Interview With Angela Cartwright Terry: You started out at a very young age. What is the first thing you did in film and TV? Angela: Well, the very first thing I ever did was an ad for Sparkletts, and then the first film I did was something called "Somebody Up There Likes Me" with Paul Newman. I played his daughter. It was one of his first films and then I did "Something of Value" with Rock Hudson. I was three! Terry: What did you think about the whole thing, being that young? Angela: You know, I don't remember much from that. I remember a little bit, but I don't know, I didn't really think it was that strange and then I did "The Danny Thomas Show" when I was four, and that went for seven years. Terry: What was it like working with Danny? Angela: Danny was great. He had a great sense of humor. He was very creative. I mean, we did the show live every week and he would change the script right up until when we went out, you know, just to get it tweaked and get it as good as it could possibly be. Terry: Was he pretty much of a father figure off the set, as well as on? Angela: Um, a little bit, but he was so different from my parents. My dad was much more quiet, but I was still very close to him. I liked him a lot. Terry: Now your sister is in show-business too. Angela: Uh huh, Veronica. Terry: And what was some of the things that she did? Angela: Let's see, well she started off pretty young too. She was on "Leave it to Beaver", she played Violet and continued to work, but lately she's been last seen as Cassandra Spender in "ER". She was just nominated for an Emmy, second time. Terry: Well, sure! Absolutely! I loved her in Alien! Angela: She was in "X-Files". That's what she got nominated for this time, she was nominated for "ER" last time. She's done "Children's Hour", "The Birds", "Right Stuff", and of course "Alien". Terry: Was there any other family members that was in show-business other than your sister? Angela: No, no. Just the two of us. Terry: What was the experience like doing "The Sound of Music"? Angela: Well, it was great. When I found out I got the part of Brigitta, we went into rehearsal, we learned the songs, we learned the routines, we went to Austria, it took about a year to film the entire film. It was just such a great experience. They were such wonderful, talented people to work with. We knew it was going to be a first class movie, but we had no idea that it would be as popular as it has been and it lifted so many peoples hearts! They loved this movie, and they watch it whenever they're depressed or sad. They just love it! Terry: Were you always musical? Angela: I always sang, I always danced, so I guess so. Yeah. Terry: Let me ask you first about "The Sound of Music", you were how old on that film? Angela: Let's see, "The Sound of Music" I was 12. I played 10, but I was actually 12. I turned 12 on it actually, during the scene where we sing "My Favorite Things". (Laughs) Terry: How did you get "Lost In Space"? Of course as well as "Make Room for Daddy", your also always associated with "Lost In Space". Angela: "Lost In Space", Irwin Allen called me into his office. He had been a Danny Thomas fan and he knew I'd be older, but he didn't know how old I would be, so he called me into meet with him and decided that this was what he wanted Penny to be. Terry: Were you a science fiction fan? Angela: No, no. Terry: Not really? Angela: I wasn't. I always found space fascinating. I was very into the space program and all of that, but I was not really a sci-fi fan. Terry: How did you get along with Bill Mumy? Angela: Great! We were great friends, and still are today. Yep, it was great having another kid that I could, you know, be on the set with, and go to school with. Always keeps you company! Terry: That was filmed at what studio? Angela: Twentieth. Terry: And they were filming other shows at the time, did you ever go over to the other sets during breaks? Angela: Oh yes. We went to (Chuckles) "Incredible Journey", we went all through that. Remember, with the guy that went inside the human being, we went through all those sets, down the stomach and everything, that was Bill and me. Terry: Were they filming "Land of the Giants" there too? Angela: Yeah, "Land of the Giants", "Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea", oh there were a ton of series being done at the same time..... "Peyton Place", a lot of stuff. Terry: What kind of a man was Irwin Allen? Angela: He was outrageous, Irwin was. Yeah. Big ideas, and was very loud in the way that he put them across! (Laughs) Terry: Yeah.... Angela: But, you know what, he saw what he wanted and he did have a wonderful look about his shows. You know, people did enjoy watching them! Some of them were kind of corny, but a lot of them had good morals, good family values and the look of the show was so great. Terry: I understand that Bill often said that the black and white were the best ones. Do you feel that way or do you think the colors were just as good later in shows? Angela: I think there were a couple color shows, but I'd have to agree with him. The black and white season, the season where we started off more serious, it was a drama show, it was more intense, those were really my favorite. Terry: It's gotta be old home week here looking over there at June and everything. Angela: Oh yeah! Terry: Do you often see each other outside of the conventions and stuff? Angela: Well, I see Bill all the time. Bill and I are actually working on a project together right now, and I just shot all the photos for his new album "In the Current" that just came out. Terry: Oh, so you're a photographer than? Angela: Uh huh! Terry: Oh fantastic! I didn't know that. Angela: Yeah, I've been doing that for many years! I photograph a lot of children and I've been doing some gallery work and stuff lately, but I see him all the time. I see Marta quite often and you know, we kind of get together every now and then, and you know, we see each other! Terry: What did you think of doing the "Lost In Space" movie that you had the cameo in? You played a reporter, is that right? Angela: Uh huh. Terry: What was that like? Angela: Well, I did it for one reason, and that was just for the fans because I knew that they would love seeing the old cast in there, the "classic cast" we call ourselves. I knew that they..... some of them I think have a hard time accepting the movie, and some people were just so excited and they enjoyed it, but I did know that they would enjoy seeing snip-its of the cast. So flew me to England, which I loved, that's where I was born, and it was great. I mean it was fun to do, so I enjoyed it! Terry: There's a lot of reunion movies going on and a lot of the stars do cameos, but do you think it would be better if they did a movie with the original cast? Would you rather have done that? Angela: Well, quite honestly, I think it would've