Sue, I agree wholeheartedly Roddy should have recieved a lifetime achievement. He should have been given one years ago. Every time I see someone being given on who has not done one-tenth the accomplishments Roddy has it burns me up. How do we go about putting pressure on the Academy to honor him? Is here an E-mail address or a web-site for them? Just say the word and I will be happy to do my part.
Benita
=====================================================
Subject: Welcome to Janice Saari
I would like to join a mailing list for Roddy McDowall. I would like any and all updates possible on him. I am so very sad at his present situation. I don't know what this mailing list is like, or what type of information it has, but I am interested, nonetheless. Thank you.
Cheers!
Janice
=====================================================
Subject: Re: AMPAS President Selects Chairs of Standing Committees
BENITA wrote:
> Sue, I agree wholeheartedly Roddy should have recieved a lifetime
> achievement. He should have been given one years ago. Every time
> I see someone being given on who has not done one-tenth the
> accomplishments Roddy has it burns me up. How do we go about
> putting pressure on the Academy to honor him? Is here an E- mail
> address or a web-site for them? Just say the word and I will be
> happy to do my part.
>
Don't know about putting pressure on the Academy, but their website is at http://www.oscars.org
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Reports from USA Today and tabloids
http://www.usatoday.com/life/columns/ljean.htm
USA TODAY
News & Views by Jeannie Williams
October 1, 1998
Roddy McDowall has been called and visited by many friends since his brain cancer was made known, reports Daily Variety's Army Archerd. Elizabeth Taylor, his Lassie Come Home (1943) co-star, dined at his home; other visitors include Dominick Dunne, Lauren Bacall, Tuesday Weld, Kate Burton, Anne Douglas, wife of Kirk, and Edie Wasserman, wife of Lew. Callers have included Michael Douglas. Taylor rep Maria Pignataro told me, "She's seen him but doesn't want to comment on what he's going through."
The popular McDowall, 70, while using a wheelchair, retains his lively interest in the world. He's a true repository of Hollywood lore. Messages may be sent to him care of Innovative Artists, 1999 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 2850, Los Angeles, Calif. 90066.
_________________________________________________________
The October 6, 1998 issue of STAR states that it "has learned that Roddy had been trying to keep the illness a secret, but when he began to take a turn for the worse in July he finally had to break the news to close friends".
GLOBE in its October 6 issue said essentially the same thing -- that Roddy broke the news to Elizabeth Taylor in July.
--Mel
p.s. If you're going to buy these tabloids, something I'd guess none of us normally do, I'd recommend GLOBE, if only for the nice photo of Roddy on page 25.
=====================================================
Subject: another bit of info
Hi all,
found this post in alt.gossip.celebrities. It includes an address to write to RM.
Nancy M
Subject: Roddy McDowall update...10/01=====================================================
From: pusssykatt@aol.com (PUSSSYKATT)
Date: 10/1/98 10:52 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Message-id: <19981001105259.09668.00007962@ng92.aol.com>
USA TODAY...JEANNIE WILLIAMS....
Roddy McDowall has been called and visited by many friends since his brain cancer was made known, reports Daily Variety's Army Archerd. Elizabeth Taylor, his Lassie Come Home (1943) co-star, dined at his home; other visitors include Dominick Dunne, Lauren Bacall, Tuesday Weld, Kate Burton, Anne Douglas, wife of Kirk, and Edie Wasserman, wife of Lew. Callers have included Michael Douglas. Taylor rep Maria Pignataro told me, "She's seen him but doesn't want to comment on what he's going through." The popular McDowall, 70, while using a wheelchair, retains his lively interest in the world. He's a true repository of Hollywood lore. Messages may be sent to him care of Innovative Artists, 1999 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 2850, Los Angeles, Calif. 90066.
Yes, I broke down and bought them just to get the photos of Roddy.
--
Dana Holland
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Welcome to Janice Saari
>
> I would like to join a mailing list for Roddy McDowall. I would like
> any and all updates possible on him. I am so very sad at his present
> situation. I don't know what this mailing list is like, or what type
> of information it has, but I am interested, nonetheless. Thank you.
>
> Cheers!
> Janice
>
Hey, Janice! Welcome , welcome! Glad you could join us in the pursuit of all things RM. My pet request for a while has been for everyone's fav Roddy movie, so what's yours? Also, how old are you? (If your touchy about that sort of thing just say, "I'm --ish") I'm just curious to see what the age range is in this group of fans.
Kari
=====================================================
Subject: RM Biography scheduled
Army Archerd reports in Oct 2 issue of Variety:
A&E has moved up the air date of "Biography: Roddy McDowall: Hollywood’s Best Friend" to Thursday. It includes never-before-seen home movies plus outtakes from some of his famous film roles plus touching interviews with his many friends.--Mel
Academy Governors Name Photo Archive for Roddy McDowall
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Academy honors Roddy McDowall
By Bill Higgins
HOLLYWOOD (Variety) - The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will honor Roddy McDowall, whose long acting career expanded to encompass critically acclaimed work as a photographer, by naming its photo archive after him.
The Academy's 7 million-strong collection of negatives and still photos will be known as the Roddy McDowall Photograph Archive at the Margaret Herrick Library.
"The board felt that a tribute to Roddy was appropriate because of his long-time activity on behalf of the Academy," said AMPAS president Robert Rehme.
McDowall, who is terminally ill with cancer, has represented the actors branch on the Academy's board of governors since 1992. His credits as a photographer include the book "Double Exposure," work for almost two dozen magazines and a job as unit photographer on HBO's "To Catch a Thief" in 1983.
Reuters/Variety
DAILY VARIETY...
A&E has moved up the air date of "Biography: Roddy McDowall: Hollywood's Best Friend" to Thursday. It includes never-before-seen home movies -- plus outtakes from some of his famous film roles -- plus touching interviews with his many friends.
--
Dana Holland
=====================================================
Subject: Re: AMPAS President Selects Chairs of Standing Committees
Okay, I've sent in my E-Mail,(which will be followed up by a letter). Let's everybody do it.
Sue
----------
>
> BENITA wrote:
> > Sue, I agree wholeheartedly Roddy should have recieved a lifetime
> > achievement. He should have been given one years ago. Every time
> > I see someone being given on who has not done one-tenth the
> > accomplishments Roddy has it burns me up. How do we go about
> > putting pressure on the Academy to honor him? Is here an E- mail
> > address or a web-site for them? Just say the word and I will be
> > happy to do my part.
> >
>
> Don't know about putting pressure on the Academy, but their website
> is at http://www.oscars.org
>
> --Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Academy honors McDowall
well they did something and it sounds like an awesome thing to me!
~jennifer
________________________________
Friday October 2 7:41 AM EDT=====================================================Academy honors McDowall
By Bill Higgins
HOLLYWOOD (Variety) - The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will honor Roddy McDowall, whose long acting career expanded to encompass critically acclaimed work as a photographer, by naming its photo archive after him.
The Academy's 7 million-strong collection of negatives and still photos will be known as the Roddy McDowall Photograph Archive at the Margaret Herrick Library.
"The board felt that a tribute to Roddy was appropriate because of his long-time activity on behalf of the Academy," said AMPAS president Robert Rehme.
McDowall, who is terminally ill with cancer, has represented the actors branch on the Academy's board of governors since 1992. His credits as a photographer include the book " Double Exposure," work for almost two dozen magazines and a job as unit photographer on HBO's "To Catch a Thief" in 1983.
Reuters/Variety
Calendar at A&E Biography website is not yet updated -- will post as soon as can confirm exact date. Per website, Biography is shown at 8pm Eastern and 9pm Pacific. For Central it's 7:00 pm. Don't know time for Mountain time zone, sorry.
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Poseidon Adventure
There are plenty of images, including a *terrific* publicity still, available at http://www.amuseyourself.com/poseidon.htm
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Re: AMPAS President Selects Chairs of Standing Committees
>
> Okay, I've sent in my E-Mail,(which will be followed up by a letter).
> Let's everybody do it.
>
> Sue
>
> ----------
> >
> > BENITA wrote:
> > > Sue, I agree wholeheartedly Roddy should have recieved a lifetime
> > > achievement. He should have been given one years ago. Every time
> > > I see someone being given on who has not done one-tenth the
> > > accomplishments Roddy has it burns me up. How do we go about
> > > putting pressure on the Academy to honor him? Is here an E- mail
> > > address or a web-site for them? Just say the word and I will be
> > > happy to do my part.
> > >
> >
> > Don't know about putting pressure on the Academy, but their website
> > is at http://www.oscars.org
> >
> > --Mel
> >
O.K. Mine's in too!
Kari
=====================================================
Subject: Re: RM Biography scheduled
>
> > A&E has moved up the air date of "Biography: Roddy McDowall:
> > Hollywood's Best Friend" to Thursday. It includes
> > never-before-seen home movies - plus outtakes from some of his
> > famous film roles - plus touching interviews with his many
> > friends.
>
> This is Thursday, Oct 8th????? what time??
> Paul Worley
>
Paul, I think the time for A&E's bio on Roddy is 8pm EST. How come he had to get cancer for Hollywood to wake up to his vast contributions to the entertainment industry? He has spent 60-plus years well enough to enjoy the honor. Better-late-than-never has a hollow ring to it.
Benita Cassell
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Academy Governors Name Photo Archive for Roddy McDowall
Well, I was pushing for a life-time achievement oscar award for Roddy, but I have been following him and his career for 40+ years and if I'm any judge of character, Roddy will be far more thrilled at this honor.
Sue
----------
> Academy Governors Name Photo Archive for Roddy McDowall
>
> Beverly Hills, CA - The immense collection of still photographs
> maintained by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences'
> Margaret Herrick Library will be named in honor of actor Roddy
> McDowall, Academy President Robert Rehme announced today.
>
> Plans currently are underway for a ceremony to dedicate the Roddy
> McDowall Photograph Archive at the Margaret Herrick Library.
=====================================================
Subject: Sad...very sad
The tears are streaming down my face as I type this. I was flipping through channels and saw the news of Roddy's death on CNN Headline News. Or rather, I saw the tail end of the story, at least.
My server was down last night and earlier today and I lost a bunch of mail, so I hope this isn't repeating something everyone else already knew.
My heart goes out to Elizabeth Taylor. She'll be inconsolable...and all of us on this list aren't going to be in any great shape either for awhile. But at least we have each other to talk to.
Lynne
=====================================================
Subject: Roddy gone, but never forgotten
Hello everyone,
l'm sorry to say it's being reported here in the U.K. that Roddy has lost his fight with cancer.
He passed away at his home in L.A.
If you haven't heard the news until now, l'm sorry for the shock. He will be greatly missed.
l knew of course he was ill, but hoped so much he would recover.
Craig.
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Welcome to Janice Saari
> I would like to join a mailing list for Roddy McDowall. I would like
> any and all updates possible on him. I am so very sad at his present
> situation. I don't know what this mailing list is like, or what type
> of information it has, but I am interested, nonetheless. Thank you.
>
> Cheers!
> Janice
>
Hi Janice, welcome. There's always room for another. I am a new member myself. I just joined about 10 days ago, but I am not a new fan. My love affair goes back 27 years, and if I live that long, it will go on another 27 years......
Benita
=====================================================
Subject: Fwd: Actor Roddy McDowall Dies at 70
I can't believe how quick it was.
Joni
-----------------------------
From: AOLNews@aol.com
Subject: Actor Roddy McDowall Dies at 70
Date: Sat, 3 Oct 1998 16:54:20 EDT
Actor Roddy McDowall Dies at 70
By BOB THOMAS
Associated Press Writer
=====================================================
Subject: Very sad news.
I've been kinda expecting the news, but it still shocked me. I just turned on my T.V. this evening as I returned from work, and the news station announced Roddy's death last night, in his sleep. I'm glad at least that he got to see the photo library dedicated to him, and the new popularity of his "Apes" movies before he left. Thanks for leaving us with so many wonderful performances, Roddy. We'll miss you greatly.
Kari
=====================================================
Subject: NOOOOOO!
I can't believe it happened so soon. I just stamped a letter to mail, but now I guess I just save it. Excuse me... I have to stop.
Beth
=====================================================
Subject: Re: RM Biography scheduled
hi everyone, this is the worst day of my entire life, i just heard on the news that my roddy has passed away today. i am trying to make myself undestand that a time comes for everyone and that if he was suffering in any way that it was best that God took him now, but deeper inside is this palpatating heart and this knot in the pit of my stomach, i just can't believe that he is gone, but it is true.
i hope that now he is in heaven chatting about his life accomplishments with all of is friends who had gone before him, Man i miss him as much as if he were a member of my own family.
God speed
sabryna
=====================================================
Subject: Actor Roddy McDowall Dies at 70
Basically the same AP release which Sabryna forwarded, but states time of death.
I found out only an hour ago, when I saw the CNN report. Strange -- when I got home, I logged on and checked my private email but didn't check Juno or the online news.
--Mel
====================================
Actor Roddy McDowall Dies at 70[rest of report same as the one Sabryna forwarded]By BOB THOMAS
Associated Press WriterLOS ANGELES (AP)--Roddy McDowall, the child actor who left Britain during the London blitz to become a film star in "How Green Was My Valley" and "Lassie Come Home" and as an adult proved a versatile performer in films, theater and television, has died. He was 70.
