I was looking forward to rehearsals at the famous “Latin Quarter.” I soon realized, however, that I needed to supplement my income to afford an apartment in NYC in 1961.
I had a book with the names of every modeling agency and was checking them off when they announced, “If you do not have experience, you are in the wrong place.” Still I remained confident I would find a modeling agency willing to take a chance on me.
I was the first to walk through the door the following morning and was greeted with a friendly “Good Morning.” I knew this agency was different. I introduced myself to the receptionist.
I explained I had just moved to NYC. She said, “We are looking for an unknown model.”
She called the boss from his private office. After a brief interview, I was hired for a publicity stunt the following day.
He said, “You must be on time at this intersection.” He handed me the address. “A gentleman will explain how to drive the German Amphicar.
“Afterward, you will drive it into the Central Park Lake. Several people will be calling the police department. Stay in the lake as long as possible. Can you do that?”
I asked, “I have only one question, will I be arrested?” He smiled and replied, “No, you will get a ticket which we will pay. I am depending on you, Marlene. It is just the beginning of your new career. We will be watching you on television tomorrow.”
The next day I arrived on time and met the gentleman waiting for me with the vehicle. After his instructions, I proceeded to the Central Park Lake.
I started driving and saw him running after me, waving his arms. I stopped the car. He shouted, “I forgot to tell you to turn the handles on each door down before driving in the Lake. It will seal the car to keep the water out and engage the motor in the rear boat propellers. I wondered if he forgot anything else?
The police, fire trucks, rescue crews, and television personnel arrived quickly. Driving into the lake was easy. Driving out of the lake and up a muddy bank was more difficult.
I unwittingly showered a patrolman with mud. For my efforts, I received two tickets. But my picture was in the “ New York Herald Tribune” the next morning.
When I saw the paper, I said to myself, “New York, Marlene has arrived. You will never be the same.”
