Greetings
to all my good friends in Australia. Thank you for the warmth
and friendliness you extended to me during my appearances in
Sydney last year. It was an experience I shall never forget.
I
enjoyed the last issue of Alpha Control with Dick Tufeld's interview
- such a nice man - and so talented - and Ian Stahlhut’s
article about the Robot was most amusing as well. I read every
word of "Letters To The Editor". It's always rewarding
and sometimes enlightening to find out "what people think."
My
normal two month cruise this year was a bit disappointing due
to bad weather. Sadly, one cannot control the elements - although
Irwin Allen could - and did! But there was always the sea, and
the wondrous cloud formations, and the flying fish to amaze
and astound me.
Recently
we completed a two hour tribute to Irwin Allen entitled "The
Fantasy Worlds of Irwin Allen". It was brilliantly produced
and directed by Kevin Burns for presentation on the Sci-Fi Channel
in the US on September 30. I agreed to appear in this film because
I believe Irwin deserved this recognition - and the money was
good! Irwin did, after all, provide a great deal of employment
to a great many actors - including me and I'm grateful for that.
Kevin collated lots of material about Irwin and interviewed
many actors who had worked for him. I'm looking forward to seeing
it.
On
August 13, I made a guest appearance at the Shrine Auditorium
Expo Centre in Los Angeles - very large attendances and most
responsive. As always, I was more or less charming, witty and
amusing - sometimes more - sometimes less - and not necessarily
in that order.
The
Los Angeles 'Music Centre Opera Season starts in mid September.
As you may know, the opera is my great love and my major frustration
- I CAN'T SING! Very interesting programme for a change - Verdi,
Mozart, Wagner - and they've raised the prices - again! But
I do love my second row centre seats so price be damned.
The
voice work continues regularly and as always I am awed by the
voice wizards with whom I work - how do they do it! Lucky me.
And I've just "spoken for" my 201st product - not
too shabby, eh?
In
Sept 1965, Lost In Space appeared for the first time on the
CBS channel in the US and subsequently all over the world! 30
years - how lovely it's all been - and is - and how grateful
I am to all of you who have helped to make my life so full.
Never
fear! Smith is Here!
September 15, 1995
Issue
14
Greetings
to all my good friends in Australia. I so much enjoyed issue
13 of Alpha Control. The artwork, stories and pictures were
very well put together; especially, the splendid picture on
the front cover! I welcome this opportunity to chat with you
again.
I
liked Mike Clark's report about "The Fantasy Worlds of
Irwin Allen". Kevin Burns has done a superlative job of
collating a wealth of material; not to mention the interesting
interviews with a lot of actors who worked for Irwin. I had
no idea of the extent of the body of work he created. The documentary
is very impressive as I'm sure you'll agree. The video cassette
will soon be available in Australia. Pay particular attention
to the final scene! It will surely provoke a giggle or two.
Buy it!
On
December 2nd and 3rd, I made a guest appearance at the Bayside
Expo Centre in Boston together with the rest of the cast from
Lost in Space to mark the 30th anniversary of our favourite
show. It was a marvellous event, and for us, filled with sentiment
and nostalgia.
Thousands
of people attended over the weekend, and as always, I was very
touched by their devotion and loyalty. The waves of love that
permeated the atmosphere at the signing table warmed the very
cockles of me old heart.
On
January 20 1 will be appearing with Billy Mumy at a Science
Fiction Convention in Orlando, Florida, then, it's off to Mexico
City to narrate a live presentation of Copland's "Lincoln
Portrait", and "Peter and the Wolf" with the
National Symphony of Mexico. I've done both these pieces with
other orchestras and I enjoy them. Not too shabby to have a
back up of 86 musicians! Now, all that remains is to set the
dates which are mutually acceptable.
I
am currently trying to decide whether or not to accept an appearance
offer in FORTALEZA, BRAZIL! I speak not a single word of Portuguese,
but then again, they have offered to give me half the country.
Hmmmmm! We shall see. The voice work continues on a regular
basis I'm happy to say, and, as I write this, I'm tippling a
lovely glass of Tanqueray Gin. No doubt, somewhere in the world
the sun has set.
Oh,
the Pain, the Pain!
Never
fear, Smith is Here!
January 10, 1996
Issue
15
It
always gives me great pleasure to have this opportunity to chat
with my Australian friends via Alpha Control. It's a first rate
magazine and the best of its kind and it does take me back to
the lovely tour I did in Sydney; and that's why I do it and
say NO to all other such requests.
Greetings
from Sunny and HOT Southern California. 101 F is not my particular
cup of tea. The very efficient air conditioning system blasts
away and causes your old friend to sneeze ad infinitum. I'm
delighted to learn that additional Lost In Space videos
have been released. Armed with the volume numbers and titles,
thanks to Glenn and Ian Stahlhut, I have alerted my Screen
Actors Guild to send money. I'm almost out of Tanqueray Gin!
Each time you buy a video, money comes to me and I expect all
my dear friends in Australia to contribute to the cause
- ME.
