Franchot and Joan After the Divorce

Joan and Franchot in the 1950s.
Source: http://joancrawfordaremarkabletalent.tumblr.com

Franchot and Joan were granted a divorce in April 1939. They had been married since October 1935 and attached to each other for two years before that. Although some researchers have noted rumors of extra-marital affairs and violent arguments (and that certainly wouldn't be a first for a Hollywood mega-couple), Joan and Franchot appeared to be able to overlook whatever ugliness occurred in their relationship. In fact, they were dining and dancing in the days leading up to their divorce. In the 1950s and 1960s, both Franchot and Joan commented on their affection and respect for each other.

After being spotted on the town several times with Franchot in early 1954, Joan was asked by Earl Wilson about a reconciliation. Joan responded, "We haven't discussed it, but I wish it could be so...I just adore this man!"

In 1964, Joan attended the opening of Franchot's off-Broadway play, "The Dirty Old Man". Franchot said that he and Joan had "dinner every once in a while and Joan is always stunning. She's very busy with her executive work for Pepsi-Cola and with pictures. She's good at anything she does."

In her autobiography published in the early 60s, Joan said, "I have the utmost trust in Franchot and regard for him. It took courage for us both to walk away, courage I didn't know I had. Somewhere I had once read, "Let your courage be as keen but at the same time as polished as your sword. We walked away. We retained a mutual respect."

Sources:
Wilson, Earl."Joan Crawford Would Try Anew with Franchot Tone." Milwaukee Sentinel. March 18, 1954. Page 21.
Crawford, Joan and Jane Kessner Ardmore. "Courage to Part From Love." The Miami News. August 17, 1962.  Page 5A.
Morehouse, Ward. "No More Toney Roles for Franchot Tone." The Toledo Blade. May 31, 1964. Page 2.