The Turbulent Life and Times of Robert Blake

Robert Blake in 1976

"If it weren’t for acting, I’d probably be carrying a gun today, or I’d be dead. I always thought I’d be dead by the time I was 30.’…(Robert) Blake admits he was emotionally confused for most of his early life and carried a monumental chip on his shoulder for being short and foreign-looking. He had assorted other hang-ups and when he got out of the Army in 1956, Bob was uniformly messed up. ‘The Army gave me $100 a month to go to school…but I couldn’t make it at City College. I couldn’t talk to anybody. I had a place up in Laurel Canyon (Los Angeles) and all it was was wine, women and pills.”

- Robert Blake, from "An Actor Who's Acting for his Life," by Don Page, The Los Angeles Times, September 16, 1966

Emmy-winning actor Robert Blake passed away on March 9, 2023.  According to a statement by his  niece, Noreen Austin, Blake died of heart disease in Los Angeles, surrounded by friends and family.  He was 89 years old at the time of his passing.  The talented, but deeply troubled actor, constantly wrestled with his personal demons.   

Robert Blake will be remembered primarily for two reasons: his much-acclaimed role as the star of Baretta in the 1970s detective series, and the tragic May 4, 2001 shooting death of his wife, Bonny Lee Bakley outside a Studio City, California restaurant.  robert blake movies and tv shows was accused of killing her, but was acquitted in a controversial 2005 trial.  Let's begin with his background and his rise to fame.  

Robert Blake was born Michael James Gubitosi on September 18, 1933 in Nuttley, New Jersey.  HIs father, Giacomo (James) Gubitosi was an Italian immigrant and his mother, Elizabeth Catone, an Italian American.  In 1930, James worked as a die setter, setting up equipment for a can manufacturer.

James and Elizabeth were also vaudeville entertainers and they wanted their three children to be successful in show business.  By 1936, two-year-old robert blake movies and tv shows was performing with his brother James and his sister Joan in a family vaudeville act called The Three Little Hillbillies.  In 1938, the family moved to Los Angeles and the children worked as movie extras.

In his early childhood, Blake was known as "Mickey Gubtosi."  He launched his acting career as Toto in the 1939. MGM film Bridal Suite, starring Robert Young.  At the age of five, young Mickey won a role in MGM's Our Gang series ( also known as Little Rascals).  He appeared in the Our Gang short films from 1939 until 1944.

Mickey eventually changed his name to Bobby Blake.  From 1944 to 1947, he played "Little Beaver," a native American boy in 23 short films of the Red Ryder Western series for RKO Studios.  (He continued to use the name Mickey Gubtosi in the Our Gang series).

Blake as Mickey in the Our Gang comedies

Robert Blake as "Little Beaver"

Blake also performed in The Big Noose (1944), one of Laurel and Hardy's later films, and in Warner Brothers movies such as Humoresque (1944), portraying John Garfield's character as a child.  He also played a Mexican boy alongside Humphrey Bogart in The Treasure of the Sierra Madre (1948).

robert blake movies and tv shows was one of the first child actors to transform successfully into adult roles.  American author Michael Newton described his career as "one of the longest in Hollywood history."  Despite his success as a child actor, Blake had a miserable childhood.  His father, James, was an alcoholic and Blake accused both his parents of physically and sexually abusing him.  He claimed he was frequently locked in a closet and forced to eat off the floor as a punishment.  Not surprisingly. Robert Blake was expelled from several schools as a teen.

It isn't clear whether Blake was actually drafted into the United States Army or whether he enlisted.  He claimed he was drafted in 1950.  However, an  item in the Stateman-Review, dated March 30, 1953, states otherwise:

“Filmland’s Little Beaver has traded moleskins for khaki. Bobby Blake, 19-year-old former player in the Red Ryder Western series and Our Gang comedies, entered the army today.” – Little Beaver in Army, Los Angeles, May 29, The Stateman-Review, March 30."

Robert Blake spent most of his military service in Alaska,  In 1992, he told the Los Angeles Times that he was a sergeant in the Special Services,, and a performer.  Blake stated that he fell in love for the first time, with a 16-year-old girl, while stationed in Alaska. He claimed that he was placed under military detention while awaiting a court martial.  

Robert has been quoted as saying that he planned to kill the girl's father, but a priest arranged a settlement between the girl's family and the Army in which Blake agreed never to see her again.  As a result, he was honourably discharged from military service.

Upon leaving the Army, Blake returned to Los Angeles, He found himself without job prospects, which led to a two-year period of depression and substance abuse.  He became addicted to  cocaine and heroin, and he also became a drug dealer.  Nevertheless, he managed to pull himself together and re-establish himself as an actor. He began taking acting classes with black-listed actor Jeff Corey.  He was no longer a cute kid and he struggled to find work, but unlike many former child stars, he managed to become a successful adult actor.

Robert Blake starred in numerous motion pictures as an adult, including The Purple Gang (1950), a gangster movie.  He was also featured roles in Pork Chop Hill (1959) and A Town Without Pity (1961), as well as all 25 episodes of the well-received but short-lived The Richard Boone Show (1963-1964).  

He guest-starred in numerous episodes of TV series such as Have Gun-Will Travel (1960-1962, 3 episodes), Ben Casey (1962), Rawhide (1965, 2 episodes), The F.B.I. (1965-1966, 2 episodes), 12 O'Clock High (1966) and Death Valley Days (1966).

Blake won critical acclaim for his performance in the 1967 film In Cold Blood, based on Truman Capote's novel about a real- life murder case. He delivered a chilling portrayal of killer Perry Smith in the film.  However, his role in In Cold Blood, took its toll on him.  He later revealed to People that after working on the film, he suffered from depression, required psychiatric help, and was unable to work for two years.

From 1975 to 1978, Robert Blake delighted TV audiences as Anthony "Tony" Baretta, a plain-clothes detective, on the hit ABC series.  Baretta.  His character was known for two notable catch phrases - "That's the name of that tune,"  and "You can take that to the bank."  

Tony Baretta was a bachelor who lived in an apartment in an unnamed American city.  When frustrated, he occasionally spoke to his late father, Louie Baretta.  He drove a rusted blue 1966 Chevrolet Impala four-door sports sedan nicknamed "The Blue Ghost", and he referred to his many girlfriends as "cousins."