The
appearance that Billy Mumy and I did at Disneyworld in Orlando,
Florida went very well indeed. We chatted with folks, signed
autographs, posed for pictures and were the Grand Marshalls
of the Parade! The Disney Group really know how to do it. A
stretch Limo at my door, my personal escort at my beck and call,
an enormous suite at the Yacht Club with flowers, fruit, chocolates,
but alas, no dancing girls.
Sorry
to say that I had to cancel our annual cruise for 1996. The
sailing schedule was not suitable for us. (Winter in South America)
Instead, we went to New York on an Opera Tour. It was lovely
to be at the Metropolitan Opera House again. Gorgeous house,
wonderful seats, dinners at the Grand Tier Restaurant at the
Met. We saw Pavarotti in "Andrea Chenier". He appeared
to be much slimmer than usual. Could it be all that activity
with the 27 year old secretary? It'll do it every time. But
he sang beautifully. Also saw Forza del Destino, Attila, Romeo
and Juliet. All were wonderful. We stayed at the posh Rihga
Royal Hotel, saw some old friends and had fun with the famous
New York Cabbies.
I'm
ever hopeful that the Cargo Cruise Liner will get back on track
and so I have booked for 1997. It'll be our 6th voyage on this
ship - lovely rut, eh? I must say I'm looking forward to it.
I have My place on the top deck where I can watch the
sea and the wondrous cloud formations, the while listening to
one of the 36 opera cassettes I bring with me - and of course
my Sony Walkman. I hum along, much to the consternation and
chagrin of the assorted passengers. Bah Humbug to them.
I
had lunch with Dale Sinden, a friend from Sydney. He was kind
enough to gift me with three spectacular CDs of my favourite
Dame - Joan Sutherland. LA STUPENDA! We shall not hear her like
any time soon. Speaking of the "VOICE" (I jest of
course), I really do enjoy doing the animated series. I love
working with the voice wizards who can do 12 different characters.
I'm awed by their talent. I'm surrounded by these masters of
the art and I can barely do ME.
Let's
see - I'm involved with Casper, Bobby's World, Problem Child,
Superman, Spiderman, Aladdin, Bump in the Night and Freakazoid
My part in Freakazoid was originally called Dr. Smitty
- but the Warner Brothers lawyers got nervous and changed me
to Professor Jones! I did a photo signing appearance last weekend
- developed house maids wrist, but it waned when I examined
the gross. Good on me. Next appearances in New Jersey in September
and Chicago in November. Between times I shall of course voice
this and that.
My
roses, camellias, azaleas are screaming for water, water, more
water. I do these by hand and the automatic sprinkler systems
do the major work. Tis a grievous thing to see the burned leaves
and bloom, but....
NEVER
FEAR, SMITH IS HERE and we shall overcome.
June 7, 1996
Issue
16
I
always enjoy this opportunity to chat with my Australian friends
via Alpha Control and Glenn. It brings back a lovely rush
of nostalgia and memories of my tour in Sydney and the warmth
and affection that was shown me. Alpha Control remains part
of my favorite reading; especially my Galactic Meditations.
I am justly famous for my modesty as well as my talent!
The
other day I did a voice over commercial with Dick Tufeld (my
213th such) not too shabby, eh? Dick and I were quite splendid,
of course. Afterwards, we chatted for an hour about his visit
to Sydney, and how much he enjoyed it, and the wonderful reception
he received from the Australian people. He's such a dear man.
The Hollywood Collector Show was interesting and rewarding.
My appearance in Cherry Hill, New Jersey was even more so. They
do seem to love the good Doctor! I go to Chicago Oct 31 - Nov
4, to be witty, charming, terribly attractive, and ever so much
richer. Just as well they’re - raised the prices of the
Opera, AND Tanqueray Gin!
Nov.
8, I start recording the Disney, Animated Feature Film, ‘BUGS’.
I play the ‘Praying Mantis’, referred to in the script
as ‘The Magnificent Manny’. They must be reading my
fan mail!
Nov.
11, I am to host the New Line Cinema Marketing Event at Universal
- very posh - Limos to and fro and lovely ZEROS on the check.
I am to say, a few words, sign a few autographs, pose
for a few pictures, and be generally "friendly". New
Line is to produce the Lost In Space movie you know. Gives one
pause for thought and a HMMM or two!
Mid
March I am booked for Houston, Texas. I have played on the stage
there but never "appeared". Should be interesting.
April 2, 1997 off to sail the high seas again for 2 months.
6th Voyage on this ship for us. Same suite, same itinerary,
a marvelous rut. I'm already armed with a high (newley bought)
collection of Opera CDs. I will, as usual sing or hum along
with the singers, much to the chagrin of the other passengers.
Bah Humbug to them. A little culture never hurt anyone. I do
hope my "Freakazoid" gets picked up for a third season
- such great fun and off the wall humor. My "Problem Child"
has now been released abroad - I hope you get it in Australia.
