Were he still alive, Bobby Buntrock would be be 62 year old. He died tragically, however, over 40 years ago, at the age of 21, The child actor, who played Harold Baxter on the popular 1960s Hazel comedy series, lost his life in an automobile accident on a bridge in Keystone, South Dakota on April 7, 1974. According to the World Heritage Encyclopedia, the bridge had been severely damaged two years previously in the South Dakota Flood of 1972. There was a large hole in the middle of the bridge with at least 3.1 to 4.6 metres (10 to 15 feet) of water in the hole from the creek. Unfortunately, there were no warning signs or barricades to call attention to the danger. Bobby was en route to visit a friend when his car slid of the side of the road and flipped over into the water.
The accident was reported and divers arrived at the scene. They eventually reached the car and discovered Bobby's body. The young man had tried to escape, but he had been unable to pry the door open far enough due to the mud and the sheer force of the water. His death was horribly heartbreaking and could have been prevented.
Robert Willard "Bobby" Buntrock was born in Denver, Colorado on August 4, 1952, the son of Robert Edward Buntrock, a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II, and his wife Maxine. Bobby had a younger sister named Stella. When he was three years old, the family moved to Whittier, California where neighbours urged Bobby's parents to get their son into acting. and encouraged them to send photographs of the child to the studios. The neighbours were so persistent, according to an October 14, 1961 item in the Lewiston Evening Journal, that they sent a photographer to have Bobby's picture taken specifically for that purpose.
When the photos were received, the Buntrocks agreed, under pressure, to submit them to an agent, Marcella Bell, who auditioned young Bobby and signed him on as client.. He made made his acting debut n 1959, appearing with Hollywood great Bette Davis on NBC's Wagon Train. In the episode, "The Ella Lindstrom Story" (Season 2, Episode 18, Air Date (February 4, 1959). he played Bo Lindstom, one of Ella's (Davis) children.
In 1960 Bobby appeared as Buddy on an episode of Westinghouse Desilu Playhouse called "Dr. Kate." In 1961, he had cameo roles on two of the biggest hit comedies on American television, Mr. Ed and The Donna Reed Show. In an early episode of Mr. Ed, "Kiddy Park," he played a small boy in the park where Ed, the talking horse, was giving pony rides. (Season 1, Episode 4, Air Date: January 26, 1961). On The Donna Reed Show, Bobby played a crying child in an episode entitled "Mary's Little Lamb" (Season 3, Episode 38, Air Date: June 8, 1961). In the episode, Mary Stone (Shelly Faberes) is permitted to open the house to a baby-sitting service while her mother is out of town.
In 1961, Bobby was cast as eight-year-old Harold Baxter on the sitcom Hazel, starring Oscar-winner Shirley Booth (In 1953, she won an Academy award for her role in Come Back, Little Sheba). The series, based on Ted Key's cartoon in the Saturday Evening Post about a busybody maid, became a huge hit with viewers. Don Defore and Whitney Blake played Hazel's employers, George and Dorothy Baxter, and Bobby played their blond-haired son.
The first five seasons of the show (1961-1965) were broadcast on NBC. After the fourth season, both DeFore and Blake left the series. When the show moved to CBS for its fifth and final season, it was completely revamped. George and Dorothy were transferred to Saudi Arabia on business for a lengthy period and Hazel and Harold moved in with George's bother, real estate agent Steve Baxter (Ray Fulmer) and his wife, Barbara (Lynn Borden). Their daughter Susie, Harold's younger cousin, was played by child actress Julia Benjamin.
Below is a photo (circa 1965) of Bobby with Shirley Booth and Julia Benjamin.
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While starring in Hazel, Bobby Buntrock made appearances on other television series. In 1963 he took on the role of Andrew in an episode of the popular TV Western The Virginian ("Brother Thaddeus," Season 2, Episode 7, Air Date: (October 30, 1963). That same year, he played a character named Scout Hendricks in an episode of the crime series Burke's Law entitled "Who Killed Eleanora Davis?" (Season 1, Episode 13, Air Date: December 20,1963). In 1965 he portrayed Peter, a Cub Scout, on the Inger Stevens comedy, The Farmer's Daughter in an episode entitled "Ja, Ja, a Thousand Times Ja" (Season 2, Episode 32, Air Date (May 7, 1965).
After Hazel went off the air in 1966, the teenage Bobby, made two more guest appearances on The Virginian and then retired from acting. The Virginian episodes, which aired in 1967, are "Doctor Pat" (Season 5, Episode 23, Air Date: March 1, 1967) and "The Masquerade" (Season 6, Episode 6, Air Date: October 18, 1967).
WHAT HAPPENED TO THE REST OF THE CAST OF HAZEL?
Shirley Booth (Hazel),retired from acting in 1974. The New York City-born actress died on October 16, 1992 at her home in North Chatham, Massachusetts after suffering from health problems such as blindness and a broken hip. Shirley was 94 years old at the time of her passing.
Don DeFore, who played Hazel's employer, attorney George Baxter, died of a cardiac arrest on December 22, 1993 in Santa Monica, California. He was 80 years old. Prior to his role as George Baxer, Don played Erskin "Thorny" Thornberry, the Nelson family's neighbour on The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet.
Whitney Blake, who portrayed Dorothy Baxter, died of cancer of the esophagus on September 28, 2002. She passed away in Edgartown, Massachusetts at the age of 76. Whitney was the mother of actress Meredith Baxter of Family Ties fame (Coincidentally, Blake's first husband was named Tom Baxter).
%2Bwith%2BDon%2BDeFore%2B(George)%2Band%2BWhitney%2BB.%2B(Dorothy).jpg) |
| Hazel (Booth) with Mr. and Mrs. Baxter (DeFore and Blake) |
Julia Benjamin (Susie Baxter) will turn 58 years old on February 21, 2015 and is retired from acting. After Hazel was cancelled by CBS in 1966, Julia was only able to land a few guest-starring roles on television.
Ray Fulmer (Steve Baxter) celebrates his 82nd birthday today. After Hazel left the air, Ray played the role of Lee Gantry on the CBS daytime soap The Guiding Light. He later portrayed Martin Nell Dillard on another soap, Somerset, a spin-off of Another World.
Lynn Borden (Barbara Baxter) is now 77 years old She has made guest appearances on such television series as My Three Sons (1967), The F.B.I.(1968), Family Affair (1967) (1968 - twice), Get Smart (1967) (1969), The Mod Squad (1969), McMiillan & Wife (1975), Petrocelli (1976). Starsky and Hutch (1977), Fantasy Island (1978), The Fall Guy (1982) and CSI: NY (2006). In most recent years, Lynn has worked in television commercials and on stage.
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| Lynn Borden (right) with Shirley Booth and Ray Fulmer |
END NOTES
* Bobby Buntock's sister Stella appeared in some television commercials as a child.
* When Bobby starred in Hazel, he was required by law to have a tutor on the set. When the show was on hiatus, he attended Lake Marie Public School in Whittier, California.
* A false story has been circulating that Bobby Buntrock's mother died a year before her son in a car accident at the same bridge in South Dakota where he perished. However, Maxine Buntrock died on June 20, 1972 of cardiac arrest at the family home.
* Bobby's father, Robert Edward Buntrock, remarried in 1979. He wed a widow named Margaret R. (Champion) McClure.who became stepmother to Bobby's sister Stella (Buntrock) Watson. Robert, who was born on September 3, 1915, passed away on March 21, 1996. Margaret, originally from Keystone, South Dakota, died on March 14, 2011 at the age of 92 in Rapid City, South Dakota.
* According to the Internet Movie Database (IMDb), Bobby was a member of the National Guard in Rapid City, South Dakota.
* Below is a photo of Bobby Buntrock's grave. He is buried at Keystone Cemetery, Keystone, Pennington Country, South Dakota, U.S.A.
EDITOR'S NOTE (March 10, 2016): The above photo has been misidentified as Bobby Buntrock on the "Find a Grave" website and on "Pininterest." It is, in fact, Bobby Driscoll, an American child actor who became drug-addicted and died a sad death in 1968 at the age of 31. Here is a picture of Bobby Driscoll as a child.
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| Bobby Drisccoll |
It is easy to understand the confusion as both actors had the same first name and both died young. Driscoll had darker hair. Note: I have yet to see an adult photo of Bobby Buntrock.
EDITOR'S NOTE (March 17, 2017): I have recently written another piece with more information about Bobby Buntrock. To read it, click on the link below.
http://www.tvbanter.net/2018/03/more-on-bobby-buntrock.html
EDITOR'S NOTE (April 19, 2019): I received the following e-mail regarding Bobby Buntrock's tragic death. It is very informative.