On April 27, 1977. Robert Blake announced his intention to leave Baretta after completing his  contractual obligation for the season.  In a 1996 interview with Tom Snyder, Blake said that he loathed being committed to the series and that Baretta was "terrible experience."  He further stated, "You do a series so that you can work with giants (in film).  

Still, robert blake movies and tv shows won the 1975 Emmy Award for Outstanding Leading Actor in a Drama Series for his role as Tony Baretta (and was nominated again in 1977.  He also earned the 1976 Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Television Series (tied with Telly Savalas for Kojak).  

Below is a photo of Robert Blake as Tony Baretta with his pet cockatoo, Fred.

After Baretta ended, Blake appeared in several TV movies such as Of Mice and Men (a 1981 TV adaptation of the John Steinbeck novel in which he played George Milton); Blood Feud (1983), in which he played Jimmy Hoffa; Heart of a Champion: The Ray Mancini Story (1985) and Judgment Day: The John List Story (1993)   

In 1985, Robert Blake starred as Father Noah "Hardstep" Rivers. in the NBC series Hell Town.  He played a hard-living Catholic priest in a crime-ridden, impoverished neighbourhood of East Los Angeles.  Father Rivers was a rather unorthodox clergyman, but he fit in perfectly.  He was an ex-convict and he knew all the petty crooks and gangs in the area.  He was able to help the street kids.

Robert Blake in Hell Town

Robert Blake quit Hell Town abruptly when his personal demons became overwhelming.  He told the Los Angeles Times that he was behaving erratically and having suicidal thoughts.  The stress from his divorce from his first wife and his work on Hell Town, as well as other projects, were too much for him to handle.  As a result, only ten episodes of the series were ever made.  After his breakdown, Blake sought psychiatric help and he didn't return to work for a period of seven years.  

Blake's final screen credit was David Lynch's 1997 neo-noir horror film  Lost Highway, in which he played the "Mystery Man."  His 2002 arrest for murder effectively ended his acting career.  

Robert Blake was married three times.  In 1961, he wed actress Sondra Kerr.  The marriage ended in divorce in 1983.  The couple had two children, actor Noah Blake (born February 1,1965) and Delinah Blake (born 1966).

In 1999, Blake met Bonny Lee Bakley at a jazz club.  Bekley was a woman with a checkered past.  When she met him, she was operating a business that specialized in swindling money out of lonely hearts.  She was also involved with Christian Brando, son of actor Marlon Brando.  Christian had been released from prison in 1996 after serving 6 years of the 10-year sentence he'd received for pleading guilty to voluntary manslaughter in the death of his half-sister Cheyenne's boyfriend (Cheyenne, a fashion model, committed suicide in 2005 at the age of 25).

In 2000, Bonny Lee gave birth a baby girl named Rose Lenore, nicknamed "Rosie."  A paternity test revealed that Robert Blake, not Christian Brando, was the father of the child.  Bakley and Blake married in November of that year.  Benny Lee had been married multiple times before.  In fact, Robert Blake was her tenth husband.

On May 4, 2001, Robert Blake and  Bonny Lee Bakley had dinner at Blake's favourite restaurant, Vitello's in Studio City.  Blake told L.A. police that they were walking to their car when he suddenly had to return to the restaurant to retrieve a revolver he had left at the table (That gun was not the murder weapon).  According to Blake, when he returned to the car, he found his wife sitting in the vehicle with gunshot wounds to the head.  The murder weapon was found in a dumpster and could not be traced to the actor.

Los Angeles police considered several suspects during their investigation, including Christian Brando and other men with connections to Bonny Lee.  However, they eventually targeted Robert Blake.  On April 18, 2002, Blake was arrested and charged with murder, conspiracy to commit murder and two counts of solicitation in connection with the death of of his 44-year-old-wife.  He and his defence lawyers tried to implicate Christian Brando.

Robert Blake's bodyguard, Earle Caldwell, was also arrented and charged with conspiracy in connection with the murder.  On April 27, 2002, Caldwell was released with $1 million bail, but parole for Blake was denied.  A judge dismissed the criminal charge against Caldwell.  The jury in the civil case also concluded that he did not collaborate with Blake.

On May 1, 2002, 68-year-old Robert Blake pleaded for his freedom before a Los Angeles Superior Court judge.  "I can't read," he told the judge.  "I spent grade school and high school sitting in back of the classroom with the children who couldn't talk English . . . I got straight D's."  The problem, he revealed, was dyslexia and he said that his condition was only diagnosed in the last 15 years.  He also said that he had appeared in a calendar for the L.A. branch of the International Dyslexia Association. and that he had learned his lines for his roles with the help of several assistants.  Nevertheless, the judge denied Blake's request for parole, but agreed to consider the matter after a preliminary hearing.

Robert Blake spent a year in prison.  On March 13, 2003, he was freed to await trial with a $1.5 million parole.  Blake continually denied killing Bonny Lee Bakley.  However, two stuntmen testified that they had been solicited to committed the murder. Their testimony lacked credibility, though, because they admitted to using drugs that may have caused delusions.  After a 12-week trial, the jury deliberated for nine days before before reaching a verdict.  On March 16, 2005, Robert Blake was acquitted of his wife's murder.

Despite his acquittal, further difficulties still lay ahead or the troubled actor.  He lost a civil suit brought forth by by his slain wife's three children.  On November 18, 2005, a civil jury found Blake liable for the wrongful death of Bonny Lee Bakley, and he was ordered to pay Bakley's family $30 million in damages.  Blake's attorney launched an appeal.  In 2006, the verdict in the civil case was upheld, but the penalty was reduced to $15 million.  Blake filed for bankruptcy with debts of $3 million for unpaid legal services.  

Robert Blake's supporters claimed that there was not enough forensic evidence to convict him of murder and that there were other suspects.  They also pointed to the fact that the murder weapon did not belong to Blake and that there were no witnesses who could say that he was near his vehicle when Bakley was shot.  In essence, they prosecution was unable to prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that Robert Blake had hired someone to murder his wife, nor that he had killed her himself.  Blake's detractors, however, contended that he got away with murder and that his case was reminiscent of the 1994 O.J. Simpson trial.