McDowall died at 7:30 a.m. Saturday at his Studio City home, said Dennis Osborne, a friend who said he had cared for the actor in his final months.
"I was at his side," he said. "It was very peaceful. It was just as he wanted it. It was exactly the way he planned."
No services were planned, he added.
McDowall was diagnosed with cancer in April and "he fought it until August," when he was declared incurable, Osborne said.
LOS ANGELES -- Roddy McDowall, the child actor who left Britain during the London blitz to become a film star in movies such as "Lassie Come Home" and "Planet of the Apes," died Saturday, a friend said.--MelHe was 70.
McDowall died at 7:30 a.m. at his Studio City home, said Dennis Osborne, who said he had cared for the actor in his final months.
"I was at his side," he said. "It was very peaceful. It was just as he wanted it. It was exactly the way he planned."
No services or interment were planned. McDowall's body was to be cremated by The Neptune Society, Osborne said.
McDowall was diagnosed with cancer in April and "he fought it until August," when he was declared incurable, Osborne said.
The actor had "undifferentiated" cancer, meaning it was not confined to a particular area of his body, Osborne said.
Recommend that those who can, visit http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/world/americas/newsid_185000/185927.stm
Apart from the same AP report, there's a touching Real Audio tribute from Angela Lansbury.
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Reuters report
Saturday October 3 6:59 PM EDT
Actor Roddy McDowall Dies At Age 70
By Arthur Spiegelman
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Visit Orlando Sentinel website
http://dynamic.webpoint.com/news/oso/story/0,1148,80009220,00.html has photos and a Real Audio interview of Roddy on playing the part of a villain.
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Report from St Louis Post-Dispatch
UNDATED: Irene Dunne.
10/03/98 02:18:03 PM
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Very sad news.
I cannot believe he passed away so soon like this. I am forever going to feel a lose in my heart, knowing that my favorite actor has passed on. My heart goes out to all of you and most especially his family.
Marie
=====================================================
Subject: Very Sad News #2
I'm sure everyone out there knows what I mean when I say that saying I'm saddened and depressed is somewhat of an understatement.
It feels like losing a member of the family to me also. And I also agree that it's best that any suffering on his part is over. It's nice to know he went peacefully and surrounded by friends.
-- Morgan
=====================================================
Subject: 4 New Members
Welcome to new members ---
Ari Karras
Bishop
Ken and Tammy Sedam of Marion, Ohio
Diane Cockerham
=====================================================
Subject: Visit CNN online
Very good photo at http://www.cnn.com/SHOWBIZ/Movies/9810/03/mcdowall.death/
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: NY Times report
October 4, 1998
Roddy McDowall, 70, Child Star and Versatile Actor
By MEL GUSSOW
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: LA Times report
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Re: NOOOOOO!
I also have a card ready to put in the mail. I am putting it with my other memorabilia of Roddy. I can't believe he is gone. It was so fast.
Pam, a.k.a Katy Scarlett
-----Original Message-----
I can't believe it happened so soon. I just stamped a letter to mail, but now I guess I just save it. Excuse me... I have to stop.
Beth
=====================================================
Subject: Roddy's death
You must be deeply saddened by Roddy's death. I always enjoyed his work and was so glad to find this website this morning. Thanks and my sympathies to you all.
Laura
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Very Sad News #2
Yes, I do understand quite well, and it is like losing a family member after so many years of knowledge of one person. Especially a person whom I chose at a very early age for a role model. He is definitely missed. I'm glad that he didn't suffer and went in his sleep. I've already gone through a half box of kleenex and I think I'm gonna go through the rest as well. God's speed, Roddy. We'll miss you.
-- Lady Mara
=====================================================
Subject: Re: 4 New Members
> Welcome to new members ---
>
> Ari Karras
> Bishop
> Ken and Tammy Sedam of Marion, Ohio
> Diane Cockerham
>
Welcome all!
Lynne Ackerman
=====================================================
Subject: Thank you, Mel
Mel,
Your constant updates, from various newspapers and reports, through last evening and night were appreciated. Thank you for all of your work during a very difficult time.
Sincerely,
Paige-Marie Hamilton
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Very sad news.
I feel like I have lost a friend. It's gonna take a while for this to sink in...
Blessings to all,
Nancy M
=====================================================
Subject: "What's A Nice Girl Like You..."
This was a made-for-tv movie and one of my favourite Roddy comedies. I absolutely loooved it! Of course I was only 13 when it came on tv, so I don't know how I would feel about it as an adult. Since they didn't have vcr's back in 1971, I taped it on audio cassette tape and I actually still have it! And (believe it or not) the quality is still good -- I just listened to part of it to reacquaint myself with the plot.
The basics: Roddy is part of a "gang" that tries to swindle money out of a dying rich man by forcing Brenda to pass herself off as the dying man's long-lost well-loved daughter (with Roddy as her "Duke" husband). Lots of comedy-of-error stuff and snappy dialog (that appealed to my 13-year-old sense of humour, at least!).
Karen Ogush
ogushes@earthlink.net
=====================================================
Subject: Killer Shark
I remember watching this on tv about 15 years ago. The movie itself was pretty hokey, but Roddy was still fun to watch -- and I had never seen him at that age in his life -- what a hunk!
Karen Ogush
ogushes@earthlink.net
=====================================================
Subject: Man Hunt
Also appears to be an opportunity to see Roddy's sister, Virginia.
Karen Ogush
ogushes@earthlink.net
=====================================================
Subject: New member Bill Covert
The Musgrave Foundation presents new member Bill Covert.
=====================================================
Subject: Visit Channel 4000 website
http://www.wcco.com/news/stories/news-981003-181545.html
Same AP news release but has photos from last night's CNN report, including one from a "Dial M for Murder" interview, and from "A Christmas Carol".
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: E! Online report
Actor Roddy McDowall Dead
by Joal Ryan
October 3, 1998, 10:25 p.m. PT
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: NY Post report
MCDOWALL, 70, DIES FROM CANCER
By Kirsten Danis,Ward Morehouse III and Dareh Gregorian
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Washington Post report
Roddy McDowall Dies at 70
Film, Stage and Television Actor
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Expanded LA Times report
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Dallas Morning News report
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Re: New member Bill Covert
Hello bill, welcome!!!!
joni
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Actor Roddy McDowall Dies at 70
I was at my parents house when I heard. Since they don't share my passion for RM I had to wait until I came home to breakdown. Fortunately I have a girlfriend, who although never knew much about Roddy at least understands my need for my imaginary friend and has invited me over to her house to "vent" We are all going to miss him so much. My breaking heart goes out of all of you, his family ( the only one mentioned seems to be his sister Virginia) Elizabeth Taylor and his other many friends as we share in his transition. The next week or two will be difficult as the tributes begin to air, as he was not an insignificant actor A&E, Entertainment Tonight, (and I would assume People Magazine, since he has worked for them) The E network, etc.--. But through his movies, audio tapes, television etc. he left us many long lasting beautiful memories.
Sue
>
> I found out only an hour ago, when I saw the CNN report. Strange
> -- when I got home, I logged on and checked my private email but
> didn't check Juno or the online news.
>
> --Mel
>
=====================================================
Subject: Visit Calendar Live website
http://www.calendarlive.com/HOME/CALENDARLIVE/HOLD/lat_roddy1004.htm
This is the same as the LA Times obituary, but has two very good photographs.
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: CNN Real Audio
Could somebody please try out the real audio file at http://cnn.com/SHOWBIZ/Movies/9810/03/mcdowall.death/index.html
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Re: CNN Real Audio
> Could somebody please try out the real audio file at
> http://cnn.com/SHOWBIZ/Movies/9810/03/mcdowall.death/index.html
>
>
>
This is the transcript of the CNN report (and probably the audio file):
"Planet of the Apes" Star Roddy McDowall Dead at Age 70--Mel
Aired October 3, 1998 - 6:23 p.m. ET
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
MARTIN SAVIDGE, CNN ANCHOR: A performer who made his mark in film, theater and television, Roddy McDowall, has died. He was 70. McDowall was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year.
CNN's Mark Scheerer takes a look back at McDowall's career.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
MARK SCHEERER, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): Roddy McDowall's career began in England six decades ago and flourished in America with a powerful performance as the child star of the 1941 film "How Green Was My Valley."
He would go on to appear in more than a hundred movies, including "The Poseidon Adventure," "The Grass Harp" and "It's My Party." But he was probably best known as Cornelius, the simian hero of the "Planet Of The Apes" films.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP, "THE PLANET OF THE APES")
RODDY MCDOWALL, ACTOR: ... time, the evidence was very meager.
KIM HUNTER, ACTRESS: You didn't think so then.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
MCDOWALL: I felt very fortunate to be asked to play a role that was totally unique. I just thought it was just so original and such a fascinating concept.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
SCHEERER: In addition to his film roles, McDowall took to the stage.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)MCDOWALL: My stage career started in the '50s, here in New York, with a production called "Misalliance."
I did a lot of plays, some of the most successful being shows like "No Time For Sergeants," and "Compulsion." (END VIDEO CLIP)
SCHEERER: McDowall appeared in the 1996 stage production of "Dial M For Murder" in New York. He attributed his early start in film to his mother's dashed hopes for her own career.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
MCDOWALL: My mother wanted to be an actress. That didn't happen for her, so she, sort of, lived that experience through her children.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE INTERVIEWER: Do you regret that?
MCDOWALL: No. Not at all. No, I've had a fascinating life.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
(END VIDEOTAPE)
TO PURCHASE A VIDEOTAPE OF THIS PIECE, PLEASE CALL 800-CNN-NEWS.
Hi Sue (and everyone).
I was also spending this weekend with my parents. Thankfully, my husband saw the report on CNN and broke the news to me. He is aware of my devotion to Roddy, but I don't think that even he knows how deep it goes. I then devoted the rest of my weekend to distracting my parents while the news was on. They know how I feel about Roddy, but have never really understood - and I just couldn't discuss it with them.
Only now, reading all of the reports that Mel has so kindly forwarded and everyone's reactions, am I beginning to deal with the shock. I thought that we'd at least have a chance to prepare for it, but it has all been so sudden. At least, knowing that the Musgrave Foundation exists makes me feel less alone.
Cheryl
=====================================================
Subject: Re: I'm so glad that you're all here
I, too am so grateful for this group so that I do not have to grieve alone. But I do have a great support group in my family and friends. As I stated before, my husband gave me a symphathy card and my mother saved Roddy's articles from her paper. A friend emailed me and another called with their condolences.
Kyoko
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Thank you, Mel
Yes, thanks Mel. All this helped me through a very difficult time. My husband even gave me a sympathy card.
Kyoko
----------
>
> Mel,
>
> Your constant updates, from various newspapers and reports, through
> last evening and night were appreciated. Thank you for all of your
> work during a very difficult time.
>
> Sincerely,
> Paige-Marie Hamilton
>
>
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Very Sad News #2
I was 15 when I discovered him. He has been with me in spirit daily since then. 33 years later, he is still with me and I will miss him dearly.
Kyoko
----------
>
> Yes, I do understand quite well, and it is like losing a family
> member after so many years of knowledge of one person. Especially a
> person whom I chose at a very early age for a role model. He is
> definitely missed. I'm glad that he didn't suffer and went in his
> sleep. I've already gone through a half box of kleenex and I think
> I'm gonna go through the rest as well. God's speed, Roddy. We'll
> miss you.
>
> -- Lady Mara
>
=====================================================
Subject: (no subject)
Somehow I missed entirely any reports Saturday of Roddy'spassing. I was not until Sunday when I read it in the paper. My breath was knocked out ot me. While of course I did not want him to reach the point of lingering and suffering I thought we would have him for a little longer. We barely have had time to adjust to the news he was ill. I started crying when I read it. Having grown up as a fan, his death had left a hole in my heart and soul that won't ever be filled.
Benita
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Washington Post report
They could have at least got his lines right from Fright Night, or at least not mangle them that badly! Sheesh!
Kari
>
> Roddy McDowall Dies at 70
> Film, Stage and Television Actor
>
> By Martin Weil
> Washington Post Staff Writer
> Sunday, October 4, 1998; Page B06
>
> Roddy McDowall, 70, the film, stage and television actor whose career
> included almost every theatrical form, from the musical to the
> melodrama, and from Shakespeare to science fiction, who acted in
> "Cleopatra" and was renowned for "Planet of the Apes," died yesterday
> in Los Angeles. He had cancer.
>
> [snip]
>
> In 1985's "Fright Night," Mr. McDowall acted the role of the host of
> a television horror show, an outspoken foe of vampires. One of his
> best lines in the film involved his observations on changing tastes
> in horror. "The kids today," his screen character opined, "don't have
> the patience for vampires. They want to see some weird slasher
> running around and chopping off heads."
>
=====================================================
Subject: Re: New member Bill Covert
Welcome, Bill.
You're joining us at a difficult time for all of us, but at least we have each other to share the grief with.
Lynne
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Sad...very sad
I was alking through Wal Mart Saturday when my pager went off. Of all people, it was my ex-husband, tellin gme of Roddy's death.
I can't tell you the painthat I feel. When I was a little girl, I used to dream that I would grow up and marry him some day. I am sure a lot of you felt that way too.