I was reading about Bobby Buntrock's death in your column and I would like to offer the opinion that the business of not being able to open car doors under water is not uncommon.
Even at a depth of 5 feet, the water pressure is 2.17 pounds per square inch. Figuring a fully immersed door at 24 x 48 inches in size (pretty conservative, a total of 1152 square inches) at that depth, the force of water holding the door shut is about 1152 square inches times 2.17 pounds per square inch = about 2500 pounds or over a ton.
At ten feet, the water's force on the door is about 5000 pounds or 2 1/2 tons.
As you can see, it would be very difficult to get out under water, even at very modest depths, because of the forces involved.
Your report mentioned that Mr. Buntrock had struggled to get out, but that mud and water pressure would not allow that. There was no mention of the depth of water at that site, but as you can see, mud or no mud, the car doors might be very difficult to open.
The "trick" is to roll the window down (or break it) to allow water to equalize the pressure, but this takes real fortitude to do, and is unlikely to be thought of in a panic situation.
One hopes that none of your readers will ever find themselves in that situation, but if they do, remembering this might save their life.
It has been surmised that the reason Senator Ted Kennedy could not rescue Mary Jo Kopechne when he dove down to get her out of the car, was because of the water pressure on the door, and that was the same reason she could not get herself out.
A friend of mine died in his pickup truck for this very reason.
You may verify the physics involved with any physics involved with any physics professor or SCUBA diver.
Note these numbers are for fresh water. They are slightly higher for salt water.
Water pressure versus depth calculator:
- Dick Loesch
I thank Dick Loesch for his letter.
EDITOR'S NOTE (December 16,2019): A reader was kind enough to send me these 1968 yearbook photos of Bobby Buntrock at Eagle Rock High School. He was on the track team and he was 16 years old.
- Joanne
EDITOR'S NOTE (April 19, 2019): I received the following e-mail regarding Bobby Buntrock's tragic death. It is very informative.
I was reading about Bobby Buntrock's death in your column and I would like to offer the opinion that the business of not being able to open car doors under water is not uncommon.
Even at a depth of 5 feet, the water pressure is 2.17 pounds per square inch. Figuring a fully immersed door at 24 x 48 inches in size (pretty conservative, a total of 1152 square inches) at that depth, the force of water holding the door shut is about 1152 square inches times 2.17 pounds per square inch = about 2500 pounds or over a ton.
At ten feet, the water's force on the door is about 5000 pounds or 2 1/2 tons.
As you can see, it would be very difficult to get out under water, even at very modest depths, because of the forces involved.
Your report mentioned that Mr. Buntrock had struggled to get out, but that mud and water pressure would not allow that. There was no mention of the depth of water at that site, but as you can see, mud or no mud, the car doors might be very difficult to open.
The "trick" is to roll the window down (or break it) to allow water to equalize the pressure, but this takes real fortitude to do, and is unlikely to be thought of in a panic situation.
One hopes that none of your readers will ever find themselves in that situation, but if they do, remembering this might save their life.
It has been surmised that the reason Senator Ted Kennedy could not rescue Mary Jo Kopechne when he dove down to get her out of the car, was because of the water pressure on the door, and that was the same reason she could not get herself out.
A friend of mine died in his pickup truck for this very reason.
You may verify the physics involved with any physics involved with any physics professor or SCUBA diver.
Note these numbers are for fresh water. They are slightly higher for salt water.
Water pressure versus depth calculator:
- Dick Loesch
I thank Dick Loesch for his letter.
EDITOR'S NOTE (December 16,2019): A reader was kind enough to send me these 1968 yearbook photos of Bobby Buntrock at Eagle Rock High School. He was on the track team and he was 16 years old.
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| Bobby is in the centre. |
- Joanne
I found your article to be very informative about the career of Bobby Buntrock. It was better than that which IMDb has posted. It is unfortunate that more information about Bobby's military service wasn't available. As a veteran and a fan, I salute him and wish that there was an acknowledgement of his service on his grave site. Thank you for sharing your post.
ReplyDeleteSad all sad
DeleteRandall, that was very nice what you wrote. Thank you for your service. You are greatly appreciated and respected. Thank you again!
DeleteThis was everthing, you'd hope to learn...Two thumbs up!! Thanks :-)
DeleteI had the pleasure of completing Basic Training at Ft. Ord, CA. I remember how many of the drill instructors used to pick on him and called him Hollywood. We used to protect him from this abuse by speaking out. Bobby enjoyed hanging out with our Mexican-American group. I was very saddened when I heard of his tragic death. May you rext in peace Bobby. B53 was our unit. We reported for duty on December21, 1970 and graduated two months later.
DeleteDear anonymous, thank you for sharing this information about Bobby. I am proud yo hear of how you and others stood up for him.
DeleteDo you have a picture of you and your company that included Bobby? He has such a great smile I would love to see what he looked like as a young man.
DeleteI just watched a movie from 1948 that Don Defoe stared in with Doris day and Janis Paige, romance on the high seas. Great movie , and Janis is the only person still around at 99 years old
DeleteI became a huge Hazel fan only as of 2014. Love the first few seasons with the George Baxters in residence. Great interplay among the actors, and you could believe they really cared about each other. Sorry to learn the circumstances of Bobby Buntrock's death. Glad also to know what happened with the rest of the cast. Thanks for the info.
ReplyDeleteThere was a tremendous amount of chemistry between all of them on the set. In fact, Shirley Booth, who never had children, actually "adopted" Bobby Buntrock as her own while filming the series. She helped him with camera shots and taught him many things about acting. Bobby had a keen knack for memorizing all his lines and delivering them very well. Shirley, Don DeFore, Whitney Blake, and Bobby were like a real family on the set of that show and one could see it come through in the filming. They genuinely cared for one another. After the 4th year of the show, it moved from NBC to CBS. Due to salary disagreements, CBS made the mistake of letting DeFore & Blake go. The 5th and final season was missing that wonderful chemistry that had been a hallmark of the show. Shirley Booth, herself, ended the show due to some health issues she said she was having at the time. However, it was also known that Shirley greatly missed having DeFore and Blake on the set and this also led to her decision to end it (at this time she owned the interests of the production), even though the ratings were still very high. In any case, it was a beautiful show...Bobby was one very sweet and kind little boy who garnered the respect of everyone associated with "Hazel". Shirley Booth loved Bobby! They all did!
DeleteLynn Borden passed away in May, 2015.
ReplyDeleteYes Lynn Borden passed away, but the actual date of her death was March 3, 2015. She was 77.
DeleteI just wrote a reply but Im not sure it went through. I loved watching Hazel when I was little and my family were all still living and still close to each other. Im 51 now and watching Hazel makes me feel warm but sad at the same time. What happened to Bobby's sister Stella.? I can't find anything on her. Is she still living?.
ReplyDeleteThank you for writing. Stella is mentioned in the 2011 obituary of her and Bobby's stepmother, Margaret. Other than that, I haven't been able to find anything on her. Perhaps she wants to maintain her privacy. If so, I have to respect that. However, if she wishes to share some thoughts or memories about her brother, she's welcome to email me and share them with TV Banter readers. I have tried to find a picture of Bobby at an older age, but there doesn't seem to be one available, so it appears the family wants to keep a low profile.
DeleteSo very sad about all of the cast. Hazel was a great show and my family and I still watch it every day. I love Shirley Booth and all of her work. They just don't make sitcoms like that anymore--Good clean fun!
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteThere is one photo that has been identified as Bobby as an adult. See editor's note above.
DeleteWhy did Don Defoe and Whitney Blake both leave Hazel at the same time?
ReplyDeleteDon Defoe and and Whitney Blake did not quit Hazel. They left because their contract options were not picked up when the show moved from NBC to CBS. It was most likely a cost cutting measure by the network.
ReplyDelete
DeleteAccording to articles about Shirley Booth, who actually owned Hazel, along with her husband, there was animosity between her, DeFore and Blake...many different sources state that they felt upstaged by Bobby Buntrock. Sad, if that was true...It was a wonderful show, and like others, I still watch it on AntennaTV.
I don't know anything regarding animosity between cast members, but one small correction. Shirley Booth's second husband died in 1951 and she never remarried. The rights to the show Hazel were owned by Booth alone.
DeleteShirley Booth married twice. She married her first husband, comedian Ed Gardner, in 1929 and they divorced in 1942. She wed William Hogg Baker, Jr. in 1943. He died in 1951, well before Hazel came to television. Shirley never remarried after the death of her second husband.
DeleteI read that Don Defore and Shirley Booth stayed close after Hazel..Whitney Blake and Don Defore debated over politics (sound familiar)...Defore and Booth talked on the phones lot, I think Don son told this on a Don Defore fan page...
