While working with him on a movie in 1983, we had a production break because of weather. During the sudden storm we both sought refuge under the same cover. We were having a good conversation. On set we often have rope handy to tie things down that might blow away or get knocked over. I was an electric and not a grip but had a hank of rope handy with me. Son asked to see it and proceeded to entertain me with rope tricks; one of which was to whip a knot into the trailing end using only wrist action of the hand holding it. Then he showed me how to knot a lariat for roping and taught me how to properly throw the loop. It was one of those special moments in the business you never forget. I knew him only as an actor and former wrangler. I didn't know then I was being mentored as a cowboy by a world champion steer roper. There were no smart phones at the time so I have no photos but I wish I did, but then I was never the type to impose and ask either. I miss him, his type, and I miss the business.
Ben was a friend of my wife's family, and what a great guy. His warmth, humor and infectious laugh made him a welcome diversion any time he graced the household. His presence is missed.
Of all the actors playing cowboys, this man didn't have to act he was the real deal. He was refreshingly moral, led his life in the true "cowboy way" and even sounded like a cowboy when he spoke. I always liked him. Thank you for your video.
The best description of Ben Johnson was when he said he was more proud of his World Championship Roping over his academy award! Only a real cowboy could say something that profound.
A truly beautiful biography!! My mom meet Ben at a rodeo one time & what I remember her saying is he was a tall, wonderful gentleman. They don’t make men like Ben anymore!! Thank you, Mr Skinner!! ❤❤❤
He was one of the all time best cowboy actors there ever was, and a true Man that lived with a set of morals throughout his entire life. R.I.P. and God bless.
As the many others that have commented on here, Ben Johnson was a favorite western actor of mine. I moved to Mesa, AZ in 1984 and became aware that he lived in Mesa and eventually learned that he frequented a little downtown Mesa bar on Country Club Dr. only a few blocks from where I worked. I regret that I never made the effort to try to catch him there, and then learned of his passing, and the opportunity was gone forever. My loss, would have loved to shock his hand and expressed my gratitude to him. Rest In Peace, Ben "Son" Johnson, you were one of a kind and missed by all of us cowboy (wannabees) western fans. God Bless You...….
I really enjoyed this. I worked on 2 movies with Ben Johnson (in '74 and '80) and I appreciate the detail, and the respect you showed him. He was a true gentleman and a good soul. During our downtime at the small motel, all of the cast and crew were staying in, Oscar-winner Ben would fire up a barbeque by the pool and cook burgers and steaks for everyone. He told me that, in the scene where Alan Ladd punches him through the saloon doors in SHANE, Ben knocked himself cold throwing himself backward through the doors. He was a kind soul who had time for everyone and countless stories of his years in Hollywood. Thanks for the doc.
The last movie I remember seeing Ben Johnson in was Red Dawn. Definitely a class act. Humble, kind and a man of principles and morals that were non negotiable. Definitely one of my all-time favorite actors.
One Eyed Jacks has been one of my favorite westerns since I first saw it at the Ilex theater in Quitman, GA in 1961. Ben Johnson, Brando, Karl Malden, Katy Jurado and Slim Pickens. I still watch it from time to time. Johnson had the some of the best lines in the movie: "Maybe so, but I wouldn't want to lose me a handful of brains tryin' to find out."
Ben Johnson's character showed through on the small and big screen. He came across, at least to me, as a true gentleman and real cowboy and a real man. He is the man most of us wish we could always be. Your piece on him is a real tribute to him, thank you.
I have enjoyed watching numerous western movies with Ben Johnson in them, just watched Shadow Riders (DVD) with Tom Selleck, Sam Elliot, Katherine Ross, and Ben Johnson. My late mother, Anne E. Golding had a secret crush on Ben Johnson. R.I.P. Mom and Ben.
Ben Johnson was one of my all time favorite actors. Love every movie he ever played in... I never did get to meet him but plan on visiting his grave soon to pay my respects...
He seemed so straight forward and honest that when I saw your documentary, I hoped to learn that he was a good man. He was a good man first, and then after that a good husband, cowboy, and actor. His comment that he was best at playing Ben Johnson was perfect - transparent honesty. Thank you for this documentary about a very admirable man.
Nobody EVER had more charisma on screen. .... I have loved Ben Johnson like a missing Grandpa since I was a little wee kid. ... very nice to learn about his life. ... You're a Priceless Treasure Jerry Skinnner. .... Your Bios are valuable Historical Documents.
