James Drury 1934-2020

It is with great sadness that I report James Drury passed away of natural causes this morning, April 6. His memory lives on in his immortal role as The Virginian. A memorial service has yet to be announced. Rest in Peace Jim.

Ramblin’ Randy

Following the discussion on “The Awakening” thread elsewhere on my site here’s the cover of Randy Boone’s LP featuring a song used in that episode. It’s a rare collector’s item that’s extremely difficult to locate for sale.

Falls Lake Backlot

The locations used in “The Virginian” are always of interest to viewers. One particular set was used frequently in Universal TV Westerns in the 1960s and early 1970s. The waterfall set was often used as a backdrop. Originally built in the 1920s the “Falls Lake” set remained intact until 1980 when it was re-modeled in a large construction project.  The ground level was raised considerably.

James Drury as The Virginian

Doug McClure as Trampas

James Drury at ‘Cowboy Up For Vets’ April 28-30, 2017 : Update: Canceled

The 8th Annual Cowboy Up for vets will be on April 28-30, 2017 at the W.B. Ranch 1640 Co. Rd. B Swanton, Ohio 43558 to benefit the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society and Heroes In Action.

 “The Virginian” stars, James Drury, Randy Boone and L.Q. Jones will all be in attendance. There will be a Q & A in the tent area on Saturday and Sunday. Times to be announced. Admission and parking is free.

Contact Judy Shafer if you need more information .shaferjudy@windstream.net

UPDATE: This event has been canceled.

Shiloh Ranch Owners in “The Song of Bernadette” (1943)

“The Virginian” Shiloh Ranch owners Lee J. Cobb and Charles Bickford both starred with Jennifer Jones in “The Song of Bernadette” (1943). Following news of Bickford’s death in 1967 Jennifer Jones attempted suicide. He was her mentor and his death added to her already fragile mental state at the time. Full details in my biography of Jennifer Jones.

James Drury is the Virginian

James Drury was perfect casting in the role of the Virginian. A gentleman of great charm with a rugged, tough edge when required. A man who lived by a moral code in a time when lawlessness was common. A natural leader and a team player who at heart was something of a loner with a past he kept close to his chest. Through nine seasons James Drury played the Virginian with integrity and remained faithful to the character.

2013 in review

The WordPress.com stats 2013 annual report for this blog.

Here’s an excerpt:

The concert hall at the Sydney Opera House holds 2,700 people. This blog was viewed about 42,000 times in 2013. If it were a concert at Sydney Opera House, it would take about 16 sold-out performances for that many people to see it.

Click here to see the complete report.

Video Footage of The Virginian Cast Reunion

Many thanks to Val for posting extensive video footage of The Virginian cast panel at the 50th Anniversary event. To view the footage click on the Comments section of “Clu Gulager at the 50th Anniversary Autry Event.’ Clu Gulager is in fine form and I’m very pleased to hear him and Don Quine giving credit to producer Frank Price.