Deleteyes, it is well known that Dad was conservative, campaigned for Reagan, Nixon, and other Republican candidates but did not "bring his politics on the set" as he would always say. Whitney did, and she was very liberal and it always rubbed Dad the wrong way. Dad and Shirley were very close however even after the show ended. Also, Dad owned ten percent of the show. Ron DeFore
DeleteAlthough I loved your Dad, as George Baxter, if he was a well known conservative, Republican, actively campaigning for the likes of Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan, then he was, in effect, bringing his politics onto the set!
DeleteWhat a snake ' thought' , if you will pardon the exaggeration, to post! Didn't you read what DeFore's son wrote , that his father did NOT 'bring his politics on the set''? You don't know how much less hate the left had for most Americans in the 1940s- 1980s ...things really heated up after 2008 with the rise of identity politics..
DeleteBobby Buntrock starred in the series Circus Boy. How could you leave
ReplyDeleteMajor role out?
It was Micky Dolenz who was the child star in Circus Boy. I know some details are difficult to acquire because people just wasn't into trivia like they are today. Also, just as a side note, I fon't recall Bobby Buntrock as having appeared on Circus Boy. I know he appeared on Mr. Ed.
DeleteAlso, It was easy to mistake Bobby for Mickey Dolenz at that age. I found them amazingly similar in facial features.
DeleteIt was left out because... it's not true. :-)
DeleteThe last names are different as well Buntrock vs Braddcock- (the latter being Mickey's name)
DeleteIt was Micky Dolenz of the Monkees who starred in the adventure series Circus Boy from 1956 to 1958. As a child actor, Dolenz used the name "Mickey Braddock." I think you may have confused "Braddock" with "Buntrock."
ReplyDeleteThank You, Joanne Madden, for taking the time & interest for Your collective researching. And post information about Bobby Buntrock and the cast members from "Hazel".. (Watched it as a child and watching reruns now, lol.) .. The old sitcoms were the best... I do have a question - What did Bobby Buntrock do for a career after retiring from acting before his premature demise?
ReplyDeleteAfter Bobby retired from acting in 1967 until the time of his death in 1974, very little has been written about his life. It seems he lived in South Dakota during those years because he was a member of the National Guard in Keystone, S.D. and his accident occurred on a bridge there. However, I have not been able to find any photographs of him during those years. He led a very private life and I think his family wants those years to remain private. His premature death must have been extremely painful. If anyone knows differently, please inform me.
DeleteMaybe a good place to look for a photo of an older Bobby would be a high school yearbook. If it is known what school he attended and the year he graduated you may be able to contact the school or the public library in the area to see if they have the school yearbooks. They might be able to scan a photo of him and send it to you.
DeleteHere is a photo of Bobby Buntrock from his 1968 high school yearbook. He was a member of the track team. He died 6 years later.
Deletehttps://www.flickr.com/photos/alan-light/37661012516/
Alan, I don't know why you never received a reply but that high school pic of Bobby is great. Good job!
DeleteI am watching Hazel as I'm posting this comment!! Remember watching it as a child & now as adult thanks to a tv station called "Antenna Tv", which shows classic programs.Although there was a lack of diversity on a lot of the shows, I did enjoy viewing them! Curious about what happened to the cast, so I Googled for info & clicked on this site.Tragic what happened to Mr.Buntrock & didn't know he died at such an early age.
ReplyDeleteI am watching Hazel right now as I am writing this post. This show is when he was living with his uncle and aunt. I liked the show when it was with his parents, I don't care for these later shows much at all. I was thinking about Bobby Buntrock as I was watching and decided to google his name....I was so surprised and sad to learn he passed away at such a young age and in such a tragic way. RIP to all of the Hazel cast.
DeleteI agree the original Hazels were the best. The ones they tried to use later to keep the show going were shallow and lacked enthusiasm. I gave up watching all together on Antenna TV
DeleteI too am watching Hazel again after all those years. I decided to Google Bobby Buntrock to see what happened to him. So sad,he died so young and tragically!! I love Google, I can find out everything about anyone from my childhood TV watching. It all makes me sad.
ReplyDeleteI to am watching Hazel, they just don't make shows like that anymore, Hazel had so many family values, Not like all the junk they put on tv today. May God bless all the cast of Hazel, and all who watches it.One of the greatest TV series of all times.
DeleteAmen!!!
DeleteSame as everyone I was just watching Hazel an was curious as to what happened to all of them! Guess keep them alive in our TV as it seems so sad to learn that they like so many of the Greatest actor's an actresses of our parents' generation have left us with all the great movies we watched growing up and again when we visited our family home thru the years it's how we might of spent a rainy day together in the den running to kitchen to get a snack during commercials. Anyhow all the Great movies ever made we seem to of at times seen them all at least 1000 times an I will possibly see half as many times again an test myself on remembering the name of the actor's an actresses was always fun. Anyhow grate
DeleteGreat memories! So sad to hear that BB lost his life & in such a way! God Bless...
DeleteWish I had housekeeper like Hazel .awesome lady.I watch this show since I was child .I'm 58 years old. enjoy this show.Who own the dog Smiely?I like that dog as well.
ReplyDeleteI watch Hazel in the mornings and was impressed with Bobby's acting ability at such a young age. He was a good looking kid ...i'm a bit surprised Disney didn't grab him for some movies.
ReplyDeleteI was in the Air Force and stationed at Ellsworth AFB 1972-1973 and was having some drinks at the Black Forest Inn on a date I don't remember. I asked the bartender do I know this guy because he looked familiar at a table with some other people having a good time. He said it was the little blond kid on the series Hazel. Then he told me I would have to leave because they were closing for a private party for Bobby on his 21st birthday and was getting his money from his acting career. Bobby heard the bartender and told them I could stay and celebrate with them. I thought that was a very generous thing to do, and we had a great time drinking and laughing. He will always have a spot in my heart and will be missed, he passed way too young. Rest in peace Bobby
ReplyDeleteHi, I just read your Blog. You said that Bobby was CELEBRATING HIS 21TH BIRTHDAY and was receiving his earned money from his Acting Career. Do you mean the Bartender actually told you that? Well, he had two things to celebrate, didn't he? He could have his first Legal Drink. And he was probably getting a nice tidy sum of money from his Acting Career. Someone must have looked out for the money that he made because he didn't have very many Acting Jobs. And back then Actors didn't get the kind of money that Actors make today. If he had of lived he may have gone back into the Acting Profession later on. Of course we will never know.
DeleteJust to be clear, I, Joanne Madden, was not the one who wrote about seeing Bobby Buntrock in a bar celebrating his 21st birthday. It was a reader of my blog.
DeleteThat was a fantastic story about meeting him in a bar and celebrating his birthday with him! @ Earline- that probably was not his first legal drink because at that time most states if not all had the drinking age at 18 years old.
DeleteI am such a fan of the show: "HAZEL". Bobby Buntrock passed away exactly fifteen days before my oldest daughter was born. At that time I'm not sure if "Hazel" was in reruns. If it was, I don't recall seeing another episode until probaby 2011 on "ANTENNAE TV", on a Sunday Morning. Boy, was I excited. Now that I have purchased the entire series I can watch them anytime I want to. "Harold", Bobby, just never seemed to have gotten older or much taller during the entire run of the show. I read somewhere that Actress Whitney Blake, "Dorothy Baxter", did not know for ten years that Bobby was gone. I keep wondering how can that be possible when her husband, Allan Manings, wrote for Television, her daughter, Meredith Baxter, was Acting at that time, and she was still taking acting projects too. And I'm sure news like that would have gotten around "Hollywood". That's very odd to me. I'm sure the other Co-stars: Shirley Booth, "Hazel", and Don Defore, "George Baxter", knew. I would bet that it broke Shirley Booth's heart. She seemed to have enjoyed him so much on the show. As for DON Defore, I don't know how he reacted to Bobby's death. I can only assumed that it made him very sad and upset. After all he and Whitney, both, worked with Bobby for Four Seasons of "Hazel". I too, would like to see Bobby on a photo, as an adult. I knew the photos I had been seeing couldn't have been him, which turned out to be those of the Child Actor, Bobby Driscoll. I still have a hard time believing that "LITTLE HAROLD" is gone. The entire CAST FROM "HAZEL" are all together now. May all of them continue to REST IN PEACE WITH OUR LORD.
ReplyDeleteThis is to Joanne Madden, I was not trying to say that it was YOU who was in the bar in the 1970's and met Bobby Buntrock, where he was celebrating his 21TH Birthday. I thought I was replying to the person who had written the blog. I guess I don't know how to blog. The next time I will comment without trying to reply to someone else's blog.
