Movies - TV
John Wayne Started His Career By (Literally) Knocking Over John Ford
By JEREMY SMITH
John Wayne, a prelaw student and football lineman at USC, worked as a prop man on local sets during summers, landing his first film role in Ford's “Hangman’s House" in 1926.
John Ford, known for belittling male actors, met Wayne on a set and performed a macho hazing ritual, prompting a memorable encounter between the two.
In 1976, Wayne recalled the incident on “The Phil Donahue Show,” describing how Ford kicked his feet out from under him and mocked his football skills.
Unafraid of consequences, Wayne challenged Ford to try again, and when Ford charged, Wayne kicked him in the chest, knocking him over and causing a tense silence.
The silence was followed by laughter, as Ford was charmed by Wayne’s willingness to fight back, leading to more work for Wayne through the late 1920s.
It wasn't until 1939’s “Stagecoach” that Ford gave Wayne a starring role, propelling him into the big leagues after a decade of low-budget cowboy flicks.