I do "The Grandpa From Hell" Such a dear man - I love
him.
I
continue to get, and turn down TV film offers. After
doing 612 of these I see no need to prove anything to myself
or anyone else. It is flattering to be asked though. The voice
work suits me and pleases me and is creative enough to satisfy
my artistic urges.
Decisions
- Decisions - NO - I Shall NOT be making an appearance in Brazil
except for the Brazilian ports my ship services. Hopefully,
the Brazilian Fan Club officials will not descend en masse as
they once did. Their English was non-existent as was my Portuguese
- such smiling and nodding and shaking of hands - took me a
week to recover.
The
weather here is so erratic, and confused the flora and the fauna
as well I have no doubt, but, we shall overcome.
NEVER
FEAR, SMITH IS HERE
October 28, 1996
Issue
17
Greetings
again to all my friends in Australia. Whenever I do one
of my Meditations, it brings back warm memories of my visit
to Sydney. If I close my eyes, I can see the wonderful Opera
House in the harbor from my window of my suite in the Regent
Hotel. I'll never forget standing on the stage of this famous
House where my favorite Dame held forth, and my singing a
naughty song on the stage of Symphony Hall the same day, to
the delight of Glenn, and the complete bewilderment of
a group of Swedish tourists. What Fun!
Let
me catch you up on my activities. I've cancelled my annual 2
month cruise. It seemed unwise to be unavailable to the Disney
people for 8 weeks. I'm doing their new Animated Feature Film,
"Bugs", 'in which I voice "The Praying Mantis",
referred to 'in the script as "The Magnificent Manny".
The Disney folk are wonderful to work for; they've been very
co-operative in accommodating my work schedule when necessary;
but 8 weeks? I think not.
Also,
since I'm the host for New Line Cinema, TV Branch, I should
be available for all the events they are planning to have me
do this year. The NATPE Convention in New Orleans (National
Assoc. of TV Programme Executives) Worldwide, which I hosted
was a huge success for them and for me as well. The New Line
Booth was gorgeous, and the "line" was never ending.
I signed 1,300 photos! I was amazed and delighted that top executives
of TV and Cable from all over the world; China, Indonesia, Malaysia,
Greece, Argentina, Portugal, etc. waited in line patiently
for a signature and a word with, "the good doctor".
I did try to convince the Chinese that I had been dubbed that
I really did not speak a word of Chinese; but they just smiled
and nodded. Again, what fun - and what housemaid's wrist.
Speaking
of New Line- a word about the Lost In Space movie. It is being
shot in London, in the Shepperton Studios. I shot my first TV
Series, 'The Third Man" there. I had been offered, and
had declined to appear in a 6 line "bit", (referred
to by them as a Cameo). The director, Stephen Hopkins,
whom I had met at a New Line Event that I hosted, rang me from
London to ask me to reconsider. I told him that I was rather
proprietary about Dr. Smith, that he had not been "on the
page", that I had created him from the ground up, that
I considered him one of the highlights of my long career. and
that in and that in any project of Lost In Space I would play
only "him". I wished him well and good luck, and they
hired Sir John Gielgud to play the part! And that, as we
say, is that.
I
understand that Angela, Marta, Mark and June are doing cameos
and that is their affair. Billy's participation is uncertain.
I'll
be curious to see whether the movie bears any resemblance to
the Lost In Space which is a classic show all over the world.
If, in fact my contribution to it was instrumental in
creating this situation, then, good for me. An old show biz
adage comes to mind, "Never tamper with success".
We shall see.
I'm
off to Houston, Texas to "appear" and to return with
the coffers overflowing. Then, New Jersey, Hollywood, and
toying with some other dates - involving interesting scheduling
on my part - but it always seems to work out well.
G'Day
Mates - Good On All of You.
NEVER
FEAR, SMITH IS HERE
March 5, 1997.
Issue
18
Again,
greetings to all my friends in Australia from sunny California,
and I do mean sunny, to the tune of 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
The loud screaming you probably heard was from my poor Azaleas,
my even poorer Roses, and especially from their Daddy, my own
dear self There has been a slight respite for the last few days,
for which we are all extremely grateful.
This
has been an interesting time for me. I continue to Host the
Line Cinema Events, (the TV branch). My appearance for them
at the New York Licensing Show was a huge success. I signed
2,000 photos, of myself to be sure, developed housemaid's wrist,
was overwhelmed and delighted at the length of the signing line;
CEOs and luminaries from all over the world eager to shake the
hand of and admire and hero-worship the good Doctor Smith. I
learned, with great interest that Lost In Space is NOT dubbed
in Lebanese, the original sound track is used. When I questioned
this I was told that EVERYONE in Beirut speaks English! Fancy
that! I learned also that the show is of course dubbed in China,
Malaysia, Indonesia, Greece, Argentina, Brazil and virtually
the rest of the world. I wonder what I sound like in China?
CNN covered the Event, and at the risk of seeming immodest,
only Ron Howard and I got the coverage.
