Hollywood Steps Out – 1930s celebrity charicature cartoon

by | Jul 28, 2021 | Editorial

A colorful Hollywood logo featuring a red and blue cartoon design.

“Hollywood Steps Out” is the first old cartoon I’m featuring in this ephemera blog, and it perfectly embodies the unique charm and humor of 1930s Hollywood. Created by Warner Bros. Animation and directed by Tex Avery, the short cartoon was released on May 24, 1941, and it serves as a dazzling showcase of the entertainment world’s golden era, lampooning the glamour and eccentricities of legendary stars. A few weeks ago, I stumbled upon an intriguing discussion about 1930s Old Hollywood celebrity caricatures on Facebook, which inspired me to dig deeper into this iconic cartoon. The result was an enjoyable exploration of its clever parody, historical significance, and nostalgic appeal.

In an era shaped by the Great Depression and World War II, people turned to movies for escape, and the larger-than-life personas of actors and their extravagant lifestyles became a topic of fascination. “Hollywood Steps Out” capitalized on this curiosity by parodying America’s growing love affair with cinema, specifically satirizing the nightclubs and lavish gatherings frequented by stars of the silver screen. The setting for the cartoon is the famed Ciro’s nightclub on Sunset Boulevard, which was the epitome of Hollywood’s nightlife in the 1930s and 1940s.

The animated short is a brilliant blend of humor, artistry, and social commentary, unmatched in its ability to capture the zeitgeist of Old Hollywood. Below are screenshots I created from the remastered digital version of the film, highlighting some of the famous personalities who appear. Each caricature is not only visually playful but also packed with in-jokes about the stars’ personas and public images during that time.

A Roll Call of 1930s Celebrities

Warner Bros. ensured the cartoon was packed with star power—using caricatures of dozens of Hollywood legends. See if you can identify them all! The notable stars spoofed include:

  • Cary Grant, shown seated alongside Greta Garbo, who famously uttered “I want to be alone,” in a sly nod to her guarded persona.
  • Edward G. Robinson and Ann Sheridan, observed sharing banter, while the delicate rivalry between pomp and humor adds to the fun.
  • Johnny Weissmuller, donned in his Tarzan persona, alongside Paulette Goddard, both reflecting their celebrated screen roles of the era.
  • James Cagney, Humphrey Bogart, and George Raft—possibly the Mount Rushmore of gangster cinema—are grouped together in a scene rich in clever details and gestural humor.
  • The Marx Brothers are represented with Harpo Marx and Groucho Marx; their antics run wild as they interact with others, including Greta Garbo and Clark Gable.

The participation of many other stars such as Bing Crosby, Leopold Stokowski, Dorothy Lamour, and the ice-skating queen Sonja Henie rounds out the recognizable faces. A comical appearance by The Frankenstein Monster, juxtaposed with Hollywood’s most graceful dancers, is just one of many surreal and clever moments making this piece unforgettable.

Historical and Cultural Details

It’s important to understand the context behind this cartoon to fully appreciate its brilliance. During the early 20th century, caricature and satire were popular forms of entertainment, reflecting the public’s fascination and occasional frustration with the burgeoning movie industry. The 1930s and 1940s marked a time when stars were not just actors but symbols of aspiration during a challenging economic and political environment.

The setting of “Hollywood Steps Out,” Ciro’s nightclub, was not a random choice. Ciro’s was a hotspot for the Hollywood elite—actors, directors, and studio heads often gathered there. Situated on the Sunset Strip, the nightclub symbolized the opulence and almost mythical sophistication of Hollywood’s Golden Age. This location, with its luxurious atmosphere and exclusive guest list, made it the perfect backdrop for a cartoon satirizing the high-society lifestyles that fans adored and critiqued simultaneously.