ReplyDeleteThis is in response to an e*-mail that was sent to me. I had heard that "SHIRLEY BOOTH" did own "HAZEL" but how much is unclear. I also read somewhere that "DON DEFORE" OWNED A SEVEN PERCENT OF THE SHOW. Shirley did not start out as the owner of the show. And to the best of my knowledge "SHIRLEY BOOTH" was married twice. She divorced her first husband and her second husband died. So who whomever e*mailed me about she and her husband owning the show is incorrect. Her husband died long before "HAZEL" got started. And I don't think BOBBY BUNTROCK upstaged Don and Whitney at all. I hadn't heard any other fan commenting on that. Don usually had more lines than Bobby or Whitney. So I don't know how Bobby could have upstaged him. I could see how it could have happened with Whitney, being that sometimes he had more lines than she did. Or he seemed to. I have looked up and down the internet, backwards and forwards. I have found little information about "HAZEL" or the cast members. Through the years DON and WHITNEY must have been asked tons of questions about the show. I know that Whitney did a radio interview with "TOM SNYDER". However I have been unsuccessful in finding it anywhere so that I can listen to it. Years back interviews and fun trivia was not done and stored away like it is today. Why over the years no one bothered to interview the remaining cast members about the show is beyond me. Or maybe they did and I just haven't found them yet. I keep looking for someghing, anything that may be a better insight to "HAZE".
ReplyDeleteIf you read Meredith Baxter autobiography she speaks in great detail about her mother's time on Hazel. According to her Whitley Blake her mother did not feel positive about the show. Trivia Blake and her husband created the TV show, One Day at a Time
DeleteI am 59 and record and watch Hazel show. Enjoyed it as a child and still do! I mentioned to my mom yesterday who is 80 and she will be watching it now as she was not aware that it was on tv!! Thanks for the info. I also googled Bobby to see what happened with him... Sad. But what a wonderful story the person shared says a lot about his character! It's certainly the same thing Hazel would have done 😀
ReplyDeleteI am 59 yrs old and I watch Hazel EVERYDAY. I still love this show, especially my Shirley Booth. She was the absolute Best!!!!❤
DeleteI was born in 1964 but was not aware of this show until the late 1960s and early 1970s when it was aired as repeats. Then I think it was on TV in the 1980s too but I never really watched it until 2012 on Antenna TV and it brought warmth to me as my grandma and dad were still alive. Now they are both gone and I feel kind of sad watching this show but it still chills me out. Love the latter episodes with Lynn Borden the most. This show reminds me of old grand aunts and uncles and a time in life where I felt no hate, anger or distress and had good people around me. So many people are gone it will be easy for me to leave this earth when my time comes. Definitely one of the best shows made in the past 55 years. It was really sad to read about Lynn Borden's death she died a month before my dad did. In 2015 I moved back to where I grew up and instead of feeling warmth it brought misery as the neighborhood changed for the worse. When good people are gone the places of yesteryear bring nothing to the soul but torment.
ReplyDeleteTo Anonymous, 1964. Same here, I was born in 1964 too (male). I remember the reruns in the late 60s and early 70s. I liked it when I was a little kid but older didn't really see the point of it. You know, these rich people with their maids, what was the point of it. Then it came on Antenna TV recently in the mornings and I been watching it again. Now it reminds me of a time when people actually had money and could afford a family. Now the rich get richer, the poor get poorer, and there's no middle class. I also moved away from where I grew up in the midwest and live in AZ. I have no relatives left myself anywhere I'm close to. I've thought about moving back to my hometown but with jobs it's the same as when I left and there are none. AZ is my home now, I guess. I hope you have good friends around and things to do to keep you busy. I love the last line of your reply, sounds very Twilight Zone-ish.
DeleteI, too, "re-found" Hazel on Antennae TV. I love this show! I don't quite remember it as a kid, but it is such a comfort to see a show like this. Wish my family had been like theirs. Many episodes are on YouTube, so I watch them when I want to binge on Hazel. Great writing; very sentimental.
ReplyDeleteI think when I first saw "Hazel", it was in its last season. I think I first recall seeing "Lynn Borden" and "Ray Fulmer" before I saw "Whitney Blake" and "Don Defore". But I was so young and many shows that I saw back then we're in parts, bits, and pieces. The only two sitcoms that I can really remember watching more of were "Leave It To Beaver" and "Bewitched". We didn't have much in the way of a decent Television, so I missed quite a bit if all of those "Old Shows". At this time I'm surprised that "Youtube" are allowing "Hazel" episodes to air. The copyright must be up or there isn't anyone around who cares much. Last year I had begun watching "Dennis, The Menace" on "Youtube" and when I recently tried to watch some more episodes, they had all been snatched or deleted. So now I'm in the process of buying them. I ordered the first season yesterday. I think too, that it is just a shame that we, the fans, don't have more info about "Bobby Buntrock". There aren't photos of him beyond when he was on The "Virginian". We all know that he left Acting and lived a relatively private life. He probably simply decided to finish school and go into the "Service". And then he probably intended to go on with his life from that point, continuing on in the private sector. Only his family would know what he may have wanted to do. But they've been private up to this point. It is rather odd that "Bobby" was never photographed after he left Acting. Some Actors are "Hounded" more after they leave the spotlight than when they were in it. I too wish that my family had been more like one of those TV families. Any of them before the 1970's would have been just fine.
ReplyDeleteTry to remember these were make-believe families for our entertainment. The actors real families most likely were just like yours.
DeleteI know this post is 5 years old. Good answer, Lola, and the show being only 30 minutes time slot including commercials to watch others acting otherwise to each other.
DeleteI know that this forum is for "Bobby Buntrock", but recently I read that the Child Actor Paul Engle, who was on "HAZEL" for three episodes, who played "Don Blake", had past away this passed November 5, 2015. He was 67 Years Old, about four and a half years older than "Bobby". He was born on February 20, 1948. He and Whitney Blake, shared the same Birthdate. I was not able to find out the cause of Paul's death. He was almost four and a half years older than "Bobby". He was five years older than Judy Erwin, who played "Mavis Blake" on two episodes. And six years older than Kim Tyler, who played "Stevie Blake", on one episode only. Paul and Judy have one thing in common about having appeared on "HAZEL". Paul appeared on the episode: "Them New Neighbors Is Nice", without either of the other "Blake Children". And Judy appeared on the episode: "Top Secret", without any of the other "Blake Children". Paul also hold another area of notice on "HAZEL". HE and Child Actress Brenda Scott, who played "Linda Blake" on "HAZEL", both appeared on an episode without their Father, played by "John Newton" titled: "HAZEL'S'PAJAMA PARTY". Paul disappeared from Acting after he appeared on the episode: "Hazel, The Matchmaker". He finished High School and went on to College. Then he later went into Business with his father. I must say that I was rather surprised to learn that Paul had passed away. John Newton had had his Ninetieth Birthday just three days prior to Paul's death. Just as a side note, when looking up Actor John Newton, make sure that you ask for the "John Newton" who was on "HAZEL". Otherwise you may wind up with the "John Newton" who was born Forty Years Later, in 1965, and appeared on "Desparate Housewives". He was nearly four months old when "HAZEL" went off the air. I hardly think he could have been that "John Newton".
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteIt just occurred to me that eventhough BOBBY BUNTROCK'S BIRTHDAY would have been nearly two weeks ago, he wasn't the only Main Cast Member on "HAZEL" whose Birthday would have been this month. DON DEFORE, "GEORGE", would have been ONE HUNDRED AND THREE YEARS OLD ON AUGUST 25, 2016. AND SHIRLEY BOOTH, "HAZEL", would have been ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTEEN YEARS OLD ON AUGUST 30, 2016. The CREATOR OF "HAZEL", TED KEY, was also an "AUGUST BABY", sharing the same BIRTHDATE AS DON DEFORE, EXCEPT HE WAS BORN A YEAR EARLIER, IN 1912. I don't believe in coincidence but it is odd that three out of the four MAIN CAST MEMBERS, ALL HAD A BIRTHDATE IN AUGUST. I don't think I have ever come across this sort of trivia before.
ReplyDeleteI just turned fifty on last Friday, September 16th! I don't remember Hazel as a child but have been enjoying the re-runs on antenna TV for the past few years. I really enjoyed this artical as it contained more information about the show and actors than any other site I have investigated! As many others have commented I would love to know what Bobby looked like before his untimely demise. Also I really found the information about how old the actors would be NOW (posted above) to be really interesting! You know I watch antenna TV almost exclusively i just find it to be good clean and humerous entertainment that you just can't find on current TV programming. Mabe I weird I don't know! The only thing that gets to me is when I think about the fact that almost all of the actors I'm watching are now dead! And that kind of depresses me! One last thing...I didn't realize that the women who played Mrs Baxter (sorry can't remember which one at the moment) was the mother of the mother on family ties! When you look at her face boy can you see the resemblance! Really interesting fact! Thank you to everyone for all the information!
