Donna screen-tested with Van

Van Heflen

Emmett Evan "Van" Heflin Jr. (December 13, 1908 – July 23, 1971).

Van Heflin Jr. was an American actor known for his work in theatre, radio, and film. Throughout his career, he primarily played character roles, but during the 1940s, he enjoyed a series of leading man roles. Heflin won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in "Johnny Eager" (1942).

Donna Reed screen-tested with Heflin when she first signed with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. She later appeared alongside him in "Green Dolphin Street" (1947), which also featured Lana Turner.