Thank you Mr Skinner for this video of one of my heroes and fellow Oklahomans , there are still some very good cowboys roaming the tall grass prairies but none like Mr Johnson . What a treasure .
Exceptional biography, Mr. Skinner. Ben Johnson has long been one of my favorite character actors (together with Harry Carey, Jr., and only 2 or 3 others). Ben Johnson was and shall always be one of my role models on the kind of human being and friend I wish to be to those close to me. You did a wonderful job with this biography. Thank you very much, Mr. Skinner!
Loved this actor when I first saw him in Shane at the cinema. Didn’t know his name but saw something outstanding in him. I was still at school then ( I’m 84 now) but have always admired his acting and have always believed that he deserved much more public recognition than he ever got but then again, Ben Johnson was a real mans man, not a celluloid one !!!
@@alandouthwaite6980 His true Good nature shone through in Shane, the Respect he showed even to one he had disagreed with was so easy for him to act as it was him!
Jerry, you have, without a doubt, the best video biographies on the Internet or anywhere else. The info you choose to include is always informative and sometimes even poignant. Well done, Sir, very well done. Again!!
Thank you for this wonderful testimony and documentary to Ben Johnson’s life and career. I had the wonderful pleasure of meeting Mr. Johnson and having him sign my Wild Bunch poster. He was guest of honor in Oologah OK for the commemoration of the Will Rogers statue in the city square back in August 1995. I met him through my X mother in law who was President of the Oologah historical society. He visited with us and I remember him telling me he liked his Melvin Purvis character in Dillinger more than Tector Gorch his character in The Wild Bunch. He felt it was too violent. So glad I had the honor of spending some time with him. He was a gentle giant and a great cowboy and actor.
I was called to pick him up from the hospital when he passed away. When I was told who I was picking up I just couldn’t believe it as I had grown up watching Ben Johnson westerns on tv with my dad when I was a kid. I sure wish I could have met him when he was still alive.
I always liked the westerns that had Ben Johnson or John Wayne in them then to have both of them in the same movie was a real bonus. Ben was a good man as most real cowboys are, my dad is a real cowboy and at 91 is still a good man. I always looked up to the good ones and knowing Ben's story explains why. Thanks for putting this story out Jerry Skinner.
One of the true greats of westerns! The movies with Wayne and him as his sidekick were the best and most of the time Ben stole the scenes. He was a class act!
Ben "Son" Johnson was always one of my favorite western stars. He was the best of a few who didn't have to 'act' like a cowboy. He 'was' one. One of my favorite, but most poignant of his roles was the 'old timer' in "Bite the Bullet" with Gene Hackman, James Coburn, Candace Bergen, and Jan Michael Vincent, among others. The comment in response to Jan Michael Vincent's snarky, "I'd rather be in Hell than Oklahoma" was typical of his sardonic sense of humor. He said, "Every man to his own country" nuff said punk, go to bed.....
I met Mr. Johnson in Omaha at the Cafe Dicopia. I was the bartender, the restaurant was full so he and his companion sat the the counter and ate dinner. They were waiting for a ring from Warren Buffett's jewrey store (Borsheims) so they ate dinner. It was a real honor to meet him. He was indeed a nice man. RIP.
Being raised on Westerns,I had much respect for Ben Johnson.....who was one of the last of a dying breed.A real cowboy and a man with principles.R.I.P. Ben....gone but definitely not forgotten.
@@gerrycoleman7290 they surely could Gerry,a real gentleman with no pretense at life,just lived as it was meant to be,I loved the Western genre and the movies,I am a Scot,live in Scotland but my old man was a big Duke fan and Ford movies,a WWII veteran and seem's no matter what side the pond you was on they had a code that old lads did,and it seems like it is no longer there any more,but Ben was one of my favorite western star's,I lived quite a long spell in Texas and round about Oklahoma,down Texhoma Pottsborro loved it,lot of friends there,going back to see them soon I hope.
He used a ' damn ' occasionally in his movies. " The Wild Bunch" for sure & a couple of others come to mind. But he was an estimable man of character. And one of the greatest athletes & horsemen ever
Just a Great account of the history of the Great Westerns. This video brought back many pleasant memories. Thank you Jerry very much for your work in this video.
If I saw a movie had Ben Johnson in it I figured it was worth watching. Can't recall ever being disappointed. His characters always had that combination of humor, sage advice, backbone, and a twinkle of mischief in his eye. For someone who was most always a support character I think he was a big part of anything he was in and made the movie.