DeleteI was just briefly going back through some of the comments on this forum. I finally took notice of "Anonymous" comment on May 7, 2016. The comment states that according to articles about Shirley Booth, there was some animosity between her, Don Defore, and Whitney Blake. Well, I must not have the right combination to those articles, because I haven't found them. And I did read that Shirley and DON use to communicate by phone over the years. It may be true that Whitney distanced herself from the other cast members. But "HAZEL" is what WHITNEY is/was most famous for. Though she was a Co-creator of the show: "ONE DAY AT A TIME", I didn't know that until maybe a couple of years ago. Two days ago I saw an episode of "MANNIX", titled: "COFFIN FOR A CLOWN". In it WHITNEY played the mom of a kidnapped son who was in line to inherit a huge amount of money. Her hair was longer, still blonde and sort of flipped on the ends. Sort of a glamorous looking mom. Not so toned down, like on "HAZEL". If there was trouble on "HAZEL" we'll probably never know about it. Who is still around who would have details like that and would be willing to divulge them, anyway? I noticed that there is an Author name David C. Tucker, who is famous for writing books about female, long gone celebrities, such as SHIRLEY BOOTH. I haven't read any of his books, but I'm not always so interested in gossipy rumors as I am fun trivia. I wonder how much did he write in his book about the show?! I should see if I could get a copy of his book about Shirley from the local Library. Maybe it might clear up some of those unanswered questions that everyone keep asking over and over. What I kerpbwondering is, if Shirley was truly in ill health when she left "HAZEL", how come she tried to make a comeback with a show in the 1970's called: "A Touch OF Grace"? I think she was probably tired of "HAZEL" and decided to get out of it. And since she owned part of the show, she wasn't ever going to want for money or ever have to work hard to earn it again during her lifetime. I still don't know how much of "HAZEL" she actually owned. Obviously a good percentage of it. Maybe it's revealed in David C. Tucker's book. I think I'll give my local Library a call today.
ReplyDeleteI watch Hazel every morning at 10 O'clock in the morning. I really enjoy the old shows. I too Google Bobby Buntrock and came across this blog.
ReplyDeleteLast week on Thursday, August 25th would have been DON Defore's Birthday. He would have been 103, being that he was Born on August 25,1913. Tomorrow would have been Shirley Booth's Birthday. She would have been 118 Years Old. She was Born on August 30, 1898. I could just picture George, Dorothy, and Harold throwing her a Surprise Birthday Party.
ReplyDeleteWow 118. She would deserve a party
DeleteI love watching this show everyday on antenna tv Can u get the series?.
ReplyDeleteTHIS IS TO ANONYMOUS: This series has been available for purchase for years, at least Season 1 has. It was released on August 1, 2006. The next 3 Seasons weren't released for over five and a half years later. The Second Season was released on February 21, 2012. Season 3 was released on May 15, 2012. Season 4, was released on December 11, 2012. Then the Fifth and FINAL SEASON was released on January 14, 2014. SONY had the rights for Season 1. The rest of the Seasons were/are Released through SHOUT FACTORY. I bought the entire series within nine months of buying Season 1. I was hesitant at first because so many series at the start of their release were/are halted after the first season. After I learned that Season 5 was going to be released in January of 2014, I then began my purchase of the series. I've enjoyed it very much.
ReplyDeleteAs an afterthought to what I posted yesterday, it's come to my attention that practically any show that "SONY" originally had the "RIGHTS" to, only one or perhaps two seasons were or have been released. This morning I was going through some of my COLLECTIONS. Not only did "SONY" haves the "RIGHTS" to the first SEASON OF "HAZEL", but also later shows that I enjoyed, like "FANTASY ISLAND" and the first two SEASONS OF "HART TO HART". It wasn't until "SHOUT FACTORY" acquired further "RIGHTS", were anymore of these two shows released. Unfortunately "FANTASY ISLAND has not yet been released in its entirety. If "SHOUT FACTORY" hadn't of acquired the RIGHTS for "FATHER KNOWS BEST" it may not be available to its fans. Now if only they would acquire the "RIGHTS" to the TWO MOVIES: "FATHER KNOWS BEST REUNION" and "FATHER KNOWS BEST: HOME FOR CHRISTMAS". And I'm still hoping for SEASONS 6-8 of "THE DONNA REED SHOW" to be released soon. "THE REED ESTATE", I understand, is trying to get the remaining SEASONS released. HERE'S TO HOPING FOR IT TO HAPPEN SOON.
ReplyDeleteJust recently have been able to get Hazel & a few other "Golden Oldies" in my area, due to partial airing of Antenna TV. These are the best of memories for me and became a way of escape from reality of a traumatic childhood. These shows are my memories and the only warmth a young girl had in her life. It saddens me to read of their loss, let alone at such a young age. I understand the need for them to covet precious privacy, we all know what over exposure creates. I loved both Baxter families. What beautiful LADIES & hardworking decent men. Those were the days! Thank you for giving a hurting child a way to escape.
ReplyDeleteI love the show. Have been watching the returns on you. Am in my 60s, retired,and keep it on while ironing. In reality,I am amused at how helpless the Baxter's appear. A recent line by "Missy" was "Hazel,I need a vase" for flowers gifted by her husband. Would Hazel ever really keep her job given her extreme meddlesome ways,bordering on neurotic? And why is she constantly propelled forward by running ,head first? Finally,there is the compulsion to wear the ever present maid's headpiece,even in public...oh Hazel,you enigmatic scamp...😏
DeleteI am 60 years old, and enjoyed Hazel as a child. Now that its back on Antenna TV, I watch it daily. I love all the old shows Antenna TV plays. The shows take me back to a better time, when people showed respect, and had good values. I just happened across this site while trying to find out why Hazel switched families. When I was a child I always thought George Baxter and his wife were going to return. So sad to hear of Bobbys early untimely death.
ReplyDeleteTo Nancy, it was Actress "WHITNEY BLAKE" who was the Mother of Actress "MEREDITH BAXTER" who played the Mother on "Family Ties". Chances are you have already looked up and found this information. I don't recall MEREDITH before "Family Ties". Nor do I recall having seen WHITNEY on anything before having seen her on "HAZEL". I read that she Co-Hosted a Talk Show that featured such topics as Books, Home Tips and Fashions. She even produced a movie called: "RENO KIDS". I think that she was smart to have tried other avenues.
ReplyDeleteBefore she was on Family Ties, Meredith Baxter was on Bridget Loves Bernie, where she played opposite David Birney, whom she later married and shares 3 children with. Then she was on Family. Family Ties came after both of those series.
DeleteNo matter what "SHIRLEY BOOTH" had done career wise, she will always be remembered as "HAZEL" to her fans. Shirley lived over Twenty-Six Years after "HAZEL" went out of production. She must have been asked tons of questions through the years about the show. If I could have asked her anything, I would have asked her "Why didn't they return George and Dorothy"? To leave Hazel and Harold without an ending does "feel like abandonment". Bobby Buntrock was ready for High School when Hazel ended. I think Don Defore looked for work in New York. And Whitney continue with other roles on Television.
ReplyDeleteI'm going to say this and then I'm going to leave this subject alone. Forums like this are created to discuss shows, characters, to ask questions and to inform. I don't think anyone with an ounce of sanity would takes any of this seriously. Of course it's all make believe. And Actors are just ordinary people. Nothing is worse than comparing ones self to others. And no two families are alike either. I've long gotten over the fact that "CAMELOT" was/is not a real place. And my family is never going to be like "THE BRADY BUNCH".
ReplyDeleteEarline Taylor, that was just nasty!! I think it's nice that someone came here & felt safe enough to share that she had a difficult childhood and that HAZEL helped her through. After your comments, people may not feel as comfortable. This is not YOUR forum, and you don't make the rules about what should be discussed. Get over yourself!!
DeleteCarol Martin, what are you talking about? I have never insulted anybody on this forum. I have never acted as if this is my forum. You need to read what I said again. And then it is you who can get over yourself. Or are you upset because I had something more intelligent to say than you did. Don't bother to respond because I'm not responding to this forum again.
DeleteThis is to Earline. I don't know if you will see or read this but you should not have allowed one person to detour you from contributing to this blog. It's a shame that that person went off on you like that. I think you gave us alot of trivia information that some of us didn't know. It is a shame that the person who manages this blog did not intervene but I guess that due to freedom of speech she allowed it. You probably even have some more trivia, but you have no intentions of sharing it. It really irritates me when one person ruin it for others. Thanks a lot Carol Martin. I see that you have not contributed anything else to this blog either. That is good, because you already nothing. This blog is so that Hazel Fans can discuss the show. Not to shut down the lines of communication on those who obviously added zest to this blog.
