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Mary Martin was Broadway's biggest closet king. Everyone…

“Mary Martin was Broadway's biggest closet king. Everyone thought Ethel (Merman) was butch and maybe a lesbian, but she wasn't. And everyone thought that lovely little Mary was Miss Femme, and she was -- except next to her gay husband. In other words, don't judge a star by her cover.” quote by Bob Fosse
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“Mary Martin was Broadway's biggest closet king. Everyone thought Ethel (Merman) was butch and maybe a lesbian, but she wasn't. And everyone thought that lovely little Mary was Miss Femme, and she was -- except next to her gay husband. In other words, don't judge a star by her cover.”

Bob Fosse

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Appearances can be misleading; true identity often differs from public perception.

In simple terms: Don't judge based on looks.

Key Takeaway

Look deeper than surface.

Themes

identity perception stereotypes

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

analytical observational

When to use this quote

  • celebrity gossip
  • personal relationships
  • media coverage

Key Concepts

gender roles public image authenticity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you verify someone's true character?
  • What biases affect your first impressions?
A Different Perspective

Surface judgments ignore complexity.

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