 11th, the Los Angeles Times included Darla on the list of guests at Spanky McFarland's recent birthday celebration at the Venice Amusement Pier.
- On October 23rd, Darla attended Porky Lee's 3rd birthday party at the Our Gang Cafe.
- During the making of "Reunion In Rhythm" in December, the Our Gang set was visited by Patience, Richard and Johnny Abbe, three young siblings who were gathering material for a book
that would be published in 1937 called Of All Places!
- On December 21st, the Macon Chronicle Herald (MO) reported the following: "Little Darla Hood, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Claud Hood of Hollywood, Cal. and great-grand
daughter of Mrs. R. A. Melville, the little movie star, was here in Macon last week in a play. She is a very talented and beautiful child."
- 143. The Pinch Singer (supporting role: Darla)
- Jan. 4, 1936 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-35 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Dec. 11 to 21, 1935. ©Feb. 6, 1936. Working title: King's Gong. Darla sings "I'm In The Mood For Love."
- 142. Divot Diggers (supporting role)
- Feb. 8, 1936 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-36 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Nov. 18 to 25, 1935. ©Feb. 6, 1936.
- The Bohemian Girl (supporting role: Arlene as a child)
- Feb. 14, 1936 - Roach/MGM - 7 reels - prod. F-8 - Stan Laurel & Oliver Hardy feature
- Filmed Oct. 9 to around Nov. 30, 1935, with retakes Dec. 31, 1935, to Jan. 6, 1936. ©Feb. 12, 1936.
- 144. Second Childhood (small part)
- Apr. 11, 1936 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-37 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Jan. 1936. ©Mar. 17, 1936.
- 145. Arbor Day (supporting role)
- May 2, 1936 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-38 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Feb. 12 to 18, 1936. ©Apr. 9, 1936.
- Neighborhood House (featured role: Mary Chase)
- May 9, 1936 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. C-39 - Charley Chase series
- Previewed in April at 58 minutes, and then cut to 55 minutes before finally being released as a short. Filmed around Mar 9 to 25, 1936. ©July 8, 1936. Working title: Bank
Night.
- Fox Movietone News (appearance)
- 1936 - Fox - 1 reel - newsreel
- Our Gang's fifteenth anniversary is featured in a Hollywood Spotlight segment with Jimmie Fidler.
- 146. Bored Of Education (small part)
- Aug. 29, 1936 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-1 - Our Gang series
- Also listed for Aug. 20, 1936. Filmed July 13 to 16, 1936. ©Sep. 3, 1936. Oscar winner for Best One-Reel Short Subject. Darla, along with the rest of the class, briefly sings
"Good Morning To You."
- 147. Two Too Young (use of photo)
- ©Oct. 21, 1936 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-2 - Our Gang series
- Also listed for Sep. 26, 1936. Filmed Sep. 8 to 12, 1936. During the series' final two years at the Roach studio, the opening credits included photos of all the main players. Darla's
photo is shown in all of the one-reelers from "Bored Of Education" to "Hide And Shriek," including films in which she didn't otherwise appear.
- 148. Pay As You Exit (supporting role: Darla)
- ©Nov. 17, 1936 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-3 - Our Gang series
- Also listed for Oct. 24, 1936. Filmed Oct. 14 to 19, 1936.
- 149. Spooky Hooky (use of photo)
- ©Dec. 28, 1936 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-4 - Our Gang series
- Also listed for Dec. 5, 1936. Filmed Nov. 11 to 17, 1936.
1937
- During January of this year, newspaper ads for the feature film "General Spanky" erroneously credited Darla as a cast member.
- In mid-January, Darla was among the Our Gang members who came down with the flu.
- On March 31st, the Hollywood Citizen-News reported that Darla had attended the recent birthday of Baby Patsy May, which was modified to include presents for Alfalfa Switzer and
Buckwheat Thomas, both of whose parties had been cancelled due to a wave of influenza.
- On April 10th, the Hollywood Citizen-News revealed that Darla had, at some point, attended Hollywood Associated Studios, a school that trained showbiz kids.
- On April 17th, an ad for the Bud Murray School for Stage, Screen & Radio appeared in the Hollywood Citizen-News, which included Darla as among the Our Gang kids who had
studied dancing there.
- On May 6th, the Evening State Journal of Lincoln, NB, published an article on the recent annual sales convention at M-G-M, which was attended by the newspaper's own Barney
Oldfield, the writer of the article. Also in attendance were Spanky, Alfalfa and Darla.
- On May 10th, The Daily Courier-Gazette of McKinney, TX, reported on the recent Hollywood bridal shower of Gertrude Coppedge, aunt of Dickie Jones. The wedding took place on April
16th, so the bridal shower would presumably have been a month or so earlier. This is what the article had to say: "The 'carload' of presents were ushered into the living room of
the home of Mrs. LaVerne Jones, Dickie's mother, in a large red speed wagon, to the strains of Lohengrin, by Dickie and Darla Hood. The juvenile team also performed their long-rehearsed
song-and-dance act for the crowd of celebrants."
- On May 19th, the Hollywood Citizen-News reported the following: "The fascinating legend of 'Alice in Wonderland' was made real to a group of spellbound motion
picture juveniles Saturday (the 15th), when Billy Burrod entertained Dickie Jones, Peggy Ryan and Darla Hood at the Federal Beaux Arts Marionette Theater."
- On May 20th, George W. Peeler of The Elk City Journal (OK) reported the following in his column: "Just had a letter from Ed Mayer out Long Beach way, in which he
enclosed a clipping from the Press-Telegram describing a program given by Darla Hood and Dickie Jones, youthful movie stars, before the Long Beach Kiwanis club. Their presentation was
arranged by Ed."
- On June 6th, the Hollywood Citizen-News reported that the Los Angeles Adult Evening College would be presenting a twilight concert by its symphony orchestra the next evening at
at the Griffith Park Greek Theater. Darla was also scheduled to sing a few songs.
- On June 30th, the Hollywood Citizen-News reported on the recent birthday party of Fred Purner, Jr. Among the guests were all of the contract players of Our Gang, including
Darla.
- During this year, a comic book featuring the Our Gang kids called The Dandy debuted. Among the characters was Darla.
- On August 16th, The Detroit Free Press (MI) reported the following: "With 'Spanky' McFarland, Darla Hood and 'Porky' Lee recovered from tonsil
operations, Director Gordon Douglas is getting ready to start the new series of 'Our Gang' comedies in their seventeenth year." Looking over the shooting dates, it would seem that
these operations took place in July.
- On September 14th, Harrison Carroll, in his syndicated column, reported that the Our Gang would no longer be taught in a classroom in the studio's administration building, but rather
in a building of their own on the lot. Darla was reported as starting her first year in the school.
- On October 20th, the Portland Press Herald (ME) reported the following: "Darla is the sweetheart of 'Our Gang.' She's so overbrimming with personality she
is your sweetheart, too, after you know her a few minutes. She's the little 'chatterer' of the gang, and it's not only in this that she is very feminine. She is six years old and
in the first grade. She has a coquettish smile, which is natural and not one affected for her roles, and she has flirtatious eyes that simply dance. Darla does most of the talking for the gang.
She doesn't talk about herself, but she loves to tell you about some prank of Spanky's or that Porky is full of tricks, or that Buckwheat is very shy. She likes to talk about going to
school, too. She loves school. She loves people. She loves working. In fact, she is the most lovable child we know and one feels very much like asking her to come home with one."
- From a press release: "Mr. and Mrs. R. E. McFarland and their sons Spanky and Tommy are entertaining members of the Our Gang comedy troupe and some of their younger friends at a
Hallowe'en dinner Sunday evening. Grouped about a table illuminated with jack o'lanterns and decorated in orange and black will be Pat Ross, Penny Laws, Dickie Jones, Clark Flake, Darla
Hood, Baby Patsy May, Carl 'Alfalfa' Switzer, Billie 'Buckwheat' Thomas, Eugene 'Porky' Lee, Harold Switzer and their parents."
- On November 17th, Darla was the honor guest at a Roach studio luncheon honoring her 6th birthday.
- On December 11th, the Our Gang kids were afternoon guests of the city of Hermosa Beach, CA, officially welcomed at a civic reception, as part of a Christmas extravaganza. They also took part
in a subsequent parade. A press release from the Roach studio read as follows: "Hermosa Beach welcomes 'Our Gang' today, when the famous Hal Roach screen youngsters will be
guests at the beach city in a gala luncheon, parade, and theater party that has occasioned Mayor Al Schupner to declare a civic holiday for the affair. More than 2000 school children will take
part in the festivities, which will honor the formation of an 'Our Gang' club to include youngsters from Hermosa, Manhattan, and Redondo Beach. A luncheon attended by 50 civic officials
and dignitaries will be held this morning at 11:30 at the Hermosa Beach City Hall. City Councilman, Harold Matthews, will preside. Following the luncheon, a parade headed by the
forty-piece band of Redondo High School will take the famous screen youngsters and their escorts from the City Hall to the Fox Hermosa theater, where a special matinee showing will be held.
Also taking part in the parade will be troops of Girl and Boy Scouts, and representatives from the Parent-Teacher Association. Spanky McFarland, Alfalfa Switzer, Darla Hood, Porky Lee,
Buckwheat Thomas, and Baby Patsy of 'Our Gang,' will appear in person on the stage of the theater, to be introduced to the audience by their director, Gordon Douglas."
- On December 18th, the following was reported: "Santa Claus paid an early call at the Hal Roach Studios. He arrived at eleven o'clock Saturday morning, early enough to escort
Spanky McFarland, Alfalfa Switzer, Porky Lee, Buckwheat Thomas, Darla Hood and Baby Patsy May, members of 'Our Gang,' to the studio's annual Christmas party for these popular young
players. Stage 4 was given over entirely to the festivities, with a mountain setting providing a background for a huge and elaborately decorated tree. Learning through Santa Claus of the
contents of the children's letters, Mr. Roach gave each of them what he or she most desired. There was a pony, saddled and ready to be ridden off the stage, for Alfalfa; a gold trumpet for
Spanky; bicycles for Porky and Buckwheat and identical playhouses, large enough to let them carry on their housekeeping duties, for Darla and Patsy. Mr. Roach, his associate producers, Milton H.
Bren and S. S. Van Keuren, other studio executives, members from other companies on the lot and almost the entire studio personnel attended the party."
- On December 21st, The Amarillo Globe (TX) reported the following: "There was a movie star in town yesterday - and she'll be back in a week or so. Darla Hood,
Our Gang sweetheart, with her mother, passed through Amarillo yesterday on their way to Sayre, Okla., to visit Darla's grandparents. And when they start back to Hollywood, they will stop in
Amarillo to be the guests of Mrs. H. C. Lyle at 909 Mississippi Street."
- On December 24th, The Elk City Daily News (OK) reported the following: "Darla Hood, star of 'Our Gang' comedies, will be the headliner of the program at the
banquet of the Elk City High School Alumni association at 7:30 Monday night (the 27th) at the Casa Grande hotel, Roy Gowdy, master of ceremonies, and chairman of the entertainment
committee, announced today. The petite star, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Claude Hood, former Leedey residents, who are visiting in Sayre with Mrs. Hood's parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Danner, has
made a previous appearance here, and received much praise and acclaim for her charm and personality, in addition to her singing and dancing."
- On December 28th, The Elk City Daily News (OK) reported the following about the previous night's banquet: "Darla Hood, Hollywood starlet, was the feature attraction
of the banquet program. The little actress, star of 'Our Gang Comedies,' sang and danced for the group. She was accompanied by her mother, Mrs. Claude Hood. The comedy star and her mother
are visiting the latter's parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Danner, in Sayre."
- On December 30th, The Sayre Sun (OK) published an article about Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- 151. Reunion In Rhythm (supporting role: Darla)
- Jan. 9, 1937 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-5 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Dec. 9 to 14, 1936. ©Jan. 14, 1937. Darla sings "Baby Face," and joins the other kids for "Auld Lang Syne."
- 152. Glove Taps (bit part : Darla)
- ©Mar. 9, 1937 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-6 - Our Gang series
- Also listed for Feb. 20, 1937. Filmed Jan. 11 to 30, 1937.
- 153. Hearts Are Thumps (featured role: Darla)
- Apr. 3, 1937 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-7 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Feb. 2 to 10, 1937. ©Mar. 24, 1937.
- 155. Rushin' Ballet (apparent bit part)
- Apr. 24, 1937 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-9 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Mar. 9 to 13, 1937. ©Apr. 22, 1937.
- 154. Three Smart Boys (bit part)
- May 13, 1937 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-8 - Our Gang series
- Also listed as Mar. 13, 1937. Filmed Feb. 15 to 19, 1937. ©Mar. 31, 1937.
- 156. Roamin' Holiday (bit part)
- June 12, 1937 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-10 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Apr. 22 to May 3, 1937. ©June 24, 1937.
- 157. Night 'N' Gales (supporting role: Darla)
- July 24, 1937 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-11 - Our Gang series
- Filmed June 22 to 30, 1937. ©Aug. 18, 1937.
- 158. Fishy Tales (extra)
- Aug. 28, 1937 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-12 - Our Gang series
- Filmed July 26 to Aug. 2, 1937. ©Sep. 8, 1937.
- 159. Framing Youth (supporting role: Darla)
- ©Sep. 21, 1937 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-13 - Our Gang series
- Also listed for Sep. 11, 1937. Filmed Aug. 19 to 25, 1937.
- News Of The Day (appearance)
- c. Oct. 1937 - MGM - 1 reel - newsreel
- Vol. 9, No. 204. Featuring Our Gang and Vittorio Mussolini, who visited the studio in late September.
- 160. The Pigskin Palooka (supporting role: Darla)
- Oct. 23, 1937 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-14 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Sep. 18 to 25, 1937. ©Nov. 2, 1937.
- 161. Mail And Female (supporting role: Darla)
- Nov. 13, 1937 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-15 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Oct. 22 to 27, 1937. ©Nov. 17, 1937.
- News Of The Day (appearance)
- Dec. 1937 - MGM - 1 reel - newsreel
- Vol. 9, No. 229. Featuring Our Gang. Darla takes part in singing "Happy New Year To You."
- 162. Our Gang Follies Of 1938 (supporting role: Darla)
- Dec. 18, 1937 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-39 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Nov. 3 to 15, 1937. ©Dec. 21, 1937. Marketed by MGM as a "special" two-reeler, independent of the regular Our Gang series. Darla takes part in singing "King
Alfalfa" and "The Love Bug Will Bite You (If You Don't Watch Out)."
