Russell set up a production company (Russ - Field Gabco)with husband Bob Waterfield and Clark Gable to produce Last Man in Wagon Mound. Later retitled, she decided against taking on the role of Sabina McDade in the finished film.

Jane Russell turned down the dramatic role of '20s torch singer Ruth Etting because she wanted instead to land the lead role in another biomovie, "I'll Cry Tomorrow," based on the life of Lillian Roth. She lost on both big movies.