I'm
still not finished with the Disney Animated Feature, "It's
a Bug's life"; release is scheduled for 1998. Talk about
painstaking and care! Voicing the "Praying Mantis"
is most enjoyable. We have finally completed 13 episodes of
"Channel Umptee 3" for Columbia. I believe it is to
be animated in Korea, and debuts here in October 1997. Voicing
the "meanest man in the world" is of course a great
challenge for me since I'm justly famous for being good and
kind to people and animals!! It would please me no end if it
gets picked up for another season. My "Freakazoid"
was awarded a special Emmy for excellence. Well deserved.
The
SciFi, New Line Cinema event in Pasadena was quite splendid.
TV critics from all over the country were there in force. Needless
to say went out of my way to charm and bedazzle them- the press
clippings are still rolling in. I skirted most questions regarding
the L.I.S. movie. I reminded the critics that, "I never
go to the theatre unless I am appearing in the play". Got
a fine laugh, which was the whole point. I attended the STARCON
97 Event in Pasadena as a special favor to my friend Kevin Burns
of Foxstar Productions. It was pleasant enough; a huge venue,
many "celebrities".
My
appearance in Secaucus, New Jersey, (secaucus- sounds like a
skin disease) was medium as far as returns were concerned -
badly handled - they will not see me again. Next, I go to Washington,
D.C. Look' forward to that - will make a point to visit the
Smithsonian Institute where I hang in the
Science Fiction Hall. Then, Portland, Oregon, lovely area, followed
immediately by Dallas, Texas. I've played on the stage there
some years ago and it will be interesting to see what changes
have occurred in the BIG D. That, I think will do it for 1997.
One doesn’t want to overexpose.
Thanks,
dear fans for your kind letters and your kind words. It's always
so rewarding to receive them.
And
there you have it, until we meet again.
NEVER
FEAR SMITH IS HERE
August 12, 1997.
Issue
19
Greetings
from a wet, storm ridden sunny California! El Nino, visits us
with ever frequent torrents of rain on a regular basis, and
the weather prognosticators predict a continuance through March
and April. Bah humbug and an UGH or two to boot.
But
on to happier things. On October 16 there was a large function
at the Museum of Television and Radio in Beverly Hills to commemorate
the Blast Off date of the Jupiter 2 in the original classic
series. I attended of course, as did the other members of the
cast, ..the massed Press, complete with, (it appeared) thousands
of flashes, and microphones, had a field day. I wonder what
happened to the hundreds of photos I posed for - I've never
seen one of them - but the Press clippings were numerous and
very flattering for me so all was not lost.
The
first episode of the series was shown in the theatre much to
the delight of the audience. I had not seen it for 30 some years,
and at the risk of seeing immodest, I thought the actor playing
Dr. Smith was first rate. Then, all of us went up on stage to
answer questions from the audience. It did seem to me that things
got a bit out of hand. To put it more succinctly, certain conflicts
were apparent. I was told later by New Line and others that
my restraint was admirable! Happily, it came to an end, I said
my adieus and the Limo whisked me home.
On
December 11, I hosted the Western Cable Event in Anaheim for
the Sci-Fi Channel. We had a big success inasmuch as the line
waiting for my signature was never ending, and in addition to
my lovely fee I was gifted with a smashing umbrella which has
seen yeoman service these last weeks.
On
February 19, I finish my stint for the Disney animated feature
film, "A Bug's Life." I've been on it for 8 months
and I shall miss it. It's been a joyous experience and I'm sad
that it's over. It opens in November of this year and I hope
you will go to see it. I voice "The Praying Mantis",
referred to in the script as 'Manto the Magnificent' - I quipped
to the director that apparently they'd been reading my fan mail!
I've seen some of the film - it's enchanting.
In
early March I go to Orlando, Florida to be "worshipped
and adored" by the fans. I look forward to it - a chap
needs some of that you know.
Then,
April 3, 4, 5, there will be a big Lost In Space Event at the
Hollywood Entertainment Museum. I shall attend, and I believe
most, (or possibly all) of the rest of the cast will, as well.
Many activities are planned including, "Breakfast with
Jonathan" on Sunday - do come!
Then,
Atlanta, Georgia. I have lots of fans and chums in Atlanta so
that will be most enjoyable. I've been quite busy lending my
signature to assorted items. To wit - I signed 2,000 Certificates
of Authenticity for the official Lost In Space T-shirts - 500
sets of Trading Cards - 200 Magnificent Posters (they were kind
enough to have one Museum Quality framed for me - it
hangs in a place of honor) - 225 Plaques to be affixed on the
first season Laser Pistols -- with 225 more to follow -- and
they gave me one of the guns so I can ward off all attacks upon
my person by Aliens....
Anybody
know a cure for housemaid's wrist? But the money was right so
the complaint department is officially closed.
New
Line Cinema called from New York to say they will be in L.A.
for a brief visit and I'm to dine with them. They have been
discussing with me the possibility of attending the premiere
of the movie. I have declined, because I feel that since I refused
to appear in the movie it would not be proper for me to attend,
and of course be photographed with Gary Oldman! The 2 Dr. Smiths!