worked. Terry: Yeah. Angela: I really do. I think everybody looks great. Unfortunately, Guy would not be with us, but I think they could've gotten around that. I mean, I think the fans would've accepted that, so it would've worked. Terry: I read on the internet you had a boutique? Angela: Uh huh. Terry: Do you still have that? Angela: Well, I closed the actual doors of the store this last year, and I took it on the internet and that's at http://www.rubberboots.com which is really artists' things that I just really respect their work and I love having the site and being able to show their stuff off. Terry: Do you encourage your son at all to be in show-business? Would you like him to get into acting? Angela: Yeah, he's done some plays and stuff. He's pretty good! He's also my web designer. Terry: Fantastic! You know, a lot of time kids know more about the web than us! Angela: Oh! He's amazing. He did all my Angela Cartwright, my sister's and Bill Mumy's site. It's good, I always ask him when I get stuck! Terry: What does he think of turning on the Sci-Fi Channel and seeing his mom as a teenager? Angela: I don't know, you'll have to ask him. Terry: What do you think? Jesse: About seeing my mom on the show? Terry: Yeah! Jesse: Well, it's pretty weird, seeing as how she was so young, and now she's working in the kitchen in my house! Terry: (Laughs) Angela: (Laughs) Jesse: Very weird, but I love her so I enjoy it! Terry: Great! What is your name again? Jesse: Jesse. Terry: Fantastic. Do you like "Lost In Space"? Are you a fan? Jesse: Actually, it's pretty funny. We sat down and watched them a few times. My cousin loves it so he sat down with me. They're pretty cool though, I enjoy watching them because I like everyone in the cast. They're all so really nice! The Long Awaited Interview UPDATE With Angela! Terry: I understand you were born in Altrincham, Cheshire, England and moved to L.A. from Canada at the age of three with your sister Veronica and your parents. Why did your parents move to L.A.? Were they involved with the TV, modeling, or movie industry? Angela: My parents had always dreamed of coming to America. They weren't involved at all in the business. My Dad was a technical artist, my mother was a nurse. Terry: What encouraged their decision to move to the USA? Angela: I don't really know. It was just a dream they had. They saved all their money to make the boat trip here, and just did it. They must have felt very strong about their 'dream'. Moving their family to America was a big decision. Terry: Did you like L.A. or did you have any memories of England or Canada being you were so young? Angela: I don't think I really cared where we were when I was a child, as long as I was with my family. Every time I return to England though I feel very comfortable. I just love it there. Terry: How did you become a child fashion model and how did this lead to the Sparkletts ad? Angela: A neighbor in our apartment building had children that made commercials. She suggested to my Mom that she take my sister and me to her child's agent. My Mom did and she signed both of us immediately. The Sparkletts ad was the very first thing I ever went on and I got it. From then on I continued modeling. Terry: How did your parents explain to you what you were doing as a model and what it was all about? At the young age of 3 did you really understand it or what you were doing? Angela: I don't think I really understood it all when I was really young. I took it all in stride. My parents always made it fun so it was never stressful. Terry: Did you look at it as play or work? Angela: A way of life actually. I never really knew anything different. Terry: Did you remember if you enjoyed it and while she did appear in TV and film was your sister Veronica also involved in the ad modeling? Angela: Veronica also was making commercials and modeling. I don't have any painful memories of working so young. Terry: How many years are you & Veronica apart? Angela: Three years to four. Veronica was born in April, me in September. Terry: At the age of four you were well known by many top photographers. Can you recall some of the magazine ads that you appeared in besides Sparkletts? Angela: There were quite a lot, but the one I really remember is the cover I did for LIFE magazine. I'm sitting in a big chair. Terry: Do you have any memories of a time while modeling that you wanted to play with toys rather then work and can you recall any particular photographer who was very clever at keeping your attention span focused when you might have been a little impatient or in a bad mood? Angela: Apparently I was a good listener and very patient. Two ingredients that make a job go smoother and quickly. Terry: Are you and Veronica close and was there any competition between you as children? Angela: No competition then or now. Terry: Are you closer today as adults and why? Angela: We're very close now. In fact we live next door to each other. Terry: Did you go to regular school or did you play with children who were not in the business? Angela: One of my best friends was not in the business and we lived a door from each other. She was a great friend and we have wonderful memories growing up together. We're still best friends today. Terry: Your first "TV" job was for a 'GE Special'. Did that come before or after the "Somebody Up There Likes Me" movie role? Angela: The GE special was before. Terry: I understand for the 'GE Special' you were sitting in a bathtub. Can you recall how that shot went and do you have any stories about your bathtub take? Considering the situation, were you uncomfortable? Angela: I have no memory of filming it. I've seen the photos but can't remember it. I was 3. Terry: In "Somebody Up There Likes Me" you play Paul Newman's daughter Audrey. How did you get along with this movie heart throb? How did he relate to children and was he serious or good natured off camera? Angela: At 3 my memory is a little foggy. I did meet Paul Newman years later and reintroduced myself as his daughter in that movie. That meeting I remember. He was very sweet and we had a nice chat. Terry: Do you have any stories of Paul Newman or other actors from this film off of the set, between scenes, or behind the scenes? Angela: No, I was too young. Terry: How did you make the move from print ads to the TV or movie screen? Angela: I went on an interview for "Make Room for Daddy." I was on that show for 7 years. Terry: How did you get the role in "Something Of Value" with Rock Hudson and Sidney Poitier and what role did you play in that film? Angela: I was the child who Sidney stabbed to death (behind a curtain of course, this was the 50's). I went on an interview and I got the job. Terry: Did you learn anything from big screen names you worked with that helps you today? Angela: I've worked with many big names over the years. Danny Thomas had all the big