I just love the following statement made by Moe J. Siegel in the Spring of 1938 while Mr. Siegel was president of Republic Productions:
That might have been Mr. Siegel’s understanding (since he was in New York and not Studio City, CA) when Dad became Roy Rogers and starred in “Under Western Stars.” That picture was released in April of 1938. But, Dad actually starred in three more movies that were released that same year: “Billy The Kid Returns” in September, 1938; “Come On Rangers” in November, 1938; and, “Shine On Harvest Moon” in December, 1938.
Of course, Dad never did replace Gene Autry! They became great friends and both worked at Republic for many more years.
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although I like Gene, Roy became number ONE!! Eddie Dollar
Thanks, great article.
Hi Cheryl, I always loved your Dad an Mom but for some reason didn’t like Gene. Maybe it was because I didn’t want to take my loyalty away from your Dad. I still do. While I was growing up I considered you and your siblings lucky to have them as your parents. Maybe I didn’t know what was going on behind the movie or TV program I watched but I somehow thought they would be the same at home as they were on the screen.
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Mom and Dad were pretty much like you saw them on TV. Especially on the variety shows!
Have been off the web for a while and now I can not seem to find any of the movies you had on the sight. Are they still there some place? If so, how do I find them?
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Hi, Todd,Go to WesternStarsTheater.com and the movies should be there. Happy trails.
Interesting. Since MJ Siegel was not quoted and he seemed to be more focused on Autry not being replaced, perhaps the reporter missed some of the nuance. My Grandfather would have known exactly what was happening under his watch. He was very fond of Gene Autry, Roy Rogers and John Wayne and was proud to have them at Republic. I have a lot of papers and pictures from those days.
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This just adds to the long list of items that gave “false news” even way back in the ’30s. Thanks for responding, Mike. I am continually learning about my parents from new sources and its really great. My mother, Dale Evans, told me that, “..since you’re the oldest, you know the most…” I’m still finding out about the studio side of the story and I appreciate your participation.
Thanks again, Cheryl