Who were primarily affected by the practice of blacklisting in Hollywood?

The practice of blacklisting in Hollywood primarily affected a wide range of individuals within the film industry, which supports the reasoning behind the selection of that answer. In the late 1940s and through the 1950s, the Hollywood Blacklist targeted individuals based on their perceived political beliefs, particularly those associated with communism or leftist ideologies.

While directors and screenwriters were among the most visible targets of the blacklist, many others, including actors, technicians, and support staff also faced repercussions. This far-reaching impact meant that anyone working in the film industry could be affected, regardless of their specific role. The climate of fear and suspicion led to companies and studios refusing to hire those who were deemed "un-American," which created a chilling effect across all sectors of production.

The implications of blacklisting extended beyond just immediate job loss; it often resulted in long-term damage to careers, reputations, and livelihoods, as many individuals were not able to find work in the industry for years. This broad scope of impact underscores the extensive nature of blacklisting during this period, highlighting that it was not limited to any singular group within Hollywood.