stars of the day as guest stars on his show. One thing I admire is actors who do their job professionally. One who shows up on time, prepared and ready to work. I've worked with people who don't do this. They should find another career. Terry: What memories do you have of movie sets as a youth and do you have any stories that involve any of the big name actors that you can share with our readers that might be humorous or involved re-shoots or multi-scene takes? Angela: When you do a series as long as I did, you have lots of memories. On "The Danny Thomas Show" the script would be changed right until the time we walked on the stage. Danny was always changing this or that, and he wanted it always to sound real. On "The Sound of Music" Julie was great with us all. She'd sing with us and we really loved her. I think it shows in the film. Christopher Plummer kept his distance. But I think he did that for a reason. Everyone was a little unsure of him and I think that distance is what the Von Trapps were supposed to feel with their family. Terry: You worked with Veronica in a "Alfred Hitchcock Presents" called 'The Swartz Metaclude Method', what roles did you and your sister play in that TV episode? Angela: I'm not sure that is the right spelling, you might have to look it up. All I know is I walked in with a bowl full of tadpoles, and Veronica held a snake. I don't really remember the story or have I ever seen it. It was neat to work with Veronica though. Terry: What was it like acting with your sister? Angela: I was young during that one. But she did a few "Danny Thomas Shows" she was part of my Brownie troop and once she played a tulip I think it was in the school play. I look forward too working with her as an adult. I run lines with her all the time when she's doing a part. She's a gifted actress. Terry: Did you and Veronica get into any high jinks on the set and can you please let the cat out of the bag with details of your mischief? Angela: We were pretty good kids. We played together well. We loved listening to music, dancing and playing with dolls. When we got older we grew apart for awhile. She was a teen and I was still a little kid. And as adults Veronica lived in New York for a while. But once she moved back to LA we have always been close. Terry: Did you or Veronica actually meet Hitchcock or was he even on the set? Angela: Veronica did "The Birds" with Alfred Hitchcock. I never met him. Terry: Did Veronica ever tell you of any impressions or stories involving the master of suspense? Angela: She used to bring him tea everyday on the set of "The Birds." Terry: Was he good with children or did he frighten her? Angela: She liked him I think. Terry: Did you like horror or suspense or did your parents even let you watch it? Angela: I never watched it till we were older. I did love 'Twilight Zone' though. Terry: How did the Danny Thomas Show come about in 1956 and how were you chosen for the role of Linda Williams? Angela: I went on an interview. I had to say a nursey rhyme. Terry: How did your first meeting with Danny go? Angela: It went well I guess, I got the part. Terry: What did he say to you? Angela: I don't remember, I was 4. Terry: Were you frightened or nervous about dong a live show every week? Was it in front of a studio audience? Angela: The great thing about being a kid is all those fears of being in front of a live audience were just non existent. I loved doing the show every week. Terry: Was there any times when you had stage fright during the 'Danny Thomas show' and forgot your lines in front of live cameras and how did you get back on track with your lines? Angela: I think I was pretty good about knowing my lines. My Mom used to go over them with me in the bathtub every night. Terry: Any words of comfort or advice from Danny that made you feel better about yourself? Angela: It was a wonderful set. Everyone was very sweet to me. Everyone was very professional, the best work comes out of an atmosphere like that. Terry: Is there any funny stories that you can recall that involved Danny, Marjorie Lord, Rusty Hamer, or Sherry Jackson? Angela: Marjorie was the sweetest person and I adored her. My Mom was always on the set with me, but I spent alot of time with these people. Rusty used to pull my hair and pull pranks...he was just like an annoying older brother. Terry: Did Danny Thomas ever show his temper that you can recall? Angela: Danny was loud and funny. Terry: How did he make you laugh and in what way was he like a father to you? Angela: I can't remember anything specific. But he always made us laugh. Terry: Did he play jokes on the set? Angela: All the time… Terry: Did his Vegas buddies like Dean Martin or Frank Sinatra ever show up on the set and do you have any stories? Angela: Both Frank and Dean did the show. I do remember when Frank appeared on ' Make Room for Grandaddy'...I was 18...and I remember feeling like I was in the presence of something special. He was very charismatic. Terry: I understand it was Danny Thomas who released you from the last show after seven seasons which allowed you to do "The Sound Of Music". How did the contact with Danny begin and were there any negotiations or was it a easily decided situation? Angela: I don't know the details, I was a kid, but I do know that Danny was under no obligation to release me from the show, and I could have lost the SOM role if he had decided to exercise that. But I think Danny realized the fact that this was a big movie, and he was looking out for me. Terry: Did you see Danny just before his death? Any comments on his passing? Angela: The last time I saw Danny was 6 weeks after I had given birth to my daughter Becca. I remember he was really like a Dad with his face filled with pride. I was shocked by the news of his death. He was very devoted to making people laugh and his baby St. Judes Hospital. Terry: You said Danny was louder then your own father, in what way? Can you explain? Angela: My Dad is a soft spoken..Danny was never soft spoken. Terry:What was Hans Conried like on and off camera during "The Danny Thomas Show?" Angela: Hans was loud and boisterous. He was a very funny man. People loved his character of Uncle Tonoose. Terry: Hans later did a 'Lost In Space' called "The Questing Beast" with you didn't he? Angela: He did, but I don't think I was in that show very much. Terry: Did you ever meet Danny's daughter Marlo Thomas and did your and Dannys family have any get togethers at home or off of the set that you can recall and what were they? Angela: Marlo visited the set but her sister Terry was there more often. She was more my age and we'd play with Barbie dolls together. Terry: Do you think the role as Linda caused you to be more recognized on the street then any other movie roles at the time? Angela: It always has amazed me how people recognize me. People loved the Danny Thomas Show. Every