Ida Koverman

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Ida Koverman, born Ida Brockway on May 15, 1876, in Cincinnati, was an American film executive who helped run MGM. She served as Louis B. Mayer’s executive secretary from 1929 to 1951 and then as MGM’s director of public relations from 1951 to 1954. She died on November 24, 1954, in Los Angeles.

Early life and family
As a teenager, Ida worked in a jewelry store, went to business school, and became a stenographer with the U.S. Customs Service. In 1910 she married Oscar H. Koverman after a sensational scandal; the couple later divorced in 1923.

Politics and Hoover era
After moving to California, Ida worked with the Los Angeles County Central Committee of the California Republican Party. She helped build support for Herbert Hoover and was part of the network that brought Mayer into Republican circles.

MGM career
In 1929 Mayer hired her as his executive secretary. She quickly became a powerful figure at MGM, helping Mayer stay connected to politics and guiding studio decisions. Colleagues described her as one of the most influential people in the film industry. She helped discover and mentor many stars, including Clark Gable, Judy Garland, Elizabeth Taylor, and Lana Turner. It’s said MGM ran a school for young stars at her suggestion, with many famous actors attending.

Later years and legacy
In 1951 she became head of public relations at MGM, a role she held until her death in 1954 in Los Angeles. Ida Koverman’s influence extended into popular culture; she is portrayed in Judy Garland biopics Rainbow (1978) and Life with Judy Garland: Me and My Shadows (2001), as well as in other works.