Like all great actors Mr Johnson had that natural ability to woo you into buying into his character. Thank you Ben jr. for allowing this fan to ride alongside you in so many of those movies
Hey Jerry, thank you for this beautiful testament to a great actor and humanitarian. I always enjoyed watching Ben Johnson in his movies; he never failed to shine in his role! :-)
an amazing story about a truly amazing legend and hero. When I hear "The Last Cowboy Song" I think of men like Ben Johnson and other great cowboy legends.
Thank you Jerry for sharing this wonderful memory of Ben Johnson who was a man with integrity. I knew he was the man I always thought him to be was true. Profanity and nudity has no talent, it's hard to find these days.
Amen to that. So true. He was a Great Man. And Never messed around on his wife. And had a good Life. And Great Friends. / John Wayne. He's another Heroe!!!. I loved them both. I watch Chisum every night. Because I love watching John Wayne and Ben Johnson together. They are Both So very Missed & Loved. C. MAC.
He was a stalwart of the better Westerns. Great performance in George Stevens' Shane with Alan Ladd, Jean Arthur , Van Heflin, Jack Palance, Brandon De Wilde, Emile Meyer, Elisha Cook Jnr. Edgar Buchanan. Arguably the best Western ever made.
Kay Mitchell your wrong he raised quarter horses and lived in ft worth Texas my mentor trained grey lark for him and I won his memorial roping one year so troll somewhere else you sad pathetic excuse of a woman have some respect
God broke the mould when Ben was born. His like will never be seen again. It was because of Ben that I became totally hooked on westerns. I'm also 70 years old.
This is one of the actors I loved and admired most. Didn't know why until viewing this vid. His personality carried away from the screen into the audience, and was heartfelt in all of us.
A real gentleman, and actor. He was an Okie, and back then they were raised to give respect. If you couldn't mind, a trip around the barn put you in the right mind real soon. Now they call it child abuse, and they wonder what happened to kids who turn out so bad. Loved Ben in what ever he played in, a kind gentle soul. Thank you Jerry God Bless. By the way, I'm an Okie and proud of it.
Love your videos! Met Ben once while my brother was filling up his pickup truck in West Sacramento Ca. around 1973 or 1974. Seemed like a very nice guy.
I always liked watching Ben Johnson & John Wayne in the westerns ! Many memories growing up watching them together ! Thanks to them & Clint Eastwood for those westerns ! 👍👍
Ben “SON” Johnson was a Great Cowboy and a Great AMERICAN!!!🙏🇺🇸 GOD Bless You Brother Ben!!! If GOD has a Ranch, Ben’s the Boss!!! Thanks Mr Skinner👍🐴🆗
I did not watch many westerns, but Ben Johnson stood out as one of my favorite actors, especially in "The Wild Bunch." Thank you for your work on this great story.
I always loved this guy as an actor.. I had no idea where he was from. He was from the same part of Oklahoma that my dad’s family was from. It’s amazing how many actors and musicians are from that part of the country...
Another of my favorite actors with a very distinctive voice. He was never in a bad movie. Really miss these great character actors and good western movies. I have a great painting of Ben and Slim Pickens on a stagecoach.
What an excellent tribute to a fine gentleman. I saw most of the pictures you mentioned. I could sense that he was a true gentleman and cowboy! I'm glad he received the recognition he deserved.
I always liked Ben Johnson, now I know why because of what you said in this video. To me his eyes always shone with a genuine caring nature. Thank you for posting. Very nice.
I always loved Ben "Son" Johnson. Thank you Jerry. I actually got to have lunch sitting next to Slim Pickins at Musso and Frank's in Hollywood and he kept us all in stitches. Cliffie Stone was also at our table. Big Fun!!!
Thank you for another outstanding video, Mr. Skinner. Ben Johnson has always been one of my favorite celebrities. Hopefully, a new generation will see your tribute to him and see what a "REAL" man is.
As far as I am concerned, there will NEVER be another on like Ben Johnson. I'm 73 years old and have always been crazy about him in any movie he was playing in. God rest your wonderful soul.
Thanks so much Jerry for the excellent documentary. I've always loved Ben "Son" Johnson. Good to hear him and John Wayne were so close. And I respect him even more for telling John Ford to go to hell.
I really didn't pay attention to actor Ben Johnson until the movie My Heroes Have All Been Cowboys (1991). Then I tried to see all the moives I could with Ben Johnson. I still love watching them! His voice was so unique, such a gentlemen! Thanks for this video clip about Ben 'Son' Johnson.
Along with John Wayne Ben Johnson was another of my favorite actors. Being from Oklahoma myself I loved his sexy voice and good looks. Loved that OKIE accent!