Robert Blake and Bonny Lee Bakley

Rose Lenore was just 11 months old when Robert Blake's murder trial began, and she was raised by relatives.  For years, she did not see her father.  They finally talked in  2019, 18 years after Bonny Lee Bakley's murder, and Rose Lenore spoke out about her mother's death to People magazine.  She also appeared on Good Morning America.  "I felt a bit like there were two parts of me," the then-19-year-old told Good Morning America.  "One of them is, you know, trying to kind of recover from what happened when I was young and trying to sort through the complicated family that I have.  And then one of them is just a normal teenage girl."

In the summer of 2019, Rose Lenore began to confront her past.  She reached out to her father and visited her mother's grave.  She stated that she and Robert Blake reminisced and looked at old photos of her childhood birthday parties.  However, she did not wish to broach the subject of his murder trial with him.   She specifically told him not to talk about it.  "I don't want to know . . . not right now.  I don't think I'm ready," she stated.  She she was still open to learning the truth, "if it's an option."

Rose Lenore in 2019

In the spring of 2017, Robert Blake married for the third and final time.  He wed Pamela Hudak, a woman whom he had known for years. Hudak had also testified on Blake's behalf at his murder trial.  A year after obtaining a marriage licence at Los Angeles City Hall, the couple divorced.

In 2012 Robert Blake appeared on Piers Morgan Tonight on CNN to promote his self-published memoir, Tales of a Rascal: What I Did For Love  (2011).  At times, Blake was incoherent during the interview and he became defensive and irate when Piers Morgan questioned him about the murder of Bonny Bakley.  He launched a tirade against the murder victim, describing Bakley as a "con artist" and a "liar."  He also railed against the L.A. police "who ripped my guts our and left me beside the road to die."

END NOTES

* In 1956, Robert Blake's father committed suicide at the age of 48.  Robert became estranged from his mother and did not communicate with her for 30 yeas.  She died in the late 1980s without reconciling with her son. 

* Despite his Italian background, Robert often played Lantin or Native American character.  He also portrayed detectives or criminals.

* Robert's older brother, actor James Gubitosi (born 1930), died on January 30, 1995,in Staten Island.  New York.  He was 65 at the time of his passing.  

* Robert's younger sister, Joan Blake (born 1932), performed with him in many episodes of Our Gang under the name Giovanna Gubitosi.  She changed her name to Joan Blake when her brother changed his name.  Joan passed away on February 28, 1985 at the age of 52.

* Delinah Blake, Robert's daughter by his first wife, Sondra Kerr, works as a psychology professor.  She is married to Gregg Hurwitz, a producer and scriptwriter.  They have two children.  For a time, Delinah and her husband helped raise her half-siter Rose Lenore in Sharman Oaks, California, a Los Angeles neighbourhood.  According to Alicia Dennis, senior editor of People, "Robert's daughter with a former wife (Delanah) adopted her.  They formed a family unit where rose called them mom and dad."

Delinah Blake

* In September of 2019, Blake launched a YouTube channel called "Robert Blake. I ain't dead yet, so stay tuned."  He talked  about his life and career on the channel.

SOURCES:  The Associated Press, "Robert Blake, famous actor who was also accused of killing his wife, has died," March 10, 2023; Reuters, "Actor Robert Blake, star of' 'Baretta' and 'In Cold Blood,' dead at age 89," by Steve Gorman and Bill Trott, March 9, 2023; Miltary.com, "Army vet Robert Blake Lives a Troubled Life in Hollywood," by James Barber, March 10, 2023; New York Post, "Blake: I Can't Read - But He's Denied Bail Despite Dyslexia," by David K. Li, May 2, 2002; Good Morning America website, "Daughter of actor Robert Blake opens up 2 decades after her mother's death," by Angeline Jane Bernabe. October 17, 2019; 50+ World, Biography, Movies, TV: "That Little Rascal Robert Blake," May 10, 2023; Grunge.com, "The Real Reason Robert Blake Was Acquitted Of His Wife's Murder; Wikipedia; Internet Movie Database (IMDb)

- Joanne

Y&R Report (Saturday, March 11, 2023): The Latest on The Young and the Restless

Hey Y&R fans, every second Saturday TV Banter discusses the latest happenings and provides commentary on your favourite daytime drama. Note to U.S. readers - SPOILER ALERT: Here in Canada, I watch the show on Global TV which is one episode ahead of CBS.  I will inevitably refer to incidents you haven't seen yet.  Read at your own risk.  If you are the curious type, though, you may prefer to discover some things in advance.

Hi fans,

The fiery redhead is wounded and dangerous.  Yes, Phyllis has had enough.  She feels disrespected and misunderstood, especially by her two children, Summer and Daniel.  That's why it's no surprise that she has joined forces with a felon like Jeremy Stark.  Now that Phyllis has discovered that Jack and Diane have not left the country, she has hatched a plan with Stark. It seems to be working.  The two lovebirds have been lured away from the Abbot's rustic cabin.  They are back at the Abbot home and they have announced their engagement to a stunned Kyle and Summer.  Kyle and Summer are less than thrilled, so imagine how Ashley is going to take the news.  She'll hit the roof.

I really enjoyed the fairytale sequence in Diane's wedding day dream, especially when Summer and Ashley were so nice to her.  Ashley was even going to be Diane's maid of honour.  It was hilarious..  Everything was going perfectly for Diane, when suddenly her dream turned into a nightmare.  Her darkest fears took over.  Her necklace turned into the diamond necklace that she and Jack stole from Nikki.  Then Stark showed up!

I'm pleased that Jack and Diane won't be drinking wine and making goo-goo eyes at each at the Abbott cabin anymore.  Stark will be doing more than just haunting Diane in her dreams.  He'll be haunting her for real.  By the way, how did Stark get the number of Diane's cell phone?  (He texted her).  I guess we're not supposed to ask that question.  

Y&R must be trying to cut costs.  Where is Harrison these days?  We haven't seen him on screen for a while.  What about the sets?  Why don't they show Sharon's home anymore?  She seems to be living at the coffee shop.  

Nikki Newman is about to host a costume ball in hounour of Genoa City's bicentennial.  That should be fun and its a great way to also celebrate Y&R's 50th anniversary.  I expect that the five characters from Y&R's will be front and centre at the festivities.  In case you missed it, the five are Michael Damian (Danny Romalotti), Trish Cast (Nina Wesbster), Patty Weaver (Gina Roma), Barbara Crampton (Leanna Love) and Veronica Redd (Mamie Johnson).  