I feel like I have lost not only a member of my family and a close friend, but a large part of my childhood has just slipped away.
I miss you, Roddy, and I'll always love you.
Susan Munsey
=====================================================
Subject: Variety report
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Five New Members
Here's our new members ---
John Cloud, who's in SwedenDonna Stewart, who wrote " we'll miss him "
Charles Truax, whose first message is "I'm deeply saddened by Mr. McDowells' leaving. He left a void that only he could fill and no other should try. This time of his on our lives was a gift. I morn my loss."
Dave Wells (no message, alas)
Onetoo (please don't tell me your last name is threefor)
http://www.pathfinder.com/people/daily/daily.html#story2
People Online--Mel
October 5, 1998
Roddy McDowall, 1928-1998
Roddy McDowall, a British actor who became a 1940s child film star in "How Green Was My Valley" and "Lassie Come Home" and as an adult proved a versatile performer in theater, TV and films that included "The Planet of the Apes," died Saturday after being diagnosed with cancer last April. He was 70. McDowall died at his home in the Studio City neighborhood of Los Angeles, said Dennis Osborne, a friend who cared for the actor in his final months. "It was very peaceful," Osborne said. "It was exactly the way he planned." McDowall's ashes were scattered over the Pacific Sunday.
Monday October 5, 11:30 am Eastern Time--Mel
Company Press Release
TCM To Pay Tribute to One of Its Own, Actor and Host of TCM's Preservation Showcase Roddy McDowall, Next Monday, October 12
ATLANTA--(ENTERTAINMENT WIRE)--Oct. 5, 1998--On Monday, October 12, The Turner Classic Movies (TCM) cable network will honor a valued member of the TCM family, actor and host of TCM's weekly series Preservation Showcase, Roddy McDowall.
TCM's four-movie tribute will include McDowall's enduring performance in the 1943 classic LASSIE COME HOME (8 p.m. ET). TCM's tribute schedule is as follows:
8 p.m. LASSIE COME HOME (1944) -- co-starring Donald Crisp, Dame Mae Whitty and Edmund Gwenn in this classic tearjerker about America's favorite collie working his way back home to the poor family who was forced to sell him.
9:45 p.m. THE WHITE CLIFFS OF DOVER (1944) -- co-starring Irene Dunne as an American who marries a Brit, Alan Marshal, in this World War I romance.
12 a.m. LORD LOVE A DUCK (1966) -- McDowall stars with Tuesday Weld, Lola Albright and Martin West in this comedy about a progressive Southern California high school's bizarre botany program.
2 a.m. THE LOVED ONE (1965) -- Robert Morse, Jonathan Winters and Rod Steiger co-star in this black comedy chronicling one man's strange attempt to bury his uncle in California.
A member of the National Film Preservation Board, McDowall made his debut on TCM in April 1997 as host of the network's, Preservation Showcase, a weekly series spotlighting recently restored and preserved films, and was TCM's official spokesperson for film preservation. A child actor in British Films in the late 1930s, McDowall moved to the United States in the '40s and became a star in films such as LASSIE and How Green Was My Valley (1941). He had appeared in more than 90 films, including the classic The Planet of the Apes series. In addition to acting, he had published several photography books.
Turner Classic Movies, currently seen in more than 25 million homes, is a 24-hour cable network from Turner Broadcasting System, Inc. that presents the greatest motion pictures of all time from the largest film library in the world, the combined Time Warner and Turner Film libraries, from the '20s through the '80s, commercial-free and without interruption. For more information, please visit the TCM website at (http://TCM.turner.com).
Contact:
Turner Classic Movies
Morgan Fouch, Atlanta, 404/885-4690
or
Julie Polkes, New York, 212/596-6503
or
Heather Holmes, Los Angeles, 310/788-6796
I've just received confirmation.
A&E Biography will air "Roddy McDowall: Hollywood's Best Friend" on Thursday, October 8th at 8:00 p.m. and midnight Eastern, 5:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. Pacific. That's 7:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. Central. Presumably 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. Mountain.
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: A letter from Tom Greene
Thought I'd pass on this letter from Tom Greene, who wrote and directed episodes of Tales of the Gold Monkey. He wrote 'Last Chance Louie' specifically to showcase Roddy's talents.
His email was originally addressed to the Gold Monkey website. In his letter, he mentioned that a Roddy website asked him to write some stories about his experiences with Roddy. That's our website he means, and the stories he wrote are two of the Reprinted Articles. I've already written him about it.
If anybody speaks French in this group, the rest of us would appreciate a translation of the last paragraph. Thanks.
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Re: RM Biography scheduled
> I've just received confirmation.
>
> A&E Biography will air "Roddy McDowall: Hollywood's Best Friend" on
> Thursday, October 8th at 8:00 p.m. and midnight Eastern, 5:00 p.m.
> and 9:00 p.m. Pacific. That's 7:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. Central.
> Presumably 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. Mountain.
>
Thanks Mel!!
Can I nominated you for Sainthood?
Paul Worley
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Variety report
Hi gang!
Say, does anybody have any info about the release date of A BUG'S LIFE? I was thinking how nice it would be if all of us, in our own respective theaters, got together at the same time, and watched this movie in memory of Roddy.
Thoughts?
Paul Worley
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Five New Members
Welcome to our new members!
Lynne Ackerman
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Sad...very sad
You've stated my feelings much more eloquently than I ever could. I couldn't agree with you more. It really is like a part of my childhood has been taken from me. I've lost my parents other close family members at an early age. Roddy's "presence" has been a constant in my life. It's very comforting to share my sorrow with this group. No one I know understands why I am so upset.
Thanks,
Pamela
-----Original Message-----
I was alking through Wal Mart Saturday when my pager went off. Of all people, it was my ex-husband, tellin gme of Roddy's death.
I can't tell you the painthat I feel. When I was a little girl, I used to dream that I would grow up and marry him some day. I am sure a lot of you felt that way too.
I feel like I have lost not only a member of my family and a close friend, but a large part of my childhood has just slipped away.
I miss you, Roddy, and I'll always love you.
Susan Munsey
=====================================================
Subject: Re: (no subject)
Dear Benita,
I read your latest message in the guestbook and completely understand your anger. "Honest Abe" and the other one haven't any idea what this group is about, but you know what, they are not worth the energy to be angry with. Mr. McD held himself above all of that while he was alive---as difficult as it may be, we might want to try and do the same. Please don't think I'm being critical of your statements, I wouldn't do that---besides, I know they came from the heart. Trust me on this, count to ten and keep moving. People like that lose in the long run.
Hang in there, Benita.
Sincerely,
Paige-Marie
=====================================================
Subject: Re: RM Biography scheduled
> > I've just received confirmation.
> >
> > A&E Biography will air "Roddy McDowall: Hollywood's Best Friend" on
> > Thursday, October 8th at 8:00 p.m. and midnight Eastern, 5:00 p.m. and
> > 9:00 p.m. Pacific. That's 7:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. Central.
> > Presumably 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. Mountain.
> >
> Thanks Mel!!
> Can I nominated you for Sainthood?
> Paul Worley
>
But Paul, I'm already a saint! That's what my last name translates to in English.
By the way, this saint made a mistake. That should be 10:00 pm for the Mountain time zone.
And to answer your question in another email, A Bug's Life will be released on November 20.
Those who can, kindly visit the Tribute website. Roc posted a photo of the wreath, plus flowers and a candle, that were laid upon Roddy's star in the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Variety report
> Hi gang!
> Say, does anybody have any info about the release date of A BUG'S
> LIFE? I was thinking how nice it would be if all of us, in
> our own respective theaters, got together at the same time, and
> watched this movie in memory of Roddy.
> Thoughts?
> Paul Worley
>
Paul, I've read both Nov. 20 and Nov 25 for release of "A Bug's Life."
I guess we'll know more closer to the date.
Benita
=====================================================
Subject: Re: (no subject)
> Dear Benita,
>
> I read your latest message in the guestbook and completely understand
> your anger. "Honest Abe" and the other one haven't any idea what
> this group is about, but you know what, they are not worth the energy
> to be angry with. Mr. McD held himself above all of that while he
> was alive---as difficult as it may be, we might want to try and do
> the same. Please don't think I'm being critical of your statements,
> I wouldn't do that---besides, I know they came from the heart. Trust
> me on this, count to ten and keep moving. People like that lose in
> the long run.
>
> Hang in there, Benita.
> Sincerely,
> Paige-Marie
>
Dear Paige-Marie, I will have to count to a lot higher than ten, but I get the point. They just hit me on the wrong button. Here we all were trying to comfort each other and honor someone who was the epitome of what being a gentleman was and along comes someone trying to trash him before he was even cold. But I will try, for the sake or Roddy's memory to ignore those creeps...Benita
=====================================================
Subject: Re: RM Biography scheduled
> > Can I nominated you for Sainthood?
> But Paul, I'm already a saint! That's what my last name translates
> to in English.
Sorry, i don't read any language besdies English. :)
So, if you're already a saint, how about god-hood?
> By the way, this saint made a mistake. That should be 10:00 pm for
> the Mountain time zone.
Ooops, there goes the crown of gold!! :)
> And to answer your question in another email, A Bug's Life will be
> released on November 20.
6 weeks to go... <sigh> i'll probably go the following weekend...thanksgiving weekend.
> Those who can, kindly visit the Tribute website. Roc posted a photo
> of the wreath, plus flowers and a candle, that were laid upon Roddy's
> star in the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
heading there next! ;)
Paul Worley
=====================================================
Subject: Thanks Mel
Thanks for the information on the Biography segment and TCM's planned tribute. I'll be watching.
Did you all see the USA Today Article on Roddy? The title was "Actor Roddy McDowall: Enduring and endearing." They got that right. My husband has been clipping out the various articles that he comes across. Tonight he even told me that he too is going to miss Roddy - so I guess that my passion has rubbed off on him during our years together.
I almost had myself pulled together tonight. Then I went over to the Musgrave website and saw the picture of Roddy's star on the walk of fame with the flowers and I fell apart again.
Cheryl
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Variety report
I heard "A Bug's Life" is due out on Thanksgiving.
Tam at kwsedam@aol.com
=====================================================
Subject: UPI report
I didn't find this until today, but it's a very good read.
--Mel
----------------------------------
Roddy McDowall dies at home
=====================================================
Subject: Roddy McDowall
Hello All,
I've been reading the comments from so many, expressing such a deep sorrow I wanted to share this with you folks.
After hearing of his passing, I thought I should grab the Puffs and head for the bedroom for a "cry my eyes out" session. However, I found I could not. I found that I was not sad enough to cry. If anything, I felt almost a sense of happiness.
I felt happy that Mr. McDowall was able to pass away at home, where he wanted to be, as appose to passing in a hospital with tubes running in and out of him. He was able to be the the people he loved and who loved him, "just the way he planned it".
I'm happy he did not suffer long, if at all. Thank God he died from brain cancer and not AIDS, or liver cancer, or died in a car wreck, or was shot down in the streets or died of a drug overdose.
I fell happy that he lived to be 70 years old. I hope I live to be 70.
I'm happy that he lived a successful life. I'm happy that he knew the finer things in life and knew and loved fine people. I'm happy his personal wealth kept him out that retirement home.
I'm happy he lived a public life. What if he had never started acting. There would be this beautiful human being, that only a few would know.
AnyWho, I could go on and on.... We all pass on. I look forward to meeting him next time...
Thank you Mel doing such a fine job. Keep up the good work. Thank you Roc for starting it all. Your talents are unmatched. The flowers are beautiful.
Thank you,
Kris Birch
=====================================================
Subject: Perfect
It strikes me that not only did RM seem to do everything perfectly in life, but he even DIED perfectly!
From what I've been able to piece together from various news accounts, he was diagnosed in April. He actually sought treatment, at first, which shows great respect for life.
He actually told his best friends about it in July, when it looked like it was going to be an ongoing issue, which shows respect for them & their coping skills.
Then a few weeks ago when it looked like he wasn't going to make it, he stopped treatment, which was futile at that point, and just told everyone. It gave his old friends a chance to say goodbye to him in person. How often do we get that chance before our friends die?
I had a friend in college whose father, a few years before, found out he had cancer, so he killed himself immediately. It was devestating for everyone. It showed great disrespect for life by not even treating the cancer in an attempt to stay alive for the ones who loved him, and great disrespect for the ones who loved him by not even trusting them to support him through his illness.
Did RM even once do anything other than perfectly?
Wrong answers on the Hollywood Squares don't count.
-Kathy
=====================================================
Subject: Shared sympathy
Although I am deeply saddened by Roddy's death and feel that I, too, have lost a friend, I'm thankful that the news of his illness was made known... even if it gave us only two weeks to prepare, because I can imagine how I would've felt waking up to find his death announced in the paper or on the news with no previous knowledge of anything being wrong. I feel a deep loss, as I'm sure all of us do. After reading all the reports of his death and the comments by friends and peers, I realize that my perceptions of him have been correct ( I never met him personally).....a caring, loving person who would be a wonderful and faithful friend. One report said that he was a bright and happy guy with no ego and another said he was well-respected.....you never heard anything bad said about him. What a wonderful tribute!
Thank you, Roddy, for being a role model and a gentleman.