What a photo op that would be!
I
don't think Mr. Oldman would be amused and I would be less than
comfortable. I have said NO to the premiere in New York as well.
As far as seeing the movie is concerned, I'm sure you all understand
how difficult it would be for me. My memories of the series
and my contribution to it are still, and will always be, very
dear and close to my heart.
I
think, can I be truly be objective when I see the film? Probably
not- from the point of view of emotional attachment and memory,
and that wouldn't be fair. Every time I've gone to see the film
of a play that I did on Broadway I lasted about 15 minutes and
had to leave. They never measured up to my memories of the original
theatrical production.
Well
- I'll think on it and we shall see. Oh dear, it's clouding
up again - more rain -
OH
THE PAIN!
Until
next time, warm thoughts and kindest regards to all my friends
and fans in Australia.
NEVER
FEAR, SMITH IS HERE!
February 12, 1998.
Issue
20
Greetings
dear friends and fans. As always when I write one of these,
my mind goes back to my visit to Sydney in 1994, and I am suffused
with warmth and nostalgia as the memories come crowding in.
It was a lovely time.
Weather
report - it's cooler - a bit actually, but cooler: A fleeting
respite and then back to the horror of triple digit temperatures,
but we're lucky - the rest of the U.S. is 'in dire straits
with fires, floods, mud slides and various and sundry unnatural
disasters.
But
enough of that - let's gossip!
It
appears that New Line Cinema is going to spend $20 million to
promote the advent and sale of the Lost In Space Movie Videos!
It's devoutly to be wished that "someone" knows what
they're doing.
On
23 July I did my "on camera" interview for the one
hour Lost In Space Special courtesy, 20th Century Fox and New
Line Cinema. Kevin Bums was the 'interviewer with his usual
aplomb. I was, I thought, charming, witty, and more or less
honest, and after a detailed conference with the superb make-up
artist, emerged having shed 10- 12 years - no mean feat! People
seem to forget that 'in the theatre we "made ourselves
up". and learned every trick of the trade. We had a splendid
cameraman, amenable to putting a #2 diffusion lens 'in the camera
- "softens" everything - lines and wrinkles disappear
as if by magic. What fun it all is.
The
March foray to Orlando, Florida was a big success for me. It's
always so rewarding to be so well received by the fans. I admit,
with no shame whatsoever, that I do love it. Sony to say there
was no time to visit Disney World again. I had made an appearance
there several years ago and enjoyed it immensely. Met Mickey
Mouse and was the Grand Marshall of the Parade!
The
Lost In Space Event at the Hollywood Entertainment Museum 'in
April went rather well I thought; give or take the usual contretemps
and bad behaviour on the part of certain people - who shall
be nameless. My "Breakfast with Jonathan" sold out
and was a great success. A splendid time was had by all. I held
forth at great length - relating anecdotes and memories of my
years in the theatre. The audience was most attentive and responsive
and warmed the very cockles of my heart.
The
best laid plans have a way of going quite awry. I HAD to attend
the premiere of the Lost In Space Movie in New York. New Line
Cinema asked and I agreed to accept the 'invitation. The money
was right! Can you imagine how difficult it was for me?
I
really tried to be totally objective about it - hopeless. I'm
still, and always will be, devoted to the classic series. I
sat through it, being more and more grateful that I'd had the
good sense to turn down their offer to appear in it.
But then, I had to deal with the massed Press, waiting to pounce.
I
was determined to remain dignified and not betray the people
who were paying me, and yet. didn't want to sound like a Pollyanna
- "Oh it was wonderful, oh I loved it", etc. I parried
each question, and finally I said, "Had it not been for
my contribution to the classic series. New Line Cinema could
never have made this movie" - and escaped! I’m sure
it sounded pompous, albeit it is quite true - at any
rate - not my favorite evening.
Oh,
good news - I had thought I was finished with the Disney Movie,
"A Bug's life" three more recording sessions!!
Oh 'joy, oh bliss. It's been one of my favorite engagements
and I've enjoyed it immensely. Big "wrap" party in
San Francisco. One of my favorite cities- one of my favorite
movies, I shall attend.
The
Steven Spielberg series is on hiatus - a term used more and
more in La La Land. I am not amused - I love Seth Tuber
and his mother - both of which I voice.
I
must tell you, I get such lovely fan mail from Australia - some
via the L.I.S.A. Fan Club - most directly to me. How kind of
you to write.
Kindest
regards and best wishes to you all.
NEVER
FEAR - SMITH IS HERE.
July 26, 1998.
Issue
21
Greetings
from Sunny California - Oh that's a laugh! We're having "winter"
- unheard of in these parts, and for the first time we can see
the turning of the leaves on the trees - rusts, oranges, reds,
russets. So beautiful and so reminiscent of the Eastern part
of the States - New England in the fall! A sight to gladden
the eye and the heart. I remember it well.
