Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz wartime letters expose jealousy and trust issues in I Love Lucy stars marriage
Never-before-seen letters between “I Love Lucy” stars Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz are giving fans a deeper glimpse into the iconic couple’s love story.Ball and Arnaz were married for 20 years, but their storybook romance began with deep emotion, insecurity and enduring affection, as shown in the new book, “Lucy & Desi: The Love Letters.”The book of letters, released Nov.4, features notes mostly written during World War II – shortly after they got married.
Several earlier notes show their story went much deeper than Hollywood glamour.Ball and Arnaz notoriously struggled in their marriage, with the actor having multiple affairs.
The two often split up, just to get back together.They eventually ended their relationship for good in 1960.The intimate writings between Ball and Arnaz reveal a tale of jealousy, faith and forgiveness that shaped America’s favorite TV couple.In one of her earliest letters, Ball begged Arnaz not to give in to temptation while touring with his band.“Desi Arnaz – you never answer anything in my letters! Do you throw them away and forget what I write about? I’m trying to get this wire off to you – and I’ll be all sad myself tonite if I haven’t had a wire in answer,” Ball wrote in a handwritten letter.She added, “Please don’t jeopardize the next few months with these awful dames I dislike so – Please don’t prefer them instead of me – really darling it won’t be worth it – Are you taking care of yourself? Are you getting any rest? Wish I could really have a chance to try to make you happy – without counting every hour with you – like two condemned criminals.”Ball also asked Arnaz to be more open about his day-to-day life.“No – I can’t say goodbye yet – have a few more minutes I think – tell me darling – can’t you be just a little more explicit in your letters – your next one – and tell me really what you do think about me – while you’re bouncing around New York.
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