September 13, 1943 - MGM releases Thousands Cheer with Donna Reed as a guest star.
You have to look carefully to find Donna Reed in this movie. The film is essentially a two-part program. The first half consists of a romantic comedy storyline involving an aerialist, played by Gene Kelly, who is drafted into the US Army but really wants to join the air force.
The secondary plot involves preparations for a major live show for the soldiers which will feature many MGM musical and comedy stars. It becomes a variety showcase of comedy, song, and dance, with all of the performers appearing as themselves.
Performing as "guest stars" in the film's show segment were: Donna Reed, Judy Garland, Lena Horne, Red Skelton, Ann Sothern, Lucille Ball, Frank Morgan, Virginia O'Brien, Eleanor Powell, Marilyn Maxwell, June Allyson, Gloria DeHaven, Margaret O'Brien, the Kay Kyser Orchestra and others.