Janet
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Sad...very sad
> I was alking through Wal Mart Saturday when my pager went off. Of
> all people, it was my ex-husband, tellin gme of Roddy's death.
>
> I can't tell you the painthat I feel. When I was a little girl, I
> used to dream that I would grow up and marry him some day. I am sure
> a lot of you felt that way too.
>
> I feel like I have lost not only a member of my family and a close
> friend, but a large part of my childhood has just slipped away.
>
> I miss you, Roddy, and I'll always love you.
>
> Susan Munsey
>
>
Susan, no you were not alone in your fantasy of one day growing up and marrying Roddy. I used to think if I could just meet him, I could convince him we were meant for each other. My heart will never be the same.
Benita
=====================================================
Subject: AMC Pays Tribute to Roddy McDowall on Oct 7
Monday October 5, 7:40 pm Eastern Time--Mel
Company Press Release
American Movie Classics Pays Tribute to Roddy McDowall With Film Festival on Wednesday, Oct. 7
BETHPAGE, N.Y.--(ENTERTAINMENT WIRE)--Oct. 5, 1998--On Wednesday, Oct. 7, American Movie Classics remembers child actor and leading man Roddy McDowall with an afternoon tribute of his films.
"From his first film role as a child, the characters Roddy brought to life have left a lasting impression on movie lovers around the world," said AMC host Bob Dorian. "He was a true Hollywood star; he was an actor, a philanthropist, he worked tirelessly for the Hollywood community and embraced the arts. We'll miss him."
AMC kicks off its "Roddy McDowall Tribute" at 12 noon with the AMC original series, "Remember WENN." In the episode titled "Don't Act Like That," McDowall guest stars as the acting teacher of Hilary Booth (Melinda Mullins).
At 12:30 p.m., AMC presents "My Friend Flicka" (1943). Some say that dog is man's best friend, but in this inspiring story, a horse is the closest thing to true companionship for Roddy McDowall.
Next at 2 p.m., McDowall stars in "Thunderhead, Son of Flicka" (1945), the colorful sequel to "My Friend Flicka," as the young, devoted owner of the wonder horse. At 3:30 p.m., McDowall teams with Doris Day in the 1960 chilling mystery "Midnight Lace."
At 5:30 p.m., AMC presents the 1998 original production "Behind the Planet of the Apes." Narrated by McDowall, this two-hour original special features exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, screen tests, rare photographs and McDowall's home movies of the historic making of Hollywood's first cinematic saga, as well as revealing interviews with Charlton Heston, Kim Hunter, Linda Harrison, Ricardo Montalban, Natalie Trundy and the key players involved in creating the films.
AMC wraps up its Roddy McDowall festival at 7:30 p.m. with an encore presentation of "Remember WENN." American Movie Classics is the premier 24-hour movie network, featuring award-winning original productions about the world of American film. AMC can be seen in 68 million homes.
Note to Editors: All times Eastern.
Contact:
Dina White or Jennifer Pav
516/803-4352/4354
or
Lynn Weiss or Katrina Sutton Gilpatric
310/453-4493
Good-bye, Louie.
Le ciel est juste devenu un plus grand endroit parce qu'ils vous ont.
Heaven has become a better place because they have you.
Mes larmes ne peuvent pas arrêter
My tears won't stop...
demi de voie en bas de ma joue.
(sorry, I can't figure this one out)
Mais votre sourire sera toujours à mon coeur.
But your smile will always be in my heart.
>
>
The extent of my college French.
-Kathy
=====================================================
Subject: RE: Welcome to Janice Saari
Hi Kari, thanks for the warm welcome.
I am 37 years old, and I am very upset, as I am sure everyone is, about Roddy's passing away this weekend. We knew it would happen, but I wasn't prepared for it to happen so soon. I have many favorite Roddy movies, among them Lord Love a Duck, and Arnold being two of my favorites. I hear that sometime next week Turner Movie Classics is going to run a retrospective of Roddy's movies. I doubt that these two would show up there, but I hope to see them sometime soon.
Cheers!
Janice
=====================================================
Subject: At a Loss
Saturday evening I left to visit some friends in a nearby town, only arriving home about an hour and a half ago. What should I find on my answering machine but a message from my sister informing me that Roddy had died. I can hardly believe that TWO DAYS went by without my knowing about this. And finding out at midnight when I'm exhausted and wrung out has hardly helped. I almost trashed my closet door in the first moment of anger. But I know that Roddy was accepting of his own death. I truly believe he was ready to go. I know absolutely he was at peace at the end.
I'm really too incoherent to say any more right now. But I will light a candle in honor of the life which has touched so many others.
Roddy will be greatly, greatly missed.
Stephanie
=====================================================
Subject: Article from Newspaper Publishing PLC
Obituary: Roddy McDowall
( Independent )
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Thanks..
Hey All:
Like everyone else, I was terribly saddened by the news of Roddy's passing. I felt as if I had lost a very close friend, even though, as with most of you, I never actually got a chance to meet him.
But the funny thing was that after reading the reports about him on Friday, being in a wheelchair, I knew he wouldn't be alive much longer, so I think Friday night I grieved the most for him.
Last night, I popped Dead of Winter into the VCR, and thoroughly enjoyed seeing him in the movie again. It really made me feel better.
I think we all have to remember that he is still with us all due to his tremendous contribution to the silver screen. I personally found that in my own selfish way, just seeing him again took away a lot of the sadness.
And believe me, regardless of your religion, he was such a good person while he was alive, I'm sure that the mighty diety above has taken good care of Roddy.
Thanks for all the news reports - - it's good to have people who share a common bond.
Lisa
=====================================================
Subject: MiningCo's has own tribute to RM website
http://classicfilm.miningco.com/library/weekly/aa100598.htm
A Tribute
September 17, 1928 - October 3, 1998
Dateline: 10/5/98
Roddy McDowall always displayed such energy and youthfulness, even well after his years as a child actor were over, that it's hard to believe he was 70 years old when he died. The diagnosis of terminal cancer was made public only a few months before his death, so there wasn't much time for his fans to prepare.
Roddy's career began at the age of 10, when he appeared in the English film Scruffy, and continued after he escaped to the U.S. from the land of his birth in 1940 in order to escape the German bombings of WWII. He ended up appearing in over 150 films.
Roddy was also a respected still photographer, with five books of photographs to his credit. His collection of movies and movie memorabilia is one of the finest private collections in the world. In fact, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences just named their photo library The Roddy McDowall Photograph Archive at the Margaret Herrick Library, in honor of his services to the Academy, particularly in the area of film preservation.
Roddy was primarily known as a character actor after making the successful transition from child star (How Green Was My Valley, My Friend Flicka, and Lassie Come Home). Though best known today for his continuing role as Cornelius in the Planet of the Apes series, he also turned in solid performances in films such as The Loved One, Inside Daisy Clover, Cleopatra, and Dead of Winter.
We begin our tribute with several Roddy McDowall sites on the Web, starting with the Internet Movie Database page. This tribute will be updated during the next few days as more information appears.
Article is followed by a list of related links, including ours and Dana's. I've also written the webmaster that "a few months" should be changed to "a few weeks".
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Visit MSNBC website
Terrific pictures available at the MSNBC website at http://www.msnbc.com:80/news/201898.asp. You'll have to download a plug-in (at least for Netscape), but the plug-ins are small and the reward is well worth the effort.
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: USA Today articles
First article has picture same as in the print issue, but a whole lot sharper. Second article has a new photo, which is also in MSNBC website.
--Mel
----------------------------------------
http://www.usatoday.com/life/enter/lep1.htm
Lansbury misses McDowall----------------------------------------Though his friends knew Roddy McDowall had incurable cancer, Angela Lansbury says his death Saturday was still a shock. "Roddy was the type of person one expected to be around for years and years. . . . He was like a caretaker for so many of us." Lansbury, 72, first met a 12-year-old McDowall in 1940, when they were both contract players at MGM. They didn't act together, however, until 1971's Bedknobs and Broomsticks. McDowall also made four appearances on her CBS series, Murder, She Wrote. The last time she saw him was four weeks ago at a party at his house. In keeping with his wishes, there will be no big Hollywood funeral.
USA Today
McDowall: Enduring and endearing
=====================================================
Subject: Article by Liz Smith
By Liz Smith
October 6, 1998
(c) 1998, Newsday Inc.
Distributed by Los Angeles Times Syndicate
EVEN THOUGH all the reports of Roddy McDowall said his condition was terminal, I hoped for some miracle. Alas, that was not to be. Roddy was a real gentleman in a business that doesn't have too many. He survived child stardom, was smart enough to segue into TV and the stage during his young adulthood (when Hollywood didn't knock) and came back to his movie roots as a gifted veteran. He was a great fan and chronicler of the town and the industry he loved. As a fine photographer, he published a number of photo books, capturing his famous friends with his affectionate lens. His huge collection of unpublished photos and unseen home movies -- of everybody from Natalie Wood to Noel Coward to Ava Gardner -- will surely someday surface, much to the pleasure of rabid movie mavens and cinemaphiles.
My guy in L.A., Jack Martin, remembers Roddy this way: "I was always so happy to see him coming across a crowded room because I knew he would cheer me up, give me some gossip/news; never bad news, and he never betrayed a confidence. He was a true and loyal friend if he was your friend. And he always had a project in the hopper. Always so enthusiastic. I last saw him at Estelle Getty's birthday party ... he looked sensational and was his usual funny, wonderful self. I was never in his presence when I didn't learn something I hadn't known about this town or the people in it. (This) is a real loss to Hollywood."
http://www.thisislondon.co.uk:80/dynamic/news/story.html
Roddy's death ends Hollywood rift
by Alexander Walker, Evening Standard Film Critic
In life he was nicknamed "Keeper of the Secrets" - privy to some of the most explosive gossip among Hollywood's A-list celebrities. Now, in death, Roddy McDowall has ensured that his secrets will remain hidden for a century.
The British-born actor stipulated that his diaries, voluminous correspondence and memorabilia - which would be priceless to biographers and fetch a fortune on the gossip market - should be sent to the University of Boston marked: "Not to be opened until AD 2100."
What can be made public, however, is that before his death aged 70 in Los Angeles at the weekend, McDowall had the satisfaction of knowing that his fight against cancer had reunited two women who had been divided by a 35-year row.
The pair had never met or exchanged a word since the marriage of one broke up because of her husband's love for the other.
They are Sybil Burton and Elizabeth Taylor. Sybil is the former wife of the late Richard Burton. Elizabeth was McDowall's oldest friend and most trusted confidante since they first met in 1943 on the set of Lassie Come Home.
Twenty years later, Elizabeth was starring with Burton in Rome in the ill-fated epic Cleopatra. The pair began an off-screen affair that caused an international furore. It was labelled "the most public adultery in history" and brought a rebuke from the Vatican.
Elizabeth was married to Eddie Fisher; within weeks her marriage had collapsed. Sybil Burton, a blamelesss and helpless spouse, left Richard, who later married Elizabeth. Sybil returned to America with her children and has ever since kept her dignity and silence over Elizabeth's role in her marital break-up.
It is believed the first time she communicated directly with Elizabeth was when the latter, distraught on hearing Roddy was near death, telephoned the McDowall residence in Studio City, a suburb of Los Angeles.
The telephone was answered by Sybil who had hastened to the dying actor's bedside. Since then the women have resumed a polite if formal relationship.
Of the two, McDowall's death will leave Elizabeth particularly isolated and lonely. He was born in Herne Hill and schooled in Upper Norwood. He arrived in Hollywood in 1940, aged 12, and won overnight acclaim as Huw the miner's son in John Ford's sentimental chronicle of Welsh life, How Green Was My Valley.
When he starred in Lassie Come Home he described his co-star, nine-year-old Elizabeth, as "per-fect ... an exquisite little doll, totally unconscious of her beauty."
They had much in common. Both were born in England and were evacuated to America when war broke out. And both had pushy mothers ambitious for their children to be successful in showbiz.
As Octavius Caesar in Cleopatra, McDowall had an unrivalled vantage point to observe every move in the foreplay between Burton and Taylor. He was Elizabeth's first formal date at her studio-arranged coming-out party in 1948, although, being gay, he never married. He was a guest at her first wedding in 1950 to the hotel heir and playboy Nick Hilton, and a comforting presence after her first divorce in 1951.
He backed up the pleas of Elizabeth's children when they persuaded her to enter the Betty Ford clinic in 1983 to be treated for medication and alcohol abuse. And he was a witness at her last marriage to Larry Fortensky in 1991.
McDowall could have made several fortunes selling such privileged insights, but he was content to live modestly in his five-bedroom house opposite Gene Autry, who died three days before him.
He looked back with detachment on his days as a child star, shrugging off the compliments of fans of Lassie Come Home and How Green Was My Valley with the self-deprecating (and probably thankful) comment: "They only remember the early movies."
(c) Associated Newspapers Ltd., 06 October 1998
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: website
I have had problems all day trying to access the site. Is anyone else having trouble, or is it on my end? Is there so much traffic that the system had jammed?
Benita
=====================================================
Subject: Re: A letter from Tom Greene
That was so great. The French made me cry. I still can't believe he is gone.
joni
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Thanks..
I can't even bring myself to watch anything with him in it. This is going to be harder than I ever thought it would be.
Joni
=====================================================
Subject: Re: 4 New Members
Welcome to the group!