My Dad knew Ben Johnson very well and one summer he took me to meet Mr. Johnson. Mr Johnson let me ride his 🏇 horse which was the first time I rode a ranch horse. It was a fun to be able to ride this fine horse. It was a great time. I think of it alot about being with my Dad and Mr. Johnson. 1st. Lt. Michael G. MADDIN US Army retired
I was a policeman in Prescott, AZ when they filmed JR Bonner. I got to meet Ben, and got permission from the Chief, to take him on patrol in my patrol car. My first wife was of the movie crowd and they knew many of the same people, we had him home to dinner. As so many have stated he was a "Gentleman" you don't see many of his class these days.My time with him is one of my most cherished memories. Over the years in Prescott I met many movie Stars and he was the best. McQueen was stuck on himself. Gabby
I met Ben a Johnson in 1974 or 75 when they were filming “Sugarland Express” (along with Goldie Hawn) in Converse, Texas my home town. I was in awe watching them film! Mom and Dad took me (on a late night) in the center of town where they were filming to watch I was about 12.
Very well done Mr Skinner . Ben Johnson was a favorite actor of mine. A true gentleman and a dang good cowboy. Your story telling is done in fine fashion sir. Thank you for the effort you put into making this and all the other stories you produce. You too are a fine gentleman.
While working with him on a movie in 1983, we had a production break because of weather. During the sudden storm we both sought refuge under the same cover.
We were having a good conversation. On set we often have rope handy to tie things down that might blow away or get knocked over. I was an electric and not a grip but had a hank of rope handy with me. Son asked to see it and proceeded to entertain me with rope tricks; one of which was to whip a knot into the trailing end using only wrist action of the hand holding it. Then he showed me how to knot a lariat for roping and taught me how to properly throw the loop. It was one of those special moments in the business you never forget. I knew him only as an actor and former wrangler. I didn't know then I was being mentored as a cowboy by a world champion steer roper. There were no smart phones at the time so I have no photos but I wish I did, but then I was never the type to impose and ask either. I miss him, his type, and I miss the business.
Ben Johnson was a cowboys' cowboy, an honorable man, and keeper of the Cowboy Code. He's still highly praised and sorely missed.
As a boy I grew up at the movies watching Ben Johnson and the “ Man” John Wayne...it didn’t get any better than that...👍
Need more Ben "Son" Johnson's in this world. Tough and principled.
Ben was a friend of my wife's family, and what a great guy. His warmth, humor and infectious laugh made him a welcome diversion any time he graced the household. His presence is missed.
lucky you!
Of all the actors playing cowboys, this man didn't have to act he was the real deal. He was refreshingly moral, led his life in the true "cowboy way" and even sounded like a cowboy when he spoke. I always liked him. Thank you for your video.
Ben Johnson, A man of true Integrity. May he rest in peace.
The best description of Ben Johnson was when he said he was more proud of his World Championship Roping over his academy award! Only a real cowboy could say something that profound.
Will Rogers was also an outstanding roper.
A truly beautiful biography!! My mom meet Ben at a rodeo one time & what I remember her saying is he was a tall, wonderful gentleman. They don’t make men like Ben anymore!! Thank you, Mr Skinner!! ❤❤❤
He was one of the all time best cowboy actors there ever was, and a true Man that lived with a set of morals throughout his entire life. R.I.P. and God bless.
As the many others that have commented on here, Ben Johnson was a favorite western actor of mine. I moved to Mesa, AZ in 1984 and became aware that he lived in Mesa and eventually learned that he frequented a little downtown Mesa bar on Country Club Dr. only a few blocks from where I worked. I regret that I never made the effort to try to catch him there, and then learned of his passing, and the opportunity was gone forever. My loss, would have loved to shock his hand and expressed my gratitude to him. Rest In Peace, Ben "Son" Johnson, you were one of a kind and missed by all of us cowboy (wannabees) western fans.
God Bless You...….
I really enjoyed this. I worked on 2 movies with Ben Johnson (in '74 and '80) and I appreciate the detail, and the respect you showed him. He was a true gentleman and a good soul. During our downtime at the small motel, all of the cast and crew were staying in, Oscar-winner Ben would fire up a barbeque by the pool and cook burgers and steaks for everyone. He told me that, in the scene where Alan Ladd punches him through the saloon doors in SHANE, Ben knocked himself cold throwing himself backward through the doors. He was a kind soul who had time for everyone and countless stories of his years in Hollywood. Thanks for the doc.
