Curtis, Ken 1969-08-00
Ken Curtis reviews important steps in his career along with references to many show business personalities. He discusses facts and feelings about the "Gunsmoke" television series, in which he played Festus Haggen.
General Interview Information
Interviewee Name: Ken "Festus" Curtis
Additional Parties Recorded:
Date: August, 1969
Location: Lovington, New Mexico
Interviewer: Charles Townsend
Length: 40 minutes
Abstract
Tape 1, Side 1:
Starred in "Rhythm on the Range"--post World War II movie,
Recalls members of Bob Wills band,
Working with Tommy Dorsey in 1941,
Improvisation of the chorus,
Anecdote about Dorsey's temper,
Gene Autry's production company recalled,
Curtis' release from Columbia Studios explained,
Member of Sons of the Pioneers, 1947-52,
Individuals in the group discussed,
Gunsmoke television rating cited,
Lists factors of success,
Example given of "literary license" with the script,
Musical styles noted,
"Ripcord" series mentioned,
Director chooses Curtis for "Festus",
Examines "Festus" dialect of character
Tape 1, Side 2:
Disappearance of Gunsmoke stock character: the town drunk,
Bob Wills contributions to western music named,
Defense of "violence" in western series
Range Dates: 1941-1969
Bulk Dates: 1941-1952
Access Information
Original Recording Format:
Recording Format Notes:
Transcript:
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