Sue
----------
> Subject: 4 New Members
> Date: Saturday, October 03, 1998 11:55 PM
>
> Welcome to new members ---
>
> Ari Karras
> Bishop
> Ken and Tammy Sedam of Marion, Ohio
> Diane Cockerham
>
>
=====================================================
Subject: Translation of Tom's message in French
Mel et. al. Except for a few words, and even fewer phases I don't speak French, but I knew who to ask for a translation. Given proper motivation I can be very resourceful. I live near my old high school so I went by and as luck had it, the man who taught French when I was a student was still there. I took a one semester course in conversational French, and he remembered me. The paragraph translates as follows: "The sky (heaven) just became a greater place because they have you. My tears cannot stop halfway along my cheek. But your smile will always be in my heart." He said that even though there is a word for heaven, taken in this context the translation probably is to be taken as "heaven" instead of "sky". For the sake of the ones who have not read the article, and those of us who want to read it again, please give the location of the article that explains the signifiance of the reference to the tears not stopping halfway down his cheek. I remember the reference, but not where I found it. The teacher also said it meant that someone was crying so hard they could not stop the flow of tears. So it is a doubly appropiate statement.....
Benita
=====================================================
Subject: Re: I'm so glad that you're all here
Hi Mel and fellow musgravers. I can relate to Cheryl's story except my parents don't have a clue how much Roddy means to me. (Yes the present tense, even though he's gone) but I actually got a symphthy card from a friend of mine who had met Roddy many years ago, and knew of my spritual relationship, wasn't that nice? Is there anyone out there from New York? Would it be possible, I wonder to see if there are any video's for sale from last year's Christmas Carol? It's one of my favorite stories and to have seen Roddy in it would have been wonderful. Unfortunately I didn't find out about it until too late. Actually I think Roddy should have done it has a movie or TV special. Who better than himself to be himself in the Christmas past segment? All it would have needed was clips from his earlier movies digitally remastered with dialogue entered in. I think it would have been great. Don't forget too, Roddy was in a TV special call "A Christmas Carol--the sequel" a really funny bit.
Love to all
Sue
----------
> Subject: I'm so glad that you're all here
> Date: Sunday, October 04, 1998 9:43 PM
>
> Hi Sue (and everyone).
>
> I was also spending this weekend with my parents. Thankfully, my
> husband saw the report on CNN and broke the news to me. He is aware
> of my devotion to Roddy, but I don't think that even he knows how
> deep it goes. I then devoted the rest of my weekend to distracting my
> parents while the news was on. They know how I feel about Roddy, but
> have never really understood - and I just couldn't discuss it with
> them.
>
> Only now, reading all of the reports that Mel has so kindly forwarded
> and everyone's reactions, am I beginning to deal with the shock. I
> thought that we'd at least have a chance to prepare for it, but it
> has all been so sudden. At least, knowing that the Musgrave
> Foundation exists makes me feel less alone.
>
> Cheryl
>
>
=====================================================
Subject: 2 New members
Welcome to our new members ---
Janet Comby
Jbilly
(sorry, I've run out of witty ways to introduce new members).
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Message from new member JBilly
Just wanted to say that I was, like many others who have written to this site, that I was also shocked and saddened by Mr. McDowall's death. I have been an admirer of him since I was a little girl, for over 25 years. When the Planet of the Apes movies were out and very popular, everyone in the neighborhood loved them and that was when I and my friends becames fans. Through the years, I grew apart from films and fell out of touch with his work, and when I heard of his illness and then his death this past Saturday, Some of the fond remembrences of my childhood came back. It was really wonderful to happen upon your web site. God bless Mr McDowall and his family. I am sure that with all the wonderful contribution he had made to our world, that he is in a very wonderful place.
JBilly@aol.com
=====================================================
Subject: First letter from Tom Greene
Date: Fri, 1 Nov 1996 11:24:44 -0500
Subject: Re: Tales of the Gold Monkey
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Second letter from Tom Greene
This is the second exchange of letters I had with Tom Greene two years ago. This and the first letter are both Reprinted Articles in our Tribute website.
By the way, we've since learned that Roddy didn't speak French. Guess he just faked it so well.
--Mel
-----------------------------
Date: Tue, 5 Nov 1996 12:28:34 -0500
Subject: Re: Tales of the Gold Monkey
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Thanks..
> I can't even bring myself to watch anything with him in it. This is
> going to be harder than I ever thought it would be.
>
> Joni
>
But Joni, surely you'll watch his biography on Thursday at A&E?
Janice, you asked about Lord Love a Duck -- TCM *is* showing this film next week, at 12 midnight Eastern on Oct 13.
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Visit AMPAS website
There's a beautiful photo of Roddy in the Academy's Press Release webpage at http://www.oscars.org/pressreleases/index.html.
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: A&E Biography of RM -- description
October 8, 1998
Biography: Roddy Mcdowall: Hollywood's Best Friend
An award-winning actor, a gifted photographer, an ardent activist for film preservation, a confidant to many of the industry's most famous personalities, Roddy McDowall has become an integral part of the Hollywood history he so loves. Now, A&E's new tribute to the life and work of this remarkably private man sheds light on his lifetime in the public eye and outside of it.
Among those interviewed for this special BIOGRAPHY are: Dolly Parton, Maureen O'Hara, Joan Rivers, Carol Burnett, Jane Powell, Dick Moore, Andy Griffith, Leonard Maltin, Charlton Heston, Kim Hunter, and Roddy's sister Virginia McDowall. Highlights of the BIOGRAPHY include never-before-seen home movies and rare photographs of McDowall from all stages of his life; clips, outtakes, and trailers from some of his most spectacular film work; and intimate interviews with friends and colleagues illuminating the man behind the icon.
Me either, Joni, but with time I think I could pop one of his movies into the VCR and sit back and enjoy it. Someone else said they couldn't cry. I haven't been able to until today. I'm not sure why.
Maybe it hasn't really hit me yet.
Janet
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Sad...very sad
I'm another one of those women who,as girls,had an all consuming fantasy that I could grow up and marry Roddy. I was 7 the first time I ever saw him,and today at 36 I still vividly remember the experience.It was "Bullwhip Griffin",and I fell instantly in love. Itwas the first childhood crush that lasted into adolescence-and beyond.I still love Roddy,but no longer feel the same way about Gilligan or Peter Tork of the Monkees.I only got a computer about a month ago, and one of the first things I did was to find Roddy sites,and his address. Finally I was going to write to him! I desperately wanted his autograph.And after all these years to suddenly find a wealth of Roddy stuff, and other people who loved him too! I've known Roddy fans,(I even married one.),but none with my devotion.I thought a whole new world of following Roddy's every public move had opened up to me.And just as suddenly it was all over.Oddly enough,I first heard of Roddy's illness in an email from an old friend I hadn't spoken to much for 10 years.With dread I signed on each day to check on how he was doing.Also ironically,I first heard of his death in a message in the guestbook.I kept hoping they had heard wrong,or had misunderstood the news of his illness,but in my heart I knew he was gone.The first thing I did the next morning,(Sunday),was to sign on,and there they all were,the reports of his death.Tearfully I called my husband at work to ask him to bring home a newspaper, and he instantly knew why.I managed to hold myself together all day because I didn't want my children to see me bawling.I thought when they went to bed I could put a tape on and have a good cry.A strange thing happened though. I didn't cry when I watched him. I found it hard to be sad.As it had always done,it made me happy to watch him.As usual I thought how good an actor he was,how beautiful he was, (Ah! Those eyes!),and how gentle.Although it was getting late and I had to be up to take my daughter to school in the morning, I still felt a need for a release. So,I went out to the computer and sat and read all the guestbook entries and had a good cry.I'm still crying occasionally and trying to get it to sink in. It still seems unreal.At one time in my early teens Roddy was my complete obsession.If there had been VCRs then I would have become a total Roddy junkie,only coming up now and then to breath and eat.No, I would have just eaten while I watched. In my adulthood I maintain a preference for all things English which started with Roddy. I even married a sweet,gentle Englishman of my own,(Roddy being unavailable!) It has been awful tucking all the newspaper articles and computer print-ups on his death into the scapbook I started as a kid.I feel as if I'm finishing something,saying,"Ok.This is done now." I don't want it to be.It isn't really,because I'll always save the things I find on him. But it won't be the same anymore.It's no longer keeping track of the life of one of my favourite people. It's just remembering it.It isn't supposed to be that way.Roddy was supposed to go on forever,sort of the way one feels about one's parents.Like them,it seems like Roddy has always been there.I can't believe he's gone. And to certain people I must say,he was a very private man,who greatly respected the privacy of the many famous people he knew.Let's respect him enough to do the same.
Tammy at kwsedam@aol.com
=====================================================
Subject: Daily Telegraph obit
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Re: 2 New members
> Welcome to our new members ---
> Janet Comby
> Jbilly
>
Welcome!
Lynne Ackerman
=====================================================
Subject: RE: Thanks..
Thanks for telling me about the next showing of Lord Love a Duck. As sad as I am about his passing, I can't wait to watch as many of his movies as I can get my hands on. Like everybody else in this group, and I am so new to it, I wish I could have found it years ago, I loved him so very much. The best thing I can do is continue to revel in his work, and hope that I can be as good of a friend to the people that I love as he was.
Janice
------------
> I can't even bring myself to watch anything with him in it. This
> is going to be harder than I ever thought it would be.
>
> Joni
>
But Joni, surely you'll watch his biography on Thursday at A&E?
Janice, you asked about Lord Love a Duck -- TCM *is* showing this film next week, at 12 midnight Eastern on Oct 13.
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Thanks..
>
> Me either, Joni, but with time I think I could pop one of his movies
> into the VCR and sit back and enjoy it. Someone else said they
> couldn't cry. I haven't been able to until today. I'm not sure why.
>
> Maybe it hasn't really hit me yet.
>
> Janet
Well, let me tell you. I hadn't cried over his death yet either. Sure, I was sad and totally bummed out, but I never really got emotional. Then, whoops! I made the mistake of watching the White Cliffs of Dover at a friends house, which I hadn't seen for, like, forever. That did it. That scene where Roddy and Liz are together and she says goodbye to him while holding the horseshoe nail ring, that just had so much meaning right at that moment, and tears stood in my eyes. I NEVER cry during movies! I just ruined my average. Damn.
Kari
=====================================================
Subject: hello
Oh yeah! Welcome to all you new members! Hey, for everyone that will be watching Roddy's biography on Thursday, pay attention to the highlights so you can share them, please. I'm not that lucky. Thank you!
Kari
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Visit AMPAS website
> There's a beautiful photo of Roddy in the Academy's Press Release
> webpage at http://www.oscars.org/pressreleases/index.html.
>
> --Mel
>
>
They've moved Roddy's picture to http://www.oscars.org/pressreleases/98.10.01.html, the press release where they announced they'd be naming the Academy photo archive after him.
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Visit a fan's tribute website
Tribute page at http://members.spree.com/batcomputer/roddy1.htm. Got soundbytes of Roddy as the Mad Hatter.
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Re: New member Bill Covert
Hi Bill and welcome. There is support in numbers.
Sue
----------
> Subject: Re: New member Bill Covert
> Date: Monday, October 05, 1998 7:56 PM
>
> Welcome, Bill.
>
> You're joining us at a difficult time for all of us, but at least we
> have each other to share the grief with.
>
> Lynne
>
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Thanks..
Watch it?? I'm going to tape it. I have two VCR's so I can get four copies, in case anything goes wrong with three of them.
Sue
----------
> Subject: Re: Thanks..
> Date: Tuesday, October 06, 1998 9:31 PM
>
> > I can't even bring myself to watch anything with him in it. This is
> > going to be harder than I ever thought it would be.
> >
> > Joni
> >
>
> But Joni, surely you'll watch his biography on Thursday at A&E?
>
> --Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Visit a fan's tribute website
> Tribute page at http://members.spree.com/batcomputer/roddy1.htm. Got
> soundbytes of Roddy as the Mad Hatter.
>
Wow! Have you listened to the sound bytes? The excerpt from "Perchance a Dream" is stunning!
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Translation of Tom's message in French
>The paragraph
> translates as follows: "The sky (heaven) just became a greater place
> because they have you. My tears cannot stop halfway along my cheek.
> But your smile will always be in my heart." The teacher also said it
> meant that someone was crying so hard they could not stop the flow of
> tears. So it is a doubly appropiate statement.....Benita
Thanks Benita. This translated quote says all and more than i could ever put into words.
...And the double meaning is VERY appropiate.
Paul Worley
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Roddy McDowall
Kris--
This was such a wonderful post I felt I had to comment on it. After staying up half the night Monday reading the list obits and commiserating with everyone's grief (having just gotten the news), I spent Monday ghosting through work in a haze of melancholy and general unhappiness. I was just beginning to recover a bit later that evening when I read your missive. It reminded me that a good death is just as much worth celebrating as a good life. If Roddy died the way he wanted, where he wanted, then it was. I'm much better now, two days after 'ground zero', even if I still feel his loss at odd moments. I'm not a crier so I haven't shed much in the way of tears, though they may sneak up on me later.
