Loretta Johnson

Loretta Young portrayed June Cameron, a prominent feminist author, in the 1940 American screwball comedy film, 'The Doctor Takes a Wife.' The movie, directed by Alexander Hall and produced by Columbia Pictures, also featured Ray Milland as Dr. Timothy Sterling, a misogynistic medical instructor.

The plot centers on a misunderstanding that leads the press to believe Cameron and Sterling are married, despite their initial animosity. Cameron's publisher and fiancé pressure her into a pro-marriage book and a staged marriage to protect her career. Sterling, initially reluctant, agrees when he learns his promotion to professor is contingent on being married. The situation becomes complicated when Sterling's actual fiancée, Marilyn, returns, leading to attempts to juggle two fiancées and the development of genuine feelings between Sterling and Cameron.

The film 'The Doctor Takes a Wife' follows June Cameron, a celebrated feminist author, and Dr. Timothy Sterling, a cynical medical instructor with a slight aversion to women. After an encounter at a remote hotel, a mix-up results in public announcement of their supposed marriage. Both parties wish to deny the union, but Cameron's publisher and fiancé insist she play along to salvage her public image, suggesting she write a pro-marriage book and later seek a divorce. Sterling is persuaded to participate when he discovers his college promotion is tied to his marital status. He conceals the personal benefits of the arrangement, presenting it as a sacrifice for Cameron.

The fabricated marriage quickly leads to humorous predicaments. Sterling finds himself in a difficult position when his long-term fiancée, Marilyn, reappears. He attempts to maintain the illusion of a marriage of convenience with Cameron while managing his real relationship, all while developing genuine affection for Cameron. The film uses these farcical situations and sharp dialogue, as noted by critics, to create a comedic pace, with particular attention drawn to the challenge of maintaining separate lives in close proximity.

Directed by Alexander Hall, 'The Doctor Takes a Wife' was released in 1940 by Columbia Pictures. Loretta Young, who had recently gone freelance after leaving 20th Century Fox, starred as the author June Cameron. This marked her return to Columbia Pictures after her 1933 film 'Man's Castle.' Ray Milland co-starred as Dr. Timothy Sterling. The supporting cast included Reginald Gardiner as John R. Pierce, Gail Patrick as Marilyn Thomas, and Edmund Gwenn as Dr. Lionel Sterling.