Thank you so very much Rick, from someone who worked with Ben. Jerry
The last movie I remember seeing Ben Johnson in was Red Dawn. Definitely a class act. Humble, kind and a man of principles and morals that were non negotiable. Definitely one of my all-time favorite actors.
I'm 82 and never met anyone like him. What a lovely man. Rest in peace, Ben.💕
He also had a part in Angels In The Outfield, and even then, he couldn't escape from his true cowboy nature.
One Eyed Jacks has been one of my favorite westerns since I first saw it at the Ilex theater in Quitman, GA in 1961. Ben Johnson, Brando, Karl Malden, Katy Jurado and Slim Pickens. I still watch it from time to time. Johnson had the some of the best lines in the movie: "Maybe so, but I wouldn't want to lose me a handful of brains tryin' to find out."
Exactly, me too.
Ben Johnson's character showed through on the small and big screen. He came across, at least to me, as a true gentleman and real cowboy and a real man. He is the man most of us wish we could always be. Your piece on him is a real tribute to him, thank you.
I have enjoyed watching numerous western movies with Ben Johnson in them, just watched Shadow Riders (DVD) with Tom Selleck, Sam Elliot, Katherine Ross, and Ben Johnson. My late mother, Anne E. Golding had a secret crush on Ben Johnson. R.I.P. Mom and Ben.
I saw it too, I suspect many did!! He even played a good bad man in Shane!!
Ben Johnson was one of my all time favorite actors. Love every movie he ever played in... I never did get to meet him but plan on visiting his grave soon to pay my respects...
He seemed so straight forward and honest that when I saw your documentary, I hoped to learn that he was a good man.
He was a good man first, and then after that a good husband, cowboy, and actor.
His comment that he was best at playing Ben Johnson was perfect - transparent honesty.
Thank you for this documentary about a very admirable man.
I'm kind of sad that Ben and Carol had no children, but I'm very happy that they had a happy life together.
Nobody EVER had more charisma on screen. .... I have loved Ben Johnson like a missing Grandpa since I was a little wee kid. ... very nice to learn about his life. ... You're a Priceless Treasure Jerry Skinnner. .... Your Bios are valuable Historical Documents.
Thank you Mr Skinner for this video of one of my heroes and fellow Oklahomans , there are still some very good cowboys roaming the tall grass prairies but none like Mr Johnson . What a treasure .
Exceptional biography, Mr. Skinner. Ben Johnson has long been one of my favorite character actors (together with Harry Carey, Jr., and only 2 or 3 others). Ben Johnson was and shall always be one of my role models on the kind of human being and friend I wish to be to those close to me. You did a wonderful job with this biography. Thank you very much, Mr. Skinner!
Pity we don't have more men such as Ben 'Son' Johnson in 2019. A great man.
Ben's always been my idol. He was the real thing!! Always like the movies he was in.🤠
Worked on his cousin's ranch in Texas. Heard a few stories about him. Was always a gentleman and a heck of a top hand.
He was a wonderful man. And American. We need more like him. And more cowboys.
Truly fantastic film about one of my all time favorite actors.
" You ain't drinking that in here sodbuster." SHANE!!!
Soba pop.
Loved this actor when I first saw him in Shane at the cinema. Didn’t know his name but saw something outstanding in him. I was still at school then ( I’m 84 now) but have always admired his acting and have always believed that he deserved much more public recognition than he ever got but then again, Ben Johnson was a real mans man, not a celluloid one !!!
@@alandouthwaite6980 His true Good nature shone through in Shane, the Respect he showed even to one he had disagreed with was so easy for him to act as it was him!
Great memorial, thanks. He's always been one of my favorite western actors, because of his authenticity.
May God Bless You, Jerry! So many thanks for the story of Ben Johnson. One of my favorite Cowboys, May God Bless You!
Jerry, you have, without a doubt, the best video biographies on the Internet or anywhere else. The info you choose to include is always informative and sometimes even poignant. Well done, Sir, very well done. Again!!
Thank you for this wonderful testimony and documentary to Ben Johnson’s life and career. I had the wonderful pleasure of meeting Mr. Johnson and having him sign my Wild Bunch poster. He was guest of honor in Oologah OK for the commemoration of the Will Rogers statue in the city square back in August 1995. I met him through my X mother in law who was President of the Oologah historical society. He visited with us and I remember him telling me he liked his Melvin Purvis character in Dillinger more than Tector Gorch his character in The Wild Bunch. He felt it was too violent. So glad I had the honor of spending some time with him. He was a gentle giant and a great cowboy and actor.