Monday night people would tune in and we were number #1 in the ratings for years. The show ran for 11 years total and I was on 7 of those years. It made me very recognizable in America as the little kid with the great comeback lines. Terry: The show had its debut as "The Danny Thomas Show" but later changed the title to "Make room for Daddy", what can you tell us about the change in name and cast and how did it affect the show? Was it the same story line or was it really 2 different shows? Angela: I don't know why they changed the name. Terry: There was a spin-off called 'Make room For Grandaddy' with Danny and most of the original cast returning to the roles they made famous. Tell us about that show and what was this reunion series like for you after so many years away from the Linda Williams role. Angela: Playing Linda at 17 was very different then playing her as a child. I had input around the Monday morning reading table and I was Linda the teenager. Terry: When you did the original series, what did you think about it when fans or other children approached you to say hi or ask for an autograph? Angela: I have always been appreciative of the fans who have stuck with me and followed my career. Without them, your career goes no where. Terry: Did you understand all of the attention? Angela: As a young child I never understood all the attention. I thought ever 5 year old went to work every morning. Terry: Did it scare you, or did you enjoy it? Angela: It can be scary when your being chased or in a large crowd of people being pushed around. But that can be scary whether your a personality or not. Terry: Do you have film or tapes of your old 'Danny Thomas shows' and do you watch them today? Angela: I have a few of the shows. I don't sit around though watching them all the time. I have enjoyed a few of them with my kids though. Terry: Collectors may remember that an entire line of Linda Williams toys and clothes were marketed. What items were released and what were your own personal favorites? Angela: There were alot of toys and merchandise. Games, paint sets, puzzels, tea sets...but my favorite was the dolls. They were just cool. The large one walked when you held her hand and walked with it. Terry: Did all your friends have one? Angela: No Terry: Any humorous or touching stories involving the doll or other toys in your likeness? Anela: It's only as an adult do you realize what a weird thing it is to have a doll made in your image. I also love the "Sound of Music" Brigitta doll. They have just released a new Brigitta in her sailor suit. They are made by Madame Alexander. Terry: Did you wear the clothes on the show and did you get to keep any of the outfits? Angela: They created a line of Angela Cartwright clothes. I wore them on the show and I did get to keep them. Terry: What Linda items do you now have in your own personal collection and what would you like to find today that you still can not locate? Angela: I've never really done an accounting of everything that was released. Someone just gave me a pristine copy of my album I cut when I was 7. 'Angela Cartwright Sings'. My copy had been played and was really falling apart. That's something I will treasure forever. Terry: What were some of the songs on the album and which were your favorites and why? Angela: My favorite song is the one I sing with my father. He used to be a singer in England when he was younger. It's my favorite song for strictly sentimental reasons. Terry: The song that your dad sang with you is "Don't Grow Up Too Soon", do you have any memories of recording this tune with him? Angela: It's something I treasure more now then I did then. Sure it was fun singing with my Dad, but today to have that is really something special. He also designed the cover and back of the album. Terry: Was the recording session easy for you? Angela: I was only 7 and I remember having to do the songs over and over again. I don't remember it being a bad experience, I was used to work. Terry: Did you like your singing voice? Angela: I guess so, I never really thought about it. Terry: Did you ever sing any of the tunes on the show? Angela: I know 'Mr. Jumbo' was a song written out of a show that was called "Linda's Giant". On the record my Dad was the voice of Mr Jumbo, and I took great delight in that. I sang the "Ballen Kay" on one of Danny's shows. Terry: Did you appear on any music programs like Dick Clark or Ed Sullivan or was there any in person, radio, or stage appearances from this record? If so what was that like and can you share any stories? Angela: I appeared on Ed Sullivan but as one of the Von Trapp children to promote the movie. I've done several things with Dick Clark over the years. Terry: Why didn't you pursue music as an adult as Bill Mumy did? Angela: My life just took a different turn. And although I loved singing, going the singing route just didn't appeal to me at the time. Terry: How did you like singing compared to acting and what were your favorite singers at the time? Angela: I certainly enjoyed all the singing in SOM. My favorite singers were the Beatles. During the movie Heather Menzies (she played Louisa) and I were huge Beatle fans. Terry: Tell us all about meeting The Beatles. Angela: It was a dream come true the meet them. I have met Paul McCartney a couple of times since that first meeting and its always been something I'll never forget. Terry: What did you say to each other when you met the Beatles? Angela: Sorry that's private. Terry: What were your impressions of each one of the fab 4? Angela: They were very gracious. Terry: Do you have any Beatles records in your own collection & do you play them? Angela: I played it all the time. All their records. I still play their music. It just makes me feel good. Terry: Being in the business yourself, were you still star struck? Angela: Sure there are people I admire, or I think are brilliant in their craft. I think everyone is in awe of people who are accomplished. I just saw the actor Jeremy Sims in Australia perform Cyrano de Bergerac. He was awesome in the part. You can't help but admire someone who is sensational in a roll. So I guess I am appreciative of people who are accomplished...I would'nt say I'm star struck. Terry: Tell us about your two CBS specials you hosted with Jay North and Jerry Mathers. Angela: What I can remember is they were great fun. There were lots of talented kids involved. I look at them today and realize how far television has come. Terry: Tell us anything you can about making the childrens classic, "Lad A Dog" with Caroll O' Conner and your role as Angela. Angela: It was a challenge to play a crippled girl. But I loved working with the dogs. It is always more difficult to work with small children and animals. But all you need is patience. Terry: Did you like working with animals and do you own pets today? Angela: I love animals, and love