John Wayne's Levitating Love for Harry Carey Jr. and the Influence of Legendary Western Stars

In the world of Western cinema, many actors and actresses left their indelible mark on the silver screen. However, John Wayne had a special appreciation for certain actors who embodied the spirit of the Wild West. One of his favorite cowboy actors was Harry Carey Jr., who often played the character 'Cheyenne Harry.'

The Evolution of Western Screen Legends

Harry Carey, sometimes known as Harry Carey Sr. to distinguish him from his son, was no stranger to Hollywood. He made a name for himself during the silent era, starring in at least four movies a year. His popular films included the 'Cheyenne Harry' series, which ran from 1916 to 1936. Some of the notable titles in this earlier series are A Knight Of The Range and Aces Wild. Carey’s voice was well-suited for the transition to talkies, but by the time sound became prominent, he was already in his fifties and considered unsuitable for leading roles.

Despite this, Carey found a new niche as a character actor. Some of his best roles were in low-budget Westerns, where he could showcase his talent and comedic timing. One of his most acclaimed roles was as the President of the Senate in the 1939 film Mister Smith Goes To Washington, for which he earned his only Oscar nomination. His partnerships with other notable actors, including John Wayne, were particularly significant: in 1947, he appeared opposite Wayne in The Angel And The Badman, and the following year, he worked with Wayne again in a small role in Red River.

John Wayne's Admiration and Collabs

John Wayne had a deep admiration for Harry Carey Jr. and Tom Mix, both of whom were highly influential in the Western genre. The friendship between Wayne and Harry Carey Jr. developed over the years through their numerous collaborations in various Western films. This friendship was not just professional but also personal, with Wayne remembering Carey fondly during his career.

The Final Scene in 'The Searchers'

One of the poignant moments in The Searchers (1956) highlights the influence of these legendary actors on the next generation. In the film's final scene, as everyone else goes into the house, John Wayne can be seen in the doorway, grasping his right arm at the elbow and walking away as the door closes. This gesture is believed to be a personal reference to a move that Harry Carey was known to make in his films. Interestingly, one of the actresses in the scene was Olive Carey, the wife of Harry Carey and the mother of Harry Carey Jr.

Legacy and Influence

The legacy of legendary actors like Harry Carey Jr. and Tom Mix continues to be celebrated in the Western genre and beyond. These actors not only captivated audiences with their performances but also set a benchmark for future generations of Western stars. Their influence extends beyond the screen, inspiring new actors and filmmakers to continue telling the stories of the Wild West.

As we remember these iconic figures, we are reminded of the enduring quality of their work and the impact they had on the broader landscape of cinema. Whether through their intense performances or their lasting friendships, they have left an indelible mark on the history of Western movies.