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John Wayne never wanted to be an actor and preferred directing, unpublished memoir reveals – My Blog

He became one of Hollywood’s biggest stars, but John Wayne once saw acting as just ‘a brief detour’. His real dream was to become a film director.

Cinema’s most iconic cowboy could have spent his days behind the camera had he not inadvertently stepped in front of one on a John Ford set, allowing the  director to see his potential.
The disclosure is in a memoir he was working on that lay undiscovered among family papers. It said Wayne, who ԁıеԁ in 1979, was working at 20th Century Fox in the 1920s simply to pay the bills.
It added: ‘I had no thoughts of becoming an actor. Acting was a kind of apprenticeship toward becoming a director. It was also a source of petty cash …

‘I was ԁеаԁ-set on becoming a director.
Elsewhere, he adds: ‘If need be, I would take a brief detour into acting or whatever else was necessary to accomplish my goal.’
The memoir was found by Michael Goldman in researching his book, John Wayne: The Genuine Article, published this month. Even Wayne’s family did not know of its existence in their archives.
Its 72 typed pages paint a portrait of an ordinary man who became the Oscar-winning star of True Grit and The Searchers, a larger-than-life icon nicknamed the Duke.
Wayne was working on it shortly before his ԁеаtһ in 1979, having repeatedly rejected requests for an autobiography.
He wrote about the 1920s, when he headed for Twentieth Century Fox’s studio and found menial jobs in props and stunt-work, learning his techniques for horse-riding, roping, ɡսոѕ and fighting.
The Duke: A newly discovered memoir begun by Hollywood icon John Wayne before his death reveals the star never wanted to be an actor
The memory of being desperate for money never left him and in the memoir he writes: ‘The big Depression was still two years away, but my one personal depression was staring at me from the bottom of my empty soup bowl.
‘I needed a job.’
John Wayne as Ethan Edwards in The Searchers, 1956: The memoir was found by Michael Goldman while researching his book, John Wayne: The Genuine Article, published this month
He describes working as an extra – kicked off John Ford’s set for inadvertently stepping in front of a camera – and, like some star-struck teenager, was overwhelmed by the excitement of seeing his own movie heroes.
On encountering Tom Mix, a silent Western star, Wayne writes of trying ‘to figure out how to make the best impression possible on the greatest cowboy star in the world’.
He records Mix ignoring him on his attempt to ingratiate himself.
Mr Goldman notes the irony of Wayne idolising Mix: ‘The man who would become “the most iconic cinematic cowboy in history” was racking himself over how to make an impression on “the most iconic cinematic cowboy in history”.’
True grit: Wayne as Rooster Cogburn in the iconic 1969 Western. He had headed for Hollywood in the Twenties and found menial jobs in props and stunt-work, learning his techniques for horse-riding, roping, guns and fighting
The biographer says of Wayne’s ‘brief detour’ in front of the camera: ‘It was a detour that lasted until his ԁеаtһ.
‘Wayne would ultimately direct just four films, including The Alamo and The Green Berets, “passion projects” for him. But directing was not what he became known for.
‘Wayne does not elaborate in the manuscript on why he never made directing a priority in subsequent years.
‘It was John Ford who saw Wayne’s star potential. He kept him on his prop crew, began using him as an extra, gave him his first on-camera speaking role and went on to direct him in about a dozen films, including their masterpiece, Stagecoach.’
Wayne as John Elder in The Sons Of Katie Elder, 1965: Despite his original ambition, Wayne would ultimately direct just four films, including The Alamo and The Green Berets, "passion projects" for him says Mr Goldman
Wayne writes: ‘John Ford would teach me everything I know about filmmaking. The feeling I would come to have for scenes and just about anything else would come from standing behind him and watching him work.’
But another legendary director, John Huston, was not among his heroes and, in his memoir, he takes aim at him over his direction of Moby Dick: ‘I had, for a number of years, blamed Gregory Peck – an otherwise excellent actor – for his bad performance as Ahab in Moby Dick…
‘I had desperately wanted that part and was annoyed with Peck’s portrayal…’
Referring to his own unfortunate collaboration with Huston – The Barbarian and the Geisha – he continues: ‘Sitting on my horse waiting for the cameras to roll… [I] realized what kind of picture and performance this was going to be.
‘Probably worse than Peck’s as Ahab… I finally realized Peck didn’t have a chance. Nor, for that matter, did I.’
Goldman’s book – with a foreword by former US president Jimmy Carter and preface by Wayne’s son Ethan – draws on the memoir, along with unpublished letters and interviews with Wayne’s children and wife, Pilar.