working with them. Tame ones anyway. Like the Bloop in LIS. Debbie was fun to have scenes with. I have a dog and cat today. Terry: Was this movie an influence on you as a pet owner? Angela: But I have always had pets. I think they are healthy for families and people to have. Terry: What kind of dog do you have? Angela: I have a Shelty. Terry: Is his name Lad? Angela: No. Terry: When did you first meet Shirley Temple? Was it when you were cast in "Babes In Toyland" for 'The Shirley Temple Storybook'? Angela: I met Shirley on the set filming "Babes in Toyland". Shirley played the witch. Terry: What did you play? Angela: I played the babe...I forgot my characters name. Terry: What did you think of Shirley's performance as a witch? Angela: As witches go...I think she did a swell job. What a talent she was when she was a child. Terry: Had you seen any of her early films? Angela: I love Shirley Temple movies. I think I've seen them all. Terry: What was she like and were you excited about meeting her? Angela: I don't think I put the two together that she was this child actress when I worked with her. Terry: Did you feel a closeness because of this and did she give you any advice or feel close to you because she could relate to your feelings as a young actress? Angela: None that I could remember. Terry: Were you cast by Robert Wise as Brigitta Von Trapp? Tell us about the audition. How many children were at the audition and how was the final decision made? Angela: I interviewed with Bob Wise for the part of Brigitta...I hear they looked at lots of kids for the role. Terry: You also tested for another role for "The Sound Of Music", didn't you? Angela: I did a test for Brigitta and also with a blonde wig as Louisa. They are including these clips in a show called "Screen Tests 2" which should air soon through Van Ness Films at 20th Century Fox Studios. It's a riot for me to see that test. I didn't like me in the blonde wig though. I'm glad they let my hair be natural. They dyed Nicky's and Heathers. Terry: Why do you think they chose you as Brigitta instead of Louisa? Angela: Haven't a clue, except I felt more comfortable as Brigitta. Terry: Is the movie based on a real life Von Trapp family? Angela: Yes, loosly based. Terry: Were they on the set or did you meet any of them? Angela: I met Maria when we were filming. Shes in the Market scene and also in one where Julie sings I have Confidence...she walks through the background., Last December the Austrian Government honored all us movie VonTrapps by presenting us with the Mozart Medallion. We got to meet alot of the real Von Trapp Family there. Terry: Tell us about the 'Edelweiss' scene and the true emotion it brought onto the people of Salzburg while filming it. Angela: The song is very dear to the Austrians, and we sang it live at that large outdoor theatre. It brought back a flood of emotions to the people of Austria that were filling the seats. Terry: Did any scene bring you to real tears or emotion? Angela: The scene where Christopher Plummer sings...as Brigitta I just thought how touching that would be to not hear your father having sung in so long. And how that would bring back memories of my characters mother. Terry: How hard was it to do a British accent? Angela: Easy for me since I'm British. I always pick it up when I visit. Terry: How did Robert Wise treat you? Angela: Robert had the patience of a saint, and was always up and loving to us kids. We did many scenes over and over and he always gave us the energy to give it our all. Terry: How do you rate him compared to Hitchcock even though this was a musical and not suspense? Angela: It's hard to compare the "Sound of Music" to " Psycho " or " The Birds." Terry: I understand you had worked with him once before and he didn't even realize this. Angela: Robert Wise had cast me in "Somebody Up There Likes Me" when I was 3. I played Paul Newmans daughter. He had given me a toy stuffed mouse when I finished the shoot. On the SOM I just asked him one day if he would sign it for me. He didn't remember I was the 3 year old he had cast. I still have the mouse with his signiture. Terry: How long did it take to learn the songs and dance routines? Angela: I think we were in rehearsal for about 6 months. We rehearsed the dance numbers over and over and went in the recording studio to do the songs. It's different though to rehearse on an empty set and then put life into it in the Alps. Terry: Was the entire film shot in Austria or did you use the back lot at 20th Century Fox? Angela: All the outdoor shots were shot in Salzburg and around Austria. We were there 3 months. The indoor scenes were shot on the 20th lot. Terry: I know you had an accident on your bike while filming the "Do Re Mi" scene, please tell us all about it. Angela: I fell off my bike during DoReMi. I think my tire hit the bike in front of me. It was a difficult scene because of the timing and all the bikes involved. I scraped my elbow and knee. If you look closely you can see it. Terry: I hear the canoe scene involved a threat of leeches present! Angela: There were leeches at the bottom of the lake...So we were in a hurry to get out of there. Terry: Is it true that in the scene where the boat tips over 5 year old Kym Karath who played Gretel really could not swim? Angela: That's right...Heather saved her in the last shot cause Julie tipped over backwards in the boat. Terry: Were there any fights between the children on the set and was it difficult working with so many young actors compared to only a few present on the 'Danny Thomas Show?' Angela: Not that I can remember...We are all still friends today. I just got back from Australia where Nicholas Hammond and I were part of the Opening Ceremony for the Australian 20th Century Fox Studios. He lives there now. I hadn't seen him for about 2 years...but we stay in touch. Terry: I hear you had a special bond with Julie Andrews on the set. Tell us about your time with her on the set. Angela: We really loved Julie...She was funny and sang with us...and we all looked at her as our friend. Terry: Please share any Julie Andrews stories. Angela: Julie taught us how to sing "Supercalafragilisticexpialidoucious" backwards...and I still remember how to say it to this day. She won the Academy Award for Mary Poppins when we were shooting the boat scene. Terry: She taught you to sing other Mary Poppins songs on the set also, is that right? Angela: She would joke around with us and make us laugh. It shows in the movie how much we liked her. Terry: You and Heather Menzies who played Louisa became good friends and you claim you drove everyone nuts with Beatles songs. Tell us all about it, especially if you got into any embarrassing situations or behind the scenes mischief. Angela: We were always singing Beatle songs. We had a Beatle Club. Julie Andrews gave us Beatle books when we finished the movie. Terry: