Hattie McDaniel: Playing a Maid
on Thursday, June 10, 2021Hattie McDaniel Money Quote discusses her role as a maid named ‘Mammy’ in ‘Gone with the Wind’ as the first black Oscar winner. Hattie McDaniel said:
“Why should I complain about making $700 a week playing a maid? If I didn’t, I’d be making $7 a week being one” — Hattie McDaniel
Share the Hattie McDaniel Money quote image above on your site:
Short Link to this Quote:
In this quote, actress Hattie McDaniel is responding practically to criticism of her iconic role as Mammy in “Gone with the Wind.” While playing a maid perpetuated stereotypes, she acknowledges the role afforded her far greater financial success and opportunities than what would have otherwise been available to Black actresses at the time.
McDaniel seems to suggest that despite the limitations of the part, she made a rational career choice by capitalizing on a rare chance to earn substantially more and elevate her standing within an unjust system.
Overall, the quote conveys McDaniel’s acceptance of limited options and prioritizing practical gains, while also perhaps subtly hinting at the need for expanded representations of Black lives in Hollywood.
Birthday: June 10, 1893 – Death: October 26, 1952