The exaggerated portrayals of these stars served to poke fun at their mannerisms, well-documented press personas, and even some scandals. For instance, the inclusion of Boris Karloff (who played Frankenstein) was a nod to the explosion of horror films in the 1930s, while James Stewart (Mr. Smith Goes to Washington) played off his persona as an all-American everyman. Kay Kyser, the “Ol’ Professor” bandleader, symbolizes the rise of musical comedies, which were highly popular at the time.

Visual Splendor and References

The animation style is characteristic of Tex Avery’s sharp wit and zany pacing, with masterful attention to detail in the caricatures. Every movement, from Clark Gable’s flirtatious smirk to Judy Garland’s wide-eyed presence, is faithful yet artistically exaggerated. The animators clearly relished the opportunity to amplify quirks and deliver inside jokes targeted at audiences who were keenly aware of celebrity culture.

For instance, a caricature of Cesar Romero dancing with Rita Hayworth highlights the era’s obsession with romantic pairings and movie star allure. Similarly, the Three Stooges (Moe, Curly, and Larry) serve as visual punchlines, subverting the otherwise glamorous surroundings. The blend of humor was both affectionate and irreverent—a hallmark of Warner Bros. shorts.

Still Relevant Today

With its cultural significance and witty use of satire, “Hollywood Steps Out” remains an influential piece of animation history. It is a time capsule, offering viewers a glimpse into the glitz, glamor, and humorous perception of Hollywood’s elite during its golden age. The cartoon’s ability to blend escapism with a subtle critique of celebrity excess proved a hit with viewers then, and it still resonates now.

If you enjoy vintage animation or are fascinated by the interplay between caricature and cultural history, I recommend watching Hollywood Steps Out. Beyond laughs, it provides a poignant commentary on how fame shapes perception—a tale as old as Hollywood itself.

Let me know if you’ve identified other stars I may have missed!

