Who was Shirley Temple targeted at in her day?

Question

Today, it seems her movies are mostly marketed to children. But I was wondering if in her prime, her movies were popular with both adults and kids, or mostly kids?

Answer 1

During a few years during the Great Depression, Shirley Temple was the biggest box office star- kids or adults. Her movies grossed more money than anyone else's- whether child star or adult. There never was anyone that age before that received such fame and adoration, and never has anyone (child star) since.

Answer 2

Actually, she just entertained. People back in the depression thought it was nice to see a talented young child singing and dancing and it made them happy.

It's targeted toward kids now because it's what our parents and their parents found acceptable.