'Lost
In Space Forever" is being shown on all the Fox Channels
nationwide here and is very well received, judging by the copious
mail. It was an interesting experience for me! To repeat
a performance first created some thirty odd years ago. Very
difficult actually to go back in time and try to recapture a
character - and in 4 minutes! Apparently it came off well and
I'm grateful for that.
The
Disney "A Bug's Life" opened to rave reviews and quickly
became a huge hit worldwide. The Premiere was very exciting
I must say. Disney had renovated the famous El Capitan Theatre
on Hollywood Boulevard to the tune of 7 million dollars - and
very beautiful it is.
Our
LIMO pulled up to the marque, happily missing the hundreds of
fans gathered to greet us. We had to deal with the ever present
battery of cameras, "look here Jonathan", "look
up Jonathan", "this way Jonathan", "smile
Jonathan" - one's face froze with "the smile".
Of course the press was doing their job and I understood that.
Our
personal escort finally rescued us and we were shown to our
seats - POPCORN was served! The movie came on - I had seen bits
and pieces of it during my recording sessions - but there it
was, all put together, a masterpiece of computer animation,
exciting, beautiful, awesome, delightful!
At
the risk of seeming immodest, I must admit that the actor
who voiced Manny, the Praying Mantis was altogether splendid
- a chap by the name of Jonathan Harris. I was very pleased
at my personal reviews - my favorite being the VARIETY review
which said I was "superbly droll" - and gave me first
mention too!
Not
bad, eh?
Afterward,
the party at "The Bug House" next to the theatre.
More cameras, cast photos, interviews - a sip or two of wine
- summoned the LIMO and went home. All in all, A Bugs Life was
a joyous and memorable theatrical experience for me, which I
hope to repeat before too long.
Now
let's see - I "appeared" at DRAGON CON 'in Atlanta
- a huge show - beautifully organized - 23,000 fans! Very rewarding
for me - I signed and smiled and smiled and signed. The Chiller
Theatre appearance in New Jersey also very well attended - about
20,000 folk - lined my capacious pockets right and proper. It
was Birthday Time and I was presented with a yummy whipped cream
and strawberry cake and gifts - altogether lovely, and very
much appreciated.
Thanksgiving
has come and gone - my one cookery of the year. Oh dear, when
I think of my famous sit down dinners for 12 1 used to turn
out - no more of that - don't have the patience for it anymore
- much to the chagrin of the folk who partook. My son loves
"THE BIRD" and so I do it for Thanksgiving - with
all the trimmings and a bottle of a decent wine to go with it.
And
now, my dear friends, I have so enjoyed chatting with you from
time to time, but it is time to say adieu and to pass the pen
to someone else. I will always have a warm place in my heart
for the kindness of the Australian people and for the warmth
that was extended to me.
I
wish you all good health and happiness.
NEVER
FEAR, SMITH WAS, AND IS, HERE.
December 13, 1998.
Issue
22/23
During
my years on Lost In Space, I must tell you I developed
a special friendship with my makeup man Bobby Mark. Oh. he was
one of the old fashioned ones. a great professional. He had
previously worked at MGM for many years.
He
had made-up Judy Garland when she was a child. And Greta Garbo,
Joan Crawford and Robert Taylor. And he regaled me with many
wonderful, wonderful stories. We just fell in love at once.
It
seems to me one day, I was in the makeup chair - and it bad
been a very bad night for both of us. I'm sure we were both
hung over. He drank a little vodka you know ..just for medicinal
purposes. Bobby was appIying his make-up wizardry, and when
doing my eyes, he slipped a little.
And
I screeched out "You're not a makeup man.' ... You're
a plumber! That's what you are! ... A plumber!
Well,
of course, he loved it. And the crew picked it up, in fact,
everybody picked up on it. Bobby became "The Plumber".
I knew he would get me for that one day. I knew it. And for
a couple of weeks, I was very watchful for retaliation of some
sort. But then, of course, one forgets. I went about my business.
He
was waiting for that Oh yes he was. And so Bobby collaborated
with Kit Carson; who was in charge of photography on Lost
In Space.
One
day, they were lighting a close-up of me, a tight head shot.
And just before the word 'action', Kit Carson says, "O
hfor God's sake! I can't photograph this! It's all
shiny!
Where the hell is the plumber?"
"Get
the plumber out here right now.'
Out
came Bobby Mark. "Yes, sir! Yes, sir! Here I come!"
And from behind, out came a toilet plunger to which he had
attached a powder puff - and soon there was powder everywhere!
And with that, he patched up the old face.
I
will never forget that. I was on the floor for twenty minutes
in laughter ... so was Kit Carson. I knew he'd get me one day
and he did! ... Bobby was smirking like a Cheshire cat.
There
is a post-story to Bobby. He died several years later and it
broke my heart. My good friend Wemer Klemperer knew of my great
devotion to Bobby and came to my house to tell me of his passing.
He informed me when his service was to take place. So I went.