A red title card displays "Blue Ribbon Merrie Melodies, A Warner Bros Cartoon in Technicolor" with musical notes, a partial trophy on the right, and hints of 1930s cartoon woman flair reminiscent of old Hollywood caricatures.
Neon sign reads: "De Luxe Dinner $50 and up. Easy Terms. 6 months to pay, small down payments." An inviting offer fit for a 1930s cartoon woman or 1920 celebrity straight out of old Hollywood caricatures.
Animated man in a tuxedo sits at a table in a formal restaurant, gesturing with his hand; other diners resemble old Hollywood caricatures, evoking the charm of a 1920 celebrity scene.
Animated man in a tuxedo sits at a table, while an animated 1930s cartoon woman in a black dress offers a box, standing beside him. "Vintage Reveries" watermark is visible.
Animated man in a tuxedo scowls while holding a cigar, sitting at a dinner table with a woman in a blue dress and headband—both looking displeased, reminiscent of old Hollywood caricatures from the Hollywood Steps Out cartoon.
Two animated old Hollywood caricatures in tuxedos sit at a table; one smiles and raises a glass, while the other, with an arrow sticking out of his head, looks unimpressed—show the drawings’ vintage charm.
Two reserved dining tables are set with name cards, cutlery, and glasses; one seat is red, the other an orange tufted banquette evoking old Hollywood caricatures.
A restaurant table with a "Reserved Blondie" sign, neatly set with plates and glassware, beside a table with an orange chair and old Hollywood caricatures of a 1930s cartoon woman showcased on the wall.
A red fire hydrant with a "Reserved Daisy" sign stands on a purple floor next to an empty chair, evoking the charm of old Hollywood caricatures, in front of a closed blue curtain.
A cartoon man in a tuxedo stands in front of a ticket booth where a 1930s cartoon woman with red hair, styled like old Hollywood caricatures, leans out in her black uniform to speak with him.
A muscular man in a leopard-print outfit holds a black dress at a counter, while a red-haired woman in a black dress stands behind the counter, evoking the glamour of 1930s celebrities in an Old Hollywood-inspired boutique setting.
Animated woman in a black dress and apron, styled like a 1920 celebrity, reacts with surprise while holding a white and blue fur garment in a vintage-style dressing room.
Three animated old Hollywood caricatures in tuxedos sit at a bar counter; one smokes a cigarette while another gestures with his hand. The background features patterned wallpaper, evoking the style of 1930s cartoon woman—show the drawings.
Three animated men in suits with exaggerated heads, resembling old Hollywood caricatures, are hunched over and walking in a line inside a vintage-style restaurant with pink chairs and patterned wallpaper.
A cartoon woman in a black dress holds a box as a cartoon man in a tuxedo and top hat crouches behind her, lighting firecrackers—classic old Hollywood caricatures reminiscent of the "Hollywood Steps Out" cartoon.
A person wearing black heels stands on a purple floor, with illustrated flames at the toes—evoking the bold flair of a 1930s cartoon woman from the Hollywood Steps Out cartoon.
Animated 1930s cartoon woman with exaggerated facial features, heavy makeup, and a black headband, shown in profile against a striped blue background—evoking the glamour of a 1920 celebrity or hollywood steps out cartoon.
An animated 1930s cartoon woman in a red dress holds a fan to her face while walking past a seated man at a dining table, evoking the glamour of old Hollywood caricatures in a formal setting.
Cartoon man in a tuxedo holding a pipe, standing in front of a blue curtain with a shadow behind him, reminiscent of the Hollywood Steps Out cartoon.
Animated scene featuring a jockey on a red horse next to a man in a tuxedo speaking into a microphone, with a curtain backdrop, reminiscent of old hollywood caricatures from classic 1920 celebrity cartoons.
Cartoon man in a black tuxedo stands on stage in front of blue curtains, holding a microphone and pointing to his right, evoking the charm of old Hollywood caricatures and 1930s celebrities.
Animated cartoon conductor with gray hair in a tuxedo dramatically leads an orchestra, with sheet music and instruments in the background, evoking the style of Hollywood Steps Out cartoon and classic 1930s cartoon women.
Cartoon man and woman, drawn as old Hollywood caricatures, sit at a restaurant table with empty plates and glasses, engaged in animated conversation.
An animated woman in a yellow dress with red heels, styled like a 1920 celebrity, walks toward a couple seated at a distant table in a restaurant with teal curtains and purple carpeting.
Animated man in a tuxedo walks stiffly toward a round, set dining table with empty chairs in a formal room with green curtains, as if about to show the drawings to a 1930s cartoon woman or mingle with 1930s celebrities.
A sign reading "Mr Smith Goes to Washington" is displayed on a table set with plates and glasses in front of a curtain backdrop, evoking the glamour of 1930s celebrities and classic Hollywood moments.
Cartoon scene of a woman in a red dress holding a fan and a man in a tuxedo, styled as old Hollywood caricatures, walking through a restaurant with red upholstered walls and white tablecloths.
Cartoon man in a tuxedo and 1930s cartoon woman in a dress smiling and dancing together in a formal restaurant, with other guests seated in the background.