1938
- On February 6th of this year, Darla, along with other members of the Our Gang troupe, guested on the MBS radio program Thirty Minutes In Hollywood with George Jessel.
- On April 4th, the Daily News of Los Angeles reported on Dickie Jones' 10th birthday party, held recently in the diner of the Santa Fe Chief. Among the guests was Darla Hood.
- On April 19th, the Los Angeles Times reported the following: "Darla Hood, 7-year-old sweetheart of 'Our Gang' comedies, designed and knitted all the clothes
for her large collection of dolls. She has even knitted several sweaters for her own use." This is a rare occasion in which the article actually gets Darla's age right. An elaboration of
this story appeared in The Wichita Eagle of December 25th, which read: "Darla Hood, Our Gang starlet, has reason to call her doll the best-dressed in Hollywood. She uses her
own baby clothes and has seven complete outfits."
- On May 31st, The Oklahoma News of Oklahoma City reported the following: "This week-end that little dancer, Darla Hood, left the Hal Roach 'Our Gang' Comedies and
signed a contract with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. She has been promised a chance for stardom." This, of course, isn't entirely accurate, since the Our Gang series moved to MGM along
with Darla, and she remained with it.
- On June 20th, filming began for "The Little Ranger," the first of 52 Our Gang shorts produced by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer.
- On June 30th, a "notice of final account of guardian, and petition for discharge of guardian" appeared in the Taloga Times-Advocate (OK) which stated that on the
27th, J. C. Hood had petitioned for a discharge of his duties as the guardian of Dorla Jeanne Hood. So presumably, her original name was still her legal name at this point. The notice also states
that the matter would be heard in the County Court of Dewey County on July 18th.
- On July 21st, the Daily News of Los Angeles shared the following tidbit: "Six-year-old Darla Hood, filmdom's youngest leading lady, has formed a riding club with
the cast of 'Our Gang' as charter members"
- On August 26th, the Richmond Times-Dispatch (VA) reported the following: "(Alfalfa) and Spanky are great rivals for the favor of Darla Hood, the only
feminine member of the troupe. That is no press agent's yarn. Both the boys are practically unmanageable when Darla is around because each wants to show off to better advantage. Darla is
six, and a precious bunch of sweetness. During the making of any Our Gang comedy, Spanky and Alfalfa are each allowed to take her to luncheon once as rewards for good behavior. Last time Porky
stole a march on them and had two lunches with her. Spanky didn't speak to him all morning the day he found it out."
- On December 16th, Darla was among several juvenile stars who attended the fifth annual Christmas benefit show for the Children's Hospital at the Marcal Theater in Hollywood.
- On December 26th, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (PA) shared this tidbit: "Darla Hood and Alfalfa Switzer, of the 'Our Gang' comedies, get featured roles in
'Ice Follies of 1939' at M-G-M." Neither of the kids turned up in the finished film.
- On December 27th, the Los Angeles Times shared the following tidbit: "Dickie Jones and Darla Hood sold Christmas trees and turned their profits over for the use of
under-priveleged kiddies."
- 163. Canned Fishing (use of photo)
- Feb. 12, 1938 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-16 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Jan. 10 to 25, 1938. ©Feb. 16, 1938.
- 164. Bear Facts (supporting role: Darla)
- Mar. 5, 1938 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-17 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Jan. 26 to Feb. 4, 1938. ©Mar. 8, 1938.
- 165. Three Men In A Tub (featured role: Darla)
- Mar. 26, 1938 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-18 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Feb. 9 to 18, 1938. ©Apr. 1, 1938.
- 166. Came The Brawn (supporting role: Darla)
- Apr. 16, 1938 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-19 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Feb. 21 to 25, 1938. ©Apr. 12, 1938.
- 167. Feed 'Em And Weep (supporting role: Darla)
- May 7, 1938 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-20 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Apr. 4 to 7, 1938. ©May 11, 1938.
- 168. The Awful Tooth (use of photo)
- May 28, 1938 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-21 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Apr. 12 to 16, 1938. ©May 26, 1938.
- 169. Hide And Shriek (small part)
- June 18, 1938 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-22 - Our Gang series
- Filmed May 11 to 14, 1938. ©June 16, 1938.
- 170. The Little Ranger (supporting role: Darla)
- Aug. 6, 1938 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2566 - Our Gang series
- Filmed June 20 to 25, 1938. ©Aug. 10, 1938.
- 171. Party Fever (supporting role: Darla)
- Aug. 27, 1938 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2568 - Our Gang series
- Filmed July 5 to 9, 1938. ©Aug. 25, 1938.
- 172. Aladdin's Lantern (supporting role: Darla)
- Sep. 17, 1938 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2573 - Our Gang series
- Filmed July 20 to 26, 1938. ©Sep. 14, 1938. Darla sings "Your Broadway And Mine."
- 173. Men In Fright (supporting role: Darla Hood)
- Oct. 15, 1938 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2580 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Aug. 15 to 20, 1938. ©Oct. 21, 1938.
- 174. Football Romeo (supporting role: Darla)
- Nov. 12, 1938 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2589 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Sep. 19 to 24, 1938. ©Nov. 16, 1938.
- 175. Practical Jokers (featured role: Darla)
- Dec. 17, 1938 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2595 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Oct. 24 to 27, 1938. ©Dec. 20, 1938.
1939
- On January 4th of this year, the Hollywood Citizen-News reported the following: "Mrs. LaVerne Jones and Mrs. J. C. Hood have returned home after several days at Big Bear,
where they enjoyed the Winter sports and the deep snows. They took with them for the outing Dickie Jones and Darla Hood."
- On January 5th, the Los Angeles Times reported that Darla had just completed work in Joan Crawford's latest film. Whichever film it was, she must have been cut from the final
print.
- On January 11th, the Hollywood Citizen-News reported the following: "Future clubwomen, who meet each Saturday morning for hot chocolate, cookies and speeches, have taken
over young Darla Hood's playhouse for their clubrooms. Since Darla's visit to a local breakfast club, she has become club-minded to the extent of founding her own group. Charter
members are three little neighbor girls, Carol Culver, Marjorie Barfield and Mel Ruth Danner. The club accepted ten new members this week on payment of initiation fees of one cent a
member."
- On January 19th, the Los Angeles Times reported that Darla was battling a severe cold.
- On February 17th, the Vallejo Evening News (CA) reported that Darla's favorite actress was Hedy Lamarr, and that Darla had decided to be a glamour girl.
- On February 28th, the Los Angeles Times reported that Darla's film debut happened when she was 3 months old. Surely, somebody got their wires crossed.
- On March 5th, the Los Angeles Times reported the following: "Darla Hood and her parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Hood, gave a dinner in honor of Dickie Jones. Decorations, at
Darla's request, featured Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs."
- On March 15th, the Hollywood Citizen-News reported the following: "Darla Hood, five year old leading lady of Our Gang comedies, today was named a member of the official
board of the Oklahoma State Society. She will appear May 30 as a guest of honor at the Society's annual picnic at Sycamore Grove."
- On April 7th, Erskine Johnson reported the following in his syndicated column: "Eight-year-old Darla Hood, feminine lead in the Our Gang comedies, is losing her baby teeth and
is wearing three false ones for her current role."
- On May 18th, a press photo started making the rounds of various newspapers, revealing that Darla had attended a party staged for Hollywood children and their pets by Mrs. Osa Johnson. Not
surprisingly, Dickie Jones also attended.
- June was declared June Dairy Month by the milk industry. Helping to promote it was Darla, as well as Alfalfa and Porky.
- On June 11th, the Lincoln Sunday Journal and Star (NB) shared the following tidbit: "Darla Hood's new teeth are the envy of the Our Gang kids, most of whom still
have their baby ones."
- On June 19th, the Los Angeles Times shared the following tidbit: "Darla Hood, M.G.M.'s youngest leading lady, is becoming an expert on ice skates."
- On June 21st, the Hollywood Citizen-News reported the following: "Love songs sung by Darla Hood and Dickie Jones, youthful film players, pleased friends of Mr. and Mrs.
Keith Parker Vent (Gertrude Copperidge) who gathered at a reception following that pair's wedding Friday night (the 16th)."
- On July 27th, The Granite Enterprise (OK) published an article about Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- Also on July 27th, The Sayre Sun (OK) reported the following: "Darla Hood, starlet of the Our Gang comedies, will make a personal appearance at the Ute theater
Wednesday night (Aug. 2nd). Darla arrived in town Monday (July 24th) with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Hood, to visit her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. John Danner, and aunt and
uncle, Mr. and Mrs. Neville Gillum. She also will make a personal appearance Tuesday night at Granite where Melville Danner, her uncle, owns the theater. It's one of those rare opportunities
we Western Oklahoma folk have of viewing a cinema actress in the flesh and at the same time saying 'hello' to a home town girl."
- On July 28th, The Clinton Daily News (OK) reported the following: "Darla Hood, the western Oklahoma child who rose to fame in the movies through Hal Roach's
'Our Gang' comedies, visited in Clinton for a short time this afternoon with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Claude Hood of Hollywood. The Hoods originally were from Leedey. Darla and her
parents visited in the home of Mr. and Mrs. R. E. Roush on their way to Sayre where Darla will make a personal appearance Wednesday night."
- On August 3rd, The Clinton Daily News (OK) reported the following: "Mr. and Mrs. R. E. Roush and daughter, Joan, and Mr. and Mrs. Bill Clark and daughter Betty Del
visited Darla Hood, juvenile 'Our Gang' comedy actress, and her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Claude Hood, of Hollywood, Calif., at Sayre last night. They also attended a personal appearance
program at a Sayre theater which featured the little star. The Hoods were visiting Mrs. Hood's parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Danner, Sayre residents."
- Also on August 3rd, The Granite Enterprise published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- Also on August 3rd, the Beckham County Democrat of Erick, OK, reported on the 10th birthday party of Sammy Lou Adcox on July 28th. Included in the article was the following:
"At the close of the party the group of youngsters were invited to Mrs. Nora Hood's to get acquainted with her granddaughter, Darla Hood, young movie star, who was visiting here from
Hollywood, California. She so graciously entertained them with singing and dancing and telling them about Hollywood which they all were very much interested."
- Also on August 3rd, The Leedey Star (OK) reported on the July 29th wedding of Athene McKinney to Howard E. Fertig. Darla served as ring bearer.
- Also on August 3rd, the Beckham County Democrat of Erick, OK, reported the following: "Erick received high honors this week when it was visited twice in one week by Hollywood
celebrities. Little Darla Hood, who holds the feminine lead in the 'Our Gang Comedy' visited relatives here the first of the week to be closely followed by none other than her leading man
'Alfalfa.' He with his parents ate breakfast in Aunt Carrie's Cafe Thursday morning. They had been visiting in Illinois and were returning to Hollywood." The Elk City Daily
News of August 6th reported that Darla sang and danced at the reception.
- On December 16th, Darla was among several juvenile stars who attended the fifth annual Christmas benefit show for the Children's Hospital at the Marcal Theater in Hollywood. Not
surprising, Dickie Jones also took part.
- On December 19th, Darla took part in the California Breakfast Club's eleventh annual Christmas breakfast party at Carl's Viewpark restaurant. Dickie Jones also took part.
- On December 22nd, a Christmas luncheon program for the Soroptimist Club took place at Villa Riviera. Among the entertainers was Darla Hood. The Dec. 23rd Morning Sun of Long Beach had
this to say: "Darla Hood, an adorable 7-year-old brunette, who is known as 'the sweetheart' of Hal Roach's Our Gang, sang the song 'Especially You' as her
first number and followed it with the intriguing waltz song 'Ciribiribin (Pestalozza)', with tap dancing completing the last number. She has surprising tonal richness for such a
young singer and captivated the luncheon guests." Again, Dickie Jones took part in the show, but performed separately from Darla.
- On December 24th, the Daily Free-Lance of Henryetta, OK, reported on an ice-skating party recently given by Darla at the Tropical Ice Gardens in Hollywood. Not surprisingly,
Dickie Jones attended.
- On December 27th, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (PA) revealed that Darla's contract with MGM had just been renewed.
- 177. Tiny Troubles (supporting role)
- Feb. 18, 1939 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2606 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Jan. 9 to 13, 1939. ©Mar. 1, 1939.
- 178. Duel Personalities (supporting role: Darla Hood)
- Mar. 11, 1939 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2610 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Jan. 22 to 26, 1939. ©Mar. 9, 1939.
- 179. Clown Princes (supporting role: Darla Hood)
- Apr. 15, 1939 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2613 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Feb. 13 to 17, 1939. ©Apr. 12, 1939.
- 180. Cousin Wilbur (small part)
- Apr. 29, 1939 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2618 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Mar. 13 to 17, 1939. ©May 4, 1939.
- 182. Dog Daze (supporting role)
- July 1, 1939 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2631 - Our Gang series
- Filmed May 1 to 5, 1939. ©July 13, 1939.
- 183. Auto Antics (supporting role: Darla)
- July 22, 1939 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2632 - Our Gang series
- Filmed May 15 to 19, 1939. ©July 26, 1939.
- 184. Captain Spanky's Show Boat (featured role: Darla)
- Sep. 9, 1939 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2640 - Our Gang series
- Filmed June 19 to 23, 1939. ©Sep. 6, 1939. Darla sings "Good Evening, Caroline."
- 186. Time Out For Lessons (supporting role: Darla)
- Dec. 2, 1939 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2655 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Sep. 25 to 28, 1939. ©Dec. 5, 1939. Darla sings "Swingin' The Jinx Away." Working title: Learn To Play.
1940
- On January 13th of this year, Darla attended, along with numerous other screen children, a baby shower for Mrs. Vincent Conniff. The party took place at the home of Mrs. W. S. Deems at 1528
N. Hayward Ave. Also receiving gifts for an expectant child was Mrs. Donna Smith, the mother of Darwood "Waldo" Kaye. Alfalfa Switzer also attended. This is according to the January
17th Hollywood Citizen-News.
- On February 9th, Darla attended the gala premiere of the Walt Disney animated feature "Pinocchio" at the Pantages Hollywood Theater. Not surprisingly, she accompanied Dickie Jones,
who provided the voice of the title character. As Jones later told Nick Thomas in 2020: "She had long black hair and was dressed in a white evening gown and I wore a tuxedo. We arrived
in a miniature chauffeur-driven automobile, an Austin, with an open front for the driver and closed at the back for the passengers."