I remember distinctly walking by his open casket, and when I
looked at Bobby, all I could think of was something very very
succinct.
I
later went to Bobby's wife Lily (who was a body make-up lady)
and said "You're going to kill me for this, perhaps
this not the right time or the right day, but all I could
think about when I saw Bobby in the casket, is what he
would have said."
"Who
the hell did this make-up!" Well,
she had to turn, as she roared with glee, bless her heart. So
we hugged each other. We laughed and cried all at the same time.
Oh yes, that's exactly what Bobby would have said!
He
was one of the old professional make-up artists. He was such
a caring and lovely man of the type we do not see anymore.
Until
next time I wish you all good health and happiness.
NEVER
FEAR, SMITH IS HERE!!
June
23, 1999
Issue
24
During
Lost in Space, I forced myself to have
a good working relationship with the executive producer Irwin
Allen, as he could be a most difficult man to work with. He
was my boss and I was his star and that's the way we played
it. He was a most complex man, an innovative man and I did have
great respect for the area of his expertise; ... earthquakes,
floods and other special effects.
I
will never forget my first meeting with him at 20th Century
Fox. It was about four o'clock in the afternoon, when I was
ushered before the presence; sitting behind a huge desk. After
long and involved discussions about the show and my billing,
he turned to his coterie of yes men and said: "Hire
him, and don't give him too much money!" That was a
situation to which I quickly remedied, you may be sure.
Now
it seems to me that about the start of Lost In
Space's second season, Irwin and I were not speaking
to each other, for six weeks, for whatever reason. During the
fifth week, it started to get ugly. I remember he waltzed onto
our set while I was acting up a storm. Irwin gaped at me, marched
over to director Don Richardson and said "-----".
Irwin
understood that. Anyway, through our agents, we patched up our
silent term - it was only six weeks, but he was determined
to teach me a lesson for that. Now as my punishment Irwin brought
in Henry Jones as a threat of my replacement. Yes he did, Henry
was going to be my cousin; Cousin Jeremiah Smith.
Cousin
Indeed!
On
Irwin's sets, he had his spies everywhere. And so did I. In
Hollywood having spies is called survival, so I made it my business
to know what was going on. I knew most of Irwin's spies, however
he did not know about mine. And so it came to pass that I caught
wind of the forthcoming employment of my new cousin.
I
remember well the day Irwin came into the make-up room with
news of the employment of Henry Jones. He was ready to see me
cringe, but he couldn't outwit this ole boy. I was ready for
him. Act 1, scene 1. Irwin said "---" He said
"---" I said "---" ...He didn't
know what to make of that, so he continued on.
I
was supposed to cringe and say "---" ..Not a chance
baby! Not me! I calmly said "---".
Irwin's
arrows were missing their mark.
Irwin
went on to say "---"
I
said "---"
Henry
was aware that he was being used, but that's the nature of the
business. Anyway we shot the segment (episode) in which we battled
for control of our great Aunt Maude's inheritance, and that
was that. What ever happened to my cousin? ... Who knows.
I
was very sad to learn of Henry's recent passing last May, he
was a dear sweet man and I really did enjoy my many times acting
with him on the New York stage.
Does
this mean that I inherit Aunt Maude's fortune?
Until
next time I wish you all good health and happiness.
NEVER
FEAR, SMITH IS HERE!!
Want
to know exactly what Jonathan and Irwin said to each other on
the set - Read it all in the latest issue of Alpha Control.
Jonathan
Harris
October
17, 1999
Issue
25
Most
of you have seen the ring that I always wear on my left hand.
It has been with me for a thousand years, or so it seems. I
have always worn it for all of my stage and film performances
- even if a director would me give a hard time about wearing
it, I would just turn it around to look like a wedding ring.
It was originally a Bishop's ring, beautifully cut and contains
an amethyst stone with a very deep purple to it. I still wear
it today, however there was a time when I nearly lost my ring
forever...
I
was performing in the musical stage play; Irene, (don't
ask me how many years ago) in a wonderful touring company with
a marvellous Pat Carroll and an equally as marvellous Anita
Gillette. We even had the Broadway Gypsies (from the original
show with Debbie Reynolds). They were so much joy to be
around. Musicals are a lot of fun and we had the very
best times. I got to sing two numbers in the show, I
can't sing let me tell you - but that has never stopped me.
My songs' reception was splendid, with the audiences clapping
and banging on their seats ... because I sing with authority
- that's the secret. Sing it loud, so it appears one knows
what one is doing.
We
had just finished Palm Beach, and our tour then took us to Fort
Lauderdale, with us staying at the Four Seasons Hotel. I must
tell you I am a creature of habit, and I am very, very
organized. So on my tours all over the country, I
have always unpacked exactly the same way. I put all my luggage
on the bedroom bed, I then take off my watch and ring and put
them in the ashtray. That's what I do.
Then
I wander about my room and take in my surroundings. It
was a beautiful suite with two terraces overlooking the sea
and the city. I walked on to the terrace to sightsee when there
was a knock on the door...