Animated man in a tuxedo and woman in an ice skating outfit dance together in a restaurant, with red chairs and tables in the background, reminiscent of old Hollywood caricatures from the "Hollywood Steps Out" cartoon.
A cartoon Frankenstein’s monster walks through a restaurant with red chairs and white tablecloths, while old Hollywood caricatures and a 1930s cartoon woman are seated in the background.
Three animated men in tuxedos stand together in a formal setting, two frowning and one gesturing with his hand, reminiscent of old Hollywood caricatures.
A large man in a suit and hat dances with two 1930s cartoon women in matching orange dresses in an elegant restaurant with red chairs and set tables.
An animated man in a suit and a 1930s cartoon woman in a green dress dance together, channeling old Hollywood caricatures in a formal setting with a table and curtains in the background.
Animated couple dancing closely in a restaurant with red chairs and white tablecloths; other diners, including an elegant 1930s cartoon woman, are seated in the background.
Cartoon man and woman, styled as old Hollywood caricatures, sit at a table as a waiter serves food; the man looks surprised while the woman appears unimpressed.
Two animated men in tuxedos sit at a table; one leans in, touching the other’s chin, while the other remains stoic—reminiscent of old Hollywood caricatures seen in classics like the "Hollywood Steps Out" cartoon.
Two animated waiters clean dishes in a kitchen, surrounded by large, unstable stacks of plates and flying dishes—reminiscent of the zany chaos in the "Hollywood Steps Out" cartoon.
A blonde woman in a long red dress stands holding a fan near her face, while a man in a tuxedo approaches her, capturing the charm of old Hollywood caricatures in a room with pink and teal decor and a large painting on the wall.
Animated man in a suit walks away from a wall with coats and hats hanging; interior has pink carpet, teal patterned wallpaper, and old Hollywood caricatures that show the drawings of a 1930s cartoon woman.
An animated jockey sits on a horse next to a man in a tuxedo, reminiscent of a 1920 celebrity, both standing in front of a curtain as if stepping out of the "Hollywood Steps Out" cartoon.
Animated woman standing on stage holding a large white ball that covers most of her body; dark blue curtain in the background, reminiscent of old Hollywood caricatures.
Animated waiter in a tuxedo, reminiscent of a 1930s celebrity, points dramatically to the right in a restaurant setting with empty tables and red chairs.
Animated scene of five men in tuxedos laughing loudly in a dressing room with bottles in the background, evoking old Hollywood caricatures. The image features a "Vintage Reveries" watermark.
Animated man in a tuxedo rests his head on his hand, looking dreamy at a dinner table beside a 1930s cartoon woman, evoking the charm of old Hollywood caricatures in an elegant restaurant setting.
Animated man in a black tuxedo sits at a dining table, smiling with eyes closed; a cocktail glass is on the table, and vertical green curtains evoke the style of 1930s celebrities from the Hollywood Steps Out cartoon.
Animated character in a tuxedo sits at a table with a plate, wearing a badge labeled "Chief G." The formal setting, with draped curtains in the background, evokes the elegance of 1930s celebrities.
Two men sit at a dining table looking bored, while a third man in a tuxedo, holding a cigar, stands nearby with a stern expression—evoking old Hollywood caricatures. A curtain forms the background; show the drawings for added effect.
A cartoon man in a tuxedo with a large mustache is seated at a table, holding binoculars and looking surprised, as if he’s just spotted 1930s celebrities or a glamorous 1930s cartoon woman across the room.
Animated man in a tuxedo looks through binoculars at a formally set dining table; beside him, the ghostly outline of a 1930s cartoon woman and floating binoculars appear at an empty seat, evoking classic scenes that show the drawings of 1930s celebrities.
Animated 1930s cartoon woman stands on stage wearing a barrel held up by blue straps, smiling with hands raised; dark curtain background—ready to show the drawings.
A woman in a red dress holds a fan on an elegant balcony at night, echoing the style of old Hollywood caricatures, while people gather at tables inside a stylish, vintage-themed room.
Animated man in a tuxedo smiles and puts his hand on the shoulder of a 1930s cartoon woman in a red dress holding a fan, set against a nighttime backdrop.
A cartoon man in a tuxedo chats with a 1930s cartoon woman disguised as Groucho Marx—with glasses, a fake mustache, and a cigar—on a balcony at night, evoking the playful spirit of Hollywood Steps Out cartoon and 1930s celebrities.
Text "That's all Folk" in white script on a red circle with blue concentric rings, referencing a classic cartoon ending screen and evoking the charm of old Hollywood caricatures.

 

Further Reading:

A woman in a WAC uniform reading a newspaper during WWII.

Get 10% Off Your First Vintage Find

Subscribe to receive a 10% off welcome coupon by email, plus early access to new vintage drops, behind-the-scenes sourcing notes, and scans of the old photos, programs, and paper ephemera I uncover and digitize.

Almost there! Please check your email inbox right now and click the link in our confirmation message to complete your subscription. (If you don't see it, check your spam folder!)

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This

Like this? Share This!

Share this post with your friends!

×