I was called to pick him up from the hospital when he passed away. When I was told who I was picking up I just couldn’t believe it as I had grown up watching Ben Johnson westerns on tv with my dad when I was a kid. I sure wish I could have met him when he was still alive.
Thank you Jerry for this, l always liked Ben Johnson, you could tell that he was a special individual. 🕊🥀🎚🙏
I always liked the westerns that had Ben Johnson or John Wayne in them then to have both of them in the same movie was a real bonus. Ben was a good man as most real cowboys are, my dad is a real cowboy and at 91 is still a good man. I always looked up to the good ones and knowing Ben's story explains why. Thanks for putting this story out Jerry Skinner.
He was an actual cowboy stumbled into Hollywood.I know The Duke had nothing but respect for him.
I love it Jerry when you get to do a profile on a really decent human being. Your style of delivery so fits a really good man. Thank you.
I'd always thought Ben was the real thing, a cowboy. Never knew for sure though. Now I do. Thanks for the memories.
One of the true greats of westerns! The movies with Wayne and him as his sidekick were the best and most of the time Ben stole the scenes. He was a class act!
Ben "Son" Johnson was always one of my favorite western stars. He was the best of a few who didn't have to 'act' like a cowboy. He 'was' one.
One of my favorite, but most poignant of his roles was the 'old timer' in "Bite the Bullet" with Gene Hackman, James Coburn, Candace Bergen, and Jan Michael Vincent, among others.
The comment in response to Jan Michael Vincent's snarky, "I'd rather be in Hell than Oklahoma" was typical of his sardonic sense of humor. He said, "Every man to his own country" nuff said punk, go to bed.....
I'm glad you mentioned his role in "Bite The Bullet", when I think of that movie, he always comes to mind, quietly memorable as usual.
The last picture show was amazing! Thanks Son ❤️
"A heart is not measured by how much you love, but by how much others love you" Wizard to the tin man. Seems appropriate here.
No cure eszzdfhuolm me he g ffx cbj is hhv ffx f do bj ok I'll Kl poo ok ok k
I met Mr. Johnson in Omaha at the Cafe Dicopia. I was the bartender, the restaurant was full so he and his companion sat the the counter and ate dinner. They were waiting for a ring from Warren Buffett's jewrey store (Borsheims) so they ate dinner. It was a real honor to meet him. He was indeed a nice man. RIP.
Being raised on Westerns,I had much respect for Ben Johnson.....who was one of the last of a dying breed.A real cowboy and a man with principles.R.I.P. Ben....gone but definitely not forgotten.
Yup a real cowboy a real man
@@jamestheman1962 People today could learn a lot from how he lived his life.
@@gerrycoleman7290 they surely could Gerry,a real gentleman with no pretense at life,just lived as it was meant to be,I loved the Western genre and the movies,I am a Scot,live in Scotland but my old man was a big Duke fan and Ford movies,a WWII veteran and seem's no matter what side the pond you was on they had a code that old lads did,and it seems like it is no longer there any more,but Ben was one of my favorite western star's,I lived quite a long spell in Texas and round about Oklahoma,down Texhoma Pottsborro loved it,lot of friends there,going back to see them soon I hope.
@@jamestheman1962 Hello Mr. McAllister: A pleasure to read your message from clear across the pond. I hope you get to see your friends stateside soon.
👍
"Everybody in town is a better actor than I am. But no one can play Ben Johnson as well as I do."
He didn't need to act, he was the real deal.
Wish he had made more films as the character “Pardee”.
Married to the same woman for over fifty years, made numerous movies and not one swear word! Now, there's a real man
@Kay Mitchell Because he was a MAN with character, that is why!
He used a ' damn ' occasionally in his movies. " The Wild Bunch" for sure & a couple of others come to mind. But he was an estimable man of character. And one of the greatest athletes & horsemen ever
@Kay Mitchell INSP still edits out all "hells" and "damns".
ONE OF MY FAVORITES IN WESTERN MOVIES. BEST CAUSE HE WAS A REAL COWBOY.
Just a Great account of the history of the Great Westerns. This video brought back many pleasant memories. Thank you Jerry very much for your work in this video.
I felt he was a friend when I first seen him. Most respected man and cowboy I know.
If I saw a movie had Ben Johnson in it I figured it was worth watching. Can't recall ever being disappointed. His characters always had that combination of humor, sage advice, backbone, and a twinkle of mischief in his eye. For someone who was most always a support character I think he was a big part of anything he was in and made the movie.