It
was the help with a vacuum; "Do you mind if I vacuum
here? " I said; "Oh, well all right.
Do the bedroom first". So in he went and vacuumed
the bedroom, then the living room and finished up the kitchen,
whereupon he said 'Anything else?" I said "No,
that's it"
So
he left. Later that day, I had a dress rehearsal at the
theatre, so I went into the bedroom to organize myself I put
out what I needed to wear and then I looked toward the ashtray
... arrgh! Watch there, ...ring gone!
Had
to be him! Had to be. Within a few minutes of calling
the desk and the hotel security, a very nice man came up. I
said, "Your man with the vacuum stole my ring and I
want it back! I won't bring charges, I don't care,
just get me my ring" So they called the police and
a very nice detective sergeant and I were soon in conference.
I told him what the guy looked like, he conferred with the help
and spoke to the manager, and so before long they got his name
and address.
I
said; "Listen, I can't perform without my ring.
You tell that son of a bitch, I will not bring charges,
just HAND OVER THE RING!" The detective assured me
that he would do his best. Well, that's exactly what he
did, as they went to see this fellow and he nervously denied
everything. Pressing a little harder the detective sergeant
said to him; "We're going to put you in jail for long
time " to which he relented, and they finally found
my ring - under the mattress of his bed.
The
detective immediately rang me and said, "Can I come
over with some good news? I said, "Run, do not walk!"
and up he came and handed over the ring. Oh, I gave
him a big hug and said, "Bless your heart!" Never
was I so happy to be wearing my ring again. I turned to the
hotel manager and said 'I hope you're going to fire
the bastard!" and quick as a bunny he replied; "He's
already dismissed".
You
better believe from that moment on, I have kept a close vigilance
over my ring. Well, the rehearsals went well, and we had
a long wonderful run, selling-out every night in Fort Lauderdale's
huge theatre. Then on to the next city we went.
So
that's the story of my ring - it's all true. The true
stories are always the very best.
Until
next time I wish you all good health and happiness.
NEVER
FEAR, SMITH IS HERE!!
Jonathan
Harris
April
17, 2000
Issue
26/27
Of
all the guest stars on Lost In Space, I am always asked most
about Michael Rennie who played 'The Keeper' on two wonderful
segments (episodes). Did you know I had done my first television
series with Michael? Oh, indeed I did! It was a glistening,
sharp and sophisticated production based on the famous Orson
Wells movie of 1950; called The Third Man. (The TV series was
produced from 1959 through 1962) It was a wonderful show, very
slick and much before it's time. My part; Bradford Webster,
had not appeared in the movie at all, and so it was specially
written for me by the producer.
I was signed to be Harry Lime's confidant & financial wizard.
I played a true eccentric, who always wore the same navy-blue
suit, kept his watch only on New York time and never cracked
a smile. We started shooting The Third Man for Twentieth Century
Fox at Shepperton Studios in London England. Never had I worked
with Michael, who was a Big movie star. It had never occurred
to the studio to have a welcoming party for Michael and I, to
get to know each other, as we were about to spend the next 39
weeks together. I remember walking into the studio and being
introduced to this very austere, very slender, tall, strikingly
handsome looking man, with dimples. That was Michael, whom of
course, I had seen on the, screen. He had the bluest eyes and
a smile which, in retrospect, reminds me of completely lighting
up a room.
I said; "How do you do?" And he said (very prim and serious)
"How do you do" I thought;... "Jesus Christ, that's the way
it's going to be for thirty-nine weeks? 39 weeks with this one?
What am I going to do? " Today, I have done, more than 600 television
films. With all of the work, I've got to have a giggle or two,
or else I will explode. I'm a giggler by nature. At that time
I thought; "I wonder if there's anybody there, behind all that?"
So I decided to find out, ...and I did!
Find
out what Jonathan FOUND OUT by Subscribing to LISA and
receiving your own copy of the fantastic Alpha Control magazine.
Visit JOIN
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In December 1965, I heard that we were going to do two episodes
of Lost In Space with Michael playing 'The Keeper'. Oh I was
quite ecstatic. We hadn't worked together since The Third Man,
so I must tell you, we had the most wonderful two weeks. It
was quite a scene when he appeared on the set of Lost in Space,
with the sight of two grown men hugging, kissing, screaming
and howling. I was beside myself, really.
But it would be the last time that I worked with Michael. I
saw him a couple of times after that, as he soon travelled back
to England. In 1971, it was John Forsythe who told me that Michael
had passed away from emphysema at his sister's house in London,
at the age of 65. I was filled with tremendous sadness when
he died. He was much too young. He was a lovely, lovely man
and I dearly miss him.
I'm sure Michael is some place smiling and giggling at this
very minute.
As always, the true stories are the very best. Until next time
I wish you all good health and happiness.
NEVER FEAR, SMITH IS HERE.
Jonathan Harris
November 17th 2000.
Artwork
by Frantz Kantor
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Condolences
to Gertrude & Richard 
