The Legends of Hollywood Cowboys Before John Wayne's Rise to Fame
When I was a kid, the names Roy Rogers, Rex Allen, Gene Autry, Lash LaRue, Red Rider, Hopalong Cassidy, and Allen Rocky Lane were much more familiar than John Wayne. Their films were a big part of my childhood, and I knew nothing about John Wayne's earlier career. But it wasn't until he became a household name that his fame began to grow in the world of Western movies. This article delves into the lives and contributions of the well-known cowboys in Hollywood before John Wayne's rise to fame.
The Golden Age of Westerns in Hollywood
The early 20th century saw a significant surge in the popularity of Western movies in Hollywood. This era was characterized by colorful, exciting, and often melodramatic tales of rugged cowboys battling both the elements and bad guys in the wide-open spaces of the American West. These Westerns not only provided entertainment but also helped to create an image of the American frontier that continues to be a part of popular culture today.
Roy Rogers - The King of Cowboys
Roy Rogers was one of the most beloved cowboys in Hollywood during the 1930s and 1940s. Known as the "King of Cowboys," he starred in a variety of films and television shows that captivated audiences. His film career spanned from 1932 to 1957, during which time he and his wife Dale Evans, a Western star in her own right, were a dynamic duo in both the movies and television. The two of them had their own radio show, appeared in films together, and were beloved for their wholesome, family-friendly image.
Rex Allen - The Voice of the West
Rex Allen was another prominent cowboy in Hollywood. He made a name for himself as a renowned Wild West singer and actor. His deep, smooth voice added a new dimension to the traditional Western sound, often narrating or singing in films and television shows. A tenacious performer, Allen made over 60 films and hosted several television shows, including the popular "The Rex Allen Show." His performances often featured dynamic duels with the likes of Gene Autry, and he left an indelible mark on the genre.
Gene Autry - The Singing Cowboy
Gene Autry was known as the "Singing Cowboy" and was particularly famous for his musical talents. He appeared in over 100 films and became one of the biggest stars of the Golden Age of Hollywood Westerns. Autry's signature song, "Back in the Saddle Again," became a classic Western anthem. Beyond the silver screen, he was a successful broadcaster and even owned a cattle ranch and a baseball team. His contributions to the myth of the American cowboy were immense, and he remains a figure of nostalgia for many.
Lash LaRue and Red Rider - The Comedy Cowboys
Lash LaRue and Red Rider brought a lighthearted touch to the genre with their slapstick and humor. LaRue, with his familiar white streak in his hair, was known for his joyful and childlike demeanor. Red Rider, portrayed by John Rolo, was his companion and sidekick. Together, they starred in over 54 films and a variety of TV shows, captivating audiences with their wholesome and family-friendly content. Their performances often involved comical situations, chase scenes, and the humor of the Wild West.
Hopalong Cassidy - The Dapper Cowboy
William Boyd, better known as Hopalong Cassidy, played a suave and stylish cowboy who was a departure from the traditional rugged macho characters. Boyd portrayed Cassidy as an educated and cultured lone rider, often described as a "He of Many Adventures." He appeared in 24 films and hosted a television series, "Hopalong Cassidy," which ran from 1949 to 1955. His sophisticated approach to the cowboy genre helped to evolve the image of the Western hero, making him a beloved icon in his own right.
Allen Rocky Lane - The Boot Hill Badboy
Allen Rocky Lane played daredevil cowboys and outlaws in numerous Western films. His portrayals often featured ripple-cut mustaches, high fleece shirts, and practical elements that made his characters stand out. Lane appeared in over a hundred films throughout his career, often starring alongside Roy Rogers and other Western stars. His characters were known for their bold and rebellious nature, adding a new element of excitement to the Western genre.
While John Wayne may have come to symbolize the American cowboy in the collective imagination, these other figures played critical roles in shaping and popularizing the Western genre. Each brought a unique flavor to the storytelling, from the nostalgic charm of Roy and Gene to the humor of Red Rider and Lash LaRue, and the sophistication of Hopalong Cassidy. Their legacies continue to influence Western cinema, leaving a lasting impact on American popular culture.
Conclusion
As childhood memories were filled with the adventures of these legendary cowboys, it is easy to see why their fame and presence in Western movies were so significant. While John Wayne would go on to become one of the most famous cowboys of all time, the contributions of Roy Rogers, Rex Allen, Gene Autry, Lash LaRue, Red Rider, Hopalong Cassidy, and Allen Rocky Lane are indispensable. Their enduring legacy in the world of Western films ensures that their stories remain a cherished part of American culture.