Saleh, John 1972-06-28

John Saleh, a lifelong friend of Dan Blocker, discusses the late star of the television series "Bonanza," his life and career, his personality and beliefs.

General Interview Information

Interviewee Name: John Saleh

Additional Parties Recorded: None

Date: June 28, 1972

Location: Lamesa, Texas

Interviewer: Jeff Townsend

Length: 45 minutes

Abstract

Tape 1, Side 1: Early acquaintance with Dan Blocker in elementary school, Dan’s size as a factor in sports and relationships with schoolmates, Stories of fights distorted, Recalls wrestling match at military school, Dan’s education, Intellectual capacity and attitude toward school, Reasons for attending the military school, Description of Texas Military Institute, Pastimes while attending TMI, Participation in school activities, Liberal thinking explained, Summer jobs held by Dan, Describes Dan’s love of humor and practical jokes, Acting ability apparent, Liberal thinking and political beliefs discussed, Dan’s college education, Reasons for transfer from Hardin-Simmons to Sul Ross University, Explains change in major from P. E. to English, Developed interest in drama at Sul Ross, Brief boxing career, Acting career discussed, First parts, Size an advantage, Attitude toward his career as a way of making a living, Explanation of "Bonanza"’s popularity, Father image of Lorne Greene, Subjects common to the viewers, Describes personal appearances and reasons for them.

Tape 1, Side 2: Personal appearances (continued), Appearance at O’Donnell rodeo, Saturday Evening Post article mentioned, Loss of privacy decried by Blocker, Role of Hoss Cartwright examined, Character was basically Dan Blocker, Attendance at Texas Military Institute (again), Dan’s service in the Korean War, Opinions of war recalled, Letters to O’Donnell newspaper, Discusses Dan’s wish to be cremated, Religious beliefs explained.

Range Dates: 1929-1972

Bulk Dates: 1929-1972

Access Information

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Transcript:

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