Hired Wife 1940
"The SEX-PLOSION of the Season"
In *Hired Wife (1940)*, William A. Seiter directs a sparkling screwball comedy that blends wit with unexpected heart.
Director: William A. Seiter
Cast
Rosalind Russell
Kendal Browning
Brian Aherne
Stephen Dexter
Virginia Bruce
Phyllis Walden
Robert Benchley
Roger Van Horn
John Carroll
Jose de Briganza
Hobart Cavanaugh
William
Richard Lane
McNab
William B. Davidson
Mumford (as William Davidson)
Brooks Benedict
Phyllis's Friend (uncredited)
Virginia Brissac
Miss Collins (uncredited)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hired Wife (1940) about?
*Hired Wife (1940)* follows Stephen Dexter, a savvy ad man who proposes to his secretary, Kendall, to secure his finances in a critical business deal. After the scheme succeeds, he expects a quick divorce—but Kendall has other plans, upending his expectations and forcing him to confront his true feelings.
Who directed Hired Wife?
*Hired Wife* was directed by William A. Seiter, a master of lighthearted comedies known for his sharp direction and knack for balancing humor with heart.
Who stars in Hired Wife?
The film stars Rosalind Russell as the quick-witted Kendall, Brian Aherne as the charming Stephen Dexter, alongside Virginia Bruce, Robert Benchley, and John Carroll in pivotal roles.
Is Hired Wife (1940) worth watching?
With its classic screwball comedy charm and stellar cast, *Hired Wife (1940)* is a delightful watch for fans of old Hollywood romance and wit. While it may not be widely rated, its timeless themes and engaging performances make it a standout in the genre.
How long is Hired Wife?
The runtime of *Hired Wife (1940)* is 95 minutes.
About Hired Wife (1940) — A Classic Comedy of Marriage, Deception, and Unexpected Love
In *Hired Wife (1940)*, William A. Seiter directs a sparkling screwball comedy that blends wit with unexpected heart. Rosalind Russell shines as Kendall, a sharp-witted secretary who finds herself unexpectedly swept into a high-stakes marriage of convenience with her charming boss, played by Brian Aherne. What begins as a calculated business arrangement—a quickie marriage to protect his finances—suddenly spirals into uncharted emotional territory when Kendall refuses to step aside once the deal is done. The film crackles with the fast-paced repartee and romantic tension that define classic 1940s comedies, while exploring themes of independence, ambition, and the blurred lines between business and pleasure.
This clever romantic comedy balances humor with a touch of drama, all wrapped in the glossy sheen of Golden Age Hollywood. With its snappy dialogue and delightful performances, *Hired Wife (1940)* offers a timeless look at love and deception, where the best-laid plans often go delightfully awry.