I was thinking today, however, that it would be nice if someone, somewhere would memorialize Roddy with some type of gathering. Every report I've seen says that no formal services will be held, at his own request, but I'm kind of hoping that some ambitious soul will hold a good old-fashioned Irish wake in his honor. You know, the kind with drinking, singing and story-telling about the dearly departed. I think it would suit him, somehow.
I also want to thank Mel profusely for all the work she's done in collecting and distributing the obits and other info relating to Roddy. I've spent two whole evenings reading every word in my mailbox, and the stories about his life and comments from his friends have cheered me enormously. What a terrific thing this group is.
Stephanie
redraven@tir.com
----------
> Subject: Roddy McDowall
> Date: Tuesday, October 06, 1998 6:36 PM
>
> Hello All,
>
> I've been reading the comments from so many, expressing such a deep
> sorrow I wanted to share this with you folks.
>
> After hearing of his passing, I thought I should grab the Puffs and
> head for the bedroom for a "cry my eyes out" session. However, I found I
> could not. I found that I was not sad enough to cry. If anything, I felt
> almost a sense of happiness.
>
> I felt happy that Mr. McDowall was able to pass away at home, where
> he wanted to be, as appose to passing in a hospital with tubes running in
> and out of him. He was able to be the the people he loved and who loved
> him, "just the way he planned it".
>
> I'm happy he did not suffer long, if at all. Thank God he died from
> brain cancer and not AIDS, or liver cancer, or died in a car wreck, or
> was shot down in the streets or died of a drug overdose.
>
> I fell happy that he lived to be 70 years old. I hope I live to be
> 70.
>
> I'm happy that he lived a successful life. I'm happy that he knew
> the finer things in life and knew and loved fine people. I'm happy his
> personal wealth kept him out that retirement home.
>
> I'm happy he lived a public life. What if he had never started
> acting. There would be this beautiful human being, that only a few would
> know.
>
> AnyWho, I could go on and on.... We all pass on. I look forward to
> meeting him next time...
>
>
> Thank you Mel doing such a fine job. Keep up the good work. Thank
> you Roc for starting it all. Your talents are unmatched. The flowers are
> beautiful.
>
> Thank you,
>
> Kris Birch
=====================================================
Subject: A curtain call for 'Hollywood's best friend'
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/features/1008hal.htm
A curtain call for 'Hollywood's best friend'By Hal Boedeker
Sentinel Television Critic
Published in The Orlando Sentinel, October 8, 1998
Television becomes eulogist tonight and carries out that role with great poignancy.
"He's a kind man, an honorable man, an honest man," Andy Griffith says. "He brings that goodness and that honesty into all his work."
He's praising Roddy McDowall, his No Time for Sergeants co-star on Broadway. The London-born actor proved his versatility by playing a Southern redneck.
McDowall, who died Saturday at age 70 of cancer, was a versatile human being: an accomplished photographer, an activist for film preservation, a child star who gained artistic maturity, a loyal pal who kept confidences in hurly-burly Hollywood.
It's appropriate that A&E Biography titles its tribute "Roddy McDowall: Hollywood's Best Friend." The hour program airs at 8.
Television plays a vital cultural role when it turns biographer, slows down to take the long view, charts successes and setbacks. Life wasn't a string of successes for McDowall or anyone else.
To one generation of filmgoers, McDowall will be remembered as the child star of How Green Was My Valley and Lassie Come Home. To another generation, he was a simian star of Planet of the Apes and three of its four sequels.
But his greatest achievement was probably going to New York in the 1950s to study acting and broaden his talent. McDowall wasn't sure he knew how to act, former child star Dick Moore says.
McDowall would go on to play a psychopath in Compulsion, connive as Mordred in Camelot and win a Tony for The Fighting Cock.
He would win an Emmy too, but his best shot at an Oscar would evaporate: A studio clerical error cost him a supporting actor nomination for 1963's Cleopatra. His sarcastic performance as Octavian enlivened the last part of that lumbering epic.
The down-to-earth actor understood how to remake himself. He showed mettle in pleasing his stage mother and later going off on his own.
"My whole life I've been trying to prove I'm not just yesterday," he once said. Biography loses a bit by not incorporating footage of McDowall talking about himself.
Yet this timely appraisal, completed shortly before his death, has many other assets. You may have read the obituaries, but the vintage film clips and Virginia McDowall's thoughts about her brother deepen the story.
Carol Burnett and the ageless Maureen O'Hara salute his acting ability. His sense of humor was evident when he appeared on Burnett's show in his Apes makeup and played the villainous Bookworm on Batman.
There are clips of The Ballad of Tam Lin, his unsuccessful foray into directing, and snippets of a 1958 TV production of Heart of Darkness with Boris Karloff.
Dolly Parton and Jane Powell talk fondly about McDowall's friendship. "You can tell him anything, and he will not tell anyone else," Joan Rivers says.
McDowall exhibited an old-fashioned graciousness, and he kept his private life just that, a remarkable feat in a celebrity-driven culture.
He gave more than 400 film, stage and TV performances. American Movie Classics saluted him Wednesday, and Turner Classic Movies will honor him Monday by screening Lassie Come Home, The White Cliffs of Dover, Lord Love a Duck and The Loved One.
His story could become legend. He was a child star who could have been crushed by the movie industry but became its biggest proponent. "Hollywood's Best Friend" is a fitting epitaph.
To reach TV critic Hal Boedeker, write:
The Orlando Sentinel, MP-12, P.O. Box 2833, Orlando, Fla. 32802-2833.
Phone: (407) 420-5756.
E-mail: OSObodeker@aol.com
[Posted 10/07/98 4:01 PM EST]
Hi all,
I just watched the Biography segment on RM and I think that it is finally hitting me that he's really gone.
It was a wonderful segment. They handled Roddy with taste and class. I just wish that he had been interviewed himself - but that really wouldn't have been his style. It was wonderful to see his sister, Virginia, though. I'd always wondered what had become of her after her career as a bit player back in the 40's. Did you all notice how much her accent differed from Roddy's? She sounded much more "American," - although I always thought that Roddy's accent was heavily influenced by his long life in the US, he sounded much more "English." I also loved the photographs of his early childhood and his parents - I'd never seen pictures of them before.
If you're out there, Roc, I was wondering if they used any of the material that you gave them. They flashed the credits by so fast that I couldn't tell if you were listed or not.
Cheryl
=====================================================
Subject: RE: New member Bill Covert
Hi All!! Thankyou for the very warm welcome! I too, am and have been a big fan of Roddy's for years... I am also saddened by this news... We truly have lost a great talent..............
-----Original Message-----
Subject: Re: New member Bill Covert
Date: Monday, October 05, 1998 7:56 PM
Hi Bill and welcome. There is support in numbers.
Sue
----------
> Subject: Re: New member Bill Covert
> Date: Monday, October 05, 1998 7:56 PM
>
> Welcome, Bill.
>
> You're joining us at a difficult time for all of us, but at least we
> have each other to share the grief with.
>
> Lynne
>
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Sad...very sad
Tammy, I must say, I can't help but agree with you more. You put into words what I feel much more eloquently than I was able to. Roddy was indeed that pedestal dweller that we all love, and even lusted after.
I had forgotten Bullwhip Griffin until you mentioned it. I LOVED that show, and even had a book about it at one time. I'll have to go through my "stuff" to see if I still have it.
You also hit a nerve when you talked about him being like your parents, that they should go on forever. This Sunday will be the 8th anniversary of my mother's death. I have no father, so obviously this is a very tough time for me. Yep, I really feel "alone"!
Oh well, enough of my pity party!!
Take care all!
Susan Munsey
On Wed, 7 Oct 1998, The Musgrave Foundation wrote:
> I'm another one of those women who,as girls,had an all consuming
> fantasy that I could grow up and marry Roddy. I was 7 the first time
> I ever saw him,and today at 36 I still vividly remember the
> experience.It was "Bullwhip Griffin",and I fell instantly in love. It
> was the first childhood crush that lasted into adolescence-and
> beyond.I still love Roddy,but no longer feel the same way about
> Gilligan or Peter Tork of the Monkees.I only got a computer about a
> month ago, and one of the first things I did was to find Roddy
> sites,and his address. Finally I was going to write to him! I
> desperately wanted his autograph.And after all these years to
> suddenly find a wealth of Roddy stuff, and other people who loved him
> too! I've known Roddy fans,(I even married one.),but none with my
> devotion.I thought a whole new world of following Roddy's every
> public move had opened up to me.And just as suddenly it was all
> over.Oddly enough,I first heard of Roddy's illness in an email from
> an old friend I hadn't spoken to much for 10 years.With dread I
> signed on each day to check on how he was doing.Also ironically,I
> first heard of his death in a message in the guestbook.I kept hoping
> they had heard wrong,or had misunderstood the news of his illness,but
> in my heart I knew he was gone.The first thing I did the next
> morning,(Sunday),was to sign on,and there they all were,the reports
> of his death.Tearfully I called my husband at work to ask him to
> bring home a newspaper, and he instantly knew why.I managed to hold
> myself together all day because I didn't want my children to see me
> bawling.I thought when they went to bed I could put a tape on and
> have a good cry.A strange thing happened though. I didn't cry when I
> watched him. I found it hard to be sad.As it had always done,it made
> me happy to watch him.As usual I thought how good an actor he was,how
> beautiful he was, (Ah! Those eyes!),and how gentle.Although it was
> getting late and I had to be up to take my daughter to school in the
> morning, I still felt a need for a release. So,I went out to the
> computer and sat and read all the guestbook entries and had a good
> cry.I'm still crying occasionally and trying to get it to sink in. It
> still seems unreal.At one time in my early teens Roddy was my
> complete obsession.If there had been VCRs then I would have become a
> total Roddy junkie,only coming up now and then to breath and eat.No,
> I would have just eaten while I watched. In my adulthood I maintain a
> preference for all things English which started with Roddy. I even
> married a sweet,gentle Englishman of my own,(Roddy being
> unavailable!) It has been awful tucking all the newspaper articles
> and computer print-ups on his death into the scapbook I started as a
> kid.I feel as if I'm finishing something,saying,"Ok.This is done
> now." I don't want it to be.It isn't really,because I'll always save
> the things I find on him. But it won't be the same anymore.It's no
> longer keeping track of the life of one of my favourite people.It's
> just remembering it.It isn't supposed to be that way.Roddy was
> supposed to go on forever,sort of the way one feels about one's
> parents.Like them,it seems like Roddy has always been there.I can't
> believe he's gone. And to certain people I must say,he was a very
> private man,who greatly respected the privacy of the many famous
> people he knew.Let's respect him enough to do the same.
> Tammy at kwsedam@aol.com
>
>
=====================================================
Subject: Sad Times
Hi di hi all!
This is my first e-mail to here and I joined after hearing the awful news about Roddy.
I have been a fan of his every since I can remember (I am now 35) and he was my absolute favourite actor. I am from Leeds, England, and so wished he had come over here more than he did. I never did get a chance to see him anywhere and truely wished I had received a signed photo to frame, but I will never get this now.
It doesn't look as if there is going to be any tributes on our cable, satellite or television channels or if there is, I have heard of nothing as yet. Our papers hardly gave him a mention!
Is he featured in many magazines over in America? If so, could anyone get me any to send to me? I will gladly pay for them and postage. It is a pity that such a fine actor is being forgotten in the place he was originally from!
I would love to have any videos as well as I can play the America ones on my player thankfully. I know there was a big tribute to Roddy on one of the channels. Would they be able to get me a copy does anyone know?
I am 35 years of age as I mentioned and got married on 20th June this year. I am not working but the last job I had was as an extra in Ewan McGregor/Michael Caine's new film coming out next month 'The Rise and Fall of Little Voice'. It was fun and I got a lovely photo of myself with them both!
I hope that they do remember here over here on the television as he was one of the true greats.
Love,
Diane
=====================================================
Subject: Newsgroup movement to secure Lifetime award for RM
Subject: Roddy McDowell deserves a life time achievement Oscar. Author: Daniel Rush Email: jimpeig4@webtv.net Date: 1998/10/07 Forums: alt.fan.furry The adresses are coming but your help is needed to spread the word around the web that the late actor Roddy McDowell deserves a life time achievement Oscar for his life in film and the many diverse accomplishments he has given to the arts. It would be sad if Hollywood decided not to show Mister McDowell the respect of a greatfull community and the millions of fans who have enjoyed what he gave. Start the ball rolling and lets give back Roddy the achievement he always deserved. Daniel Rush
Oh dear, you shouldn't have said that, Sue my friend. Um, I know if I mention this, it might open up flood gates, but would you consider taping me a copy of the biography? I'd be glad to pay all cost for the tape and shipping and stuff. I'm just completely missing out here and feeling all bitter about it. It's O.K. if not, but I'd sure appreciate it! (Or anyone else who's feeling extra generous this week!)
Kari
>
> Watch it?? I'm going to tape it. I have two VCR's so I can get four
> copies, in case anything goes wrong with three of them.
>
> Sue
>
> ----------
> > Subject: Re: Thanks..
> > Date: Tuesday, October 06, 1998 9:31 PM
> >
> > > I can't even bring myself to watch anything with him in it. This is
> > > going to be harder than I ever thought it would be.
> > >
> > > Joni
> > >
> >
> > But Joni, surely you'll watch his biography on Thursday at A&E?