Are you still friends today and do you ever sing the old "Sound Of Music" songs together for old times sake? Angela: No...not for old times sake...but we did sing with the real VonTrapps at the reunion in NY. Terry: Tell us more about your memorable reunion with the real Von Trapp family, the movie and the Broadway cast in December 1998 when the Austrian government presented the movie cast and the real Von Trapp family with the 'Mozart Medallion'. Angela: We each recieved our own medallion. The cast from the movie and the real Von Trapps. It is very beautiful. It was a proud moment. We were all honored for being a part of something that touched so many lives. I hear that over and over. When people don't feel well or are sad or need a pick me up...SOM is the movie they pop in the VCR. I'm very proud to be a part of that. Terry: Do you still correspond with or see any of the Von Trapps, the movie Trapps, or The Danny Thomas cast other then Heather? Angela: All of them...we all stay in touch. Terry: Were you afraid that your role as Penny Robinson might eventually bore you considering you were fascinated with the space program but not a real die hard Science Fiction fan? Angela: I never think like that. I look for life to be fulfilling...I'm not worried about boredom. Terry: The show ran for 3 seasons, did you ever tire of it? Angela: No. Terry: Why do you think Irwin Allen switched from what started off as a serious drama to the campy format in the color episodes. Angela: Show business is political...there are money men, and networks, and who knows...The shows were written and the actors did it. Terry: Was it because of the Adam West Batman show and other campy shows of this era? Angela: Maybe. Terry: Do you think this tongue in cheek humor was a mistake and why? Angela: Obviously it wasn't a mistake because there is a tremondous following today for the show. It is enourmously popular...so somebody did something right. Terry: Would the show have been longer lived if left as serious Sci-Fi? Angela: Watch Star Trek for more serious,. LIS is what it was.... Terry: Did you or Bill ever discuss this with Irwin and what did he respond to your concerns or complaints? Angela: No. Terry: You described Irwin Allen as outrageous to us, what do you mean by that? Angela: He had a vision...he liked BIG explosions...Big colors...But he was a creator...and a successful one...no one can take that from him. Terry: Can you recall a story in which he was especially outrageous? Angela: He was always outrageous… Terry: Was he ever hard to get along with or difficult as most geniuses tend to be? Angela: A lot of people had difficulty with Irwin. I got along ok with him...He rehired me for Beyond the Posiedian. Terry: Do you have any stories where he fought with the cast or network to get his own way? Angela: You'd have to ask them. Terry: Looking back, do you think he was right? Angela: He was the final word…no comment. Terry: What is your favorite story involving something that took place with you and Irwin where he was especially kind? Angela: Hum..none comes to mind. Terry: How uncomfortable was it to wear all that platinum make-up for the 'Lost In Space' episode, "All That Glitters?" Angela: It was pretty uncomfortable. Your skin can't breathe in that makeup…but being a kid I thought it was fun. I had no reaction to it. Terry: How long was that make-up session. Angela: I think it lasted two hours. Terry: Did you do or want to do any more scenes that involved strange or heavy make-up? Angela: Not really…but I would have. Terry: Sherry Jackson from 'Make Room For Daddy' was in a 'Lost In Space' episode, right? Angela: Sherry did do an episode. I didn't have many scenes with her but it was fun to see her again. Kym Karath also did an episode. She was Gretyl in "The Sound of Music". Terry: What is your favorite 'Lost In Space' Episode and why? Angela: My favorite is "My Friend Mr Nobody." I love the look of the black and white. I love the music…Penny music is available on CD now. It will be on my website soon. Wonderful music written by John Williams. I also liked the message. I also liked "The Promised Planet". Terry: Did you and Bill do an any 'Lost In Space' in person appearances that you can share with us? Any scary or unusual close calls from over excited fans? Angela: There was one personal appearance we did where we sang. When we were leaving fans began chasing us and I ran right into a guide wire that was holding up the tent. It knocked me out cold. Terry: Was it at this point that you first realized the shows popularity? Angela: We knew before the show was a hit with the fans. Terry: What did you think of Mad Magazines parody of the Robinsons and how did the other cast feel about the parody? Please tell us about what happened when the mag was brought to the set. Angela: We all loved it. Why do you think we posed for that picture where we parodied our parody. Terry: What did you think about the 'Lost In Space' comic books or trading cards that appeared and did you or anyone from the show have any involvement or input? Angela: I think all that stuff is great. Bill Mumy wrote some of the comic books…but they keep coming out with great stuff. I love seeing the original stuff that fans have saved. Terry: June told us the cast never got any money from the product tie ins. Was this the same with the Danny Thomas items released in your image? Angela: Not totally true…and with Danny Thomas "Linda Williams" dolls and games and things was a whole different thing. Terry: Are you upset or bitter in thinking you should have gotten more in profits from the merchandise? Angela: Can't say that I am. Life's too short to be bitter about stuff. Terry: You must have stories about funny moments on the 'Lost In space' set, anything stick out in your mind? Angela:One of my clearest memories is Jonathan Harris everyday tossing tootsie roll pops from the rafters. I looked forward to that. He used to by them by the gross. Also we had many many laughs… Terry: Any behind the scenes stories about 'The Robot' or aliens that threatened the Robinson family? Angela: Remember the show "The Invaders"…they held their pinky finger up and that's how you could tell they were aliens. In one of the shows…you'll have to figure out which, we all had our fingers like that… Terry: Did any scenes go wrong beyond belief? Was any planned scene a bad idea that resulted in flared tempers on the set? Angela: In the pilot I remember the earthquake, and it was a huge scene, and Guy left his laser gun on and shot us all. They had to reshoot the entire thing and it took hours to set up again. Terry: Was there any aliens or special effects or props cut out or scrapped from the final show because of this? Please tell us all about it! Angela: I don't know. Terry: Did the actor have any difficulty wearing 'The Robot' costume and was it really 'Robby' The Robot