A costume ball, with everyone in disguise is a  great setting for mystery and drama.  A big event in Genoa City is rarely without intrigue behind the scenes.  Y&R launches its onscreen 50th anniversary celebrations on Wednesday, March 22 on CBC (Tuesday, March 21st on Global TV).  The show was first broadcast on March 26, 1973, but March 26th falls on a Sunday this year.

On March 27th.CBS will also air a primetime special to mark the golden anniversary of the soap.  The special will be hosted by Nischelle Turner of Entertainment Tonight (If you miss the initial broadcast,  it will be available for on-demand viewing on Paramount+.  The special will include interviews with Y&R cast members and will feature a behind-the-scenes studio tour. Viewers will enjoy a look-back at the shows epic romances, most memorable weddings and the feuds and rivalries that have shaped The Young and the Restless over the years.  There will also be tributes to deceased cast members Jeanne Cooper (Katherine Chanellor) and Kristoff St. John (Neil Winters).

VIEWER FORUM

If you have any comments on Y&R, please email them to me with "Viewer Forum" in the subject line. I will be happy to publish your comments and reply to them  You do not have to use your real name. 

My email address:  jmadden16@yahoo.ca

I received an email with some comments from longtime Y&R viewer CC in Etobicoke, Ontario.

Hi Joanne,

As far as Jack is concerned, I think he is making a complete fool of himself. (Nick is neck and neck with him).  I can picture all the viewers watching, sneering and laughing at him as he romances and makes his vows of everlasting love to Diane. 

If he only knew what she has up her sleeve.

Even Diane seems to be amused about how easy it was to reel him in.

Not sure I believe the reason she gave for initially refusing his proposal.  It is just planting a seed for a stalling tactic.to avoid the marriage should it get too close to actually taking place.

I think Diane quite enjoys the kinds of relationships she has with Stark and Tucker.

Take care,

CC

Hi CC

I have to agree that Jack Abbott is making a total fool of himself over Diane.  Diane is a master manipulator and she will never stay out of trouble.  She really was amazed at how easy it was to reel Jack in.  He's so gullible.  He actually believes that he and Diane are out of the woods.  He actually believes that if they ignore Stark and pretend he doesn't exit, that he'll have no control over them.  Sorry, Foolish Jack, but it doesn't work that way  

Jack would be much better off with Phyllis.  Phyllis has plenty of faults, but at least she wasn't using Jack, the way Diane is.  Phyllis had never been after the Abbott money.  She's never wanted to be Lady of the Abbott Manor.

I don't think a marriage between Jack and Diane will ever happen.  Ashley, Nikki and Phyllis will do everything in their power to prevent it.  If it does happen, though, it will be a complete and utter disaster.

As for Nick Newman, he is full of himself.  He's another fool.  Sally has much better chemistry with Adam. He's only involved with Sally to cause conflict between the two Newman brothers.

Here are some email comments from Carly in Barrhaven, Ontario.

I still don't trust Diane and Jack is being such an idiot.  I am not a fan of the actor playing Tucker McCall.  He does not suit Ashley at all.  He's weird.  I love Sally and Nick together but I know it will be short-lived and she'll end up with Adam.  I wonder if she'll lose the baby???  What do you think about the Devon/Lilly storlyline?  And Nate and Victoria.

Well Carly, I completely agree with you about Jack and Diane, especially Jack.  He is acting like such a fool.  Tucker McCall is not my favourite character on the show, but I do think he has some chemistry with Ashley.  His behaviour is often weird or off-the-wall.  As for Nick and Sally, I have to disagree with you.  I like Sally much better with Adam.  Her pairing with Nick seems so contrived.  She has much more in common with Adam.  She may very well lose the baby.  It's hard to predict, but I can see that happening.

I am not a fan of Devon, so I support Lily.  I hope she wins the court case.  As for Nate and Victoria, I think its going to be very interesting.  Victoria claims that she always gets what she wants.  I think she will entice Nate to give in to her brazen flirting, at least for a while.  This time, he will probably lose Elena for good.  She won't give him another chance.

CAST NEWS

Mishael Morgan (Amanda) returns for courtroom drama

Mishael Morgan, who portrays lawyer Amanda Sinclair, will appear on our screens again.  She'll be back for some courtroom drama as Devon versus Lily over control of Chancellor-Winters. When we last saw Amanda, she was getting over the shock of seeking boyfriend Devon in a compromising position with Abby Newman Chancellor. It was a hurtful and humiliating experience for her.   Amanda will now represent Lily Winters in the court case against her former boyfriend, while Christine "Cricket" Williams will represent Devon.  It should be fun to watch.

Y&R REPORT READERS' POLL  

Ashley has obviously developed feelings for Tucker McCall again.  She hopes that Tucker will change for the better..  Can he?  Will he?  Can he be trusted?  At times, he seems really sincere.  At other times, he's such a snake-in-the-grass.  What do you think, fans?  Should Ashley pursue a romance with him, or should she keep her distance?  They seem to have good chemistry, but will he break her heart in the end.  Respond to the poll below and let me know.

Should Ashley pursue a romance with Tucker McCall?

Yes. They have good chemistry and they have both fallen for each other.

No way! Tucker is toxic. He'll just break Ashley's heart again. He can't be trusted..

I haven't made up my mind yet.

I don't know.

Other

 

pollcode.com free polls

That's all for now.  Please remember that the next edition of Y&R Report will appear in this space on Saturday, March 25, 2023.

Take care,

Joanne 

Fox News exposed!

Rupert Murdoch

At last!  Fox News has finally been exposed for the fraud it really is.  Fox has conned millions of people into believing that it is a legitimate source of news and information.  It is not.  It is all about entertainment, ratings and money.  Even Fox's founder, 91-year-old Rupert Murdoch, agrees to that.  We know because of Dominion Voting System's legal filing of Murdoch's deposition in Dominion's $1.6 billion defamation suit against Fox Corporation and Fox News.  Murdoch's deposition has provided a transparent look into the personal communications and decisions of the conservative network's big names around the time of 2020 election 

The deposition states the following: When asked why he continues to give Mike Lindell, the Pillow Guy, a platform to spout his lies about Dominion, Murdoch agreed that the reason he allows it is because Lindell's pillow ads bring Fox a lot of money.  He agreed that "It's not the red or blue, it is green . . ."  For Murdoch and Fox, it's all about the mullah. - not the truth.  Murdoch also stated that he could have stopped Fox from touting the Big Lie about the 2020 election. but didn't.