> >
> > Janice, you asked about Lord Love a Duck -- TCM *is* showing this
> > film next week, at 12 midnight Eastern on Oct 13.
> >
> > --Mel
> >
> >
=====================================================
Subject: RM friends to pay tribute?
From a report by Jeannie Williams for USA TODAY, October 7. The occasion was the celebration Monday by New York's Municipal Art Society of the rebirth of Grand Central Terminal.
--Mel
-------------------------------
U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan was on hand, as were Lee Radziwill Ross and husband Herbert Ross, Pat Lawford, Tommy Tune, Bobby Short and Dominick Dunne. Dunne and columnist Liz Smith fondly recalled the late Roddy McDowall, and Dunne said he'll write a tribute for Vanity Fair.McDowall was the most discreet of friends, but Dunne said, "He knew more secrets than anybody I ever knew!"
UPDATE: Dunne and Smith said many McDowall friends aren't happy that the actor requested no memorial service. Whether some kind of event will take place, anyway, remains to be seen. Tuesday, longtime friend Elizabeth Taylor said in a statement: "I'm still too stunned to put my thoughts together in a coherent enough way to describe my relationship with Roddy McDowall. His life was his genius. His love was a blessing."
Welcome to all new members.
--Janet
=====================================================
Subject: Letter from Jeff MacKay
Jeff played Corky (the plane mechanic) in the Tales of the Gold Monkey series. He posted this letter in the Monkey bulletin board.
--Mel
-------------------------
Jeff MacKay <boink@inreach.com> Couldn't let Roddy's sad passing go without comment. He was a real pro, a gentleman and a friend. He was a piece of history in the film business and it was an honor to work with him and to know him. I remember the first time I met him. It was in Don Bellisario's office at Universal just before shooting was to begin on the series. Don, Steve and Roddy were talking when I walked in and was introduced to him. I told him that I was thrilled that he was joining us and that he would add a good measure of class to the show... add a measure of class... that he did... that he did.
Diane,I could send you copies of the articles I have found,(not many so far.),and would be glad to send you a copy of the Biography show,etc. Are you sure you can play NTSC tapes? email me at kwsedam@aol.com
Tammy
=====================================================
Subject: Biography
Kari, You can call to order a copy. It's 1-800-423-1212. If you call during the day you will get a REAL person to speak to. It's $19.95 + tax if applicable, and I think, $4-$5 shipping and handling. If this doesn't work, letme know and I will get you a copy somehow. I ordered one and taped two, but my tapes have the commercials in them. I didn't think I'd be able to watch it, because I had an awful day at work on Thursday, but it was so well done and so good it actually brightened my day.
Sharing an RM friendship
Sue
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Letter from Jeff MacKay
does anyone know if roddy ever had a romantic interest ( i wish it would have been me) someone i know told me he was homosexual, although it wouldn't matter to me either way i don't think he was
i miss him so much
Sabryna
=====================================================
Subject: Re: A curtain call for 'Hollywood's best friend'
Mel, thanks so much for all the care and attention you are taking with this web site. Your patience and love has helped us all through a very difficult time (especially me, who as you know has not had that great a summer). I am now going to listen to my positive affirmation tapes and hopefully start to rise above the clouds. A&E's biography of Roddy was wonderful and I'm going to put it with all the tributes you sent us and that I've run off. Thanks again for all your help.
Sue
=====================================================
Subject: RE:Sad Times
Dear Diane,
I am sure that People Magazine will have a tribute to Roddy and I will be most happy to send it to you when it comes out. I will also keep my eyes open for anything else that turns up. No need to worry about cost, perhaps you can one day send me some articles from England on Michael Crawford, who is my other favorite actor. If you would like to send me your address, you can e-mail me at
dpowell@adelphia.net
I am 36 years old and, like you, can barely remember life before Roddy. Currently, I'm not working either - as I decided to stay home with my son. (I couldn't talk my husband into naming him Roddy - but I did manage Thomas, which was Roddy's father's name).
Where is Leeds in relation to London? I've only been to London in the UK.
Love,
Cheryl
=====================================================
Subject: Entertainment Weekly Oct 16, 1998
This week's issue focuses on science fiction, so there's Cornelius gracing the cover (along with Locutus, Han Solo, the X-Files duo and classic Godzilla).
Half of page 92 is devoted to Roddy, "Hollywood's Boy Next Door". It has a 1968 publicity photo for Planet of the Apes (as Roddy and as Cornelius).
Recommended.
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Roddy McDowall
Since Roddy requested no memorial service be held, instead of a wake, how about a film festival? Celebrating the movies would be something he would approve of! I'm sure some of us live near enough to each other to get together to watch a few of his films.Maybe some of you have some rare tv appearances or films that aren't often shown that you could invite us to share in with you.(For my part, about the only rare thing I have is "The Tempest".) Anybody have any thoughts on this idea? Has anyone ever considered a fan convention? That would have been great to have done in his lifetime. He might even have come to it.
Tammy at kwsedam@aol.com
=====================================================
Subject: RE: Newsgroup movement to secure Lifetime award for RM
I was stunned when I watched Biography last night on A&E how Roddy got accidentally ripped off for a possible Best Supporting Actor Oscar for Cleopatra when some bonehead made a clerical error and entered him in the wrong category! The Academy sent him a letter apologizing for the error, but said they had no choice but to disqualify him that year for what would have very possibly been a sure win. What a total shame! If the Academy did give him a lifetime achievement Oscar, who would be able to accept it for him? I hear that his sister, and only surviving relative, Virginia, is in the Actors Retirement Home. I wonder where it would go? God, I am going to miss him. For anyone who had a chance to see Biography last night, it was a great show. I knew Roddy was great and much loved in Hollywood, but I was totally surprised at how much! Every so often you make a connection with someone, an actor or someone you have never met, but it isn't until they are gone that you realize just how much of a connection was made. Rest in peace, dear Roddy. You will most certainly be missed.
Janice Saari
Olympia, Washington
=====================================================
Subject: Re: 2 New members
Ditto. Welcome onboard to all our new RM friends
sue
----------
>
> Welcome to all new members.
>
> --Janet
>
=====================================================
Subject: (Fwd) Need for a photograph ??
Dear All,
Firstly, as a technologist I should like to congratulate you on a great-looking Web-site - well thought out.
Secondly - I have a request.
I have recently purchased a 1966 Sunbeam Tiger car from a gentleman on the West Coast and have now shipped this car back to the UK for restoration. This gentleman had owned the vehicle for 27 years and purchased it from Roddy McDowall in ~ 1972/1973.
From some inquiries that I have made - I understand that Elizabeth Taylor was the original owner and gave the car to Roddy in the late 1960's.
In your archives do you have any photographs of Roddy or Elizabeth in the 1960's in any such motor vehicle ?.
If you are unable to help I would appreciate you pointing me in the right direction. Research like this is very difficult from the other side of the Atlantic !.
Many thanks in anticipation.
Regards,
Frank Dugdale
Frank_Dugdale@lotus.com
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Biography
(Cheryl wrote:)
> If you're out there, Roc, I was wondering if they used any of the
> material that you gave them. They flashed the credits by so fast that
> I couldn't tell if you were listed or not.
I did see Roc's name in the credits. Good for you, Roc!
Lynne Ackerman
=====================================================
Subject: (no subject)
Was very sorry to hear about Roddy's death...I've always wondered about his personal life...Was Roddy ever married or romantically involved with anyone? I know he was very close to Elizabeth Taylor and wondered if he was ever personally involved with anyone in particular...
The site is great by the way and very informative...
Adriane
=====================================================
Subject: More online tributes, AND Angela Lansbury misses Roddy
RM Tribute Pages
http://www.dejanews.com/channels/hom/hom_fp6.shtml
Deja News
http://TCM.turner.com/events/obits/mcdowall.htm
Turner Classic Movies
Nice obit and it has an animated GIF showing a scene each from three movies (now who here can identify those movies?) Only thing that's uncool about the site: the obit has been cut-and-paste-proofed. *sigh* I'll type it, if I've the time and strength (I'd been inputting data two days running, now I know how you felt Roc), unless someone else kindly volunteers to do it?
------------------------------------
Lansbury misses McDowall
( USA TODAY )
Though his friends knew Roddy McDowall had incurable cancer, Angela Lansbury says his death Saturday was still a shock.
"Roddy was the type of person one expected to be around for years and years. . . . He was like a caretaker for so many of us."
Lansbury, 72, first met a 12-year-old McDowall in 1940, when they were both contract players at MGM. They didn't act together, however, until 1971's Bedknobs and Broomsticks. McDowall also made four appearances on her CBS series, Murder, She Wrote.The last time she saw him was four weeks ago at a party at his house. "He was entertaining, as he always did, marvelously. He collected people, and everyone simply adored him."
In keeping with his wishes, there will be no big Hollywood funeral. "We can only talk about him, because that's the only way to keep his memory alive. So that's what we'll do."
Copyright 1998, USA TODAY, a division of Gannett Co., Inc.
Robert Bianco, Lansbury misses McDowall., USA TODAY, 10-06-1998, pp 02D.
------------------------------------
Did anyone else know that Angela is the sister of Bruce Lansbury, who was the producer of Fantastic Journey?
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: San Francisco Chronicle: McDowall Was a Treasure
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: RE: Newsgroup movement to secure Lifetime award for RM
JANICE wrote:
> If the Academy did give him a lifetime achievement Oscar, who would
> be able to accept it for him? I hear that his sister, and only
> surviving relative, Virginia, is in the Actors Retirement Home. I
> wonder where it would go?
I'd say Virginia should be the one to accept it for him, as the surviving relative and as a former actress herself. As to where it would go, probably to Boston University along with all his other stuff (which won't be open to the public until another hundred years).
And it's not just a Lifetime Oscar he deserves, he ought to be given a Lifetime Emmy too, if there's such a thing.
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: A&E BIO
I was upset when I learned I would be working when A&E's Biography was scheduled to air, but I set my VCR and went on to work. My intentions were to come home, watch it and have a good cry. But instead I smiled. It was wonderful to see all those vintage film clips and photo stills. Many I had never seen. The comments by his friends were warm and loving w/o being overly sentimental. It was kind of hard at first to hear him being refered to in the present tense, it sort of drove home he was gone. But then I thought surely he was given an advance copy to watch and was able to hear the comments himself. Besides, it would have given it an entirely different slant if it were done now. His career was so long and full, it was difficult to get it all in a hour-long show, so a lot of things were skimmed over quickly and of course others were left out entirely.
But over all it was a warm and loving tribute to someone who was first, last and always a gentleman.
Benita
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Roddy McDowall
I would go for something, some sort of fan convention would be great. All I would have to share is some old scrapbooks on him, but it would be such a blast to meet more RM fans and share stories.
joni
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Newsgroup movement to secure Lifetime award for RM
> I'd say Virginia should be the one to accept it for him, as the
> surviving relative and as a former actress herself.
I agree that Virginia should be the one to accept, if the academy would give him a lifetime achievement award. (Have they ever given one posthumously? I'll have to research that). They could have some of Roddy's Hollywood friends do the presenting and the review of his career.
> As to where it
> would go, probably to Boston University along with all his other
> stuff (which won't be open to the public until another hundred
> years).
It was my understanding that the public could look at the stuff related to his career. It was just his personal diaries (where all of the juicy stuff would be) that are off limits until 2100.
Cheryl
=====================================================
Subject: Re: A&E BIO
> But then I thought surely he was given an advance copy to watch
> and was able to hear the comments himself.
Benita, our contact at Van Ness Films earlier this week said, "we are pleased to know that Roddy approved of this biography".
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: TCM tribute
Courtesy of Nancy Babb (thanks, dear!). But do try to visit the website itself (http://TCM.turner.com/events/obits/mcdowall.htm) and have a look at that animated GIF file. We'd like some opinion on which films the images came from.
--Mel
---------------------------------------------------------------------
=====================================================
Subject: Fright Night
Had anyone else seen a "Making of" kind of documentary when Fright Night came out in 1985? When the film was being shown in Manila back then, the local tv would always show a "Making of" or "Behind the Scenes" documentary hosted by Roddy. He'd start by introducing himself, which taught me how to pronounce his name correctly, then there'd be scenes from the film, a discussion of the special effects, and so on. Unfortunately, I didn't have a VCR and I've always wanted to see that documentary again. Anybody here has copy of it?
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Newsgroup movement to secure Lifetime award for RM
Yeah, I agree. It's just his diaries and stuff that we can't see until the year 2100. Do you realize that means I'll have to live to be 138 years old?! (I might be able to do it. Nosiness is a very powerful thing...)
Tam at kwsedam@aol.com
=====================================================
Subject: Re: TCM tribute
> Courtesy of Nancy Babb (thanks, dear!). But do try to visit the
> website itself (http://TCM.turner.com/events/obits/mcdowall.htm)
> and have a look at that animated GIF file. We'd like some opinion
> on which films the images came from.
>
> --Mel
>
>
I think the black and white image is from "Lord Love a Duck." It has been awhile since I've seen it, but since it is due to be shown on TV in the next couple of days, we can check for sure.
