Tuesday, January 26, 2010

The last of the Cartwrights rides into the sunset

A tip of the cap to Ivan Shreve at Thrilling Days of Yesteryear for tipping me off to the passing of actor Pernell Roberts at 81. Roberts was the last original cast member of Bonanza, leaving the series in 1964. After making the rounds as a guest star, Roberts was cast in the title role of Trapper John, MD, reintroducing the character who'd originally appeared on M*A*S*H to a new audience.

In fact, I think the only Bonanza alumnus still with us would be David Canary (who was cast as Candy when he replaced Roberts), currently on All My Children. Anyway, I'd not be surprised if TV Land decides to do a larger-than-normal Bonanza block to honor Roberts. He'd certainly deserve it.

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