Tucker Carlson

Millions of Americans have been conned and brainwashed by Fox News.  They watch it constantly and believe it to be true.  Why?  First, because the same lies are repeated to them over and over.  Second, because it appeals to their natural prejudices and biases.  They are manipulated by the likes of Tucker Carlson, Laura Ingraham and Sean Hannity. 

Tucker Carlson has to be biggest fraud of all. Unfortunately, Kevin McCarthy, Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, gave Carlson the entire footage of the January 6th insurrection at the Capitol in Washington.  What did Carlson do?  He did his best to edit the footage in a way that would frame the violent attack on the Capitol as mainly peaceful.  It was nothing of the sort.  Just ask the family of U.S. Capitol Police officer Brian Sicknick, who died the day after he was assaulted by pro-Trump rioters.  I  watched the attack on the Capitol live that day.  I watched with my own eyes as an unruly mob of rightwing Trump supporters tried to overturn the legitimate 2020 election.  I watched as the Trump-led mob threatened to hang Vice-President Mike Pence.  Did Carlson show any video of the noose that was erected?  Of course not.

Carlson don't even believe most of the nonsense he spouts to his audience.  How do we know this?  In a private text message, two days before the January 6, 2021 attack, Carlson wrote: We are very, very close to being able to ignore Trump most nights.  I truly can't wait.  I hate him passionately.  Carlson also wrote  that the four years of Trump's presidency had been "a disaster."  Still, he continues to heap praise on Trump in public, despite trashing him in private.  

Murdoch and Carlson would see their own soul for money and power.  It's despicable that many of Fox's faithful viewers continue to believe its lies, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary.  How very sad that a so-called news organization is knowingly perpetrating lies to its viewers.  The truth must prevail if democracy is to survive in the United States of America and in the rest of the world.

- Joanne

Carol Burnett will celebrate her 90th birthday with a TV special

Carol Burnett, one of TV's greatest comedians, will be turning 90 years old this spring (She was born April 26, 1933 in San Antonio, Texas).  To celebrate, a 2-hour TV special will honour the life and career of the beloved entertainer.

Carol's variety/sketch comedy program, The Carol Burnett Show, ran for 11 seasons on CBS - from 1967 until 1978.  The show was groundbreaking because until Carol came along, variety was generally regarded as a male genre. 

Carol's original cast included Harvey Korman, Vicki Lawrence and Lyle Waggoner.  In 1975, Lyle left the show and Tim Conway, a frequent guest star, became a regular.  In 1977, Dick Van Dyke replaced Harvey, but Dick was not a good fit for the show and he departed after only ten episodes.

Sadly, only Carol, Vicki Lawrence and Dick Van Dyke remain alive.  Harvey Korman passed away in 2008 at the age of 81.  Tim Conway died on May 14, 2019 at the age of 85, and Lyle Waggoner died on March 17, 2020 at the age of 84.  How wonderful it would be if those three men could celebrate Carol's 90th birthday with her (By the way Vicki Lawrence is 73 and Dick Van Dyke is still active at sprightly 97 years old).

Carol's NBC birthday special, Carol Burnett: 90 Years of  Laughter + Love, was filmed at Avalon, Hollywood and Bardo in Los Angeles on March 2nd.  It will be aired on Wednesday, April 26, the exact day of Carol's 90th birthday.  On April 27th, it will be streamed on Peacock.

Carol's cherished friend, Julie Andrews, 87, attended the taping of the TV special.  Their reunion is showcased on the red carpet prior to the filming of the special.  Other stars attending the taping included Katy Perry, Sofia Vergara, Cher, Melissa Tomei and former Saturday Night Live comedians Kristen Wig, Amy Poehler and Maya Rudolph.  There were musical performances by Bernadette Peters, Billy Porter, Jane Lynch, Katy Perry, Kristen Chenoweth and others.

The special is a retrospective of Carol's career from her 1959 Broadway debut as Princess Winnifred in Once Upon A Mattress, to her performance as Miss Hannigan in the 1982 film version of Annie, to her much-acclaimed TV show.  It is a "can't miss" for Carol's legion of fans and admirers.

- Joanne

Y&R Report: The Latest on The Young and the Restless (February 25, 2023)

Hey Y&R fans, every second Saturday TV Banter discusses the latest happenings and provides commentary on your favourite daytime drama. Note to U.S. readers - SPOILER ALERT: Here in Canada, I watch the show on Global TV which is one episode ahead of CBS.  I will inevitably refer to incidents you haven't seen yet.  Read at your own risk.  If you are the curious type, though, you may prefer to discover some things in advance.

Hi fans,

Jeremy Stark is back and Jack Abbott and Diane Jenkins are in shock.  They never expected to see him again.  They foolishly believed they were in the clear.  How wrong they were!  Now they are getting exactly what they deserve.  Stark is back to haunt them.  Did Jack and Diane really think they could get rid of him so easily?  Diane should be very very afraid because Stark is hellbent on getting revenge on her.  This time I think he will have an ally in his attempt to bring her down.  HIs ally will be Phyllis.  Phyllis is quite desperate right now.  She feels alone, rejected, mistreated and misunderstood.  She has been fired from separate jobs by her own two children.  She has lost Jack to Diane, who has flaunted her relationship to Jack. She's very vulnerable right now and just as eager as Jeremy to bring Diane down.  Although she has refused Jeremy's offer, I think she will change her mind and decide to help him.  

Heather has informed Daniel that she has met someone else, and she and Lucy have returned to Portugal.  The writers decided  against keeping them in Genoa City for a while.  I guess they couldn't fit them into the storyline,  Their appearance closes the book on that chapter in Daniel's past and leaves him free to begin a relationship with Lily, which will happen eventually.

Well, Ashley Abbott seems to have the upper hand right now.  She's very pleased with herself and smug, isn't she?  She seem to  to be enjoying watching Tucker McCall squirm.  But what is Ashley's end game?  I don't think her motive is purely revenge or power.  So, what is she trying to accomplish?  Is she somehow trying to get control of the Abbott home so that Diane and Jack can't live there together?

