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These series often landed in the top 20 highest-rated shows of the year.
“Bonanza” even became the most-watched TV series from 1964 to 1966 (via Classic TV Hits).
He ranked number 14 in aGold Derbyranking of the 40 best TV fathers.
And the actor was as beloved off-screen as he was on-screen.
So much so, I can feel it in my chest, in my heart.
I am aching for him."
Their friendship started long before the hit TV show and lasted well after it.
According toThe New York Times, he played Joe Cartwright for 14 years, from 1959 to 1973.
According toIMDb, Victor French appeared in “Bonanza” at least five different times from 1962 to 1971.
He played various characters.
French’s early career mimicked that of his father, Ted French.
He even joked that it had gotten to the point that people would avoid him on the streets.
French and Landon both appeared in the pilot episode.
The show aired on ABC, and “Little House on the Prairie” aired on NBC.
His new contract didn’t allow him to appear on both shows because they were on competing networks.
“Carter Country” only lasted for a few seasons.
He would remain on the TV show until its series finale.
They also both appeared in and directed the"Little House on the Prairie" TV movies.
Landon wanted an actor who took the character seriously.
He also wanted to continue to work with “the man I love.”
In the same Washington Post interview, French discussed his long professional partnership with Landon.
He joked that Landon and him “spend more time together than a married couple.”
There is also a clip of French trying to get into character, but being unable to stop laughing.
Those listening closely can even hear Landon laughing from behind the camera.
French died in 1989 from lung cancer (perThe Washington Post).
He said anyone who did would be thrown out.
Landon struggled to meet this request.
In 1991, two years later, Landon met a similar fate.
He died of cancer of the liver and pancreas, according toThe New York Times.
He was also only 54.
Landon’s battle with cancer was made public a few months before his death.