- On April 20th, the Evening State Journal of Lincoln, NB, reported the following: "Marilyn Kay, whose name in Lincoln was Tapscott, goes into an Our Gang comedy starting
Monday (the 22nd) at MGM. It's to be one of her best chances to date, although she hasn't had much luck coping with Darla Hood's mother so far, latter insisting that nothing
shadow Darla." Kay Tapscott (Marilyn Kay) made her Our Gang debut in "Waldo's Last Stand," which did indeed begin shooting on April 22nd.
- On May 7th, the Hawaii Theater on Hollywood Blvd. had its grand premiere. Among the numerous celebrities that attended was Darla Hood.
- On July 28th, The Enid Morning News (OK) published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On August 11th, The Daily Sentinel of Grand Junction, CO, reported the following: "Darla J. Hood, young Hollywood movie actress, sweetheart of 'Our Gang' motion
pictures, has been visiting at the home of Mr. and Mrs. A. F. Allen of Glenwood canon, with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Hood, also of Hollywood."
- On August 15th, The Daily Sentinel of Grand Junction, CO, reported the following: "Mrs. Prudence Snyder and the Snyder family had the privilege of seeing Darla Hood, star of
Our Gang comedies, recently, when she and her parents stopped at a cafe for lunch. Local persons found the young star unassuming and charming, as were her parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Hood. The
travelers were enroute to Glenwood Springs, where they are the guests of Mr. and Mrs. A. F. Allen for two weeks."
- On August 28th, Darla, along with Dickie Jones, hosted a Wednesday matinee at the Earl Carroll Theater. The event went over well enough that the theater decided to make it a weekly thing, with
different child stars acting as hosts and hostesses.
- On September 2nd, Darla sang at an all-day Labor Day picnic at Sycamore Grove Park in Los Angeles organized by the Oklahoma State Society.
- On September 16th, Darla attended Tommy Bond's birthday party at his home in Reseda. Not surprisingly, Dickie Jones also attended.
- On December 24th, Darla took part in the Santa Claus Lane parade along Hollywood Blvd.
- On December 26th, The Herald-News of Passaic, NJ, reported that Darla had been awarded a new contract. The Enid Morning News (OK) of January 12, 1941, reported that
it was a five-year contract and that it was given to her that same week in January. The Altus Times-Democrat of April 12, 1941, described it as a seven-year contract.
- 187. Alfalfa's Double (supporting role: Darla)
- Jan. 20, 1940 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2656 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Oct. 2 to 6, 1939. ©Dec. 29, 1939.
- 189. The Big Premiere (featured role: Darla)
- Mar. 9, 1940 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2669 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Dec. 11 to 14, 1939. ©Mar. 13, 1940.
- 190. All About Hash (featured role: Darla)
- Mar. 30, 1940 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2674 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Jan. 10 to 13, 1940. ©Apr. 5, 1940.
- 191. The New Pupil (featured role: Darla Hood)
- Apr. 27, 1940 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2677 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Feb. 7 to 10, 1940. ©Apr. 22, 1940.
- 188. Bubbling Troubles (supporting role: Darla)
- May 25, 1940 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2668 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Nov. 8 to 17, 1939. ©May 29, 1940. Working title: In Love Again.
- 194. Waldo's Last Stand (supporting role: Darla)
- Oct. 5, 1940 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2686 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Apr. 22 to 25, 1940. ©Oct. 2, 1940. Darla sings "My Wonderful One, Let's Dance."
- 195. Kiddie Kure (supporting role)
- Nov. 23, 1940 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2687 - Our Gang series
- Filmed May 27 to 31, 1940. ©Nov. 11, 1940.
1941
- On January 16th of this year, The Progress of Britton, OK, ran a column by Dickie Jones, where he gave the latest on various kid stars. About Darla, he said: "Darla Hood,
sweetheart of the 'Our Gang Comedies' is very busy these days. She is baking small fruit cakes in her miniature stove to be given to the European refugee children. Good for you Darla!
You're doing your part to make the youngsters of Europe happier."
- On May 30th, Darla took part in the Memorial Day program at Sycamore Grove in Los Angeles, given by the Oklahoma State Society and the Federation of State Societies.
- On August 28th, The Granite Enterprise (OK) reported on a formal dance party given at the home of Spanky McFarland, in which Darla's visiting cousin, Melruth, won the
jitterbug contest. One can only presume that Darla was also present.
- On September 1st, the Oklahoma State Society sponsored a Labor Day program at Sycamore Grove in Los Angeles. Darla was one of several celebrities who made a personal appearance, this time
giving a reading.
- On October 3rd, filming wrapped for "Wedding Worries," Darla's final Our Gang short. As she said on the "Tomorrow" program in 1974: "When they told me that I
wasn't gonna be in the Gang anymore, I was delighted, because I wanted to go to public school and meet other girls and other friends and be able to, you know, play and be one of my own Gang on my
own street."
- On November 5th, the Evening Vanguard of Venice, CA, reported that Darla had just been given another contract by MGM.
- On November 28th, West Los Angeles held its Night Of Nights, in which the Christmas lights of Santa Monica Blvd. were turned on. Also part of this was a Christmas Festival Parade in
which Darla and other members of Our Gang would be riding with Santa Claus.
- On December 11th, Darla, along with Dickie Jones, rode in the Santa Claus Lane parade down Hollywood Blvd., sharing the same float with Billy Gilbert.
- 198. Ye Olde Minstrels (supporting role: Darla)
- Mar. 18, 1941 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2716 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Jan. 13 to 16, 1941. ©Mar. 13, 1941. Darla takes part in singing "Carry Me Back To Old Virginny" and "Auld Lang Syne."
- 201. Robot Wrecks (supporting role)
- July 12, 1941 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2732 - Our Gang series
- Filmed May 6 to 9, 1941. ©July 15, 1941.
- 202. Helping Hands (supporting role: Darla)
- Sep. 27, 1941 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2744 - Our Gang series
- Filmed July 24 to Aug. 1, 1941. ©Oct 5, 1941. Darla sings "He's My Uncle."
- 199. Come Back, Miss Pipps (featured role: Darla)
- Oct. 25, 1941 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2720 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Jan. 28 to 31, 1941. ©Oct. 14, 1941.
- 203. Wedding Worries (supporting role: Darla)
- Dec. 13, 1941 - MGM - 1 reel - prod. 2751 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Sep. 29 to Oct. 3, 1941. ©Dec. 22, 1941.
1942
- On February 8th of this year, The Sayre Daily Headlight-Journal (OK) published a story on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On February 14th, Darla attended a Valentine party thrown at Leon Tyler's house. Needless to say, Dickie Jones also attended. Perhaps more interestingly, Darla's successor in the Our
Gang series, Janet Burston, was also there.
- Darla appeared on the front cover of the March issue (no. 4) of a magazine called Calling All Girls.
- On March 28th, The Charlotte Observer (NC) reported the following: "Laraine Day, M-G-M starlet, is producing a series of 'Miniature Musicals,' to be
presented at army camps under the auspices of the Victory Committee. First of the group will be Laraine's own play, A Modern Cinderella, which she will direct with Dan Dailey, Jr.,
Arleen Whelan, Virginia O'Brien, Ray MacDonald, Connie Russell, Anne Rooney and Darla Hood in the leading roles."
- On September 4th, Harold Hetternan of the North American Newspaper Alliance talked about the various studio schools in Hollywood, and indicated that Darla was still attending the one at
MGM, suggesting that she was still under contract there.
- Born To Sing (small part: Quiz Kid)
- Feb. 18, 1942 - MGM - 82 min. - feature
- Filmed in late 1941. ©Jan. 20, 1942. Starring Virginia Weidler, Ray McDonald, Leo Gorcey, "Rags" Ragland and Douglas McPhail. Working title: Ballad For Americans.
Darla sings "Here I Am, Eight Years Old." In an article about Darla, The Sayre Daily Headlight-Journal stated that the film was first released on Jan. 20.
- Your Air Raid Warden (undetermined role)
- July 25, 1942 - MGM/OCD/AMPAS/20th Century-Fox/WAC - 1 reel - documentary short
1943
- On January 15th of this year, the United Press published a story about the MGM studio school, and included the following tidbit: "In a seat at Dickie (Hall)'s side
is a pretty little miss named Darla Hood. Scarcely known, she occupies a seat at which once sat another unknown, Lana Turner."
- At some point while Darla was 12 years old, she came to realize that she was actually 12 years old. As she told Earl Wilson of the Tulsa Daily World in 1963, she had thought up to that
point that she had turned 11 on her most recent birthday. Her parents had basically shaved a year off of her age prior to her joining the Our Gang series in 1935, resulting in her celebrating her
4th birthday twice.
- On June 17th, while on location in Santa Rosa for the shooting of "Happy Land," Darla attended a presentation at the nearby army airdrome, where soldiers of the army air forces were
entertained. According to The Press Democrat of June 18th: "Young Hood, a sleight-of-hand hobbyist, vied with Councilman Robert Madison, Santa Rosa's master magician in
a series of feats of legerdemain."
- Darla's contract with M-G-M apparently ended during this year, or at least she seems to have left the studio school at this time, as she told The Sayre Sun in 1959 that this
happened in 1943. As the Los Angeles Times of Dec. 25, 1977, reported: "Darla's mother arranged for her to get an agent, William Morris. But Darla's acting and singing
stints were sparse. She was turned down for several movie roles. That disappointed her and she says she gradually lost interest in acting."
- Happy Land (role: Lenore Prentiss at age 12)
- Nov. 10, 1943 - 20th Century-Fox - 73 min. - feature
- ©Dec. 3, 1943. Filmed June 1943. Starring Don Ameche, Frances Dee, Harry Carey and Ann Rutherford. This film also includes Dickie Moore in the cast.
1944
- On January 27th of this year, The Sayre Sun (OK) shared the following tidbit: "Darla Hood, the juvenile screen star Sayre claims, is expected for a visit in the home
of her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. John Danner."
- On February 9th, The Sayre Daily Headlight-Journal (OK) reported that Governor Robert S. Kerr would be speaking that night at the banquet room of the First Methodist
Church, in a meeting sponsored by the Rotary Club and local civic organizations. Among the entertainment would be musical numbers sung by Darla Hood.
- On February 10th, The Sayre Sun (OK) reported the following: "Darla Hood, juvenile screen star whom Sayre vies with Leedey to claim on account of her mother, Mrs.
Claud Hood, was born here and her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. John Danner, live here, almost broke up the junior high basketball tournament last week when spectators clamored around her for
autographs."
- On February 11th, Darla put in a special appearance at the Kozy Theatre in Granite, OK, and sang a selection of songs.
- On February 17th, The Altus Times-Democrat (OK) published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- Also on February 17th, The Granite Enterprise (OK) reported the following regarding Granite City School News: "The freshman class collected a total of $1.57 for
the infantile paralysis fund. Monday night we were guests of Mr. Copelin, our sponsor. The class went to the show and after the main feature, Darla Hood sang 'My Heart Tells Me,'
'Shoo, Shoo, Baby' and 'Let Me Call You Sweetheart.'"
- On February 23rd, The Sayre Daily Headlight-Journal (OK) reported on the opening night of 'Teen Town, which seems to be some kind of club for local teens, presumably
located at one of the schools. In a separate article, they had this to say about Darla: "Darla Hood, former 'Our Gang' sweetheart of M. G. M., Hollywood, California, was a
special guest at 'Teen Town Tuesday night (the 22nd). The juvenile star recently completed a part in the feature 'Born to Sing' and the 'Bohemian Girl.' During her
four weeks visit in Oklahoma with her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Danner and Mrs. Nora Hood of Erick and with her uncle, Melville Danner and family of Granite, she has made personal
appearances at Leedy, Sayre Junior High County Tournament, the Governor's Banquet at Sayre and at the 'Kozy Theatre' at Granite. Miss Hood and her mother, Mrs. Claude Hood, return to
California Friday (the 25th).
- On February 28th, the Los Angeles Times published an article written by Darla herself, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- At some point early this year, Darla's contract with M-G-M came to an end. The United Press of Feb. 7, 1956, carried the following quote: "Mother was afraid to
break the news to me. I couldn't have been happier. I said 'just think, I don't have to be in pictures any more. I can go to public school. I can be normal'." At a Los Angeles
high school she had "a terrible adjustment. The other children thought I was a snob. I just didn't know how to talk to them."
- Darla would have been attending junior high school around this time. The Daily Oklahoman of Feb. 26, 1950, reported that she had attended Bancroft Junior High School, but lists it prior
to Long's Professional School. However, Bancroft was a regular school that ordinary kids attended, so it's likely that Darla's time at Long's had come first, and that she had
probably started at Bancroft in the fall of this year.
1945
- Probably in the fall of this year, Darla began attending Fairfax High School. According to The Daily Oklahoman of Feb. 26, 1950, Darla, while in high school, "studied opera at
night, sang in the choir of Hollywood's First Methodist church, and attended the American Operatic laboratory."
1946
- On July 11th of this year, The Thomas Tribune (OK) reported the following: "The program at the meeting of the Service Club Wednesday (the 10th) was unusual,
three numbers being rendered by Miss Darla Jean Hood, a former sweetheart of the 'Our Gang Comedies' which so delighted old and young a few years ago. Here visiting her Aunt, Mrs. Mel
Danner and Mr. Danner and her cousin, Mel Ruth Danner, the former starlet, now out of the movies securing an education, was invited to furnish the program for the meeting. She sang two numbers,
'The Gypsy' and 'When Irish Eyes are Smiling' and so eager were the listeners for more music that an insistent encore brought her back for a rendition of 'They Say Love is
Wonderful.'" On July 14th, The Clinton Daily News also wrote of this event, and stated that Darla was in the area on her vacation.
- On July 17th, The Clinton Daily News (OK) reported the following: "Braces on Darla Hood's teeth have caused a lapse in her movie career, but their necessity has
not retarded, and may be furthering the development of her bell-like singing voice. The attractive, dark-eyed Hollywood girl, known chiefly as the one-time feminine lead in Hal
Roach's 'Our Gang' comedies, is the house guest of her friend, Joan Roush and her parents, Mr. and Mrs. R. E. Roush, 408 South Thirteenth street."
- On July 19th, The Sayre Daily Headlight-Journal (OK) reported the following: "Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Hood and daughter Darla, of Los Angeles, California, and Mr. and
Mrs. R. E. Roush of Clinton were dinner guests in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Floyd B. Sawyer of 504 North Fourth street, of Sayre, Tuesday evening (the 16th)."
