John Payne’s Love for 'Miracle on 34th Street' Led Him to Write an Unfinished Sequel
Maureen O'Hara reveals John Payne’s dream to continue Miracle on 34th Street.
In the classic holiday film Miracle on 34th Street, actor John Payne, who portrayed Fred Gailey, loved the movie so much that he was inspired to write a sequel many years later. According to Maureen O'Hara’s autobiography, the two actors often discussed the idea of continuing the story long after filming ended. Payne was so passionate about the film that he even penned a screenplay for a sequel, dreaming of expanding the beloved story.
O'Hara recalled:
“We talked about it for years, and he eventually even wrote a screenplay sequel.”
Unfortunately, Payne tragically passed away before he could send the script to anyone or see his vision come to life. O'Hara expressed her curiosity and sadness over what might have been:
“I never saw it and have often wondered what happened to it.”
This behind-the-scenes detail reveals how much actors can become emotionally invested in their roles and how creative ideas can linger long after filming wraps — leaving fans and co-stars alike pondering what might have been.