Like all great actors Mr Johnson had that natural ability to woo you into buying into his character. Thank you Ben jr. for allowing this fan to ride alongside you in so many of those movies
I have watched Ben Johnson in many, many movies over the years. He was a fine actor, cowboy and man. RIP Ben.
Ben Johson was also multi-talent in OTHER roles, and brought a VERY gritty realism to the original RED DAWN!
Hey Jerry, thank you for this beautiful testament to a great actor and humanitarian. I always enjoyed watching Ben Johnson in his movies; he never failed to shine in his role! :-)
an amazing story about a truly amazing legend and hero. When I hear "The Last Cowboy Song" I think of men like Ben Johnson and other great cowboy legends.
Thank you Jerry for sharing this wonderful memory of Ben Johnson who was a man with integrity. I knew he was the man I always thought him to be was true. Profanity and nudity has no talent, it's hard to find these days.
Thanks for making my day Jerry. I agree... Ben Johnson was a "True Gentleman Cowboy". They don't have actors like him today.
They don't even make westerns anymore and that is so darn sad, kids don't have the great ones like we did..
Amen to that. So true. He was a Great Man. And Never messed around on his wife. And had a good Life. And Great Friends. / John Wayne. He's another Heroe!!!. I loved them both. I watch Chisum every night. Because I love watching John Wayne and Ben Johnson together. They are Both So very Missed & Loved. C. MAC.
He was a stalwart of the better Westerns. Great performance in George Stevens' Shane with Alan Ladd, Jean Arthur , Van Heflin, Jack Palance, Brandon De Wilde, Emile Meyer, Elisha Cook Jnr. Edgar Buchanan. Arguably the best Western ever made.
Loved this man hooked on westerns all my life,and thats 70 years,if anyone stood for morality this man did.
Thanks Jerry from Alan UK.
Don't make em like Ben anymore. .
Alan ditto. Loved his movies.
Kay Mitchell your wrong he raised quarter horses and lived in ft worth Texas my mentor trained grey lark for him and I won his memorial roping one year so troll somewhere else you sad pathetic excuse of a woman have some respect
God broke the mould when Ben was born. His like will never be seen again. It was because of Ben that I became totally hooked on westerns. I'm also 70 years old.
@Kay Mitchell mom
They don't get tougher than this people, a true legend.
Thanks for telling this story of Ben Johnson's life. I've always loved the sound of his voice and twinkle in his eyes.
What an amazing man. And in over 300 films? Wow, those days are long gone. Today’s actors are lucky to do 2-3 films a year.
This is one of the actors I loved and admired most. Didn't know why until viewing this vid. His personality carried away from the screen into the audience, and was heartfelt in all of us.
The GREATEST Real Life Horseman in Hollywood History PERIOD!
I always liked this actor. Always was happy to see him in a film cast. Thank you.
A real gentleman, and actor. He was an Okie, and back then they were raised to give respect. If you couldn't mind, a trip around the barn put you in the right mind real soon. Now they call it child abuse, and they wonder what happened to kids who turn out so bad. Loved Ben in what ever he played in, a kind gentle soul. Thank you Jerry God Bless. By the way, I'm an Okie and proud of it.
Love your videos! Met Ben once while my brother was filling up his pickup truck in West Sacramento Ca. around 1973 or 1974. Seemed like a very nice guy.
I always liked watching Ben Johnson & John Wayne in the westerns ! Many memories growing up watching them together ! Thanks to them & Clint Eastwood for those westerns ! 👍👍
My parents lived on the reservation in Pawhuska and knew Ben Johnson. The rodeo arena is named after Ben Johnson.
Ben “SON” Johnson was a Great Cowboy and a Great AMERICAN!!!🙏🇺🇸 GOD Bless You Brother Ben!!! If GOD has a Ranch, Ben’s the Boss!!! Thanks Mr Skinner👍🐴🆗
great actor and fine human being
I did not watch many westerns, but Ben Johnson stood out as one of my favorite actors, especially in "The Wild Bunch." Thank you for your work on this great story.
I always loved this guy as an actor.. I had no idea where he was from. He was from the same part of Oklahoma that my dad’s family was from.
It’s amazing how many actors and musicians are from that part of the country...
Another of my favorite actors with a very distinctive voice. He was never in a bad movie. Really miss these great character actors and good western movies. I have a great painting of Ben and Slim Pickens on a stagecoach.
he had a great voice and delivery style...it served him well in the last picture show
What an excellent tribute to a fine gentleman. I saw most of the pictures you mentioned. I could sense that he was a true gentleman and cowboy! I'm glad he received the recognition he deserved.