- At the age of 15, Darla met Bob Decker at a barn dance given by the church choir, according to The Daily Oklahoman of Feb. 26, 1950.
1947
- In January of this year, the musical quintet Darla Hood and The Enchanters was formed. As described by the June 18, 1950, Sunday World-Herald of Omaha, NB: "In January
1947, (Bob) Decker, Darla Hood, leading lady of the 'Ken Murray Show,' Val Grund and Bob Wollter were singing in the choir of First Methodist Church in Hollywood. They formed a
group called the Enchanters. They sang at high school dances and benefits around Los Angeles. They got their first real break in Strictly for Kicks, a Twentieth Century-Fox studio club
show."
- On May 15th, Gene Handsaker talked about the whereabouts of former Our Gang kids in his syndicated column, and reported that Darla, now 17, was a senior at Fairfax High, as well as a blues
singer with a quartet.
- On June 9th, the Hollywood Citizen-News reported the following: "'A Garden of Love' was the setting for the formal installation of officers of the Hollywood
Assembly of Rainbow Girls this weekend in the Hollywood Masonic Temple, 6840 Hollywood Blvd. The ceremony, which took place in a picket fence enclosed artificial garden, was conducted by retiring
officers. New heads are Darla Hood, Mildred Quasti, Barbara Benchoff, Joy Joyce, Pat Simmons and Mrs. Mary Martin. Following the rites were a reception and dance." In the July 15th issue of
the same newspaper, it was reported that Darla had been installed as Worthy Advisor of the Hollywood Assembly No. 30, Order of Rainbow Girls. It also mentioned that Darla was currently attending
Hollywood High, and that the group would be hostessing a luncheon on July 18th at Helms Bakery to raise funds.
- On July 24th, the Evening Vanguard of Venice, CA, reported that Darla attended a recent "Courtesy Night" as one of 300 out-of-town guests of the Crescent Bay Assembly
Order for Girls. This took place in the Palms Masonic Temple, corner of Motor and Woodbine (right in the heart of 'McGowanville').
- On August 26th, the Hollywood Citizen-News published a photo of Darla presenting a prize to fellow Rainbow Girl Mildred Guasti, who won a contest for "cutest baby
picture."
1948
- Starting this year, Darla Hood and the Enchanters started getting work providing background vocals for movies. Most of these were for 20th Century-Fox, for whom the group auditioned during
Darla's senior year in high school. The aforementioned Sunday World-Herald article from June 18, 1950, verifies six of these titles; "Mother Is A Freshman,"
"Apartment For Peggy," "Texas, Brooklyn & Heaven," "The Street With No Name," "A Letter To Three Wives" and "Nancy Goes To Rio."
- Darla and The Enchanters also made recordings with Benny Carter and Stan Brown and appeared in a stage revue, according to The Daily Oklahoman of Feb. 26, 1950.
- Darla graduated from Fairfax High School in June of this year, according to The Daily Oklahoman of Feb. 26, 1950.
- In November, Darla and The Enchanters sang for Ken Murray and won a spot in his stage show, Blackouts. This is according to the Chicago Sunday Tribune of Nov. 12, 1950. According
to Richard Lamparski in his Whatever Became Of... series, Darla was planning to attend the University of Southern California, but was diverted from that course by Murray's offer.
- Bill And Coo (underscore vocals as member of the Enchanters)
- Mar. 28, 1948 - Murray/Republic - 61 min. - Trucolor - Ken Murray feature
- ©Feb. 17, 1948. Starring George Burton's Birds.
- The Street With No Name (underscore vocals as member of the Enchanters)
- prem. June 25, 1948 - 20th Centry-Fox - 10 reels - Mark Stevens & Richard Widmark feature
- ©June 25, 1948.
- Texas, Brooklyn & Heaven (underscore vocals as member of the Enchanters)
- July 16, 1948 - Golden/UA - 76 min. - Guy Madison & Diana Lynn feature
- ©Aug. 27, 1948.
- Apartment For Peggy (underscore vocals as member of the Enchanters)
- prem. Oct. 1, 1948 - 20th Century-Fox - 10 reels - Technicolor - Jeanne Crain & William Holden feature
- ©Sep. 30, 1948.
1949
- On January 10th of this year, The Mirror of Los Angeles reported the following: "Among the several new additions in Ken Murray's 'Blackouts of 1949' at El Capitan
are The Enchanters, one of the featured acts in the new musical opening of the revue, Hollywood And Vine, in which a replica of the famous corner is reproduced on the stage. The Enchanters
quintet includes Bob Decker, Bob Wolter, Val Grund, Sheldon Disrud and Darla Hood." This was the latest version of Murray's "Blackouts," which was in its eighth year.
- On January 16th, the Los Angeles Times reported the following: "When two people rhyme 'moon and June' and sing about romance professionally, they sometimes wind up at
the altar. That is what is about to happen in the instance of Darla Hood and Bob Decker of the Enchanters, now in Ken Murray's 'Blackouts of 1949' at El Capitan. Announcement has been
made that Miss Hood and Decker will be married June 24. The couple will continue to appear in 'Blackouts.'"
- On January 19th, The Leedey Star published an article about Darla's upcoming wedding, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On May 14th, the Daily News of Los Angeles described Blackouts Of '49 as enjoying a "record run" at the El Capitan Theater.
- On September 6th, Ken Murray's Blackouts Of 1949 debuted at the Ziegfeld Theatre in New York City, with Darla in the cast. It ran for 51 performances. On her "Tomorrow"
appearance of 1974, she stated that she was 18 at the time. She was billed as Darla Hood (of Our Gang Comedies).
- Starting on November 6th, Darla, along with The Enchanters, became a regular on Paul Whiteman's Goodyear Revue, which aired on ABC-TV. According to the Chicago Sunday
Tribune of Nov. 12, 1950, they appeared on Whiteman's show for 13 weeks. They were certainly still there on Dec. 17th.
A Letter To Three Wives (underscore vocals as member of the Enchanters)
- prem. Jan. 20, 1949 - 20th Century-Fox - 11 Reels - feature
- ©Jan. 20, 1949. Released Feb. 3, 1949. Starring Jeanne Crain, Linda Darnell, and Ann Sothern. The Enchanters provide the vocals for the "Crazy Eddie" radio ad.
- Mother Is A Freshman (underscore vocals as member of the Enchanters)
- prem. Mar. 12, 1949 - 20th Century-Fox - 8 reels - Technicolor - Loretta Young & Van Johnson feature
- ©Mar. 8, 1949.
- Paul Whiteman's Goodyear Revue series (featured vocalist)
- starting Nov. 6, 1949 - ABC - 30 min. - TV series
- Darla appeared heading a vocal quartet (The Enchanters), which "audition" for Whiteman. They appeared in two productions: "Valencia" and "Harp
Fantasy." This was the debut episode of the series.
1950
- On January 7th of this year, The Ken Murray Show debuted on a bi-weekly schedule. Darla Hood and the Enchanters were among the regulars on the program. One of Darla's regular
functions on the show was in the recurring skit called "Girl of the Week."
- On February 16th, The Guthrie Daily Leader (OK) reported the following: "Darla Hood, though fast becoming the leading lady on a national television program in New
York, has not forgotten that she was born in Oklahoma. Miss Hood, 19, hails from the village of Leedey, in Dewey County, which she has visited every year since leaving the Sooner state at the age
of three."
- On February 26th, The Daily Oklahoman of Oklahoma City published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On May 19th, a stage version of Ken Murray's show debuted at the Roxy Theater in New York. Not surprisingly, Darla Hood and the Enchanters were among the entertainers taking part in
Murray's Television Revue. This show was previewed the previous day.
- On June 6th, Louella Parsons included this tidbit in her syndicated column: "Attention, members of the old Hal Roach 'Our Gang' Alumni! Monogram is making a picture,
'Hot Rod,' and wants 'Farina' (Eugene Jackson), Barbara O'Brien, Carl 'Alfalfa' Switzer, Darla Hood and the others." Darla took a pass on this one.
- On July 6th, the Beckham County Democrat of Erick, OK, reported the following: "Mrs. Nora Hood had as her guests for an hour or more last Friday (June 30th), her grand
daughter, the former Darla Hood, now Mrs. Bob Decker, and Mr. Decker. The Deckers, accompanied by a young Chinese artist in movie work, were enroute from New York City to Hollywood, where they
will enjoy a vacation until some time in September when they will return to New York City. Darla has been the leading lady in Ken Murray's television show in New York City."
- On August 13th, the Tulsa Daily World (OK) reported the following: "Ken Murray, star-producer of CBS-TV's Ken Murray Show, plans to develop his leading
lady, songstress Darla Hood, into a comedienne when the weekly revue returns to the air this Fall."
- On September 1st, the Daily News of New York reported the following: "Ken Murray has lined up 18 'Girls of the Week' sequences for his CBS video series, which returns
on Oct. 7. The scripts are by his leading lady, Darla Hood."
- On September 5th, the Citizen-News of Hollywood reported that Darla Hood Decker had recently been the soloist at the wedding of Betty Gilbert to George Battey, Jr., at Bethany
Presbyterian Church.
- On September 25th, the Citizen-News of Hollywood reported that Darla had visited veterans' hospitals in the Los Angeles area during her vacation.
- On November 1st, Ken Murray emceed the Community Chest Rally, part of Philadelphia's 30th Annual Red Feather Campaign of the Community Chest of Philadelphia and Vicinity. The rally
took place at the Academy of Music. Joining Murray were the regulars from his TV series, including Darla Hood and The Enchanters.
- On November 12th, the Chicago Sunday Tribune published an article about Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- Darla appeared on the front cover of the December 2nd TV Digest.
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Jan. 7, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Jan. 21, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode>
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Feb. 4, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Feb. 18, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Mar. 4, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- Darla reportedly sang "Come Away With Me," "Lucille," and "In My Merry Oldsmobile" in this episode.
- Nancy Goes To Rio (underscore vocals as member of the Enchanters)
- Mar. 10, 1950 - MGM - 100 min. - Technicolor - Jane Powell & Ann Sothern feature
- ©Jan. 31, 1950 (in notice: 1949). Scotty Beckett is featured in this film.
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Mar. 18, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- Darla reportedly sang "Cecilia" in this episode.
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Apr. 1, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- Darla reportedly sang "Rose Of Washington Square" in this episode.
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Apr. 15, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Apr. 29, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- May 13, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- May 27, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- "Peggy O'Neil" was the Girl Of The Week production in this episode.
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- June 10, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- Toni Twin Time episode (guest appearance)
- June 14, 1950 - CBS - 30 min. - TV episode
- Hosted by Jack Lemmon. Darla appeared with The Enchanters.
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- June 24, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Oct. 7, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Oct. 14, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Oct. 21, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Nov. 4, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- "Paddlin' Madeline Home" was the Girl Of The Week production in this episode.
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Nov. 11, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Nov. 18, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Nov. 25, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- Darla reportedly sang "Mimi" in this episode.
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Dec. 2, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Dec. 9, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- Darla reportedly sang "The Pocahontas Song" in this episode.
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Dec. 16, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Dec. 23, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Dec. 30, 1950 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
1951
- On March 18th of this year, Darla was one of 23 recipients of orchids awarded by the sixteenth annual Asbury Park (NJ) Orchid Promenade for "outstanding smartness and good taste
in attire during the past year."
- On May 4th, Earl Wilson shared the following tidbit in his syndicated column: "Ken Murray and his 'Dagmar,' Darla Hood, had differences and she's quitting."
- On May 13th, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported the following: "Darla Hood will leave the Ken Murray show at the end of this season to fill other engagements. Her
husband, Robert Becker, a member of the Murray Enchanters, will go with her."
- On August 23rd, The Sayre Sun (OK) reported the following: "Mr. and Mrs. Bob Decker, New York, visited her grandmother, Mrs. Nora Hood, Erick, and spent Wednesday night
with her grandfather, J. M. Danner of Sayre. She is the former Darla Hood of Hollywood. They were enroute home from visiting her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Claude Hood of Los Angeles, Calif. They also
visited Mr. and Mrs. Calvin Koller of Thomas, Okla."
- On October 12th, Osgood of the Detroit Free Press (MI) reported the following: "That question about Darla Hood on the Ken Murray show has been shunted from the local
outlet to the network headquarters, to the agency, and has now been referred to 'the Ken Murray office' - which probably means the whole thing will get lost in that big, black
cigar."
- On Nov. 2nd, Osgood of the Detroit Free Press (MI) reported the following: "Darla Hood, formerly of the Ken Murray Show, is now free lancing, is not on any show
regularly."
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Jan. 6, 1951 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- Darla reportedly sang "I Miss My Swiss" in this episode.
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Jan. 13, 1951 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- Darla reportedly sang "Kokomo, Indiana" in this episode.
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Jan. 20, 1951 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Jan. 27, 1951 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Feb. 3, 1951 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- Darla reportedly sang "The Sheik Of Araby" in this episode.
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Feb. 10, 1951 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Feb. 17, 1951 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Feb. 24, 1951 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Mar. 3, 1951 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Mar. 10, 1951 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Mar. 17, 1951 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- Darla reportedly sang "Peggy O'Neill" in this episode.
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Mar. 24, 1951 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Mar. 31, 1951 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Apr. 7, 1951 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Apr. 14, 1951 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- Darla reportedly sang "Oh Susanna" in this episode.
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Apr. 21, 1951 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- Apr. 28, 1951 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- May 5, 1951 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- May 12, 1951 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- May 19, 1951 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- May 26, 1951 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Ken Murray Show episode (appearance)
- June 2, 1951 - CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
- Cavalcade Of Stars (guest appearance)
- Sep. 7, 1951 - Drugstore/DuMont - 60 min. - TV episode
- Hosted by Jackie Gleason.
1952
- On August 16th of this year, the Valley Times of North Hollywood reported the following: "Darla Hood, once singing star of Ken Murray's show, now has a regular berth on
the Spade Cooley program, KTLA at 8:30." The Spade Cooley Show was a local Los Angeles program that was broadcast across the country through the Paramount Television Network.
Below I've listed the episodes she appeared in up to August 30th, since I've found corroboration in the newspapers for these. However, she almost certainly appeared in all of the
subsequent episodes up to December 6th. For the December 13th episode, the press explained that she would be absent due to her visit to Reno. It appears that this situation, which seemed to be
temporary at first, became permanent, resulting in her no longer being with Cooley's show.
