The only parental authority I had was the studio. When I was a star, there was always somebody with me, to guard me. I was not allowed to be photographed with a cigarette, a drink, a cup of coffee or even a glass of water because someone might think it was liquor. When I left the studio I was already married and had two children, but I felt as sad as a child leaving home for the first time.

If you see someone without a smile, give him yours.

I couldn`t dance, and, Lord knows, I couldn`t sing, but I got by somehow. Richard Rodgers was always keeping them from firing me.

[assessing her appeal as a performer] I have big teeth. I lisp. My eyes disappear when I smile. My voice is funny. I don`t sing like Judy Garland. I don`t dance like Cyd Charisse. But women identify with me. And while men desire Cyd Charisse, they`d take me home to meet Mom.

[on Joan Crawford] I tried to be a good listener. I decided that was what she wanted all along - not so much a friend as an audience.

MGM was my mother and father, mentor and guide, my all-powerful and benevolent crutch. When I left them, it was like walking into space.

In real life I`m a poor dressmaker and a terrible cook - anything in fact but the perfect wife.