Benita
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Letter from Jeff MacKay
O.K., this is the second message I've read tonight which has to do with Roddy's relationships, so I'll tell you a little about what I've read (take it with some skepticism, people, 'cause you can't believe everything!) Roddy was very discreet, as he was with all his friendships, but yes, he did have male relationships according to many accounts. I didn't recognize any of the names, the only one that stands out as I remember was one who was living with him at the time they were making Cleopatra. He left Roddy for an actress, then tried to come back, but Roddy refused. This guy was so devastated then, he overdosed and tried to kill himself (geez, real stable person!) His name was strangish, and I don't remember what it was. There also might have been something between him and Monty Clift, but nothing's clear.) This was written up in one of Liz's bios, by the way, I'm just repeating!)But I think Roddy's first passion was for the theatre and the great stars, and seemed to be the guy that everyone clung to when they were struggling or feeling depressed. He was just a sweetheart!
Kari
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Biography
Thank you thank you Sue! I tried contacting A&E, but they weren't very helpful, and I kept getting referred to other departments. You made my day.
Kari
>
> Kari, You can call to order a copy. It's 1-800-423-1212. If you
> call during the day you will get a REAL person to speak to. It's
> $19.95 + tax if applicable, and I think, $4-$5 shipping and handling.
> If this doesn't work, letme know and I will get you a copy somehow.
> I ordered one and taped two, but my tapes have the commercials in
> them. I didn't think I'd be able to watch it, because I had an awful
> day at work on Thursday, but it was so well done and so good it
> actually brightened my day.
>
> Sharing an RM friendship
>
> Sue
=====================================================
Subject: Re: TCM tribute
The one black and white picture is from Lord Love a Duck,the one colour one where he's really young and wearing a carnation---Holiday in Mexico? They've got me stumped on the one colour one with the fake(?) grey hair,but the other looks like a posed still.
Tammy
=====================================================
Subject: Re: TCM tribute
I'm pretty sure that the image of Roddy as a teenager is from Holiday in Mexico. The one in which he is wearing a sweater and tie and has gray hair appears to be from the Fright Night days - but I couldn't swear that it was from that movie. No clue as to the others.
Cheryl
> Courtesy of Nancy Babb (thanks, dear!). But do try to visit the
> website itself (http://TCM.turner.com/events/obits/mcdowall.htm)
> and have a look at that animated GIF file. We'd like some opinion
> on which films the images came from.
>
> --Mel
=====================================================
Subject: thanks
I joined this list after reading of Roddy's death and finding the list through a link on CNN.
It has been comforting to see many others who feel as I do about this wonderful man. Wish I had found you all before. My story is the same as many of you. I have enjoyed Roddy for the past 25 yrs., first discovering him when I was about 11. He's been a large part of my life. I spent these years following his work and enjoying every bit of it. I believed Roddy to be an extremely talented and kind man. My favorite was to see him on talk shows like Merv, where he appeared as *himself*. You could see his warmth and sincerety, verifying his unpretentiousness. (could someone find me a shorter word please) ;)
I wrote to him a couple of times in the 80's and he wrote back friendly, warm, personal letters - immediately. The first time I wrote to him I enclosed drawings I had done of him from scenes of his movies. He took the time to write cute little comments on each of them, autographed them, and sent them back to me. (I was hoping he'd keep the drawings, but I ended up more tickled to get all the little notes scribbled on them!)
Anyway, thanks to everyone for sharing all of your feelings. I knew this day would come at some point. I knew I would feel loss and sadness. But I have to admit, I did not think it would be *this* painful. It appears Roddy had a wonderful full life - and I am happy for him in that respect. But from a selfish point of view, I feel crushed, sad and empty that he has left us. It hurts really bad.
Frankie
onetoo <onetoo@ibm.net>
=====================================================
Subject: People Magazine
People magazine, October 19, 1998 issue, pp. 5, 161-162.
Get two.
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: animated Superman
Found out too late, this morning's (new) episode, "Knight Time", had Superman masquerading as Batman, and there was a guest appearance by Roddy as the voice of the Mad Hatter.
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Obituary
Hi,
There was only a couple of items in the obituary columns in a few of our newspapers over here in England about Roddy's death and in one it said "he never married" but in another it stated that "he was gay"!
I was appalled at the way they "outed" him so to speak while writing about his sad death. It didn't really matter if he was gay, straight, or whatever as it never did affect his wonderful acting.
Love,
Diane
P.S. A couple of you kind people said they would get me some magazines, etc., about him. I will write to you in the next few days. And yes, my video is meant to play American videos as well!!
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Letter from Jeff MacKay
Thanks for sharing what you have read, Kari. I've also seen this discussed on the internet since Roddy's death, but have taken it with a grain of salt as Roddy was determined to keep his private life just that - private. The fact that he managed to do so in the goldfish bowl of Hollywood makes me admire him all the more.
No matter what his inclinations may have been, I do find it sad that he never had children. I think he would have been a wonderful father.
Cheryl
=====================================================
Subject: 138 year olds attack Boston University!
Well, there we will be Tam, two 138 year olds waiting at the door of the library on Jan 2, 2100 (I imagine they're closed on New Years Day!) Nosiness is indeed a powerful thing.
Cheryl
=====================================================
Subject: Entertainment Weekly obit
Roddy McDowall 1928 - 1998
Hollywood's Boy Next Door
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Re: thanks
Hello everyone! This is my first time to write. Like Frankie, I joined this group after Roddy's death, I found it quite by accident-I was hoping to find some pictures of him on the internet to cheer myself up, but I found so much more!
I have been "hanging back" and just reading all the heart warming messages and tributes to my favorite actor. It's so nice to know that there are so many others out there who feel like I do, I had no idea... It is indeed comforting. I wish I had found you ALOT sooner.
My story is very similar to so many others. I remember first seeing him when I was around 6 or 7 years old, and have loved him ever since. The one unique thing that stands out for me was when I discovered his photography, especially his portraits. From all accounts I've heard , Roddy McDowall was a "people" person who cherished his friends and fans. If we were on a battery, Roddy woud be the + end and I would be the -. Growing up, I was one of those kids who was perfectly happy to curl up with a book, my drawing supplies, my cat, shut the door and never bother with other people. My parents would have to drag me out just to eat! My Mom and Dad,be very social, warm, open loving people had no clue with what to do with me, I was so unlike them! What do you do with painfully shy 12 year old daughter , who loves reading science fiction( No little girls do that! Planet of the Apes was HEAVEN for me folks!), spending the whole day reading or drawing, hated talking on the telephone, and would become a hermit if your let her. Consequently, out of their desparation to try anything, I usually ended up with whatever I asked for or showed interest in. One such gift was a book of photography by,( Oh Joy of Joys), Roddy McDowall himself. I loved it, but I remember one particular day, I looking at a picture of a very pretty lady with beautiful eyes, and suddenly making the connection that this was a Person - a living beathing person who was precious just because she existed. I had no idea who Elizabeth Taylor was at the time, But by looking though Roddy McDowall's eyes, that shy, lonely teenager was finally able to make the "connection" that people mattered, and were worth my time and attention,for the first time in my life I understood . I think it"s called an epiphany. Anyway ,I'm 38 now, and have come a long way. I still tend to live my life in my head and am not all that crazy about telephones, but I do come out to say Hello now and then. I found out that I really do like people , I work as a Registered Nurse now, I also ended up with a degree in photography along the way. Portraits are my speciality. I will always love Roddy McDowall.What a wonderful man! I guess that's why, lie Frankie, I feel crushed, sad and empty by his death. But we'll always have his memory. Sorry this is so long . Thanks!
Janet
=====================================================
Subject: People magazine obit
People Online has said in its website this article will appear only in the magazine. There are photos from Lassie Come Home and Planet of the Apes, on the set of Evil Under the Sun, and (the one I like best) a 1940's photo of Elizabeth Taylor chasing him on a beach. There's also a photo in the table of contents (right smack in the middle of it).
--Mel
=====================================================
Subject: Hi guys
Just wanted to know.. I was flipping thru the photos in your archives after gaining bio information on Roddy for my belated obituary on my Dolly Parton page (since they did a film together) and I saw the pic of Dolly and Roddy on the set of Unlikely Angel... Who is the third person in the photo? the Director, producer...?? also, is the photo a "publicity" photo, available for purchase from any source you know of? Also -- In case its slipped by you (Which I doubt) Unlikely Angel is being released on Video this year.
Thank you for your time,
Mark@Dolly.net
BluRgMtBoy@aol.com
www.dolly.net
=====================================================
Subject: Re: 138 year olds attack Boston University!
Ha! I'll only be 124, so I'll beat you both up the steps! ;)
Kari
The Musgrave Foundation wrote:
>
> Well, there we will be Tam, two 138 year olds waiting at the door
> of the library on Jan 2, 2100 (I imagine they're closed on New
> Years Day!) Nosiness is indeed a powerful thing.
>
> Cheryl
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Newsgroup movement to secure Lifetime award for RM
Without a doubt he deserves a Lifetime Acheivement Award---I never understood why he didn't get one years ago. His huge involvement within and love for the indusrty should have been enough to get him that award. If nothing else he deserves a warm, loving tribute from the academy. We'll see.
A & E's BIO was terrific. The previews the night before kept saying that we would learn more about this "private man." I'm ever so happy they left him alone and stuck with his career. As crazy as this may sound, I felt a sense of closure by watching it.
Also, an RM get together sounds great. Imagine all of the stories we have about letters, cards, etc., we've gotten through the years that we could share with each other.
Take care, everyone. By the way, to make sure we aren't all sending magazines to the U.K. , should we decide to have one person do it and the all help with expenses? Just an idea.
Welcome new members.
Paige-Marie
=====================================================
Subject: Re: (no subject)
Sunday evening I was having dinner with my brother and his wife. I happened to mention that McDowall had cancer and my brother says, "Oh, yeah; he died the other day". I was in shock! Haven't quite gotten over it yet. I have put off reading this mailing list until now. Had meant to join some time ago. I've been a fan for over 30 years. He has always been my number one favorite actor. Never thought he would ever go away. :) I am glad that it wasn't drawn out and painful for him.
brenda
---The Musgrave Foundation <rmgroup@juno.com> wrote:
>
> Somehow I missed entirely any reports Saturday of Roddy'spassing.
> I was not until Sunday when I read it in the paper. My breath was
> knocked out ot me. While of course I did not want him to reach the
> point of lingering and suffering I thought we would have him for a
> little longer. We barely have had time to adjust to the news he
> was ill. I started crying when I read it. Having grown up as a
> fan, his death had left a hole in my heart and soul that won't
> ever be filled. Benita
>
>
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Biography
So are you all set? Glad I could help.
Sue
----------
> Subject: Re: Biography
> Date: Saturday, October 10, 1998 6:16 PM
>
> Thank you thank you Sue! I tried contacting A&E, but they weren't
> very helpful, and I kept getting referred to other departments.
> You made my day.
>
> Kari
>
> The Musgrave Foundation wrote:
> >
> > Kari, You can call to order a copy. It's 1-800-423-1212. If you
> > call during the day you will get a REAL person to speak to. It's
> > $19.95 + tax if applicable, and I think, $4-$5 shipping and handling.
> > If this doesn't work, letme know and I will get you a copy somehow.
> > I ordered one and taped two, but my tapes have the commercials in
> > them. I didn't think I'd be able to watch it, because I had an awful
> > day at work on Thursday, but it was so well done and so good it
> > actually brightened my day.
> >
> > Sharing an RM friendship
> >
> > Sue
>
>
=====================================================
Subject: Re: thanks
> unpretentiousness. (could someone find me a shorter word please) ;)
humble?
> I wrote to him a couple of times in the 80's and he wrote back
> friendly, warm, personal letters - immediately. The first time I
> wrote to him I enclosed drawings I had done of him from scenes of his
> movies. He took the time to write cute little comments on each of
> them, autographed them, and sent them back to me. (I was hoping he'd
> keep the drawings, but I ended up more tickled to get all the little
> notes scribbled on them!)
Still got them? Got a scanner? I'd LOVE to see them!!!
BTW, Welcome to the group Frankie!
Paul Worley
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Obituary
You're right, Diane, that's incredibly tacky. That's like writing someone's obit, then tacking on at the end, "Oh, and he liked redheads." Who cares? Just because he was a star is no reason not to show some respect, especially a man as deserving of it as Roddy. And this may be an incredibly dumb question, but IS there a difference between American and British videos?
Kari
>
> There was only a couple of items in the obituary columns in a few
> of our newspapers over here in England about Roddy's death and in
> one it said "he never married" but in another it stated that "he
> was gay"!
>
> I was appalled at the way they "outed" him so to speak while
> writing about his sad death. It didn't really matter if he was
> gay, straight, or whatever as it never did affect his wonderful
> acting.
>
> Love,
> Diane
=====================================================
Subject: Re: People Magazine
>
> People magazine, October 19, 1998 issue, pp. 5, 161-162.
> Get two.
>
> --Mel
Heck with that! I'll just clean out 7-11's entire rack, and watch the clerk freak. ;)
Kari
=====================================================
Subject: Re: Letter from Jeff MacKay
Back in the 70's he was photographed with Tammy Grimes alot.
brenda
>
> does anyone know if roddy ever had a romantic interest ( i wish it
> would have been me) someone i know told me he was homosexual,
> although it wouldn't matter to me either way i don't think he was
>
> i miss him so much
>
> Sabryna
>
=====================================================