- On October 2nd, Spade Cooley provided entertainment at Seaside park as part of the Ventura County Fair. Joining him was Darla Hood.
- On October 21st, the Pasadena Independent (CA) shared the following tidbit: "Both Spade Cooley and his new vocal discovery Darla Hood claim to be 'real'
Americans. The two KTLA personalities are both of Indian ancestry."
- On November 15th, Darla appeared with Spade Cooley's band at the Santa Monica Ballroom.
- On December 11th, Darla began a two-week engagement at the Riverside Theater in Reno as part of Jimmy McHugh's act. As part of the show Darla sang a duet of "When You And I Were
Young Maggie Blues" with McHugh. This caused her to miss the latest Spade Cooley episode on December 13th, and in fact, it appears that she didn't bother returning to the show and
remained with McHugh.
- On December 26th, Jimmy McHugh's act, including Darla, opened a three-week run at Ciro's in Los Angeles. Darla sang "Sunny Side Of The Street." At some point, perhaps by
this time, Darla was under contract to McHugh.
- Panorama Pacific series (co-host)
- 1952 - KNXT - 60 min. - TV series
- The Spade Cooley Show episode (appearance)
- July 26, 1952 -KTLA/PTN - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Spade Cooley Show episode (appearance)
- Aug. 2, 1952 -KTLA/PTN - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Spade Cooley Show episode (appearance)
- Aug. 16, 1952 -KTLA/PTN - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Independent of Long Beach reported that Darla was "now a regular member of the cast."
- The Spade Cooley Show episode (appearance)
- Aug. 23, 1952 - KTLA/PTN - 60 min. - TV episode
- The Spade Cooley Show episode (appearance)
- Aug. 30, 1952 - KTLA/PTN - 60 min. - TV episode
1953
- On February 22nd of this year, Jimmy McHugh was a guest of honor at the El Mirador in Palm Springs when they staged their all-Hawaiian fashion show. Darla also took part. At the time,
McHugh's stage show was playing at Palm Springs's Chi Chi Theater.
- On April 4th, the Daily News of New York reported the following: "Sleeper sensation of the season in the nite spots is Jimmy McHugh's quartet of gal singers at the
Copacabana; four different types of voices, four different types of beauty, and all bound to be making news from here on. You'll be seeing these names in lights eventually - Dorothy
Coulter (blonde), Beverly Richards (redhead), Eve Marley (brunette) and Darla Hood, a cute in-between. Jack Carter, headlining the show, is probably today's most
versatile young comedian, but he works too hard, stays on too long..."
- On April 12th, the Daily News of New York revealed that the name of McHugh's act was Jimmy McHugh and His Singing Stars of 1953. It also had this to say: "Darla, the
99-pound, 5-foot brunette, who takes care of the bounce department, was a choir singer at the First Methodist Church in Hollywood. Her family moved from her hometown of Leedey, Okla., to
L.A. when she was signed by Hal Roach for 'Our Gang Comedy' chores."
- On May 20th, Jimmy McHugh's Musical Revue came to the Cocoanut Grove in Los Angeles. Darla was still among the singers, and her specialty number was still "Sunny Side Of The
Street."
- On May 23rd and 24th, St. Joseph's Parish in Pomona, CA, held a fiesta and barbecue at the Pomona Catholic High School. One of the film and music stars who made appearances was Darla
Hood.
- On July 2nd, the Bergen Evening Record of Hackensack, NJ, reported on a recent party given in honor of Jimmy McHugh at the Vagabond House in Los Angeles. Darla Hood did some singing at
this event.
- From August 6th to 9th, Jimmy McHugh's act played at The Del Mar Turf and Surf Hotel.
- On September 8th, Jimmy McHugh's act came to the Venetian Room at the Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco.
- On September 13th, San Francisco held its annual I Am An American Day, which included an Armed Forces Exposition. There was also musical entertainment, including Jimmy McHugh's act.
- On September 19th, the San Francisco Examiner reported the following: "Jimmy McHugh and his Venetian Room pretties (Darla Hood and Beverly Richard) fly to Hollywood
Monday (the 21st) to audition a CBS-TV show. They've been rehearsing in the KCBS studios here."
- On October 1st, Jimmy McHugh brought his act to the Coeur d'Alene Athletic Round Table in Idaho for a week's engagement.
- On October 13th, Darla answered a piece of fan mail which eventually found its way onto eBay. In the letter, she talks about still being with Jimmy McHugh's act, but states that she
recently auditioned for a Hollywood musical and also did a test for a CBS TV show.
- On December 16th, Jimmy McHugh brought his act to the Sands Hotel in Las Vegas for a week's engagement. On December 10th, Louella Parsons described Darla as "rejoining" the act,
so she must have been absent for a month or so.
1954
- On August 20th of this year, the Valley Times of North Hollywood reported the following: "Darla Hood, who was one of Jimmy McHugh's singing dolls in his troupe, is now
entertaining at the Glen Aire nightly except Wednesday, which is Arthur Murray night." An ad on the same page states that the Glen-Aire Country Club Restaurant was located in Sherman
Oaks.
- On September 9th, the San Clemente Sun (CA) reported the following: "Guests at the home of Mrs. Eleanor Decker, 232 W. Valencia, were her son and his wife, Mr. and Mrs.
Robert Decker, of Los Angeles. Mrs. Decker, known as Darla Hood, is well known in the entertainment field. She was formerly with the Spade Cooley band."
- On October 15th, Louella Parsons reported the following in her syndicated column: "The Mocambo patrons are in for a treat with little Darla Hood who has personality plus and a great
voice. She's opening Tuesday night (the 19th) on the Larry Finley show and she'll sing a Jimmy McHugh medley." Ads referred to this show as Larry Finley's 3rd
Anniversary Show.
- On October 20th, the Citizen-News of Hollywood reported the following: "Some months ago in the Cocoanut Grove, songwriter Jimmy McHugh introduced a group of talented young
singers he had discovered. Last night, Darla Hood, a little dark haired girl from the original group, made her solo debut at the Mocambo as part of the Larry Finley first anniversary celebration.
Very good in her original appearance, Darla Hood has become a personality in her own right, judging from her performance last night. With discoverer Jimmy McHugh accompanying her, Darla started
off by a gay interpretation of 'On the Sunny Side of the Street,' continuing with 'Don't Blame Me,' in fine torch style. Her Jimmy McHugh numbers included 'You're a
Sweetheart,' 'Where Are You?' 'Exactly Like You,' 'I'm in the Mood for Love,' concluding with 'I Can't Give You Anything But Love, Baby.' "
The October 23rd Valley Times reported that the Larry Finley Revue was a one-week event.
- On October 21st, Louella Parsons reported the following in her syndicated column: "Darla Hood is getting offers galore and well she should. Wynn Lassner (Eileen Barton's
husband) stopped by the Mocambo to see her, and was very complimentary. Looks as if Darla will be kept another week, as will the whole Larry Finley Show."
- On October 22nd, Louella Parsons shared the following tidbit in her syndicated column: "Darla Hood, cute as a bug's ear, too, is being sought by Las Vegas."
- On October 25th, Louella Parsons reported the following in her syndicated column: "I'm very pleased that Eddie (Fisher) told me that he's going to have Darla Hood,
Jimmy McHugh's protege, sing on one of his shows. She is also to be on an Eddie Cantor show."
- At some point in the 1950s, Darla appeared on the front cover of Tell magazine. It was a February issue, but the front cover doesn't mention the year.
- Hollywood Cabaret episode (guest appearance)
- Feb. 15, 1954 - KHJ - 30 min. - TV episode
- Bandstand Revue episode (guest appearance)
- Apr. 25, 1954 - KTLA - 60 min. - TV episode
- Jimmy McHugh also appeared.
- Bandstand Revue episode (guest appearance)
- Sep. 19, 1954 - KTLA - 60 min. - TV episode
- Jimmy McHugh also appeared, though it appears Darla wasn't part of his act anymore.
1955
- On January 19th of this year, Jimmy McHugh presented Darla, along with Judy Collins, at the Beverly Hills Men's Club at the Beverly Hills Hotel.
- On January 23rd, Darla took part in the annual Sunland-Tujunga March of Dimes Parade.
- On February 1st, Jimmy McHugh, along with Darla Hood and Judy Collins, opened a one-week engagement at the Mocambo in Los Angeles.
- On February 14th, Jimmy McHugh, along with Darla Hood and Judy Collins, took part in the 31st Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce Banquet in the Crystal Room of the Beverly Wilshire
Hotel.
- On March 5th, Darla sang for President Eisenhower at the White House Press Correspondent's Dinner in Washington, D.C., as part of Jimmy McHugh's act.
- On March 15th, Darla began an engagement at the Sahara in Los Angeles as part of Edgar Bergen's act, Bergen having borrowed her from Jimmy McHugh. This act was still going on in April,
perhaps as late as the 20th. It apparently wound up in Las Vegas.
- During this year, Darla took part in an Our Gang reunion for TV Guide, which was the subject of an article in the May 14th to 20th issue, complete with photos. The article states that
she was currently a nightclub singer.
- On September 3rd, The Daily Oklahoman reported that Darla was currently working on a New York television show.
- On September 15th, Mike Connolly reported the following: "Spanky Productions, Inc., has been set up here to merchandise products tied in with TV's 'Little Rascals,'
formerly 'Our Gang.' Merchandising rights have been secured from such former 'Gangsters' as Spanky McFarland, Alfalfa Switzer, Darla Hood, Buckwheat Thomas..." The kids
never saw each other while all of this was going on. The event reported in this article probably took place a couple of months earlier.
- A press photo from September 20th carried a caption that partially read: "(Mel) Schlank hopes the name 'Little Rascals' soon will be on comic books, clothes,
puppets and toys." Elsewhere, dolls and coloring books were added to the list of items to be sold. Contracts with two major companies were signed. On Sep. 23rd, the Associated Press
quoted Schlank as saying the following about Darla: "She was the easiest to find, because she had been working in Jimmy McHugh's night club act. But because she was the only one still
active in show business, she was the hardest to sell."
- Shortly after this, Spanky Products went out of business. Another group with the rights to the Little Rascals name went to the same companies and offered a better deal.
- On November 18th, Darla opened for two nights at the Eddie Davis restaurant in Los Angeles.
- Coke Time (guest appearance)
- Mar. 9, 1955 - NBC - 15 min. - TV episode
- Starring Eddie Fisher. Darla appeared with Jimmy McHugh and Judy Collins.
- Captain Jet And The Little Rascals (guest appearance)
- May 31, 1955 - KNXT - 30 min. - TV episode
- Local Little Rascals show in Los Angeles.
- Art Linkletter's House Party (guest appearance)
- Nov. 28, 1955 - CBS - 30 min. - TV episode
1956
- On February 7th of this year, the United Press published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On February 17th, Darla sang at a meeting of the Hollywood chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution at the First Methodist Church of Hollywood.
- During this year, Dell Publishing debuted a new comic book called The Little Rascals, which continued until 1962. Included in the cast of characters was Darla.
- On August 4th, Darla sang at the Charter Night party of the Kiwanis Club of Toluca Lake at the Valley Colonial House in Riverside, CA.
- The Johnny Carson Show (guest appearance)
- Mar. 1, 1956 - CBS - 30 min. - TV episode
- Screen Directors Playhouse episode: It's A Most Unusual Day (role: vocalist)
- Mar. 14, 1956 - Roach/NBC - prod. 9649 - 29 min. - TV episode
- ©Mar. 14, 1956. Darla sings "On The Sunny Side Of The Street" and takes part in singing "Comin' In On A Wing And A Prayer." She appeared as part of Jimmy
McHugh's act.
- Rockin' Rhythm (guest appearance)
- July 6, 1956 - KTTV - 60 min. - TV episode
- Local program. Full title: Yeakel Bros. Cadillac 4610 Crenshaw, L.A. & 4740 Firestone, So. Gate present Rockin' Rhythm. Darla sings "Little Doggie."
1957
- On February 14th of this year, Darla attended the opening of the Long Beach Naval Station's new men's recreation center.
- On February 27th, the Citizen-News of Hollywood reported that Darla had been signed by Warner Bros. to appear in "The Helen Morgan Story."
- On March 1st, UPI reported that Darla was currently living in North Hollywood with her husband and two children.
- On March 20th, the Citizen-News of Hollywood reported that Darla had been signed by Columbia to appear in "Calypso Heat Wave."
- On March 30th, the Mirror-News of Los Angeles reported that DJ Larry Finley's "Predicted Hit" of the week was "Jody" by Darla Hood. The single, on which
"No Secret Now" is backed with "Jody," was on the Encino label (catalogue no. 1007), and featured Darla backed by The Rocketeers and Orch.
Presumably, there wasn't much interest in the A-side, leading to "Jody" getting a bit of promotion. This began a recording career that lasting for about five years.
- On April 10th, Louella Parsons reported the following in her syndicated column: "Career trouble, singer and former Hal Roach child star Darla Hood tells me, and an inability to work
out their problems is the reason she will ask for a divorce from Bob Decker, her husband of eight years. Darla tried hard to keep their marriage intact, even to the point of giving up her career
and going to work at Lockheed. Now her career is starting up again. She just finished 'Calypso Heat Wave' for Sam Katzman at Columbia and has been signed for another, 'Tijuana
Story,' at the same studio. She also has an album, 'Jody,' and things are looking up for her after several years of inactivity." I've yet to come across any other reference to
an album called "Jody," and it appears that Darla never wound up in "The Tijuana Story."
- On June 3rd, Darla's latest 45, "Just Wanna Be Free" b/w "Lover's Prayer" was released on the Encino label (catalogue number 1018). She
was backed by Bill Baker's Orchestra.
- On June 4th, Darla was granted a default divorce from Robert W. Decker. According the Associated Press, the couple had no children.
- Probably sometime in June, a new single by Darla, "Calypso Heat Wave" b/w "No Secret Now" was released by Encino Records. The B-side had already been
released earlier in the year.
- On June 14th, Darla sang some songs for the annual Flag Day luncheon of the Hollywood chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel.
- On September 11th, Jack O'Brian reported the following in his syndicated column: "Merv Griffin's hour-long night time (and 'live') ABC radio series
starting Oct. 7 will feature pert songstress Darla Hood, once the 'sweetheart of Our Gang' comedies." Merv's show was called, unsurprisingly, The Merv Griffin Show. It
aired five days a week. Darla was signed to a 13-week contract.