Nate is going to regret becoming involved with Victoria.  Somebody is on to what's going on with the former doctor Nate and his boss, and it's not Nate's girlfriend, Elena.  It's Audra, the new COO of Neman Media and Noah's ex.  She clued right in.  She noticed the vibes between Nate and Princess Victoria.  When she mentioned it to Nate, he vehemently denied any romantic involvement with Victoria.  However, the look on Audra's face as left the office told the story.  She doesn't believe him.  Audra is an opportunist, it will be interesting to see how she uses her knowledge about Nate and Victoria.

By the way, it appears that Audra has been hired to to be a spy.  Her latest assignment is to find out who bought out Tucker's company before the Newmans had a chance.  I'm sure she'll soon discover that the buyer was Ashley. That should put Victoria on a collision course with Ashely.

The Sally Spectra baby drama continues.  The writers tried to tease us.  However, the father had to be Adam because that creates more conflict.  Actually, I was pleased because I don't like Sally and Nick Newman together.  I think Sally's going to become really fed up with the arguing between the Newman brothers.  Just wait until Victor gets involved, too.  He definitely won't be happy that Sally's the mother of a Newman baby, his grandchild.  Sally doesn't seem ready to be a mother and she may decide to put the baby up for adoption.  It would follow that the child would be adopted by Mariah and Tessa.

There has been a shakeup of Y&R's writing staff.  The shakeup means that head writer and executive producer Josh Griffith will have even more power, influence and responsibility.  So, if you don't like the storylines, you are more likely to blame him.  Here's the situation.  Just as The Young and Restless prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary, it's writing team has gotten smaller.  The entire staff of five breakdown writers has been fired, four of whom are women.  Breakdown writers map out story narrative over multiple episodes.  They are specifically used for daytime dramas because they have so many more episodes than prime time shows.  It is not clear whether the decision to fire the break down writers was made by Sony Pictures Television, which produces Y&R, or by Griffith himself.  Nevertheless, this is not a pleasing development and it does not bode well for the show.

Josh Griffith

CAST NEWS

Y&R celebrates 50th anniversary with return of old favourites

Michael Damian

Patty Weaver

Longtime Y&R viewers will be delighted to see the return of five characters in celebration of the show's 50th anniversary. Michael Damian (Danny Romalotti),who appeared at Christmas and New Year's, will be back again, as will Patty Weaver, who played Danny's big sister, Gina Roma. Gina operated a restaurant in Genoa City where she often entertained customers with her singing. Before starting he 30-year run on Y&R, Patty portrayed Trish Clayton on Days of Our Lives.

Tricia Cast will return as Nina Webster.  Nina is the best friend of Christine "Cricket." (Lauralee Bell).  Nina is also the mother of Philip Chancellor 1V, better known as "Chance."  She will probably be very interested in what's happened to Chance and Abby.  If she discovers the truth about Abby and Devon, she won't be too pleased.  

Trisha Cast

Barbara Crampton will return as gossip queen Leanna Love.  Leanna once wrote a tell-all book about Victor Newman entitled Ruthless.  It will be fun to watch Victor's reaction when he sees Leanna again.  Veronica Redd will reprise her role as Mamie Johnson, the Abbott family's housekeeper. and "surrogate mother."  Veronica is the second actress to play the role of Mamie, and she left the show in 2004.

Barbara Crampton

Veronica Redd

Melissa Claire Egan (Chelsea Lawson) expecting her second child

Some happy baby news to pass along to Y&R fans.  Melissa Claire Egan (Chelsea Lawson) is pregnant with her second child.  The actress revealed the news on Twitter by posting a photo of herself and her one-year-old son, Caden in which she shows off her baby bump.  The caption on the photo read, "Looks like we're just destined to have August babies.  So grateful and excited to be adding another cub to our family of Leo baby boys.  Caden's gonna be a big brother."

So, Melissa's pregnancy means that her character, Chelsea, will not be seen on the show while she has a maternity break.  Will Chelsea be written out for a while or will another actress replace her while she is on mat leave?  We will soon find out.  Right now, it looks like Melissa's character, who seems to have overcome a mental health crisis, and Billy Abbott (Jason Thompson) are headed for romance.  

Y&R REPORT READERS' POLL

Y&R characters often make unwise decisions or act foolishly.  It's what creates conflict on the show.  Sometimes, I just want to scratch my head and say, "How can you be so stupid?"  So fans, I would like to know which character on Y&R acts the most foolishly in your opinion.  Respond to the poll below and let me know.

Who is the most foolish character on Y&R?

Jack Abbott

Nick Newman

Sally Spectra

Kyle Abbott

Phyllis Summers

Nate Hastings

Abby Newman

Devon Hamilton

Billy Abbott

Victoria Newman

Diane Jenkins

All of the above

I don't know

Other

 

pollcode.com free polls

NOTE TO READERS

I really need your feedback.  If you have any comments on Y&R, please email them to me with "Viewer Forum" in the subject line. I will be happy to publish your comments and reply to them  You do not have to use your real name.  I really need your input.  I really need to hear your opinion.  I want to know if you agree or disagree with me. 

My email address:  jmadden16@yahoo.ca

That's all for now/  Don't forget that the next edition of Y&R Report will appear in

this space on Saturday, March 11, 2023.

Take care,

Joanne

Y&R Report (February 11, 2013): The Latest on The Young and the Restless

Hey Y&R fans, every second Saturday TV Banter discusses the latest happenings and provides commentary on your favourite daytime drama. Note to U.S. readers - SPOILER ALERT: Here in Canada, I watch the show on Global TV which is one episode ahead of CBS.  I will inevitably refer to incidents you haven't seen yet.  Read at your own risk.  If you are the curious type, though, you may prefer to discover some things in advance.

Hi fans,

We haven't seen the last of Jeremy Stark.  I'm glad because Diane Jenkins and her love-sick puppy, Jack Abbott, should not get away with what they've done.  They are not above the law.  They committed a crime by stealing Nikki's necklace and setting up Stark up to take the fall.  Jeremy is a low-life criminal, but that doesn't excuse what Diane and Jellyfish Jack did.  They are just as accountable under the law as Stark.

