Merv Griffin leaves the studio to interview Richard Burton in 1974. I was frightened of Burton when I was a child. He just seemed so out of control. But the one that really terrified me was George C. Scott. Oh my god, that man! All that rage.

From Burton’s scary personal diary, which cataloged his demons and destruction, a passage from right around the time of the Merv interview:

“Tuesday 21st: Drank enormously and cheated when E wasn’t looking. Don’t remember much except falling a lot and suggesting divorce. Can’t control my hands, so cannot write any more. Very silly. Booze!

Wednesday 22nd: Having been so drunk yesterday, felt terrible in morning and was desperately ill. Went quietly at 9.30 to find a double brandy. Bar closed until 10. Asked for Fritz (manager). Reluctantly, he opened bar for me and suggested vodka as it wouldn’t be so smelly when E had morning kiss.

Drank it with very shaking hands. Have become a ‘falling-down’ [drunk]. My hand-writing indicative of the shakes. Painful knee, bottom, right elbow, back of head, right ear.

E an angel, and looked like one. How does she do it? Look so well, I mean, for she had a lot to drink, too.

Thursday 23rd: Two weeks married. Still faintly dizzy if I make any sudden movement. Had to have helping hand to walk first few steps in any direction. Very disappointed in myself, but periodically, no doubt, will fall into the trap.

Friday 24th: Made superb love to E in the afternoon. Gets better all the time, if that’s possible. Thought about death too much.

Monday 27th: Drank a lot. Don’t remember anything, if at all.

Tuesday 28th: Drank some more.

Wednesday 29th: Ditto. Must stop!”