Back in Time Today
Explore a collection of rare photos that peel back the Hollywood glamour and reveal the real Shirley Temple. These 16 snapshots take us behind the scenes and into her world, offering glimpses of laughter, curiosity, and the everyday moments that defined her life. Each image unveils a different facet of Shirley’s personality, from her playful antics on set to serene moments spent in quiet reflection. As we journey through these candid captures, let us celebrate the child star who charmed the world and the genuine person behind those unforgettable curls.
1. At Home with Ching-Ching
In this charming photo, young Shirley Temple stands on the patio of her family’s new home, cradling her beloved dog Ching-Ching. The property, surrounded by a large stone wall and secured with an iron gate, offered the child star a peaceful escape from the Hollywood spotlight.
2. Farmyard Fun in Hollywood
In this delightful 1934 snapshot, six-year-old Shirley Temple is seen feeding one of her family’s pigs with a bottle at their Hollywood home. This candid photo is a rare look at the young star away from the cameras, embracing life on her family’s little farm.
3. Backyard Playtime
This cheerful photo captures five-year-old Shirley Temple enjoying a carefree moment in her backyard in 1933. Long before she became a global star, Shirley found joy in the simple pleasures of childhood—like this moment of backyard fun.
4. Making a Birthday Wish
In this delightful photo, a young Shirley Temple prepares to blow out the candles on her beautifully decorated birthday cake. Even as her star rose in Hollywood, moments like these reminded the world that she was still just a little girl at heart. This sweet snapshot offers a timeless glimpse into a cherished birthday memory.
5. Shirley Temple Smiles from the Car Window
Peeking out from the backseat of a classic car, Shirley Temple flashes her signature smile in this candid photo. The scene captures a joyful, spontaneous moment during the height of her fame.
6. Crowned and Studious
She may have been Hollywood’s biggest box office star, but Shirley Temple still had to keep up with her schoolwork. Pictured here in full royal regalia from a dream sequence, she proves that not even a crown could get her out of class—though few children ever got to wear one while doing their homework!
7. Shirley Temple Takes a Call
In this charming scene, young Shirley Temple chats on the phone from the comfort of her home. At the height of her fame, curious fans would often show up uninvited, prompting her family to relocate to a more secure and private residence. Moments like this, though seemingly ordinary, were increasingly rare as her stardom grew and privacy became harder to maintain.
8. Shirley Studies Between Scenes
On the set of Captain January (1936), Shirley Temple balances schoolwork with stardom, studying from a binder in her director’s chair. Even in costume and surrounded by a bustling film crew, education remained a priority for the young actress
9. Together With Her Scene-Stealing Co-Star
Behind the scenes of Poor Little Rich Girl (1936), Shirley Temple shares a joyful moment cuddling a monkey used in the film. Her radiant smile and gentle hug reveal the young star’s natural affection for animals—even when the cameras weren’t rolling.
10. Behind the Wheel
With a wide grin, young Shirley Temple poses in a stylish pedal car, enjoying a playful moment away from the film set. Her infectious smile and natural charm shine through, reminding us that even Hollywood’s biggest child star loved simple childhood joys.
11. Shirley Temple Preps Her Famous Curls
At home in 1937, Shirley Temple carefully tends to her signature ringlets in front of a mirror. This rare behind-the-scenes moment shows the young star’s early dedication to the iconic look that became a Hollywood trademark.
12. Shirley Takes Five on Set
Dressed in a polka-dot costume and oversized feathered hat, eight-year-old Shirley Temple flashes a cheerful smile while taking a break from filming. Surrounded by crew and cameras, she remains the picture of poise and charm even in the midst of a hectic production day.
13. Shuffleboard Break on the Set of Stowaway
In this behind-the-scenes moment from Stowaway (1936), Shirley Temple tries her hand at shuffleboard aboard the film’s ocean liner set. Standing nearby is her costar Richard Allan, watching as the young actress brings her trademark charm to even the quietest off-camera moments.
14. Shirley Temple Visits Sailors in Hawaii
During a special visit to Hawaii, Shirley Temple is seen walking hand in hand with a naval officer aboard a ship, charming the servicemen around her. Her presence brought smiles and lifted spirits, even far from the Hollywood spotlight.
15. Teen Shirley Temple at Home with Her Dog
In this warm and candid moment, a teenage Shirley Temple is pictured reading notes or letters while seated beside her loyal dog. The relaxed setting captures a more mature side of the former child star, offering a glimpse into her life beyond the spotlight.
16. With Her Children on the Ranch
In this serene family moment, Shirley Temple is pictured with her three children, enjoying time together at a countryside ranch. The photo captures a peaceful chapter in her life, far from Hollywood, where she embraced motherhood with the same grace that made her an icon.