Following research, it was found that almost 200 stars, including two thirds of the Top 50 box office actors from the late 1930s and 1940s, took the Big Tobacco shilling, praising brands for their taste, smoothness and ability to provide relaxation. John Wayne, who died of lung cancer eventually, told the public that cigarettes helped his voice. The promotion of smoking by Film/TV stars didn't stop in the 1950s either.
This is a list of Movie Stars who helped promote smoking.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NAExoSozc2c