DeleteActually, I sent a personal email to Earline, but she seems to be sticking to her resolve not to contribute to this blog anymore. I agree with you. I enjoyed reading her comments.
DeleteBurt Lancaster reportedly felt she was such a high caliber actress that he hated to see her on a sitcom.
DeleteBurt Lancaster reportedly felt she was such a high caliber actress that he hated to see her on a sitcom
DeleteJust wanted to add that I enjoy watching Hazel on DVD every afternoon after work! I am in South Africa. Ain't that peachy? ;-)
ReplyDeleteI do remember Bobby doing a commercial for Rockem Sockem robots in the mid-60s. Two players - each plays tries to knock the head off of the opposing player's robot - just like boxing. Mine is somewhere in my mother's attic.
ReplyDeleteI've seen that commercial. I bought a compilation of TV Commercials that is divided into catagories: Beverages, Bread, Candy, Gum, Cereal, Condiments, Snacks, Action Figures, Board Games, Toy Cars, Dolls, Playsets, Toy Guns, Toy Trains, Cigarettes, Deordorant, Hair Care, Medicine, Shaving, Skin Care, Soap, Toothpaste, Mouthwash, Airlines, Appliances, Beer, Cameras, Cars, Auto Parts, Coffee, Fashion, Financial, Gas, Oil, Military, Music + Stereos, Pet Food, Pet Food, Political, Tourism and More. Whew! What a List! The only reason that I wrote this list is because I know someone will want to know what other sort of Commercials are on this Compilation. On one of the Toy Commercials, there is the Rockem Sockem Robots Commercial. I think Bobby played the Red Robot. I think I'll go and watch some Commercials.
DeleteI wrote a reply but I guess that it was to long to publish. So I'll make this alot shorter. I recall the Rock'em Sock'em Robots too. I think in the commercial Bobby is playing with the "Red Robot". I think that he does more talking than the other kid who is playing with the other "Robot". The only way to see this commercial is to buy one of those Commercial Compilations. Unfortunately they aren't remastered and the basic quality is awful. But for a bit of nostalgia and fun conversation, they are a must.
DeleteYour rockem-sockem robots aren't in your mom's attic.She gave them to my little boys in 1976.
DeleteI love Hazel,aint she a doozie?
ReplyDeleteYes, she certainly was...as was the show, which I still enjoy on Antenna TV !
DeleteI wish Mr Ed would come back!!!
DeleteThanks for your post about Bobby Buntrock. Although he sadly died very tragically at such a young age, it was a relief to learn that he didn't meet the same sad fate that of many other child actors of the time, such as substance abuse.
ReplyDeleteI watch Hazel every chance I get, it's such a wonderfully written family show, and always ends with a good life lesson. The chemistry between the actors is completely believable!
Thankfully, it comes on every weekday at 11am, and I get to watch in my off days! I'm an LVN, and when it was revealed in one of the very first episode that Hazel had a Vocational Nursing License, I grew extremely attached to her!
Not to mention my love of Shirley Booth as Mrs. Claus in The Year Without a Santa Claus ��
Here is an autographed photo and note I got from Don DeFore in 1997 where he talks about Bobby Buntrock:
ReplyDeletehttps://www.flickr.com/photos/alan-light/254121797
And here is a letter I received from Shirley Booth mentioning Bobby:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/alan-light/2399050626
Thanks for sharing..I've wondered if they ever commented on his death.
DeleteIt too bad the written notes from Don DeFore and Shirley Booth are illegible the scan photos you uploaded is so grainy I can barely make out what is written
DeleteI can read them just fine---zoom in on them.
DeleteHere's a link to the 'Rockem Sockem' robot commercial on YouTube:
ReplyDeletehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPEnig5DHAc
In 1972 I was dating Bobby Jo Buntrock. I was working in the scenic town of Keystone South Dakota, where he lived. He was working construction at the time and went by the name of Jo. We were headed to a dance in Hill City on the night of the big Black Hills flood. He was very level headed and we lived to tell the tale, despite flood waters that knocked our vehicle off the highway and having to cross swiftly moving, debris filled creeks, turned rivers, on foot. It was a scary time. The previous post about a celebration at the Black Forest Inn would have been for his 21st birthday. Back then, 21 was the legal age for drinking hard liquor and 18 was the age for beer and wine. It seems so odd that Bobby Jo survived the flood which killed hundreds of people only to perish in one of the same creeks less than 2 years later. I wish I had a picture of us back then. I have fond memories of you Bobby Jo.
ReplyDeletewhat kind of vehicle was he in
DeleteThis is probably to much to ask: Since you dated Bobby, is there a way that you can get a photo of him, maybe one taken around the time you two were dating. That would be great! Did you know his Sister, Stella? I'm sure that "Bobby's Fans" would enjoy a later photo of him. I haven't seen any further photos of him, since his "HAZEL" Days. It's probably a bit much to ask. Any info at all would be appreciated.
DeleteBoy, you must have been the envy of all of your friends, to have dated Bobby Buntrock. Not that you need to convince people, but do you tell people that you did, but they just don't believe you? One Summer me and my sister worked at the racetrack and there were alot of Celebrities there. I took a couple of photos but I didn't get any copies. The person who took the photos wrote my information down on the back of her Checkbook cover, and that was the end of it. Without any photos I haven't any proof that I worked there, met any Celebrities, or took any photos. What a shame!
DeleteThank you for tracking down the info. I was a friend of Bobby's while he was attending public schools in the Eagle Rock section of Los Angeles. We met when he was about 13. I had no idea he had ever lived in Whittier. He was a member of our Boy Scout troup and then Explorer Scout Post, both sponsored by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Glendale, California. He enjoyed hanging out with friends who didn't care what he did for a living. He also looked very young for his age. There's no way the adult photos above depict Bobby.
ReplyDeleteOne reason for the confusion for Bobby being on Circus Boy is the resemblance to Mickey Dolenz. I thought the same thing.
ReplyDeleteI read an article that stated Bobby Buntrock was riding a motorcycle when he was killed. It happened on the same bridge where his mother died in a car accident. Some thought he may have committed suicide because he was deeply depressed from losing her. Don't know if this is true or not but it is so sad that he died at such a young age.
ReplyDeleteBobby's mother DID NOT die on the same bridge. In the end notes of my article, I wrote: "* A false story has been circulating that Bobby Buntrock's mother died a year before her son in a car accident at the same bridge in South Dakota where he perished. However, Maxine Buntrock died on June 20, 1972 of cardiac arrest at the family home."
DeleteThank you so much for all this information JoAnne!
DeleteHi - I'm a big Hazel fan and love that Antenna TV shows reruns every weekday morning! I have hosted a weekly Trivia Radio Show in a major US city for over 35 years, and am surprised that on 10/15/2016 there was a comment that nothing else could be found on Meredith Baxter before "Family Ties." She co-starred in the TV shows "Bridget Loves Bernie," and "Family." She was also in several films, among them "All The Presidents Men." She's on her fourth marriage and is extremely happy. A quick look at imdb dot com would have shown what I've just written about her. If you read her autobiography "Untied: A Memoir Of Family, Fame, and Floundering" (released in 2011) you'll see a very different side of her mother, Hazel's "Missy," Whitney Blake. Meredith will turn 70 years old in June of this year (2017).
ReplyDeleteOn your post you said that you hist a weekly Trivia Show and that you were surprised about a comment posted on 10/15/2016, which said nothing else could be found on Meredith Baxter before "Family Ties". That is not what that Person Posted. Exactly what was commented was: "I don't recall Meredith before "Family Ties". Perhaps that person was busy, or was watching something else. Or nothing at all. A Trivia Show and you can't even quote people right?! If you have to repeat what someone else said, the least thing that you can do is to try not misquoting them.
DeleteMeredith Baxter was in a show called Love on a Roof Top
DeleteI too, love Hazel. It was a great show with all good moral values. Not like that of the sitcoms of today.
