Why Angie Dickinson Still Refuses To Watch This One Episode She Filmed In 1959
Angie Dickinson, the iconic actress known for her roles in Police Woman and Rio Bravo, has had a long and celebrated career in Hollywood. Yet, there’s one project from her early days that she still avoids revisiting—a 1959 TV episode that left a lasting negative impression on her.
In this deep dive, we’ll explore the reasons behind her aversion, the behind-the-scenes drama, and how this moment shaped her career.
The Episode in Question
The episode, titled “The Last Patrol” from the anthology series Alcoa Presents: One Step Beyond, featured Dickinson in a dramatic role. While the show itself was well-received, Dickinson has openly expressed discomfort with her performance and the production experience.
In interviews, she has mentioned feeling miscast and unprepared, saying:
“I was still finding my footing as an actress, and that episode was a painful reminder of my insecurities at the time. I’d rather leave it in the past.”
Behind-the-Scenes Struggles
Sources close to the production revealed that Dickinson clashed with the director over creative choices. The rushed shooting schedule and last-minute script changes added to her frustration. Unlike her later work in Police Woman, where she had more creative input, this early role left her feeling powerless.
Film historian James Sheridan notes:
“Many actors from the Golden Age of Television had similar experiences. The pressure was immense, and Dickinson wasn’t alone in feeling dissatisfied with some of her early work.”
Fan Reactions and Legacy
Despite Dickinson’s reluctance, fans of classic TV have praised the episode. Clips from “The Last Patrol” have resurfaced online, sparking renewed interest.
Watch a clip from the controversial episode here:
Social media reactions have been mixed:
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“She was stunning even then! Why the regret?” – @ClassicFilmFan
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“You can see her raw talent, even if she wasn’t happy with it.” – @VintageHollywood
How This Shaped Her Career
Dickinson’s discomfort with the episode pushed her to be more selective with future roles. By the 1960s, she had refined her craft, leading to her breakout in Rio Bravo (1959) and later Police Woman (1974-1978).
In her memoir, she wrote:
“That experience taught me to fight for roles that truly resonated with me. I didn’t want to look back with regret again.”
Conclusion
While Angie Dickinson may never revisit “The Last Patrol,” the episode remains a fascinating piece of TV history. Her candidness about her early struggles offers a rare glimpse into the pressures of Hollywood’s Golden Age.
Would you watch the episode knowing her feelings about it? Let us know in the comments!