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Farrah Fawcett: Remembering an Icon Who Defined a Generation

Farrah Fawcett, an undeniable icon of her generation, is remembered fondly by many for her most famous poster featuring her in a red bathing suit. Her battle with cancer was met with immense sorrow from people all over the world when she was first diagnosed and later passed away. Now, her former aide is sharing some insights into her final moments on Earth, offering a heartwarming glimpse into her last days.

In 2006, Farrah received the devastating news of an anal cancer diagnosis. However, there was one crucial reason that motivated her to fight against this illness with all her might – her beloved son, Redmond. Farrah’s determination to be there for her child throughout her battle with cancer was unwavering.

Even in the midst of her struggle, Farrah took part in the production of the documentary “Farrah’s Tale,” which provided a detailed account of her illness. She wanted to spread awareness and help others by sharing her journey.

According to Mike Pingel, her former aide, Farrah’s faith remained strong during these difficult times. He emphasizes how she fought tooth and nail because she cherished her son, Redmond, deeply. Farrah’s efforts were not just for herself but to inspire and support others, utilizing her iconic status for a greater purpose.

The Lasting Legacy of Charlie’s Angels

Recently, Mike Pingel has been reflecting on Farrah Fawcett’s career, as it marks the anniversary of the release of the iconic show “Charlie’s Angels” on March 21st, 1976. The show became one of the most-watched TV programs of the 1970s and played a significant role in catapulting Farrah, along with her co-stars Jaclyn Smith and Kate Jackson, to stardom.

Mike fondly remembers Farrah as an astute businesswoman, an amazing boss, and a down-to-earth Texan. She was not only the smartest person in the room but also the person everyone wanted to meet. Farrah’s impact was unparalleled, with fans from all walks of life desiring to cross paths with her.

A Creative Journey

While Farrah’s role in “Charlie’s Angels” played a pivotal part in her career, her artistic ambitions extended far beyond the hit TV show. She had a strong desire to work on projects that were both meaningful and enjoyable.

Farrah was selective about the roles she accepted, seeking projects that spoke to important issues while also indulging in fun and entertaining ventures. After leaving “Charlie’s Angels,” Farrah pursued various projects, including the 1984 movie “The Burning Bed,” for which she received an Emmy nomination. Her diverse body of work showcased her talent and commitment to her craft.

A Mother’s Love

Even though Farrah Fawcett’s marriage to actor Lee Majors ended in 1982, she found love again with actor Ryan O’Neal in 1985. Together, they had a son named Redmond. Mike Pingel, who witnessed their relationship, attests to the immense love Farrah had for her son. According to Mike, Farrah’s whole world revolved around Redmond.

Her face would light up whenever he was around, and the love she had for him was boundless. Even now, Mike believes that from above, Farrah continues to watch over Redmond with endless love and devotion.

Farewell

In her final moments at the St. John’s Health Center in Los Angeles, Farrah’s friend, Mela Murphy, shared that her thoughts were solely with her son. The last word Farrah uttered was “Redmond.” Mela promised to take care of him, telling Farrah that she could let go. Just a few hours later, Farrah Fawcett passed away.

Farrah Fawcett will forever be remembered as a cherished and beloved icon. Her beauty, talent, and the warmth she shared with her loved ones continue to resonate with us. Let us remember her incredible journey and share her story with other Farrah Fawcett admirers, so her memory lives on.

