Vegas Voice May 2021

Remembering Dick Powell
By: Beverly Washburn / Hollywood Memories
I
’d just like to say that my thoughts and
prayers are with all of you as we go through
this very uncertain time.
I thought this month I’d write about Dick Powell. I was lucky
enough to have worked with him back in the 50s. It was on a TV show
called “Four Star Playhouse.”
It was a weekly episodic show that starred Dick Powell, Charles Boyer,
David Niven and Ida Lupino. I was fortunate to have worked with all
of them except Ida Lupino. Each week they would alternate the “Four
Stars” and have a different story line..
Dick Powell was one of the founders and producers of the show.
The episode I did
with him was
called “Autumn
Carousel.”
I played a little
girl traveling
alone on a train
who meets up with
him. I actually
hadn’t seen the
show in many
years, but recently
a friend found it
on YouTube and
sent it to me. I
must say it brought
back many fond
memories.
Dick Powell was
known first as a
musical comedy
star and singer. He later segued into more dramatic roles and did radio
shows such as Johnny Dollar and Richard Diamond back in the 40s.
He was married 3 times. Twice to actress Joan Blondell and then to
June Allyson until his death in 1963.
As I look back, I feel truly blessed to have worked with such a
wonderfully kind and famous man - although as I have stated before,
I was too young to realize who he was or even that he was famous. My
memories now are forever embedded in my heart and I treasure all
those moments.
I never really appreciated them because I was too young, but I
promise you this: I am now very grateful, and I am also grateful to
each and every one of you who read my column as I reminisce about
my childhood.
Until next time, remember... Faith is holding on tight when the
going gets windy.
Beverly Washburn graced the silver screen as a child actress and
is the author of Reel Tears. You can contact Beverly at: bjradell@
hotmail.com.
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