© 2025 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

'Bettie Page': The Making of a Pin-Up Sensation

Director Mary Harron says of 1950s pin-up queen Bettie Page, "She's like Betty Crocker coming out with a tray of cookies, and yet she's posing with a whip. She's so wholesome and at the same time she's very sexual." Harron explores this dichotomy in her film about the icon, The Notorious Bettie Page.

Page, who grew up in a religious family in Tennessee, became a sensation via her photos in men's magazines such as Wink, Beauty Parade and Titter. But she also appeared for private clients in photographs and short films that featured her in S&M scenarios. Her sexually charged poses eventually led to her being targeted by a Senate pornography investigation.

Harron's film opens in theaters Friday.

Copyright 2022 Fresh Air. To see more, visit Fresh Air.

Local journalism matters—and it’s at risk.


WKAR brings you trusted news, without barriers—no paywalls, no corporate spin. But now, federal funding that helps make it all possible is on the chopping block. Your support is more important than ever. Stand up for independent journalism in mid-Michigan—make your gift today.