Anything I learned about the fine art of acting I learned from Hugo.

She then signed a two-year deal with RKO Radio Pictures (1950–52) before signing a longer contract with Columbia Pictures in 1952. In order to compete with Monroe Moore had to bleach her hair platinum blonde. Moore began starring in films in 1952.

During her time at Columbia Moore starred in One Girl's Confession (1953) The Other Woman (1954) and Women's Prison (1955). Despite the fact Cleo Moore never obtained true film stardom Moore has become a cult fan favorite with several of her films being considered cult classics.