John Wayne’s Blink-and-You’ll-Miss-It TV Cameo in Wagon Train
John Wayne’s Blink-and-You’ll-Miss-It TV Cameo in Wagon Train
John Wayne’s only recurring TV series appearance was a brief, uncredited role in Wagon Train, done as a favour for mates. His fleeting screen time left viewers second-guessing if it was really him.
Blazing Saddles Returns: The Western That Still Sparks Debate
Blazing Saddles Returns: The Western That Still Sparks Debate
Mel Brooks’ infamous 1970s western, Blazing Saddles, is set to stream again on HBO Max in 2026, reigniting conversations about its legacy and controversy.
John Wayne’s War: Patriotism, Hollywood, and the Draft Dodger Debate
John Wayne’s War: Patriotism, Hollywood, and the Draft Dodger Debate
John Wayne’s absence from World War II service has long sparked debate. Was he dodging the draft, or were there other reasons behind his decision to stay in Hollywood? The truth is more complicated than it seems.
Clint Eastwood and John Wayne’s Lost Western: From Dream Duo to Hallmark Drama
Clint Eastwood and John Wayne’s Lost Western: From Dream Duo to Hallmark Drama
A shelved western meant for Clint Eastwood and John Wayne was reimagined decades later for the Hallmark Channel, missing its chance to become a genre classic.
Did One Film Spell Doom for John Wayne’s Health?
Did One Film Spell Doom for John Wayne’s Health?
John Wayne’s time on the set of The Conqueror may have had deadly consequences, with the film’s location and production choices linked to a shocking number of cancer cases among cast and crew.
Five Screen Legends Who Passed on Dirty Harry
Five Screen Legends Who Passed on Dirty Harry
Before Clint Eastwood made Dirty Harry iconic, five Hollywood heavyweights—Robert Mitchum, Steve McQueen, Frank Sinatra, Paul Newman, and John Wayne—each turned down the role for their own reasons.
How a Script Swap Sparked John Wayne’s On-Set Fury
How a Script Swap Sparked John Wayne’s On-Set Fury
A behind-the-scenes clash on Cast a Giant Shadow saw John Wayne discover a sneaky script switch, leading to a heated showdown with the producer and ending his work with director Melville Shavelson.
How Frank Sinatra Ended His Feud With John Wayne
How Frank Sinatra Ended His Feud With John Wayne
John Wayne’s legacy is tangled—admired by some, condemned by others. Even Frank Sinatra, once a fierce rival, would later call him a 'giant of our times.' Their story is one of conflict, controversy, and unexpected reconciliation.
John Wayne’s Last Stand: The Oscar He Longed For
John Wayne’s Last Stand: The Oscar He Longed For
John Wayne’s swansong in The Shootist was his most personal role, but despite critical praise, the Academy overlooked him for another Oscar. Discover why this legendary actor never received the recognition he craved.
The Director Who Turned Down John Wayne’s Film Pitch
The Director Who Turned Down John Wayne’s Film Pitch
When a director refused to helm a John Wayne project over script concerns, it led to a tense face-off with the Hollywood legend years later.