 Judy Garland (I) (qv) was originally cast in the main supporting  role of Helen Lawson. The studio provided her with a pool table in  her dressing room at her request. Eventually she backed out of the  film and was replaced by Susan Hayward (I) (qv). Other actors  considered as replacements were Tammy Grimes (qv) and  Bette Davis (qv). Reportedly Garland and Ethel Merman (qv)  inspired the Lawson character.