Goodnight Larry …

If there was ever an award for the best “straight man” in a TV comedy it would have to be Larry Hagman in “I Dream Of Jeannie” … But he was a very comical straight man.

Most may remember him best for J.R. – but I have always seen him as Major Nelson. I guess I am just of that Generation X membership that was most influences by television in the 60s.

He had a long life and did many interesting things … achieved a lot off camera.

I did get to meet Barbara Eden during the filming of the movie for ABC called “Condominium”. She gave me a peck on the cheek. That was as close as I got to meet Larry – once removed. I’m sure he got a lot more pecks on the cheek.

Hagman was born when I believe was the best time to be born in history, the very early 1930s.

He did a great job in the sort-of bizarre movie “Fail Safe” as the translator opposite Henry Fonda. That must have been an awesome treat for a young actor.

So, it’s proper this evening to watch a short marathon of “I Dream of Jeannie” episodes and see him at his best.

He was always best as that nervous American astronaut.

Category: Tony Rollo Blog