- On October 3rd, The Jackson Sun (TN) published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On December 23rd, Darla appeared on The Bill Kemp Show on ABC radio. She also appeared on December 27th, though this could have been a repeat broadcast.
- On December 30th, The Jackson Sun (TN) reported the following: "Darla Hood, previously featured on 'The Merv Griffin Show,' now provides the distaff vocals on
'The Bill Kemp Show.'" This would suggest that she went from being a regular on Griffin's show to being a regular on Kemp's show. However, further research reveals that Darla
appeared on Griffin's show on January 2nd of 1958, and on Kemp's show the next day. So perhaps she was a regular on both shows simultaneously.
- Dress Blues episode (guest appearance)
- Mar. 30, 1957 - KNXT - 15 min. - TV episode
- Local program in Los Angeles.
- Panorama Pacific episode (guest appearance)
- Apr. 2, 1957 - 120 min. - TV episode
- Local program in Los Angeles.
- Calypso Heat Wave (role: Johnny's duet partner)
- June 1957 - Clover/Columbia - 86 min. - feature
- Filmed Mar./Apr. 1957. ©June 1, 1957. Earliest verified screening: June 6, 1957. Starring Johnny Desmond, Merry Anders, Meg Myles, The Treniers, The Tarriers, The Hi-Lo's,
Maya Angelou, Paul Langton and Joel Grey. Working title: Juke Box Jamboree. Darla sings "Jody."
- The Arlene Francis Show episode (guest appearance)
- Sep. 2, 1957 - NBC - 30 min. - TV episode
- The Helen Morgan Story (role: girl singer at piano)
- prem. Oct. 2, 1957 - Warner Bros. - 118 min. - CinemaScope - Ann Blyth & Paul Newman feature
- Filmed Feb./Mar. 1957. ©Oct. 5, 1957. Released Oct. 5, 1957. Working title: The Jazz Age. Also known as Why Was I Born?
1958
- At some point, either in 1957 or 1958, Jose Granson began managing Darla's career. As the Los Angeles Times described it on Dec. 25, 1977: "She met her current husband,
Jose Granson, when he heard her sing at McHugh's club. Granson had a publishing company and a record company. 'He wanted to manage my career. I agreed that I would work with him. Pretty
soon, we were married. I recorded a lot, but never had a hit. I was never into rock and, during the '50s, that was a sin.'"
- On May 18th of this year, Louella Parsons reported the following in her syndicated column: "Darla Hood former child actress with Our Gang comedies and later a singer with Jimmy McHugh
girl revue, tells me she and her husband Jose Granson expect the stork in October. They've come back to Hollywood to live." According to FamilySearch.org, Darla and Jose were married on
June 16th in Nevada. Of course, this could be in error. Wikipedia states that they were married in 1957.
- On October 27th, Louella Parsons reported the following in her syndicated column: "Another new baby made the heart of Darla Hood and her husband, Jose Granson, very happy. Darla, who
is one of Our Gang's children and more recently one of Jimmy McHugh's girl singers, telephoned just an hour after her baby son, weighing seven pounds, was born." Darla's son Brett
was born on the day of this column, October 27th.
1959
- In January of this year, Darla was featured on a new single, "Poor Pierre" b/w "Mean To You" on the Acama label (catalogue no. X 113). She was
backed, at least on the A-side, by the Bill Baker Orchestra. I'm not sure about the B-side.
- On April 3rd, Louella Parsons reported the following in her syndicated column: "Several years ago when Darla Hood was a tot, Joe Rivkin cast her as one of the kids in the Hal Roach
'Our Gang' movies. Today Darla is married and has a child and when she walked into Joe's casting office at Allied Artists (the first time he'd seen her in years) he signed
her for a very good role in 'The Bat,' based on Mary Roberts Rinehart's mystery story, which is being remade as a motion picture by Allied Artists."
- On April 28th, Louella Parsons reported the following in her syndicated column: "Darla Hood, whose new singing voice has never been better, is recording an album for Raynol, a new
company. Then she goes to Europe and spends six months recording several new albums. She's just recorded 'Quiet Village' with lyrics by her husband, Jose Granson. It was originally an
instrumental and a top favorite."
- Some time in early May, Darla's next single, "My Quiet Village" b/w "Red Dress" was released by Ray Note Records (catalogue no. RR-26).
It was advertised in the May 9th issue of Cash Box. The sheet music has Darla's photo on the front. She's backed by the Fabulous Modesto Orchestra on both songs.
- On May 15th, the Waterloo Daily Courier (IA) reported the following: "Les Baxter's famous 'Quiet Village' is picking up a lot of change for Martin Denny
(and orchestra) who has recorded it for Liberty Records. Denny, however, is getting competition from a thrush, Darla Hood, who SINGS it (already) on the Raynote label. This has
done nothing but help Denny's recording."
- On May 18th, the Valley Times of North Hollywood reported the following: "Darla Hood, ex-Queen of the Our Gang comedies who plays her first grownup screen role in 'The
Bat,' C. J. Tevlin's Liberty Pictures production for Allied Artists, leaves Thursday for New York, where she will plug her Raynote recording of 'My Quiet Village,' and 'The
Bat.' Before returning here, Miss Hood will visit Miami, Dallas, St. Louis, Chicago and San Franciso."
- On May 23rd, the Los Angeles Times featured photos of Darla in their Younger Set segment, in which she demonstrated ways to arrange a corsage.
- On May 24th, the Los Angeles Times published an article on a midnight FM radio show (on KRHM) hosted by Mike Stein. Scheduled to appear within the coming week was Darla
Hood.
- On June 1st, the Los Angeles Times published an article about Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- In August, another Darla single was released: "Only Yours" b/w "Silent Island" on the Ray Note label (catalogue no. S-5). Darla was backed
on both sides by the Ray Whitaker Orch., and co-wrote the B-side. Her photo was also used for the front cover of the "Silent Island" sheet music.
- On August 31st, the Redwood City Tribune (CA) published an article on a morning TV series called Bright And Early, and had this to say: "Interviews are usually
as interesting or as dull as the person being interviewed, but this is one spot in the show that could be watched more closely with the audience in mind. Last week, for instance, their guest was
Darla Hood, one of the early 'Our Gang' kids in the movies. If viewers were interested in this particular young lady, it would be because of the nostalgia associated with Our Gang . . .
what were some of the memorable things they did? What are they doing now? What's happened to the movies since those early days? These are a few of the questions that might have
been asked, but instead the talk centered around some new record she is plugging, and the audience really couldn't care less. As a matter of fact, she did tell us something, indirectly, about
the change in movies . . . she is also promoting her latest picture, 'The Bat,' in which she has her throat slit and is thrown down some stairs."
- On September 16th, Darla Hood was among several singers who performed on a stage in front of Clark's Restaurant in Akron, OH, as part of its D Day celebration.
- On September 17th, the Beckham County Democrat of Erick, OK, reported the following: "Mr. and Mrs. Joe Granson of North Hollywood, California, visited with her grandmother,
Mrs. Nora Hood Sunday (the 13th). Mrs. Granson is the former Darla Hood, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Hood."
- On September 21st, the Portland Evening Express (ME) reported the following: "Darla Hood, fledgling actress-singer, is credited with writing the lyrics for
'Silent Island,' which is paired with 'Only Yours' on her latest platter."
- On September 28th, Darla sang at the Pevely Playhouse in Hillsboro, MO.
- On October 4th, Darla performed at a variety show put on by the Tustin Kiwanis Club at the Tustin High School Stadium in Tustin, CA.
- On October 8th, The Sayre Sun (OK) published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- Also on October 8th, the Woods County Enterprise of Waynoka, OK, reported the following: "Mr. and Mrs. Mel Danner spent two days in Sayre visiting his mother Mrs. J. M. Danner
and his niece Darla Hood, film and TV star. Mrs. Danner accompanied her granddaughter to Hollywood, California, for a visit."
- At some point during this year (probably towards the end), another single by Darla, "The Letter" b/w "Someone To Love" was released on the Ray
Note label (catalogue no. 10006). Darla was backed by the Ray Whitaker Orchestra. Her photo was also used for the front cover of the "Someone To Love" sheet music.
- George Jessel's Show episode (guest appearance)
- Apr. 4, 1959 - 90 min. - TV episode
- Syndicated program.
- Manhunt episode: Killer In Blue (undetermined role)
- Apr. 15, 1959 - Briskin/Screen Gems - 30 min. - TV episode
- Larry Finley's Strictly Informal episode (guest appearance)
- May 4, 1959 - KTLA - TV episode
- Local late-night program. Probably 90 min. or more.
- Larry Finley's Strictly Informal episode (guest appearance)
- May 12, 1959 - KTLA - TV episode
- Local late-night program. Probably 90 min. or more.
- Little Rascals Varieties (archival)
- May 5, 1959 - Allied Artists - 63 min. - compilation feature
- The Bat (featured role: Judy Hollander)
- Aug. 9, 1959 - Liberty/Allied Artists - 80 min. - Vincent Price & Agnes Moorehead feature
- Filmed May/June 1959. ©July 21, 1957.
- Red Rowe Show episode (guest appearance)
- Aug. 19, 1959 - KTLA - 90 min. - TV episode
- Local morning program in Los Angeles.
- Strictly Informal episode (guest appearance)
- Aug. 28, 1959 - KTLA - TV episode
- Local late-night program. Probably 90 min. or more.
- Midnight Ticker (guest appearance)
- Sep. 25, 1959 - WGN-TV- TV episode
- This was a local program in Chicago that aired at midnight, so technically it was aired on the 26th.
- The Tom Paxton Show (guest appearance)
- Oct. 1959 - WKY-TV - 35 min. - TV episode
- Local program in Oklahoma City. She appeared on this weekday show either on the 6th or the 7th.
- George Jessel's Show episode (guest appearance)
- Oct. 24, 1959 - 60 min. - TV episdoe
- Syndicated program.
1960
- On January 8th of this year, the Van Nuys News (CA) reported that Darla was recently among the guests of Mark Scott at the new Toluca Vegas dinery in Burbank.
- On February 5th, the Van Nuys News (CA) gave the following review of Darla's latest record: "Darla Hood rips out a bouncy blues number 'Someone to Love' on
Ray Note label. Full orchestra backs her up. Coupler is ballad 'The Letter.' Darla displays a Judy Garland quality on this." This single had come out the previous year, and it looks
like the B-side was now being promoted after the A-side failed to make any impression on the public.
- In May, Billboard reviewed Darla's latest single, "The Flower Of Love" b/w "It Just Fits." It was released on Acama Records (catalogue no.
X 116). Darla co-wrote the A-side.
- In July, Acama Records released a Tony Lovello single with "Vaya Vaya" on the A-side (catalogue no. X 118). On the B-side was a song written by Darla Hood called
"Your Tender Kiss."
- Also in July, Darla's latest single, "The Long Silence" b/w "Rainy Day In Rome" was released by Acama Records (catalogue no. 119). Both songs
were co-written by Darla.
- In October, Darla's latest single, "Un Momento Mas" b/w "Sitting Bull's Last Stand" was released by Acama Records (catalogue no. 120). The
A-side was written by Darla and was arranged and conducted by Carl Cotner. The B-side was co-written by Darla and featured the Bob Roberts Orch.
- On November 24th, Louella Parsons reported the following in her syndicated column: "Singer Darla Hood telephoned to say that she and her husband, music publisher Jose Granson,
welcomed their second child in May. They have a two-year-old son, Brett, and Jose's daughter, ten. Darla is giving up her TV work until her baby is born."
- St. Louis Hop episode (guest appearance)
- Aug. 27, 1960 - KSD-TV - 60 min. - TV episode
- Local St. Louis program.
1961
- In January of this year, Billboard reviewed Darla's latest single, "Witch's Brew" b/w "No Secret Now." It was released by Acama Records
(catalogue no. X 122). The A-side was co-written by Darla. The B-side had previously been released (twice) in 1957 by Encino Records. I'm not sure if this later
release was a re-recording or just a reissue. Darla was accompanied by Bob Robert's Orch.
- In March, Darla's latest single, "Jody" b/w "Valley Of Eternity" was released by Acama Records (catalogue no. X 127). Darla is accompanied by
the Bill Baker Orch. on the A-side, and by the Bob Roberts Orch. on the B-side. She also co-wrote the B-side. "Jody" had already been released by Encino Records in 1957,
and in this case, I think this newer release is probably a reissue, if only because Baker was frequently backing Darla during that period.
- In April, Billboard reviewed the latest Darla single, "Anytime - Anywhere" b/w "Hurt, Hurt, Hurt." It was released on Acama Records
(catalogue no. X 124) and featured backing by the Bob Roberts Orch. Darla co-wrote both songs.
- Sometime during this year, probably in the spring, Acama Records released a single (catalogue no. X 125) by Richie Marsh and The Hoodwinks: "Baby Baby Baby"
b/w "Half Angel." Darla sings backing vocals on both songs. She also wrote the B-side and co-wrote the A-side.
- On May 10th, Louella Parsons reported the following in her syndicated column: "Little singer Darla Hood, just a baby herself a few years ago, welcomed a seven pound, 11 ounce daughter
titled Darlita Jo Grandson at Valley Doctor's Hospital. The excited father is Jose Grandson." Just to be clear, the family's last name was Granson.
- Also during this year, a test LP was produced called "The Talents Of Darla Hood." Side one consisted of one track: "The Voices Of Darla
Hood," which was made to demonstrate Darla's ability to voice a variety of characters in order to get her work in TV commercials and the like. According to Maltin & Bann,
she had a three-octave range, so there's probably quite a variety of voices on this track. Side two is made up of six previously-released songs: "Jody,"
"Un Momento Mas," "The Long Silence," "The Flower Of Love," "Hurt, Hurt, Hurt" and "It Just
Fits." All six of these songs had been released on singles during 1960 and 1961. As Darla told Bob Garner of the Los Angeles Times in 1977: "In 1961, my husband
made an album of a lot of crazy sounds that I could make and peddled it to ad agencies and studios. That led to doing voices for cartoons and dubbing for films."
1962
- By this time, Darla had begun to do voice work in TV commercials. Over the years, she did voice-overs for Swiss Miss Cocoa, Campbell's Soup (as one of the two
Campbell's Kids) and Teeny Tiny Tears (providing the singing voice for the little girl in the ad). Maltin & Bann state that this activity began around 1957, which could
be true. But newspaper references to Darla's voiceover work begin in 1962, including an article from The Minneapolis Star from Oct. 30th that states that she got into this field
"in recent months." The timing also coincides very well with the test LP from 1961, which her husband produced for the very purpose of getting her this type of work. This eventually led
to a four-year contract (by 1967) with Chicken-of-the-Sea, providing the singing voice of the mermaid. As Jackie Lynn Taylor said in a Copley News Service
article from Feb. 12, 1975: "Darla replaced me when I left the gang in 1936, and later replaced me as the commercial voice for a tuna company."