ReplyDeleteI knew Mr.Defore and He had little regard for Whitney Blake. Her Extreme Left Wing Political Stance was something She Pushed on The Hazel Set and Reagan Friend- Don Defore found her Irritating. In Our Talks he made no Bones about her Constant Preaching of Progressive Values. I believe it may have Irritated Miss. Booth whom I was blessed to have talked to as a Kid. Later In Life (While having Finished a Tribute to Shirley Booth Published in Classic Images much, much later) I got an Introduction through her Maid/Assistant. Shirley Booth Kept any Political beliefs to herself. She has been Quoted as saying that "Pushing Political or Religious Philosophies to the Public or Peers is Unfair to Fans and Theatre Goers as it Did in Her Opinion affect an Actors perceived Performances. I Concur as I find it hard especially today to Buy Certain Actors in Roles which are totally Opposite of what they seem to want everyone to Know about their Politics - if not convert the Audience to their Side.Lastly, I considered Lynn Borden Brunelle my Best Friend during my Years in Hollywood. She is so deeply missed.
ReplyDeleteThis is way Actors are Actors. They can play characters that have absolutely nothing to do with their Political or Religious beliefs. And besides, a smart Actor should be wise enough not to discuss either subject. Some people just plain talk to much, revealing to much information that's neither here nor there. And speaking about politics, what about Don? He may not have pushed his Polital Standings during "HAZEL", but he sure Campaigned for his Old Buddy Ronald, helping to put him in office. The same thing but in a different place. I wasn't to fond of Don after that. But this forum isn't suppose to be about Political or Religious Beliefs. LETS STICK TO FUN FACTS! STAY ON WHAT THIS FORUM IS ABOUT. There's always a fly in the ointment.
DeleteI think I like Don even more now that I know he helped Ronald Reagan get to the White House.
DeleteKevin Minton.... thank you so much for sharing your experiences and info.. To the person who responded by suggesting that info. on political views shouldn't be shared.... well I disagree. This is not a page to argue politics.... but it is interesting to find out more about the actor's personal views and lives. Me personally.... I am a conservative female and love that Don Defore supported Mr. Reagan. That doesn't mean I don't admire Whitney Blake as an actress though. Mr. Minton, you knew Don and you met Shirley Booth? That is wonderful! I really enjoyed Mr. Defore in so many parts he played. I remember him from Ozzie & Harriet and he was in a film titled "It Happened on 5th Avenue" that is really fun. I plan to explore more of his films in the future. Lynn Borden had a lightness about her that just made her very enjoyable to watch. I'm sorry you lost your friend. Thanks again for sharing.
DeleteIf a person is politically active and campaigns for someone in their free time,that doesn't mean they necessarily push their beliefs on others at the workplace. People should take an interest in civic affairs, keeping in mind that sex, politics, and religion can be hot topics in conversation
DeleteSince Whitney Blake didn't publish her memoirs it would have been nice if Meredith had given her readers more insight about Whitney. I keep combing the internet, trying to find something about Whitney but there just isn't much. Whitney did not just disappear after "HAZEL". She stayed on Television for about 15 More Years. Then she disappeared. If she were a pain in the neck on "HAZEL", as someone said on this forum, that was not mentioned in "UNTIED", MEREDITH'S BOOK. Who would be in a better position to give Whitney's Fans a better insight than than someone who was closely connected to her. I wonder if anybody has ever suggested this to Meredith? If I knew how to contact her, I would!
ReplyDeleteThere is a photo on Hazel's nightstand in her bedroom. Was wondering if anyone knows if that was someone from her (Shirley's) personal life? That would have been a nice touch. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteI think that the Photo on "HAZEL'S" Nightstand is a prop. Once in awhile "HAZEL" would give a little insight about the Photo by referring to someone she dated named "GUS". In one of the episode "GUS" does appear. He supposedly was a "Sailor" whom "HAZEL" was in love with at some point in her life and she seemed to be still pining for him. Obviously their relationship was sometime back, according to that photo, because the man in the photo was rather young. I think it's a prop.
DeleteI read somewhere NBC canceled the show due to the slipping of rating. when the show was pick up by CBS Hazel was retooled to target a younger audience demographic. Hence the departure of Whitney Blake and Don DeFore. DeFore noted that he found out about the change while reading the newspaper. You have to realize at that time a lot of these wholesome family shows were given the cancellation boot. time were changing the younger aka (boomers) generation were rebelling against the fake authenticity of how family life was depicted on television.
ReplyDeletehttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hazel_(TV_series)
I just discover this show it a nice show with a nice moral value to it. I have to admit i don't care very much for the last season with Ray Fulmer (1965–1966) Lynn Borden (1965–1966) the dynamics changed it was the same when Don DeFore (1961–1965) Whitney Blake (1961–1965) left the series. DeFore and Blake made me feel to believe they were a husband and wife as where Fulmer and Borden felt very unbelievable vanilla as a married couple I didn't buy it it was to cold and very over rehearsed. It like trying to watch Bewitched with the second darrin Yuck !!!
ReplyDeleteBobby's sister has a Facebook account and occasionally mentions Bobby. I hope maybe one day she'll post here as she seems the type that might enjoy reminiscing about him a bit.
ReplyDeleteWhat city or town were the Baxters Hazel and Harold supposed to have been living in, on the show? I have researched the web for the answer and have not found the answer anywhere. Was it ever revealed in the show?
ReplyDeleteThe Baxter family resided at 123 Marshall Road, in an unspecified eastern city, possibly IN New Jersey, as New York and Philadelphia were mentioned as nearby cities. This information comes from the book "Television Series of the 1960s: Essential Facts and Quirky Details," by Vincent Terrace.
ReplyDeleteWhen they started running the last season of Hazel I was surprised to see a very young Ann Jillian as Steve Baxter's secretary. Some of the various side characters in the last season added to the show's appeal, and Harold wasn't just delivering rehearsed one liners. My favorite episode is "My Son the Sheepdog", where the adult Baxter's and neighboring Williams' act and dress like beatniks to show their sons how silly THEY look and act when they form a band called the Leaping Lizards! We now call our motorcycle the 'buzz bike' !!!!
ReplyDeleteAncestry.com has some yearbooks online from various schools. I found the yearbook for 1968 with Bobby Buntrock's photo in it. He would have been about 16 years old. He is totally recognizable as the young actor from "Hazel."
ReplyDeleteI have always enjoyed the television program Hazel and the characters that inhabited that show. Each of the characters were wonderfully portrayed. You would think, as many times as I have watched this program, that I would have tired of it by now, but no, because this family program was so well done, with actors who played their parts, each to the best of their ability, well, it still pulls me back into sitting in front of the television and feeling good. It would be nice if programs of today still followed suit, but alas, times change. But, for me, I guess I will stay with the old, even though my sweet husband chuckles every time I tell him how much I enjoy the older television sitcoms. They just make me smile and have a good day. I thank all you actors, I once thought I would like to be an actress, but no I did not have what it takes, so THANK YOU BOBBY BUNTROCK, AND ALL THE OTHER ACTORS AND ACTRESSES WHO DO HAVE WHAT IT TAKES, so folks like me can enjoy these wonderful programs. No, I have not forgotten the writers, directors, and all the other hardworking creative people that go into the making of these treasured sitcoms of yesteryear. Oh dear, I am giving my age the red flag, no matter, I am not alone. Have a great day and thank you ALL for blessing us with such good programing.
ReplyDeleteHi i look forward to watching Hazel me and my husband have only been watching it a little over a year we both love the show and can not wait to see what Hazel has gotton herself in to this time or what little problem the family has to deal with now the show is before our time we where not around when the show was on if we was we had to be babys so the show all so gets a younger generation to watch we will keep watching it must have been sad when Bobby died i was only 4 yrs old when that happen i know the whole show was upsetting and how Whitney Blake did not know for ten years i find that hard to believe maybe they did not all stay in touch but i would think that she would have still talk to the producer or the director of the show anyway we love the show keep it on please thanks
ReplyDeleteMay you rest in peace Bobby. Thank you for your service and the entertainment you have brought to many in your career. Amazing how many people are enjoying the work you have done, and it is 2017! "Me" TV is showing the series in Los Angeles. Great stories from those who served with him too. Thanks for standing up for a buddy. That is what counts!!!
ReplyDeleteI recently saw a commercial (in b/w) from 1964 for the toy Rock 'Em Sock 'Em Robots. I could have sworn that the young boy on the left was Bobby Buntrock. It also sure sounded like him. Can anyone out there confirm or deny this? Thanks in advance
ReplyDeleteYes, it was Bobby Buntrock in that commercial.
DeleteMy friend and I knew Bobby during the summer of the flood in 1972. In fact I drove him to Rapid City and was with him when he found out about his Mother. The nurse gave him a note and sent him back to the car. he didn't know what it meant, my friend read it and said it means your Mother has died. The note read; "Your Mother has expired...etc" It was a sad trip. He was a fun and kind person.
ReplyDeleteDid Bobby Buntrock ever appear on Bewitched? I remember there were some storylines with young boys about racing cars and Samantha having to 'babysit' a young warlock while his parents were attending a symposium. There were other storylines during various holidays such as Halloween, Christmas etc. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteI checked IMDb.com and Bobby was not credited with an appearance on Bewitched.
