With Love, Doris!: A New Documentary Unveils the Private Side of Hollywood Icon Doris Day
A powerful new documentary titled With Love, Doris! is set to reveal a rarely seen side of legendary Hollywood star Doris Day. Directed by C.J. Wallis and produced by Jim Dunlap, the film draws on never-before-heard audio tapes of Day personally responding to fan letters—capturing her warmth, humility, and wit like never before.
Unheard Recordings and Heartfelt Connections
The audio tapes form the heart of this documentary, showcasing Doris Day’s voice as she lovingly dictated replies to fans via her assistant, Judy Ruby. These tapes, recorded before being transcribed and mailed as letters, offer an unparalleled look into the star’s authentic self. After Day’s passing in 2019, Ruby shared the recordings with producer Jim Dunlap, who was himself a lifelong fan.
“What an honor to be the keeper of this precious piece of Hollywood history,” Dunlap commented. “This film lets Doris speak directly to her fans in her own voice.”
More Than Just a Star
Born Doris Mary Kappelhoff in 1922, Day’s career began as a singer before she transitioned to become one of the biggest box-office draws in cinema history. Her iconic filmography includes classics like The Man Who Knew Too Much (1956), Calamity Jane (1953), Pillow Talk (1959), and That Touch of Mink (1962).
Despite her sunny public image, Day’s personal life was filled with challenges. A serious leg injury ended her dance ambitions, and several turbulent marriages left her navigating personal and financial struggles. After the death of her husband Martin Melcher in 1968, Day discovered he had left her in financial ruin and even committed her to a TV show without her consent. Nevertheless, The Doris Day Show (1968–1973) became a major success.
A Timeless Voice Revisited
Director C.J. Wallis—known for Stu’s Show and Perfect Bid—described his enthusiasm for the project:
“There’s just nobody like her anymore… I’ve been ending each day with a Doris movie to get a little of that magic back.”
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The film will feature interviews with people close to Day, including George Schlatter, Nick Clooney, and Ed Begley Jr.. The filmmakers are expected to wrap production by Labor Day.
Legacy of Compassion and Privacy
In her later years, Day chose to leave the Hollywood spotlight and focus on animal welfare, living quietly in Carmel, California. This retreat from fame makes these intimate recordings all the more valuable.
“With Love, Doris! is being crafted in collaboration with those closest to Day and presents a side of her the public has rarely glimpsed — one that’s candid, reflective, and endearingly funny,” the producers note.
This project doesn’t just revisit the career of a screen icon—it paints a fuller, richer picture of the woman behind the legend. For audiences who appreciate the emotional depth and nostalgic value of foreign classics and timeless stories, this documentary evokes the heartfelt spirit often seen in iconic foreign drama series.