- On March 13th of this year, the Valley Times Today of North Hollywood reported the following: "Darla Hood, now a full-blown 29, has a TV-induced problem. She started in
show biz at age three as a pixie little girl on the movie series 'Our Gang.' Due to the fact that the Our Gang comedies have been on TV now for 10 years her childish image still persists
with the public. So she'll be seen on the Groucho Marx Show Thursday (the 15th) and warble a couple of songs in a smart evening gown in the hope that viewers and producers will now
realize she's a grownup performer."
- In May, Darla's latest single, "Ah! Sweet Mystery Of Life" b/w "I Pledge Allegiance" was released by Acama Records (catalogue no. X 129).
The B-side was written by Darla. She was accompanied on both sides by the Don Ralke Orch.
- On June 8th, Dorothy Manners, filling in for Louella Parsons, reported the following in Parsons' syndicated column: "Nice letter from young Darla Hood telling Louella Parsons that
she'll be on the Jack Benny show in October. Miss LOP was very glad to hear from Darla again and to learn she is doing well on TV and in TV commercials."
- In October, Darla's latest single, "Only Yours" b/w "I'm Gonna Laugh Right In Your Face" was released by Acama Records (catalogue no. X
132). The B-side was co-written by Darla. The A-side was previously released by Ray Note Records in 1959. However, this seems to be a re-recording, since both sides of this
1962 single are backed by the Don Ralke Orch., while the 1957 single featured the Ray Whitaker Orch.
- On October 26th, the Daily American of Somerset, PA, published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On October 27th, The Charlotte News (NC) published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On October 28th, the Richmond Times-Dispatch (VA) published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- Also on October 28th, The Sunday Press of Pittsburgh, PA, published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On October 30th, an episode of The Jack Benny Program called The Story Of My Gang Comedy was aired. This involved the regular cast impersonating the Our Gang kids. Darla, who
guest-starred on the program, impersonated her younger self.
- Also on October 30th, The Minneapolis Star (MN) published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- Tell It To Groucho episode (guest appearance)
- Mar. 15, 1962 - Guedel/CBS - 30 min. - TV episode
- Also listed as Feb. 8, 1962.
- The Jack Benny Program episode: The Story Of My Gang Comedy (guest appearance)
- Oct. 30, 1962 - J&M/Revue/CBS - 30 min. - TV episode
- ©Oct. 30, 1962, as My Gang Comedy. Darla sings "It's A Most Unusual Day."
- Art Linkletter's House Party episode (guest appearance)
- Nov. 13, 1962 - CBS - 30 min. - TV episode
1963
- On March 14th of this year, Darla responded to a fan letter which later wound up on eBay. She reveals that she was moving out of her place on Argyle Ave. in Hollywood that week to a new
place in New York. More accurately, she and her family moved to Englewood Cliffs, NJ, which is a suburb of New York City.
- On April 4th, the Beckham County Democrat of Erick, OK, reported the following: "Mr. and Mrs. Joe Granson of Hollywood, Calif., (Darla Hood) and family, enroute to New
York, visited with Mr. and Mrs. T. T. Norton Wednesday (the 3rd)."
- On May 1st, The Register of Santa Ana, CA, reported that Darla and her family were currently living in Pasadena. Surely, though, this would have been outdated information, if it had
ever been true in the first place.
- On May 19th, the Tulsa Daily World (OK) published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson episode (guest appearance)
- May 7, 1963 - NBC - 90 min. - TV episode
1966
- Gulliver's Travels Beyond The Moon (featured role: voice of the Princess in English version)
- July 23, 1966 - Toei/Continental - 80 min. - Toeiscope - animated feature
- This was the English-dubbed version of the Japanese film Garibaa no uchû ryokô, which was released in Japan (without Darla's involvement) on Mar. 20 1965.
Reissued as Gulliver Boy.
1967
- On July 24th of this year, The Record of Hackensack, NJ, published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On August 26th, Darla was one of the judges in the annual Little Miss America contest, held at Palisades Amusement Park.
- Girl Talk episode (guest appearance)
- Dec. 15, 1967 - WBNS - 30 min. - TV episode
- Syndicated program hosted by Virginia Graham.
1968
- On April 15th of this year, Darla appeared on Richard Lamparski's Whatever Became Of...? radio program on WBAI in New York. In this interview, Darla mentions that she and her
family had been living in Englewood Cliffs for about five years.
- On August 24th, the Independent Press-Telegram of Long Beach, CA, reported on the whereabouts of the former Our Gang members, and included this tidbit: "Darla Hood, now
Mrs. Shirley Cherrington, is a housemother for Tau Delta Phi fraternity at Pennsylvania State University." Of course, if you've gotten this far in reading this filmography, it should be
obvious that Mrs. Cherrington was one of the hundreds, if not thousands, of people erroneously claiming to be former Our Gang players.
- In September, Darla and her family moved back to California, taking up residence in North Hollywood.
- During this year, the second series of Richard Lamparski's Whatever Became Off...? was published, and included an article on Darla.
1969
- On November 14th of this year, Darla performed at the ASCAP Tribute to the late Jimmy McHugh at the Beverly Hilton. Darla sang a medley of McHugh's songs.
- The Dennis Wholey Show episode (guest appearance)
- Sep. 17, 1969 - 90 min. - TV episode
- Syndicated program.
1970
- At some point, Darla appeared on the Regis Philbin TV program Tempo, as mentioned in The News of Van Nuys, CA, on October 2nd.
- Airport (ADR work)
- prem. Mar. 5, 1970 - Hunter/Universal - 137 min. - Technicolor - Todd-AO - Burt Lancaster & Dean Martin feature
- Also starring Jean Seberg, Jacqueline Bisset, George Kennedy, Helen Hayes, Van Heflin, Maureen Stapleton, Barry Nelson, Lloyd Nolan, Dana Wynter and Barbara Hale.
1971
- On May 28th, Spanky McFarland appeared at Hensel Hall at Franklin & Marshall College in Lancaster, PA, for "An Evening Of Nostalgia." Darla was originally scheduled to join him
for this event, but couldn't make it for some reason.
- On August 1st, The Macon Telegraph and News (GE) reported that Darla was a Little League coach and team mother.
1972
- Kennedy At Night episode (guest appearance)
- Feb. 28, 1972 - WLS-TV - 60 min. - TV episode
- Local late-night Chicago program. Also appearing was Spanky McFarland.
1973
- On January 21st of this year, the Los Angeles Times reported that Darla was currently living in the San Fernando Valley.
- On April 7th, The Columbia Record (SC) reported that Darla was semi-retired.
- On September 16th, the News-Sentinel carried the following quote from Spanky McFarland: "I correspond occasionally with Darla Hood but have been out of touch with most of the
Our Gang members in recent years."
- On October 30th, the Philadelphia Daily News reported the following: "Spanky's in town today to tape a Mike Douglas Show and what he doesn't know (until he reads
this) is that his old film sweetheart Darla Hood is flying in from Hollywood to surprise him. They haven't seen each other for 30 years." This last sentence, of course, is
erroneous.
- The Mike Douglas Show episode (guest appearance)
- Nov. 8, 1973 - Douglas/Westinghouse 60 min. - TV episode
- Syndicated program. Also featuring Spanky McFarland, Robert Klein and Yoko Ono.
1974
- On September 11th of this year, UPI published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On September 21st, Darla attended a banquet of the Way Out West tent of Sons of the Desert.
- On October 4th, James Bacon published this quote from Darla in his syndicated column: "With the craze for all things nostalgic not only are the youngsters enjoying the comedies
but those who were fans of the Gang when they were shown in movie houses before the first TV release in 1951 also view them faithfully. I receive fan letters every week with proposals from boys
8 to 48." The article also mentions that Darla had just started a new act with Ken Murray at the Mayfair Music Hall in Santa Monica.
- On October 28th, 29th, and 30th, Darla appeared as part of An Evening To Remember, Ken Murray's show at Off Broadway West at the Grand Hotel in Anaheim, CA.
- During the time of her appearance on "Tomorrow," Darla was working again with Ken Murray in a stage show called The New Blackouts Of 1975.
- Easter Is (small part: voice of Karen)
- 1974 - Lutheran Television/Screen Images - 30 min. - animated TV special
- Tomorrow episode: The Little Rascals (guest appearance)
- Nov. 12, 1974 - NBC - 60 min. - TV episode
- Hosted by Tom Snyder. Also featuring Stymie Beard, Spanky McFarland, and Buckwheat Thomas.
- The Moviemakers episode (guest appearance)
- Nov. 30, 1974 - KBSC - 30 min. - TV episode
- Local program in Los Angeles.
- The Towering Inferno (ADR work)
- prem. Dec. 14, 1974 - Allen/Warner Bros./20th Century-Fox - 165 min. -Technicolor - Panavision - feature
- Starring Steve McQueen, Paul Newman, William Holden and Faye Dunaway.
1975
- There is some indication that Darla may have appeared on an episode of The Little Rascals Family Theater, a series that was hosted by Jackie Lynn Taylor during this period.
- During this year, a book by Marc Best called Their Hearts Were Young And Gay was released, and included a chapter on Darla.
- On July 21st of this year, Darla appeared in person as part of An Evening With Spanky, Darla, Stymie at the Uptown Theater in Minneapolis, MN.
- On July 22nd, Darla appeared in person as part of An Evening With Spanky, Darla, Stymie at the Orpheum Theater in St. Paul, MN.
- On September 28th, the Star Tribune of Minneapolis (MN) reported on the release of a book called You Must Remember This: Oral Reminiscences Of The Real Hollywood by
Walter Wagner. Included within was an interview with Darla.
- Gallery episode: Whatever Became Of Hollywood? (appearance)
- Jan. 3, 1975 - CBC - 30 min. - TV episode
- Made in Canada. Stymie Beard also appeared on this program.
1976
- On February 13th of this year, the Independent of Long Beach, CA, published an article on the whereabouts of former Our Gang kids, and had this to say: "Darla Hood, now Mrs.
Shirley Cherrington, became a housemother for a fraternity in Pennsylvania." This is basically a repeat of the Aug. 24, 1968, item above, but shows that Cherrington was continuing to pass
herself off as a former Our Gang kid.
- On November 16th, Darla made an appearance with several other celebrities at B. Dalton Pickwick Booksellers in Los Angeles. This event centered around the release of the latest edition of
Richard Lamparski's Whatever Became Of...?
- Yesterday's Witness In America episode: Babes In Hollywood (appearance)
- Sep. 27, 1976 - BBC - 50 min. - TV episode
1977
- On March 14th of this year, the Anderson Independent (SC) reported that Darla was currently a housewife in San Fernando.
- On June 18th, the fourth annual Sons of the Desert banquet was held at the Revere House in Tustin, and sponsored by the Unaccustomed As We Are tent. Darla was among the celebrity guests.
- During this year, two pilots were made for "The Little Rascals," aka "Norman Lear's New Little Rascals." They were never picked up. Patricia Patts auditioned for the
role of Darla, but wasn't quite right for the part, so they created a new character for her. So apparently, they didn't have a Darla in this show.
- On October 1st, Darla was the guest of Guide Dog Boosters of America at their fourth annual awards banquet in the French Room of the Lafayette Hotel.
- On November 12th, The St. Catharines Standard (Ontario) reported the following: "Darla Hood has been carrying on as a voice on sundry TV commercials. Darla has been
heard as an abominable snowman, a salad and a sore toe."
- On December 18th, the Minneapolis Tribune (MN) reported that Darla had done the voice of the Tiny Tears doll. However, unless the doll had changed since the '60s, then this
isn't accurate. Darla had done the singing voice of the little girl in the commercial as she sings her doll to sleep. The doll itself wasn't a speaking doll, but Darla was known to have
provided the voices for dolls that did speak.
- On December 25th, the Los Angeles Times published an article on Darla, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
1978
- On August 18th of this year, Darla attended the Sons of the Desert convention at the Ramada Inn in Chicago.
- On August 20th, The Tennessean of Nashville reported the following: "Darla was played by Darla Hood and she is now 45 years old. Married to a California music publisher, she
lives in Studio City and is the mother of two teenage children. In show business from age three, she has never stopped working. She does commercials, 'voices' for talking toys, records,
and writes published songs. She says, 'I'm still getting fan letters from little boys who write things like, "I've loved you since I was 6; I'm now 9." They request
pictures of me and I don't know whether to send one of me now, or then.' Of all the 'Our Gang' members, she says her happiest relations were with Spanky, her least pleasant with
Alfalfa. In a recently published book, You Must Remember This, for which she was interviewed, Darla said: 'The worst kid in the gang was Alfalfa. His dad told him he was God's
gift to the world, and he thoroughly believed it. He was an awful problem on the set. He was just a misguided prankster.' She is sorry that today's generation of kids don't have
'Our Gang' to see at the movies. 'All the Gang's fun,' she says, 'was harmless. No one got hurt, there was no violence. I wish my own children could grow up with 'Our
Gang' instead of some things they watch on television.'"
- On October 20th, Darla responded to a letter from somebody named Jess L. Hoaglin of Los Angeles, and wrote about the things recently going on in her life. This can be accessed by clicking
here.
- Rascal Dazzle (archival)
- 1978 - King World/Picture Scores - 93 min. - documentary feature
- ©1978. Seems to have debuted on TV, followed by a theatrical release in late 1979. Includes footage from "Divot Diggers," "Second Childhood," "Bored Of
Education," "Reunion In Rhythm," "Hearts Are Thumps," "Framing Youth," "The Pigskin Palooka," "Mail And Female," "Our Gang Follies Of
1938" and "Three Men In A Tub."
1979
- During January of this year, Darla took part in a meeting of the Way Out West tent of the Sons of the Desert at the Encino Women's Club.
- On January 17th, The Daily Dispatch of Moline, IL, reported that Darla was living in Studio City.
- In the March issue of Classic Images published interviews with those who attended the first international Sons of the Desert Convention the previous August. Darla-related content
can be accessed by clicking here.
- On June 15th, The Daily Oklahoman of Oklahoma City reported that Darla was working on a book called That Old Gang Of Mine.