I always liked Ben Johnson, now I know why because of what you said in this video. To me his eyes always shone with a genuine caring nature. Thank you for posting. Very nice.
I'm glad you did this one Jerry, Ben always added a sense of realism to any western film in which he appeared ... a nice tribute
That is an awesome tribute to a wonderful man. Thank you!
I always loved Ben "Son" Johnson. Thank you Jerry. I actually got to have lunch sitting next to Slim Pickins at Musso and Frank's in Hollywood and he kept us all in stitches. Cliffie Stone was also at our table. Big Fun!!!
Thank you, Jerry. Ben was one of my role models growing up. A true Gentleman INDEED.
Thank you for another outstanding video, Mr. Skinner. Ben Johnson has always been one of my favorite celebrities. Hopefully, a new generation will see your tribute to him and see what a "REAL" man is.
Real man is right! Sadly, It seems there are fewer with each successive generation.
My dad liked Mr Johnson so I had to like him also.A true gentleman and role model.
As far as I am concerned, there will NEVER be another on like Ben Johnson. I'm 73 years old and have always been crazy about him in any movie he was playing in. God rest your wonderful soul.
Ben Johnsons morals and fine character are still alive and well throughout Oklahoma
Thanks so much Jerry for the excellent documentary. I've always loved Ben "Son" Johnson. Good to hear him and John Wayne were so close. And I respect him even more for telling John Ford to go to hell.
Wonderful man and actor. He was one of my favorites. Truly, one of a kind.
I really didn't pay attention to actor Ben Johnson until the movie My Heroes Have All Been Cowboys (1991). Then I tried to see all the moives I could with Ben Johnson. I still love watching them! His voice was so unique, such a gentlemen! Thanks for this video clip about Ben 'Son' Johnson.
One of the greats..... In so many ways. ALWAYS enjoyed him on screen.
Along with John Wayne Ben Johnson was another of my favorite actors. Being from Oklahoma myself I loved his sexy voice and good looks. Loved that OKIE accent!
Ben Johnson is just about my favorite actor and I really enjoyed this video, Thanks.
That bar room brawl in"SHANE" is legendary in western movie circles.MR Johnson was a true classic.
My Dad knew Ben Johnson very well and one summer he took me to meet Mr. Johnson. Mr Johnson let me ride his 🏇 horse which was the first time I rode a ranch horse. It was a fun to be able to ride this fine horse. It was a great time. I think of it alot about being with my Dad and Mr. Johnson. 1st. Lt. Michael G. MADDIN US Army retired
Thank you Michael, that is an interesting story and i know a wonderful memory for you. Jerry
Michael MADDIN wonderful story and thank you for sharing!
I really enjoyed hearing about Ben Son Johnson. I liked him a lot as an actor.
I was a policeman in Prescott, AZ when they filmed JR Bonner.
I got to meet Ben, and got permission from the Chief, to take him on patrol in my patrol car.
My first wife was of the movie crowd and they knew many of the same people, we had him home to dinner.
As so many have stated he was a "Gentleman" you don't see many of his class these days.My time with him is one of my most cherished memories.
Over the years in Prescott I met many movie Stars and he was the best.
McQueen was stuck on himself.
Gabby
Ben Johnson what a great human being.
"Will Penny" was a far under appreciated Western Movie. It was excellent, but never got the credit it deserved. One of my all time favorites.
Well you are the one that's down .Classic LOL
Will penny was the movie that hot me hooked on westerns
Ben Johnson was awesome
I met Ben a Johnson in 1974 or 75 when they were filming “Sugarland Express” (along with Goldie Hawn) in Converse, Texas my home town. I was in awe watching them film!
Mom and Dad took me (on a late night) in the center of town where they were filming to watch I was about 12.
"You may not know it, but your fixin' to get tried." From a favorite scene in Major Dundee. Great actor.
Very well done Mr Skinner . Ben Johnson was a favorite actor of mine. A true gentleman and a dang good cowboy. Your story telling is done in fine fashion sir. Thank you for the effort you put into making this and all the other stories you produce. You too are a fine gentleman.
I always thought of him as the 'Classic Cowboy'... He lived a life anyone would be proud to own.....
One of my all-time favorite actors! I would always look for him in any western I watched. Thank you so much!
Not only a great actor, but you marvel at the horsemanship that was displayed in his movies with John Wayne. Simply brilliant.