According to a teaser in Soap Opera Digest, Jeremy will get out of prison in the days ahead.  Of course he will seek revenge and there will be more threats and intimidation.  The difference this time is that The Big Man himself, Victor Newman will go head to head with Stark.  Victor is going to be very busy trying to deal with Stark and also gaining control of Tucker McCall's company so that he can bring prodigal son Adam back in the fold.   

Diane has a lot of nerve.  She just waltzed into Jack's office and sat behind his desk with a smug smile, as if she owned Jabot.  She behaved like the cat who caught the canary, the canary being Jack Abbott.  She even had the unmitigated gall to ask Jack for a promotion.  Diane is after Phyllis's former job.  She claims she has the right qualifications and that she wants to become closer to the family.

How many times have we heard Diane say that she returned to Genoa City to reconnect with Kyle, the son she abandoned?  However, her true motive has always been to marry Jack so that she will be the Abbott lady of the manor.  She wants to be the Abbott version of Nikki Newman.  I hope she never gets that ring on her finger.  What a disaster that would be!  Fortunately, I don't think it's ever going to happen because Jack and Diane are doomed.  They think everything is great/  They think they've gotten rid of Jeremy Stark for good.  Have they got a surprise coming for them!

"And they call it Puppy Love . . ."

Diane is unlikely to achieves her goal.  Nikki and Ashley and Phyllis will wipe that Cheshire cat smile off her face.  It's already starting to happen.  When Ashley returned from Paris, she argued with with her foolish brother. over Diane.  Jack threatened to kick her out of the Abbott house, but she protested that it was the family home.  Jack offered to buy her out, but she strongly refused his offer.  

Jack is so blinded by his feelings for Diane that he can't see what a manipulative woman she is.  He puts her ahead of his sister.  Jack and Ash usually get along so well. This is probably the biggest conflict they have ever had.

Wow!  Phyllis must be the only TV character who has been fired from one job by a daughter (Summer) and another job by a son (Daniel).  That could only happen to her.  She never should have sold The Grand Phoenix.  She really enjoyed running the hotel.  She was really suited for the job.

Phyllis is no angel, but I really think her meddling is sincere in a very misguided way.  She really believes she is helping her children.  She doesn't understand that she is way out of bounds.  I am not the biggest fan of Phyllis, but her heart is warmer than Diane's.  Phyllis has done some terrible things in her past, but she doesn't pretend to be something she's not.  Diane is a complete phony.  

It's obvious that Princess Victoria Newman has her sights set on Nate Hastings.  Of course, Dr. Elena thinks everything is going well in her relationship with Nate.  She has no idea yet that Victoria is getting ready to pounce on her boyfriend.  Victoria has already kissed Nate, and the two couldn't even talk about it.  They ignored the elephant in the room.  After the kiss, Nate was super sweet to Elena because he felt guilty.  Meanwhile, Victoria flirts with Nate, drinks wine with him, and feeds his ego.  You don't know it yet, Elena, but you will have plenty to worry about.

Could it be that Mariah and Tessa will adopt Sally's baby?  That would be interesting because the baby will have royal Newman blood, so Victor would have to become involved in some way.   It seems that every time Mariah and Tessa try to adopt a child, they are thwarted.  Something or other stops it from happening.  Meanwhile, Sally  is not ready for motherhood.  Nick sounds supportive now, but he may change his tune if Adam turns out to be the father.

Well, thanks to Phyllis, Heather and Lucy have returned to Genoa City.  Did you know that Heather is the daughter of Paul Williams (Doug Davidson) from his first marriage to April Stevens long ago?  That makes Lucy the granddaughter of Paul, although not biologically.

Lucy is actually the offspring of Daniel Romalotti and a criminal named Daisy, who drugged Daniel and took advantage of him.  It's interesting to note that Daisy is the daughter of Lauren's nemesis, the evil Sheila Carter, and Terrible Tom Fisher, Kevin's father who locked him in a closet.  With those two as parents, it's not surprising that Daisy turned out the way she did.

Daisy became a fugitive and escaped to Canada.  She was captured and jailed.  When she later regained custody of Lucy, Daniel decided to marry her in order to keep the child safe.  Daisy eventually overdosed on pills so that she could be admitted to a psychiatric hospital.  She then disappeared again.  Heather and Danial moved to Savannah, Georgia to raise Lucy together.

It's also interesting to note that Heather was once engaged to Adam Newman.  They ended their relationship on bad terms.  However, I wonder if  if Heather's former relationship will Adam will be a factor now that she has returned.

CAST NEWS

Melissa Claire Egan (Chelsea) has a new look

Melissa Claire Egan (Chelsea Lawson) has a new hairstyle.  She is wearing bangs.  Her character (Chelsea) has a more confident outlook.  She's much brighter and happier.  By the way, I don't believe for one second that her dinner with Billy Abbott was not a date.  Of course it was.  They were just afraid to call it that.  

Chelsea would be taking a risk by getting romantically involved with Billy Boy, given his track record with relationships, but nothing ventured, nothing gained.  Billy seems to have settled down somewhat, but he still can't seemed to find direction in his life.  Who knows?  Maybe they will be good for each other.

Y&R REPORT READERS' POLL

Michael Graziadei

Daniel Romalotti (Michael Graziadei) is back and he is front and centre in the storyline.  It seems that his videogame project is much in demand in Genoa City.  His family, Heather and Lucy, have arrived in GC and hie has just fired his meddling mother, Phyllis.  Fans, are you pleased that he is back and that he is playing such a prominent role in the storyline right now?  Respond to the poll below and let me know.

Are you pleased that Daniel Romalotti (Michael Graziadei) has returned and has such a big part on Y&R?

Yes, I like him and I find his storyline interesting, especially now that Heather and Lucy are back.

No, I don't think he is an exciting character. He just sits around the coffeehouse all day.

Yes, his past connection to Lily and the fact that he's the son of Phyllis make him interesting.

I don't know.

Other

 

pollcode.com free polls

NOTE TO READERS

I really need your feedback.  If you have any comments on Y&R, please email them to me with "Viewer Forum" in the subject line. I will be happy to publish your comments and reply to them  You do not have to use your real name.  I really need your input.  I really need to hear your opinion.  I want to know if you agree or disagree with me. 