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The Secret Reason Bows on Women’s Underwear Have Everyone Talking

Have you ever seen the tiny bow on the front of women’s underwear and thought, “What’s that for?” You’re not the only one!

Though it looks like a cute design, the little bow on the waistband of your underwear has a surprising and interesting history that many people don’t know about!

No matter where you are in the world, you probably have a pair of women’s underwear with a cute bow stitched in the middle of the waistband. This common feature appears on many brands, but most people don’t really notice or think about it.

However, some internet users have started to question the mystery of this decorative loop found on women’s underwear. One curious person posted online, asking, “Why do so many panties have that little bow on the center front?”

The responses included a mix of interesting history and funny insights.

“Because they don’t have a fly? I read that the bow helps you feel the front from the back,” said one user.

Another user wrote, “It’s cute, it’s feminine, it represents innocence, and it makes it easy to tell which side is the front when you’re getting dressed quickly in the dark.”

This same user also shared some background on the design. “The tradition goes back to before elastic was used, when underwear was held up by a ribbon threaded through lace. The bow is where you tied that ribbon, and it’s in the front because that’s the easiest place to do it.”

Explaining “drawers,” another online user noted that underwear used to be “two separate legs tied together with string at the waist.” “You pulled the string to bring the legs together, which is why they were called drawers. They were tied in a bow, so that’s a nod to those times,” the person explained.

Some users were surprised by this explanation, with one commenting, “It makes it easier to dress in the dark,” and another saying, “This just blew my mind.”

A third user called the bow a “stupid” design but agreed that it’s “interesting to know why they were there,” while another mentioned, “I always take them off.”

Let’s explore some purposes of the humble bow that often goes unappreciated.

A nod to tradition: The bow on women’s underwear dates back many years to a time when elastic waistbands didn’t exist. Back when corsets and long skirts were common, underwear didn’t have the stretchy feel we know today. Instead, it was tied with a ribbon or string at the front to keep it in place. The bow helped hide the knot and made it look a little nicer.

Dressing in dim light: Before electricity, women often got dressed by candlelight or in the dark. The bow helped them quickly find the front of their underwear. It was a simple but useful marker when they were getting ready in low light.

Tradition stuck: Even though times have changed, the bow has remained and become more of a decorative detail. It adds a feminine and playful touch, and many people enjoy the classic, delicate look it gives to underwear.

So, while that little bow may seem like just a pretty decoration now, it actually has practical and traditional roots. Even today, it connects us to the past while keeping your underwear looking cute!

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Pacific Palisades WILDFIRE ALERT! Residents in these areas are ordered to LEAVE NOW

Winds of sixty miles per hour have been the driving force behind the Palisades Fire, which began on January 7, 2025 in Pacific Palisades and has since consumed over 1,260 acres without being contained.

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Home»News»Pacific Palisades WILDFIRE ALERT! Residents in these areas are ordered to LEAVE NOW.

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Pacific Palisades WILDFIRE ALERT! Residents in these areas are ordered to LEAVE NOW.
Smart GadgetsBy Smart Gadgets2025-01-09Updated:2025-01-091 Min Read

Winds of sixty miles per hour have been the driving force behind the Palisades Fire, which began on January 7, 2025 in Pacific Palisades and has since consumed over 1,260 acres without being contained.
Due to the fact that the fire poses a significant risk to the communities that are located in the surrounding area, Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency.

Additionally, evacuation warnings have been issued for 19 additional areas, in addition to mandatory evacuations that have been issued for 15 zones. For the convenience of residents who have been displaced, an evacuation center has been established at the Westwood Recreation Center.

There are a number of roads that are closed, including the Pacific Coast Highway. In an effort to bring the fire under control, firefighters from CAL FIRE and local departments are currently working. Steve Guttenberg, an actor, has joined the efforts to assist with evacuations and has urged residents to clear roads for emergency vehicles when they are needed.

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