ReplyDeleteI loved Hazel and all of the actors. Watch it all the time on METV. So sad to hear about Bobby Buntrock death. He was such a cute little boy and a good actor. Terrible accident and could have been prevented. Shirley Booth was amazing. Great show!!!! Love it!!!!! They are all missed!!!
ReplyDeleteThis is the most accurate account that I know of. 2 Inaccuracies. There was not a "hole" in the bridge. The bridge was under construction. He tipped over between the concrete support structure and the dirt bank, just wide enough for the car. It wasn't head (water)pressure, it was the concrete structure that held the door closed. I still picture him as they pulled him out, 2 divers. We were 14 in shock we went fishing. He was a friend of mine. 300 feet from my house.
ReplyDeleteOh, my. What a terrible 'last' memory to have as a friend.
DeleteJust an additional clarification, the door was open, just not enough room to get through it being the concrete structure in the way.
ReplyDeleteFor all "Hazel" and Don DeFore fans - a note from his son, Ron: My new book, "Growing Up in Disneyland" is a combination bio of my Dad and my story of living in a celebrity family and beyond. There's a section on "Hazel." Much of the first part of the book is in Dad's own words taken from his unpublished memoirs, "Hollywood-DeFore 'n' After." I wish the "Hazel" section was longer but I could only include what Dad left me. For more info: www.GrowingUpinDisneyland.com
ReplyDeleteHi Folks,
ReplyDeleteJulia Benjamin is a friend of mine and you may not be aware, but she is suffering severe financial hardships and could end up homeless.Please visit her Facebook page or the link below for her GoFundMe page. Hopefully you may be able to help a bit with a financial donation, or just pass the word around. Sad thing about Hollywood is once you have served their purpose, they are done with you, especially with many child stars like Julia. Thanks.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/a-new-beginnig-for-julia-to-have-a-fresh-start?fbclid=IwAR0fvlSpetnIYAh8Fl2A4ZGw9LVLP_22iJYVrY7kzNB0sWspZLQzVgUVfAk
I checked celeb birthdays this AM (4 Aug 2020) like I do every morning while doing Microsoft Rewards and I came across Bobby’s birthday bio. I remember watching the Hazel series as a teenager. I was surprised to read about his South Dakota connection and saddened to read about his tragic death in the Black Hills. I met a girl at college from Rapid City and we married three weeks after the Rapid City flood in 1972 with devastation everywhere it seemed. I found soon enough there were some hazards driving the Black Hills especially at night. We had traveled across that area many times. I was also a member of the South Dakota National Guard in the late 1970’s. Though I never met Bobby, his work on TV was part of weekly viewing in my earlier years. Thanks for all the comments that celebrate his life and mourn his untimely death.
ReplyDeleteI was in error when I Meredith Baxter was in Love on a Roof Top. I apologize. Hazel was a great show with a fine cast. So sad about little Harold and i am sure the rest of the cast grieved deeply.
ReplyDeleteTHANK YOU JOANNE and all commenters for making this history of Hazel so emotional and interesting! I enjoyed it SO much because I'm 93 years old and watched Hazel from the beginning and I never had enough of it. And I always try to catch ALL her reruns. Right now (NYC) I've taped all her seasons and am still enjoying it a lot. And like you, I prefer the original versions, especially the B&W ones, lol!
ReplyDeleteBut I have a question, whatever happened to the lady actor who did George Baxter's sister? She was a very beautiful woman with a good mezzo voice and great actor too but.....oh so her character so unpleasant! However, maybe in real like she's a sweet, kind person.... :)
P.S. I'm so curious and puzzled! Is there a reason why she hasn't been mentioned here at all?
Thanks again to all for this most interesting revelation of the actors who brought us (still do) so much pleasure for so long.
Hello fellow Hazel fan, hope you are doing well. Cathy Lewis, who played Deirdre Baxter Thompson on the show, passed away shortly after Hazel ended its run, in November 1968. I believe she had cancer She was only 51. May She rest well.
DeleteGlad I discovered Hazel during the Covid lockdowns with Los Angeles gyms closed. I enjoy watching it every morning when exercising. Great story lines and very patriotic! Little Harold is a sweetheart. I remember a scene when he talks about God and the Bible precious. A cool episode on Smiley too. Recognized early Calabasas with that gas station still there when filmed in 1961. Love tuning out msm negative stuff to watch this great wholesome show coping with the lockdowns. Thanks Antenna TV!
ReplyDeleteI met Bobby in the summer of 1971. I had a summer job at a combination souvenir shop and lunch room which also had a 3.2 beer license. At that time the legal age for 3.2 beer in South Dakota was 18. Hard liquor drinks required that you were 21.Bobby and his circle of friends frequented the place where I worked. I was not a close friend of Bobby as he seemed to be a very quiet and private person. Two things I did learn about him: one never called him by his nickname, "Sport". If someone was so foolish as to do so, you would likely find him and his buddies spoiling to fight you! The other thing I know is that he was looking forward to his 21st birthday when he would receive his earnings from the Hazel show. He stated that he wanted to open up his own bar.
ReplyDeleteBobby now rests in a beautiful but small cemetery in the Black Hills. Two things make its location unique: it has a view of Mt Rushmore, and an arial view of the cemetery reveals that it is in the shape of and old fashioned coffin. The cemetery is not to easy to find and I'd like to keep it that way. I'm 71 years old now and I try to visit his resting place at least once a year. If you visit, please leave a small pebble on his marker to show that you remembered him.
Young Bobby was such a handsome little boy.His demeanor on the show was very pleasant.He was such a natural at such a young age.I watch and enjoy Hazel on Me TV along with Leave It To Beaver, Dennis the Mennace on Antenna TV, and the Rifle man on Me TV.Great shows with a moral component without vulgarity or smart mouthed kids.I am 64, I remember all the shows on in 1960s.Me.Booth is right about actors and politics.Keep it quiet as you can that maybe half your audience.To campaign for a candidate is not as offensive as
Deletepreaching on the show.You make the viewer who is educated want to debate you....not smart.
RIP all you actors and actresses.
Well, we happened to come across the Hazel Show on Roku and my husband wanted to watch it because he remembered it as a young boy watching it. We found it very entertaining to watch a nosey maid get into everyone's business and how she could be annoying and we found it funny and entertaining. We became perplexed as to why we did not see the Bobby's parents all of a sudden and left their boy with his brother Steve and his wife. He was growing up and yet no visit from his parents. We were hoping that in the end they would be brought back. We knew something must have happened like maybe they were fired? It was sad because it was a nice show and we thought they would have returned to the show to have closure in being with their son. It is unusual to leave their son with a brother for the time period. Parents just did not do that then. However; it was nice to see Mr. Baxter's brother in the show as well and the new wife. We saw all the episodes and we want to see more. Maybe a revamp of the series can be made? We enjoyed the clean cut humor and shows. Annette and family, a Roku viewer on Feb. 17, 2021.
ReplyDeletecars today don't have roller windows. Everything is electronic, so if a car goes underwater it's likely to short out the system quickly. The only way you can get out is to break the glass. Buy a "car escape tool" and keep it or a hammer in your car.
ReplyDeleteI love the Hazel show and watch it every chance I get. I thank you writing this article about Bobby, I had heard he died from drugs, now I know that isn't true. It is unfortunate how he drowned in his car, that tears at my heart especially since I lost my own little 4 yr old grandson in a car accident recently. It's so sad anytime one dies so young but when it's a sudden, tragic death it's always more heartbreaking.
ReplyDeleteI still watch Hazel everyday, except that part of the series when Defore & Blake are written out...huge mistake for the show. I used to watch as a kid when it was running as a new series on TV on Friday nights. Ran back to back with a new TV show called "The Flintstones"
ReplyDeleteI remember reading that Shirley Booth (who had an illustrious theatre career) said that many of her theatre friends criticized her for doing television. There was a lot of snobbery between TV, theatre, and film back then. Shirley said she told them that, while her first love was theatre, television paid a heck of a lot better and she had to start thinking about financing her retirement! Smart woman. Especially as she lived for nearly twenty years after she retired. I hope she enjoyed her nice home and the restful time. Her last role, and it's a doozy, was as Mrs. Claus in the Rankin-Bass special, "The Year Without a Santa Claus."
ReplyDeleteI absolutely adore this show. Wonderful actors. The best shows are the ones that make you feel as though it's really happening. Thanx antenna TV. The shows today are crap! I find myself always smiling when I watch Hazel. 😘
ReplyDeleteI LOVE ❤️ HAZEL
ReplyDelete