Let me tell you something fascinating about one of Hollywood's most iconic films. Patricia Ward Kelly, the widow of legendary dancer and actor Gene Kelly, has stepped forward to clear up some long-standing myths surrounding the classic musical Singin’ in the Rain. If you've ever wondered about the famous rain scene or what really went on behind the scenes, you're about to get the inside scoop.
Dispelling the Milk Myth
For years, a popular theory has floated around the internet claiming that the rain in the 1952 musical was actually a mix of water and milk. The idea was that the milk made the raindrops more visible against the dark set. Well, Patricia Ward Kelly is here to set the record straight. In a recent interview with Remind magazine, she debunked this widely circulated rumor once and for all.
“I don’t know why this milk story keeps popping up,” Patricia said with a chuckle. “But let me be crystal clear—there was no milk in the water for the iconic Singin’ in the Rain number. What made it look so magical was nothing more than phenomenal lighting and cinematography. The crew used backlighting techniques to make the rain stand out beautifully on screen.”
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The Truth Behind the Film's Legacy
Gene Kelly, who passed away in 1996 at the age of 83, was married to Patricia from 1990 until his death. Known for directing films like Hello, Dolly!, Gene often spoke about the challenges of filming the "Singin’ in the Rain" number. He once explained during an interview with American Film in 1979 just how tricky it was for the cinematographer, Hal Rossen, to capture the scene.
“Shooting that title number was pure torture for Hal,” Gene recalled. “He had to backlight all the rain while simultaneously putting frontlight on the performer. It was one of the toughest jobs I’ve ever seen because, let’s face it, rain is practically invisible without the right lighting tricks.”
A Visionary Behind the Camera
Patricia also took a moment to highlight her late husband's incredible contributions both in front of and behind the camera. She emphasized why Singin’ in the Rain continues to captivate audiences over 70 years after its release.
“There’s a reason why we’re still watching Singin’ in the Rain decades later,” Patricia explained. “Gene poured his heart and soul into developing that film. From designing the scenery to perfecting the camera angles, every detail mattered to him. He was a true visionary who understood the importance of creating timeless art.”
Patricia shared that Gene was also deeply involved in designing the costumes for the movie. He wanted to ensure that the outfits allowed for ease of movement, which was crucial for his dynamic dance routines.
“The costumes had to move with the performers,” Patricia explained. “For instance, skirts could change their cut mid-routine without the audience noticing. Even the three-piece suit Gene wore in the ‘Gotta Dance’ number was designed as a single piece, allowing him to extend his arms and legs freely without worrying about his shirt coming untucked.”
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A Romantic Heart
Beyond his professional achievements, Gene was also known for being a romantic at heart. Patricia opened up to Closer magazine in 2016 about their sweet traditions and the joy they found in sharing poetry together.
“Gene loved poetry, and we would quote lines back and forth,” Patricia fondly remembered. “It was enchanting, to say the least.”
“He was such a romantic,” she added with a smile. “And he had this playful side too. He’d leave little notes around the house for me on Valentine’s Day or my birthday, starting at midnight. It was like having a little kid around, but in the best possible way.”
