My introduction to the Mitchum dynasty began in 1965 on the set of “The Way West.” As an eight-year-old playing Kirk Douglas’ son, I was immediately immersed in a world of seasoned Hollywood veterans. Among them were Robert and John Mitchum, two brothers who, even then, carried an aura of authentic Hollywood charm. While Robert Mitchum’s iconic cool is well-documented, it was John Mitchum who offered me a different, equally compelling glimpse into the Mitchum ethos. This encounter, and subsequent exposures to the depth of John Mitchum’s artistry, revealed a man whose contributions to Hollywood, though perhaps less loudly celebrated than his brother’s, are equally deserving of recognition.
My initial days on set were filled with the usual fanfare afforded to a child actor. Enthusiastic crew members pointed out the horses and made sure I felt welcome, a little patronizing, perhaps, but kindly meant for an eight-year-old. Then, as quickly as it began, the attention vanished as the crew scrambled back to their duties. Suddenly, I found myself alone near a makeshift corral. It was there I first encountered Robert Mitchum, a towering figure leaning against the fence. His now-famous, laconic demeanor was immediately apparent. But it was my later, and more sustained, interactions with John Mitchum that truly resonated and unveiled a different facet of the Mitchum persona – one filled with music, laughter, and a profound connection to the human spirit.
It was also on “The Way West” set that I met John Mitchum. My most vivid memory is from a scene filmed in the Mackenzie River. Amidst the cinematic chaos of a wagon train forging a river, with props and wagons adrift, I was in my element, driving my oxen and wagon with unrestrained glee. John Mitchum, wading through the water, caught my eye. Laughing, he looked up at me, and with a booming voice that carried over the river’s rush, he exclaimed, “You got the devil in you, don’t you boy?” His words were not accusatory but celebratory, delivered with a hearty laugh that was instantly infectious. In that moment, a connection was forged. It was clear that John Mitchum possessed a warmth and joviality that complemented his brother’s more stoic presence.
John Mitchum brought music wherever he went. Sets where he worked were invariably filled with melodies. During breaks, John and a company of fellow musicians would fill the air with tunes, old and new, with John’s rich, golden voice leading the way. This musicality was intrinsic to his being, a vibrant expression of his personality that brought levity and camaraderie to often-demanding film sets. This wasn’t just background noise; it was an integral part of the John Mitchum experience, showcasing his artistic versatility beyond acting.
This initial encounter on “The Way West” blossomed into a lifelong, albeit intermittent, connection with the Mitchum family. Running into Robert Mitchum in unexpected places became a recurring, almost serendipitous event, each encounter a masterclass in understated cool and professional dedication. Years later, the call from Cynthia Mitchum, John’s daughter, to participate in a tribute CD of poems and songs by her father and uncle, was a welcome surprise and a profound honor. This project opened my eyes to the vast and impressive body of work created by both brothers, prompting me to delve into John Mitchum’s autobiography, “Them Ornery Mitchum Boys.”
Reading “Them Ornery Mitchum Boys” was a revelation. It provided a firsthand account of John and Robert Mitchum’s extraordinary lives, far beyond the Hollywood gloss. The book chronicles their journey from humble beginnings, navigating poverty and hardship, to becoming significant figures in the entertainment industry. It details their cross-country Depression-era experiences, encounters with legendary figures like Woody Guthrie and Burl Ives, and the development of a unique storytelling style that permeated their acting, music, and poetry. John Mitchum’s narrative reveals a life rich with experience, resilience, and a deep appreciation for the human condition.
The breadth of their experiences is astonishing. From Robert’s youthful escapades, including a stint on a chain gang, to their interactions with influential personalities like Howard Hughes and Darryl Zanuck, “Them Ornery Mitchum Boys” paints a vivid picture of lives lived fully and adventurously. The women in their lives, from their mother Anne to Hollywood icons like Marilyn Monroe, played equally significant roles, shaping their perspectives and fueling their creative endeavors. John Mitchum’s own journey, from singing on street corners to penning the Grammy-nominated poem “America, Why I Love Her” for John Wayne, and his memorable roles in films like “Dirty Harry,” showcases a multifaceted career built on talent, versatility, and a genuine connection with his audience.
While Robert Mitchum often garnered attention for his enigmatic persona and powerful screen presence, John Mitchum, as his brother astutely observed, often went “unseen.” However, John’s contributions are undeniable. His musicality, his warm personality, and his diverse creative output left an indelible mark on those who knew him and experienced his work. “Them Ornery Mitchum Boys” serves as a testament to both brothers’ extraordinary lives, but it particularly illuminates the vibrant and often-overlooked legacy of John Mitchum.
The sheer scope of “Them Ornery Mitchum Boys” and the Mitchum brothers’ combined lives presents a compelling narrative ripe for adaptation. In today’s media landscape, a mini-series format is perfectly suited to capture the depth and complexity of their story. The enduring appeal of the Mitchum name, evident in the online world and beyond, underscores the potential for a project that explores their lives and artistry in detail. A mini-series would allow for a comprehensive portrayal of “Them Ornery Mitchum Boys,” revealing the men behind the Hollywood legends and celebrating the unique contributions of both Robert and John Mitchum to the tapestry of American entertainment. It’s time to truly see John Mitchum and appreciate the full spectrum of his talent and his heartfelt impact on Hollywood.