from the movie "Forbidden Planet?" Angela: Ask Bob…he has his own website I'm sure he'd love to answer robot questions for you. Terry: What was the most ridiculous alien costume or makeup on the show in your opinion and why? Angela: The carrot in the vegetable rebellion…need I say more? Terry: What was your favorite alien and why? Angela: I never really thought about it. Michael J Pollard in the magic mirror was neat… Terry: Do you think that real aliens might resemble the ones you dealt with on the show? Angela: Huh? Terry: Tell us about 'The Bloop'. How was the effect (make-up) created and did the animal cause any memorable trouble on the set? Angela: The bloop wore a hat, that she didn't like very much. I love pets and I loved having Debbie as my pet on the show. Terry: What ever happened to the Bloop? Angela: Debbie passed away last year. Apparently her face was what they took the mold from for "Planet of the Apes." Terry: Tell us about the e-mail you sadly got from Bill Mumy about her death. Angela: It just said "Debbie is dead." It was sad. Terry: Debbie the chimp (The Bloop) was Judy the Chimp in 'Daktari', correct? Angela: Yes…she had quite a career. Terry: Who was the jokester on the LOS set? Angela: I'd have to say Mark was the jokester…he still makes me laugh with his sharp wit. Terry: You once called him crazy? Angela: It's hard to describe Mark. He's a bundle of energy, and I said he was crazy because of his funny sense of humor. Terry: What was Guy like? Angela: Guy was a gentleman. He was sweet and kind and great to work with. Terry: What were June, Marta, and Jonathan Harris like on and off the set? Angela: June was a word fanatic. She was always doing scrabble and reading and doing word games. Marta was sweet and kind…still is. Jonathan was a character. But he is the best storyteller I have ever met. I adore him. Terry: Is it true that the role of Dr. smith was supposed to be a minimal one but Jonathan overplayed it to enlarge the role. Any Jonathan stories about this or other moments with him behind the scenes. Angela: Jonathan will tell you that story, I couldn't do it justice. He was very professional and always prepared. I loved working with him. Terry: Did he ad lib his Smith-isms and wise cracks? Angela: Still does. Terry: What were the inside jokes you mentioned between you and Jonathan Harris? Angela: Oh, he was always asking me to marry him…but my dowry wasn't enough. Terry: What did he do to make you laugh? Angela: He's just a funny guy who sees the humor in things. Terry: What type of stories did he tell you? Angela: He has stories about everything. Old Hollywood, Irwin Allen stories, but I'll never tell…only he can do them justice. Terry: Is it true you wore a short wig for the final season because they wanted you to cut your hair and you said no. Angela: I hated the wig, but it was a compromise…I didn't want to cut my locks, and I didn't till I was 18. Terry: You also hated your hair in the new "Lost In Space" movie didn't you? Tell us about what you call a bad hair day in England during that shoot. Angela: I didn't hate it…but it was a strange doo. It was bad times on earth and I would guess these reporters had been working all night. Terry: Did you or Bill ever mess with the props or did you ever break anything or get yelled at by a prop man on 'Lost In Space?' Angela: Not that I can remember. Bill and I did get into mischief though. But we were good kids and always did our work…but we were kids just the same. Terry: Any high jinks on the sets that you can tell us about? Angela: Wait for the book. Terry: What are some of the bloopers from 'Lost In space' that we might see pop up someday? Angela: There are a lot of them on Lost in Cyberspace. The link is on my website www.Angela-Cartwright.com Terry: What was your most embarrassing moment on the set and during a scene? Angela: Probably when I fainted on the set after I had hit the guide wire. I turned to Billy and said…"I'm going to faint, and I did." Terry: What did you really think of the mod costumes you wore on 'Lost In Space'? Angela: Were'nt they great. The colors. I really appreciate them much more now then I did then. The first season spacesuits were extremely uncomfotable though…then NASA discovered mylar…they were more wearable then the cardboard suits. Terry: How did the move to mini skirts come about? Angela: All Paul Zastupnivichs idea… Terry: Which did you prefer the original costumes or the mini skirts? Angela: The mini skirt. Terry: What would you have liked Irwin Allen to have changed or where should the plot have gone in your opinion to make this classic an even better show? Angela: I don't know…it's done pretty good just the way it was… Terry: There is a guy who recently wrote a book claiming that Irwin Allen stole the story idea of 'Lost In Space' from him and it's been hushed all of these years. Can you please give your comments and honest opinions on this so called Hollywood scandal? Angela: No clue. Terry: Any stories about "The Day The Earth Stood Still" star Michael Rennie, the great actor John Carradine, or Ted Cassidy who all guested on 'Lost In Space'? Angela: Michael was very nice. That was our fist 2 part story I think. Terry: You hung out with kids from 'Land Of The Giants' and 'Room 222'. Any interesting stories? Angela: Just a group of kid actors going to school… Terry: You tell us on your web page that Mark flirted with Marta off of camera as well as on, but we will have to ask them if anything really went on between them. What about you and Billy? Angela: Bill and I were great friends…still are. He's a great guy. Terry: When I mentioned him your eyes sparkle a whole lot, you must think a lot of him. Do fans ever write to encourage you to be more then friends with Bill per ones own TV fantasies about who they think should be together as a couple in real life? Angela: Never got a letter like that. Terry: Tell us about the 'Family Feud' you did with Guy. Angela: It was fun…we did ok for our charity. Terry: Was this the last time you ever saw him? Angela: Yes. Terry: What were your last words to him? Angela: Don't know…his death was such a shock to us all. Terry: How did his death affect you? Angela: I was very saddened to hear about Guy…I felt it again when I heard about Danny Thomas and Rusty Hamer…these were people who were a big part of my life. Terry: Why do you think Irwin Allen put a stop to several efforts to do a reunion 'Lost In Space' movie? Angela: Don't know. Terry: Was it because of Guy's death? Angela: Could have been, but I think they could have worked around that. Terry: What was it like working with Irwin again for the movie "Beyond The Poseidon Adventure" where you played Teresa? Angela: That was hard work. Wet all the time…climbing, jumping, screaming. Mark Harmon was great though and we enjoyed working together. Terry: How did you find Irwin had changed