The next time Rio Grande is shown on TV, tune in. The “Regimental Singers” serenade Wayne, his wife Maureen O’Hara and General Sheridan (J. Carrol Naish) after dinner. The Regimental Singers are the Sons of the Pioneers, and the lead singer in “I’ll Take You Home Again Kathleen” is Ken Curtis.
He also played Charley McCorry in The Searchers. He strums guitar and sings to Vera Miles who he’s courting, although she’s in love with Jeffrey Hunter. His character in this movie, along with his accent, seems to be gravitating to his Festus character...
I haven’t seen those for a long time. Thanks for the tip!
I just saw Ken Curtis in a “have gun—will travel” episode. He was made up to be an old man, the only thing that tipped me off was the voice.
RIP, Matthew. Haggens folk’l miss the best marshal Dodge ever done had anyhow.
Freegards, c’mon Ruth
Ken Curtis appeared on Gunsmoke as a totally different character on at least one episode before creating Festus. The first time I saw that show and recognized Curtis was just recently. He was actually a decent looking man when he wasn’t playing Festus. Festus was really my all time favorite character on Gunsmoke, followed by Doc Adams.
Ken Curtis was an amazing singer. Better than most of those who were far better known.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v517yhi3yms
Ken Curtis appeared on Gunsmoke as a totally different character on at least one episode before creating Festus. The first time I saw that show and recognized Curtis was just recently. He was actually a decent looking man when he wasn’t playing Festus. Festus was really my all time favorite character on Gunsmoke, followed by Doc Adams.
Ken Curtis was an amazing singer. Better than most of those who were far better known.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v517yhi3yms