The Bond Between Pernell Roberts and Dan Blocker
Pernell Roberts and Dan Blocker were two of the iconic stars of the hit television show “Bonanza.” Their characters, Adam Cartwright and Hoss Cartwright, respectively, were fan favorites, and the actors themselves developed a close friendship off-screen. However, when Dan Blocker tragically passed away in 1972, Pernell Roberts shocked many by not attending his funeral. This decision left fans and colleagues alike wondering, “Why didn’t Pernell Roberts go to Dan Blocker’s funeral?”
The Beginning of a Friendship
Pernell Roberts and Dan Blocker’s friendship began on the set of “Bonanza” in 1959. The two actors quickly formed a bond, with Roberts often referring to Blocker as his “big little brother.” Their on-screen chemistry was palpable, and off-screen, they spent time together outside of filming, attending events and socializing with their co-stars.
Personal Differences
Despite their close friendship, Pernell Roberts and Dan Blocker were very different individuals. Roberts was known for being a private and introverted person, while Blocker was outgoing and charismatic. Roberts preferred to keep to himself between takes, whereas Blocker was always the life of the party. These personality differences may have contributed to Roberts’ decision not to attend Blocker’s funeral.
Dealing with Grief
When Dan Blocker passed away suddenly in May 1972 due to complications from gall bladder surgery, the entire cast and crew of “Bonanza” were devastated. However, Pernell Roberts chose to grieve in his own way, opting to mourn the loss of his friend in private. His absence at Blocker’s funeral was not a reflection of their friendship, but rather a manifestation of Roberts’ personal grief process.
Public Speculation
The news of Pernell Roberts’ absence at Dan Blocker’s funeral caused a stir in the media and among fans of “Bonanza.” Speculation ran rampant, with rumors suggesting that there was animosity between the two actors or that Roberts simply did not care enough to pay his respects. However, those who knew the true nature of their friendship understood that Roberts’ decision was a personal one, made out of respect for his friend and his own grieving process.
Honoring Dan Blocker’s Memory
Despite not attending Dan Blocker’s funeral, Pernell Roberts found his own ways to honor his friend’s memory. In interviews following Blocker’s passing, Roberts spoke fondly of their time together on “Bonanza” and paid tribute to Blocker’s talent and larger-than-life personality. He also privately mourned the loss of his friend and kept his memories close to his heart.
A Private Goodbye
In the end, Pernell Roberts’ decision not to attend Dan Blocker’s funeral was a reflection of his personal grieving process and respect for his friend. While some may have questioned his absence, those who knew the true nature of their friendship understood that Roberts was saying goodbye to Blocker in his own way. The bond between Pernell Roberts and Dan Blocker may have been tested by Blocker’s passing, but their friendship remained strong even in the face of grief.
In conclusion, the reasons why Pernell Roberts didn’t go to Dan Blocker’s funeral were complex and personal. While some may have speculated about the nature of their friendship, those who knew them best understood that Roberts’ decision was one of respect and love for his friend. The bond between Pernell Roberts and Dan Blocker may have been tested by Blocker’s untimely passing, but their connection remained strong, even in death.
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