throughout the years? Angela: He had'nt changed… Terry: Did you have any trouble with special effects on "Beyond The Poseidon Adventure" that put you into a dangerous situation that you can tell us about? Angela: There were many effect in Poseidon. The hardest one was buddy breathing 3 on one tank. We took lessons so we felt comfortable doing it…but my heart was pounding. Terry: How much of what we saw was real and how much was movie magic? Angela: That's Hollywood's secret. Terry: Did you do your own stunts? Angela: We did almost all of our own stunts. You put a lot of trust in the effects person…and you have to pay attention and listen or things can go wrong. Terry: Are you comfortable around water or are you frightened of it and did your role in this disaster movie create any phobias for you that might linger today? Angela: I've never liked the ocean unless I'm in a boat or walking along the edge of it. So this movie was a stretch, but that's what life is all about. Terry: Where was this movie filmed? Angela: Mostly at 20th Fox in LA…We did some of the outdoor boat stuff in Catalina. Terry: I imagine you spent most of the time cold and wet. Did you get sick from filming those scenes? Angela: No, but it was uncomfortable. Terry: Would you liked to have been in "Titanic" or was one movie of this type enough? Angela: I'm game…show me the contract. Terry: How do you think "Titanic" compared to your disaster film outside of the fact of James Cameron's much larger budget? Angela: Different story, different budget, groovier clothes, lots more money. Terry: Did you like the story line of "Lost In Space The movie"? Angela: no comment. Terry: How could the film have been better outside of bigger roles for the classic cast cameos? Angela: That's a loaded question…and what's done is done. Terry: What did you say to the young actress now playing Penny Robinson? Angela: Hi Terry: What did she say to you? Angela: I watched some of the old shows. Terry: Did you give her any advice or did she ask for any from you? Angela: No…the part was hers in this movie… Terry: What was Heather Graham like and what did Marta think of her on screen in her portrayal as Judy Robinson? Angela: Ask Marta…Heather was very nice. Terry: When did you get married, are you still married today and to whom? Angela: I married in 1976…still married. Terry: Is he in the business? Angela: no. Terry: Is Jesse your only child and if not what are your other children's names, ages and what do they do? Angela: Jesse is 14, sports enthusiast and web master…Becca is 18 and is attending college. Terry: Do they share any interest with you as Jesse does? Angela: My daughter is undecided at this point what path she wants to take. Terry: I understand you once wrote a book. What is the title? Angela: "My Book: A Child's First Journal." Terry: Is it still available? Angela: No but it should be. People ask for it all the time. Terry: When can we expect a autobiography from you? Angela: When I have accomplished some of my goals… Terry: Do you miss the grind of a weekly series and would you do it again? Angela: Do I miss it…no…would I do it again…if it was good material sure. Terry: Do you enjoy being a children's photographer more and do your years as a child star help you to be more patient when working with children? Angela: I love kids. I love photographing them. Now my photography is dipping into other areas…I love to shoot doors when I travel. Check out my website online store: www.RubberBoots.com and click on LOOSE ENDS. Terry: Do you believe in the millennium bug and what disasters do you think it will present us in the year 2000? Angela: I am only putting out positive thoughts that the year 2000 will arrive peacefully and quietly. Terry: Where would you like to see the space program go for the new millennium and how would you like to be involved? Angela: I would like to see the space program continue. It's so sad to hear nothing back from Mars…perhaps they don't want to be heard. Terry: If asked would you seriously travel into space on a shuttle mission or even live in a space station much like the real Penny Robinson? Angela: Not right now… Terry: Or would you fear (please excuse the pun) being 'Lost In Space'? Angela: There's always that chance…I've been lost in space before. Terry: Do you believe in life on other planets? Angela: Yes Terry: What do you think about your sister Veronica's success in Sci-Fi and do you feel you have helped her any with your experience as Penny Robinson or in relating to Sci-Fi fans? Angela: Veronica has done some great work. She's a hard working dedicated actress who deserves every success she gets. You won't find anyone more devoted to her craft. Many people don't even know we're related. Terry: Have you given her any Sci-Fi advice? Angela: Is there such a thing? Terry: Did her role in "Alien" scare you and what did you think of her death scene at the hands of the Alien? Angela: The first time I saw the movie it scared me to death. I just saw the new 70mm version…it's a brilliant film. I like how so much is left to your imagination. Terry: Can you see yourself in that type of a role if, lets say, 'Lost In Space' ever became that graphic? Angela: Different feel altogether… Terry: What is the funniest thing a fan has ever said to you that you will never forget? Angela: You look just like Angela Cartwright. Terry: What do you think the future will hold for yourself or even 'Lost In Space'? Angela: I'm in the middle of writing a Fantasy adventure book with Bill Mumy. It's really coming along. Look for it in mid 2000. Writing is something I've always enjoyed doing. More photography, it's my passion. And perhaps, in the not too distant future, I'll be on the big screen again. I'll leave you with that… ----END---- Actress filmography Somebody Up There Likes Me (1956) (uncredited) .... Audrey at age 3 "Make Room for Daddy" (1953) TV Series .... Linda Williams (1957-1964) Lad: A Dog (1962) .... Angela Sound of Music, The (1965) .... Brigitta von Trapp "Lost in Space" (1965) TV Series .... Penny Robinson U.M.C. (1969) (TV) .... Angela "Make Room for Granddaddy" (1970) TV Series .... Linda Williams Beyond the Poseidon Adventure (1979) .... Theresa Mazzetti Scout's Honor (1980) (TV) .... Alfredo's Mom High School U.S.A. (1983) (TV) .... Miss D'Angelo Lost in Space (1998) .... Reporter No. 2 Notable TV guest appearances "My Three Sons" (1960) in episode: "Glass Sneaker, The" (episode # 5.33) 4/29/1965 "My Three Sons" (1960) playing "Debbie" in episode: "Chip and Debbie" (episode # 9.16) 1/18/1969 "Adam-12" (1968) playing "Tennis Player" "Room 222" (1969) playing "Phyllis" "Room 222" (1969) playing "Phyllis" 1974 "Logan's Run" (1977) playing "Karen" in episode: "Collectors, The" (episode # 1.2) 9/23/1977 "Sliders" (1995) playing "The Fire Entity"(voice) in episode: "Fire Within, The" (episode # 3.8) 11/15/1996 -END-