Barbara 'Red' Powers

Born February 27, 1921 in the Bronx, Barbara "Red" Powers was a vivacious and stunningly beautiful redhead. Her family moved to Venice, California when she was about nine years of age. While doing some modeling she was hired as cigarette girl at Hollywood's famous Mocambo, where she became well known to the movie colony. In 1943 she was a performer in "Let Freedom Swing," a revue (10/25/43) at Earl Carroll's world-famous night club. When the opportunity arose, she was made official photographer at the night club. Powers' name was frequently printed in the newspapers and spoken on radio. Through her club experience Powers personified Hollywood nightlife of the 1940s. Hollywood's most famous stars and international socialites considered her a pal, and often sent her letters and gifts. As Hollywood's best known hat check and cigarette girl, it was only natural that she was cast in MGM's "Weekend At The Waldorf," offering a pack of cigarettes to Van Johnson. She was paid $110. For a time she was a member of Screen Actors Guild, and reportedly appeared in other films. Powers eventually went back to school and got her teaching credential. She taught second and third grade until she retired. She died is Los Angeles March 28, 2014.