- There is some indication that Darla continued to do the Chicken-of-the-Sea commercials until her death.
- Darla's funeral was on June 18th. Matthew "Stymie" Beard and Mickey "Happy" Laughlin both attended.
- On December 3rd of this year, an animated TV special called The Little Rascals' Christmas Special debuted. Included in the cast of characters was Darla, voiced by Randi Kiger. Darla
herself provided the voice of the mother. This special aired nearly six months after Darla's death.
- The Little Rascals' Christmas Special (supporting role: voice of Mom)
- Dec. 3, 1979 - King World/Muller-Rosen/Murakami-Wolf-Swenson/NBC - 30 min. - animated TV special
- Credited as Darla Hood Granson. Production on this special began by the end of May 1979.
1980
- During this year, several PSAs were made for television using the animated characters from the previous year's Christmas special, including Darla.
- From July 30th to August 3rd, the Second International Convention of Sons of the Desert was held at the Los Angeles Hilton, and included the largest-ever Our Gang reunion. This reunion,
having been Darla's idea, was dedicated to her memory.
1982
- During this year, the eighth series of Richard Lamparski's Whatever Became Of...? was published, and included a chapter on Darla. This was a slightly updated version of the
chapter in the 1968 edition.
- On September 5th of this year, an animated TV series called "The Little Rascals" made its debut, and continued for roughly one year. Darla was voiced by Patty Maloney.
- On November 13th, "Saturday Night Live" aired the latest of their Buckwheat sketches featuring Eddie Murphy. This one involved a Little Rascals reunion, complete with guest host
Robert Blake. Julia Louis-Dreyfus impersonated Darla, who was currently a prostitute and wearing Pete the Pup as a shawl.
- Hollywood: The Gift Of Laughter (archival)
- May 16, 1982 - Wolper/Haley/MPA/ABC - 135 min. - TV movie
- Includes footage from "Hearts Are Thumps" and "The Big Premiere."
1983
- On October 22nd, "Saturday Night Live" aired a sketch called "The Village Of The Damned Little Rascals," with Julia Louis-Dreyfus again impersonating Darla.
1984
- During this year, TV ads for Jell-O Gelatin Pops began to be aired, featuring a group of kids playing the Little Rascals. Among them was Darla.
- On October 17th, the Wichita Falls Record News (TX) erroneously reported the following: "If you have amassed as many cambium rings as I have, you recall little Darla
Hood of Our Gang series, who now is living in Conroe, east of Austin, teaching Hawaiian and Tahitian dancing in her home. Darla was discovered 50 years ago when a director spotted her in
her father's restaurant wearing a pair of cowboy boots given her by her Texas grandparents."
- Our Gang: Inside The Clubhouse (interview appearance/archival)
- May 8, 1984 - Lang/Camellia City Telecasters - 93 mins. - TV documentary
- Includes footage from "Our Gang Follies Of 1936," "The Pinch Singer," "Bored Of Education," "Night 'N' Gales," "Framing Youth,"
"Three Men In A Tub," "The Little Ranger," "The Big Premiere," "Kiddie Kure" and "Ye Olde Minstrels."
- Alfalfa Lives! An Our Gang Spectacular (archival)
- May 13, 1984 - 120 min. - TV special
- Going Hollywood: The '30s (archival)
- 1984 - Castle Hill - 76 min. - TV documentary
1986
- Classic Comedy Teams (archival)
- 1986 - Bergamn-Harris/Movietime/GoodTimes - 108 min. - video
- Includes footage from "Our Gang Follies Of 1938."
1987
- On March 16th of this year, the Press-Journal of Vero Beach, FL, published an article about a bogus Darla named Leona Horey. She claimed to have started in the series during the
1920s when Tom Mix discovered her as a 5-year-old. He introduced her to Cecil B. DeMille, who signed her up as a stunt double in the Little Rascals. Before long, she was cast as Darla.
When she outgrew this role, she played the part of Melissa in the series. Leonard Maltin was asked about all of this and debunked everything she claimed, stating that only Darla Hood ever played
Darla and that she was deceased. Horey was quoted as saying "I'm still here. I'm the only real Darla, I started in the '20s. I don't know who Darla Hood is." When
confronted about the lack of a "Melissa" character in the series, she said, "It's hard to remember what you did in the '20s...I don't know what name they might have
called me." Horey continued to make personal appearances as Darla, and also pointed out that all of her Our Gang memorabilia had been lost in a house fire. Of course.
- During this year, a stage musical called "The Little Rascals" made its debut. Darla was played by Jenna von Oÿ.
1988
- Hollywood Scandals And Tragedies (archival)
- 1988 - Gorgon - 87 min. - video documentary
- Includes footage from "Our Gang Follies Of 1938."
1989
- On July 23rd of this year, The Times Herald of Port Huron, MI, published an article about the nearby city of St. Clair, and had this to say: "Child star Darla Hood, or Kay
Altherr, was said to have lived in one of the glamorous houses along the river in St. Clair."
1994
- On August 5th, a feature film called "The Little Rascals" was released. Darla was played by Brittany Ashton Holmes.
- Hal Roach: Hollywood's King Of Laughter (appearance/archival)
- Apr. 7, 1994 - RHI/Disney Channel - 49 min. - TV documentary
- Includes footage from "Divot Diggers" and "Our Gang Follies Of 1938."
- The Our Gang Story (archival)
- 1994 - Film Shows/GoodTimes - 120 min. - video documentary
- Includes footage from "Our Gang Follies Of 1936," "The Pinch Singer," "Fox Movietone News," "Reunion In Rhythm," second "News Of The Day"
clip, "Our Gang Follies Of 1938," "Waldo's Last Stand" and "The Bat."
1995
- On September 24th of this year, an episode of "The Simpsons" called "Radioactive Man" was first aired. Within it was a brief parody of The Little Rascals in which Moe
the bartender, as a child, played the character Smelly. Darla is shown among the kids.
1998
- Hal Roach: The Lot Of Fun (archival)
- June 27, 1998 - Film Preservation Associates/Kino Lorber - 133 min. - video documentary
- Released on "Slapstick Encyclopedia Vol. 6." Includes footage from "News Of The Day" with Vittorio Mussolini.
1999
- On May 26th of this year, the Lehi Free Press New Utah! of American Fork, UT, published a story on Marilyn Bullard, who spoke to students at Sego Lily Elementary School about her
days playing "Darla Hood" in the Little Rascals. Bullard claimed to have taken dancing lessons and starting her career impersonating Betty Boop. She was also said to have acted in films
with Jeanette MacDonald and Nelson Eddy. Her stint with The Little Rascals lasted until her retirement at the age of 10, by which time she had appeared in 20 of the shorts. She also claimed to have
appeared in Shirley Temple's first six films. She was paid $10 a day. She also claimed to have attended high school with Alfalfa.
- On June 21st, Florida Today of Cocao, FL, published an article on Stanley Hess, who claimed to be an Our Gang kid. He lived near Leona Horey, who claimed to be Darla. Hess drove the
reporter to Horey's home, where she was also interviewed. She claimed to have been discovered by Tom Mix in New York, but couldn's remember specific films she appeared in.
- Laugh? I Thought I'd Die! (archival)
- 1999 - Reader's Digest - 112 min. - video compilation
- Includes footage from "Hearts Are Thumps."
2002
- 8th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards (archival)
- Mar. 10, 2002 - Margolis-SAG/TNT - 120 min. - TV special
- E! True Hollywood Story episode: Curse Of The Little Rascals (archival)
- Nov. 24, 2002 - E! Entertainment Television - 60 min. - TV documentary
2013
- On March 28th of this year, a Darla Hood CD called What A Little Rascal (Petey !1001) was released. It had a copyright year of 2012. It contained "No Secret Now,"
"Only Yours," "The Letter," "Someone To Love," "The Flower Of Love," "It Just Fits," "Red Dress," "The Long Silence,"
"Rainy Day In Rome," "Un Momento Mas," "Jody," "Silent Island," "My Quiet Village," "Sitting Bull's Last Stand," "Witches
Brew," "Anytime, Anywhere," "Hurt, Hurt, Hurt," "Valley Of Eternity," "Ah, Sweet Mystery Of Life," "I Pledge Allegiance," "I'm Gonna
Laugh Right In Your Face," "When You Wish Upon A Star" and "I've Got No Strings." Also included was a Bill Elliott track with Darla on backing vocals called
"Three Cheers For Anything." In addition to these, there were two bonus tracks, both by Richie Marsh with Darla on backing vocals, called "Baby, Baby, Baby" and "Half
Angel." This is the only reference I've seen to the two songs from "Pinocchio" or the Bill Elliott track.
2014
- On March 25th of this year, a feature film called "The Little Rascals Save The Day" was released. Darla was played by Eden Wood.
2018
- On March 22nd of this year, an album called Technicolor Paradise was released on CD, triple LP, and as a digital download. Darla is included singing "Silent Island."
Darla Hood's payroll history
The following is a list of some of Darla's history at the Roach studio, with the amounts she was making from week to week. The dates given are Saturdays, the last day of each week at the
studio. The only exceptions would be Saturdays that were also holidays, in which case the Friday date is used for those weeks. However, my research on this matter ends with 1936, so there's
little more than a year's worth of data here.
- Sep. 14, 1935 - 50.00 charged to prod. G34 (Or Gang Follies Of 1936)
- Sep. 21, 1935 - 41.67 charged to prod. G34
This amount suggests that Darla made full salary through Thursday of this week, and the half-rate between productions on Friday and Saturday.
- Sep. 28, 1935 - 25.00 charged to prod. G34
- Oct. 5, 1935 - 25.00 charged to prod. G34
- Oct. 12, 1935 - 25.00 charged to prod. G34
- Oct. 19, 1935 - 75.00 charged to prod. F8 (The Bohemian Girl)
- Oct. 26, 1935 - 75.00 charged to prod. F8
- Nov. 2, 1935 - 75.00 charged to prod. F8
- Nov. 9, 1935 - 58.33 charged to prod. F8
- Nov. 16, 1935 - 125.00 charged to prod. F8
- Nov. 23, 1935 - 75.00 charged to prod. G35 (Divot Diggers)
- Nov. 30, 1935 - 75.00 charged to prod. F8
- Dec. 7, 1935 - 75.00 charged to prod. G35
- Dec. 14, 1935 - 75.00 charged to prod. G36 (The Pinch Singer)
- Dec. 21, 1935 - 75.00 - 37.50 charged to prod. G35, 37.50 charged to prod. G36
- Dec. 28, 1935 - 25.00 charged to prod. G36
The last time I researched the payroll ledgers, I was going through the 1936 ledger, which starts at the end of the year and works its way back. Unfortunately, time was up on
my last day before I got to the beginning weeks of the year, so for the time being, they are missing from this list. It was during this time that Second Childhood was
filmed.
- Feb. 15, 1936 - 75.00 charged to prod. G38 (Arbor Day)
- Feb. 22, 1936 - 75.00 charged to prod. G38
- Feb. 29, 1936 - 25.00 charged to prod. G38
- Mar. 7, 1936 - 25.00 charged to prod. G38
- Mar. 14, 1936 - 75.00 charged to prod. C39 (Neighborhood House)
- Mar. 21, 1936 - 25.00 charged to prod. G38
- Mar. 28, 1936 - 25.00 charged to prod. G39
This production number was in anticipation of the next film, but the numbering system was changed before it was made. G39 was eventually used as the production number of
"Our Gang Follies Of 1938," but this was a year and a half later.
- Apr. 4, 1936 - 75.00 charged to Gang Tour
- Apr. 11, 1936 - 75.00 charged to Gang Tour
- Apr. 18, 1936 - 75.00 charged to Gang Tour
- Apr. 25, 1936 - 75.00 charged to Gang Tour
- May 2, 1936 - 75.00 charged to Gang Tour
- May 9, 1936 - 75.00 charged to Gang Tour
- May 16, 1936 - 25.00 charged to Gang Tour
- May 23, 1936 - 25.00 charged to studio overhead
- May 30, 1936 - 25.00 charged to studio overhead
- June 6, 1936 - 25.00 charged to studio overhead
- June 13, 1936 - 25.00 charged to studio overhead
- June 20, 1936 - 25.00 charged to studio overhead
- June 27, 1936 - 25.00 charged to studio overhead
- July 4, 1936 - 25.00 charged to studio overhead
- July 11, 1936 - 25.00 charged to prod. K1 (Bored Of Education)
- July 18, 1936 - 75.00 charged to prod. K1
- July 25, 1936 - 25.00 charged to prod. F12 (General Spanky)
Darla made her between-films rate, since she wasn't included in the cast for this film. Subsequently, her salary was charged to the one-reelers until the feature was
finished.
- Aug. 1, 1936 - 25.00 charged to prod. K2 (Two Too Young)
- Aug. 8, 1936 - 25.00 charged to prod. K2
- Aug. 15, 1936 - 25.00 charged to prod. K2
- Aug. 22, 1936 - 25.00 charged to prod. K2
- Aug. 29, 1936 - 25.00 charged to prod. K2
- Sep. 5, 1936 - 25.00 charged to prod. K2
- Sep. 12, 1936 - 25.00 charged to prod. K2
- Sep. 19, 1936 - 25.00 charged to prod. K2
- Sep. 26, 1936 - 75.00 charged to prod. K2
- Oct. 3, 1936 - 75.00 charged to prod. K3 (Pay As You Exit)
- Oct. 10, 1936 - 75.00 charged to prod. K3
- Oct. 17, 1936 - 75.00 charged to prod. K3
- Oct. 24, 1936 - 75.00 charged to prod. K3
- Oct. 31, 1936 - 75.00 charged to prod. K3
- Nov. 7, 1936 - 75.00 charged to prod. K4 (Spooky Hooky)
A note written here indicates that Darla's salary would be increased to 100.00 on Dec. 11th.
- Nov. 14, 1936 - 75.00 charged to prod. K4
- Nov. 21, 1936 - 75.00 charged to prod. K4
- Nov. 28, 1936 - 75.00 charged to prod. K4
- Dec. 5, 1936 - 75.00 charged to prod. K4
- Dec. 12, 1936 - 33.33 charged to prod. K5 (Reunion In Rhythm)
The ledger indicates that Darla was paid for only two days at her new rate of 100.00
- Dec. 19, 1936 - 100.00 charged to prod. K5
As of the present time, I haven't had a chance to research the ledgers subsequent to 1936, so this list ends here.
See anything that needs changing? Contact me at BtheW@aol.com.