My email address:  jmadden16@yahoo.ca

That's all for now. We are into the February Sweeps and Valentine's Day is coming up.  I'm also looking forward to Y&R's 50th anniversary celebrations in March.  Don't forget that the next edition of Y&R Report will appear in this space on Saturday, February 25, 2023. 

Take care,

Joanne

TV Banter Quiz #30

GENERAL TV QUIZ

Are you ready for the latest TV Banter television quiz?  Get ready and good luck!  There are ten questions.

1.  In which city did Eight is Enough take place?

A.  Los Angeles, California

B.  Boston, Massachusetts

C.  Cleveland, Ohio

D.  Sacramento, California

E.  Seattle, Washington

2.  On The Beverly Hillbillies, Jane Hathaway, secretary to Milburn Drysdale, the Clampett family's banker, had a hobby.  What was Miss Hathaway's hobby?

A. playing Cribbage

B.  bird watching

C. stamp collecting

D.  coin collecting

E.  playing badminton

3.  Tom Selleck is best known for his starring roles in Magnum, PI (1980-1988) and Blue Bloods    (2010 -).  Earlier in his career, Tom played the role of Jed Andrews on a daytime soap opera.  What is the name of that soap?

Tom Selleck

A.  The Young and the Restless

B.  All My Children

C.  Days of our Lives

D.  As the World Turns

E.  General Hospital

4.  On Friends, what was the name of Ross's capuchin monkey?

A.  Marty

B.  Morgan

C.  Mitch

D.  Marcel

E.  Marv

5.  On Marcus Welby, M.D., what vehicle did Dr. Steven Kiley (James Brolin) drive to work?

A.  Chevy Corvette

B.  Volkswagen Bug

C.  Motorcycle

D.  Bicycle

E.   Ford Mustang

6.  On Frasier, what breed of dog was Eddie?

A.  Boston Terrier

B.  Basenji

C.   Rat Terrier

D.  Mutt

E.  Jack Russell Terrier

7.  On Seinfeld, what was the first name of George's father?

A.  Frank Costanza

B.  Joe Costanza

C,  Tony Costanza

D.  Al Costanza

E.  George Costanza Sr.

8.  On Family Ties, Michael J. Fox portrayed a young, conservative Republican.  What did the "P." in the name of Alex P. Keaton's stand for?

Michael J. Fox as Alex P. Keaton

A.  Peter

B.  Percival

C.  Peace

D.  Prescott

E. Patrick

9.  On The Waltons, where was Walton's Mountain located?

A.  West Virginia

B.  Virginia

C.  Oklahoma

D.  North Dakota

E.  South Dakota

10.   Which French actor appeared in an episode of  I Love Lucy during Lucy and Ricky's visit to Paris?

A.  Maurice Chevalier

B.  Yves Montand

C.  Charles Boyer

D.  Jean-Louis Trintgnant

E.  Jean-Paul Belmondo

ANSWERS

1.  D.  

Sacramento, California

Eight is Enough was set in Sacramento, California, where the patriarch of the Bradford family, Tom Bradford (Dick Van Patten), worked as a newspaper columnist for the fictional Sacramento Register.

2.  B.

Bird watching

Jane Hathaway (Nancy Kulp), Mr. Drysdale's secretary, was a member of a zany bird watcher club.  She wore hiking clothes and used binoculars.

Nancy Kulp also played the bird-loving Pamela Livingstone on The Bob Cummings show in the 1950s

3.  A

The Young and the Restless

From 1974 to 1975, Tom Selleck portrayed Jed Andrews on The Young and the Restless.

Below is a photo of Tom during his Young and Restless days.

4.  D

Marcel

Ross (David Schwimmer) with Marcel

In the tenth episode of the fourth season of Friends, Ross Geller, adopts a monkey to keep him company after his divorce.  The episode, entitled "The One with the Monkey," was first broadcast on December 15, 1994.  The pet monkey, Marcel, was actually a female capuchin named Katie.

5.  C

Motorcycle

Dr. Steven Kiley, played by James Brolin, drove a motorcycle to work.

6.  E

Jack Russell Terrier

Frasier's father, Martin Crane, owned a Jack Russell named Eddie.  Eddie was portrayed by a dog named Moose for the first seven seasons of Frasier, and by Moose's son, Enzo, for the remaining four.  Eddie was capable of understanding many commands, and human language to a degree.  He would run away when someone spelled out B-A-T-H.  He generally listened only to Martin.

7.  A   

Frank Costanza

John Randolph (left) and Jerry Stiller

The first actor to portray Frank Costanza on Seinfeld was John Randolph.  Randolph originated the role in a Season 4.episode entitled "The Handicap Spot," in which George borrows his father's car.  Frank didn't reappear until the Season 5, Episode 2 of the series. entitled "The Puffy Shirt."  The character was recast and John Randolph was replaced with comedian Jerry Stiller.  Stiller became much more popular with viewers and was more suited to the role.

8.  C

Peace 

Alex's parents, Elyse and Steven Keaton (Meredith Baxter and Michael Gross),were hippies during the 1960s.  That's why they chose "Peace" as their son's middle name.  There was an episode of Family Ties where there was a flashback to when Alex was a baby, and it was revealed how he got his second name.  According to the episode, entitled "A Christmas Story" (Season 1, Episode 11, Air Date: December 15, 1982), Alex was born in 1965, while his parents were on assignment in Africa, having been influenced by John F. Kennedy to join the Peace Corps.

During his audition for the role of Alex, Michael J. Fox, who played Elyse and Steven's conservative Republican son, suggested that the initial "P." should be added to Alex's name.  The writers liked the idea.

9.  B

Virginia

The Waltons was set in the fictional mountain community in the fictitious Jefferson County, Virginia.  Located near Charlottesville, Virginia.  The small hamlet was actually the hometown of Earl Hamner, whose writings formed the basis of the TV series.  Hamner outlined his settings based on his childhood home in  Schyuyler, Virginia, in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.  There is a Walton's Mountain Museum in a corner of the mountains.

The "Walton's Mountain" shown on the TV show was actually a hill in the Hollywood Hills.

10. C.

Charles Boyer

Lucy with Charles Boyer in  I Love Lucy 

Charles Boyer appeared in a 1956 episode of I Love Lucy entitled "Lucy Meets Charles Boyer" (Season 5, Episode 19, Air Date: March 5, 1956).  

- Joanne