Capturing Stardom: Sally Field and Paul Petersen at Whisky A Go Go – A Snapshot of Hollywood’s Rising Stars in 1965
This 1965 photograph, taken at the iconic Whisky A Go Go nightclub in West Hollywood, features two rising stars of the era, Sally Field and Paul Petersen. Both were young actors at the beginning of their promising careers, and their appearance at such a renowned venue reflected their growing influence in Hollywood. Their stylish outfits and youthful charisma captured the essence of the time, and their roles on television were making them household names.
By 1965, Sally Field was on the cusp of major stardom. Just a short time before this picture was snapped, she secured the lead in the television show “Gidget” (1965–1966). While the series only ran for a single season, it became memorable, and Field’s portrayal of the carefree surfer girl won over audiences nationwide. Her vibrant energy and magnetic personality perfectly captured the spirit of the era. At a very young age, Field found herself in the spotlight, effortlessly embodying her character’s zest for life.
Born into a showbiz family, with her mother, Margaret Field, also an actress, Sally’s path toward Hollywood seemed somewhat predetermined. Yet her success stemmed from her undeniable talent and unique charm. “Gidget” provided her with the chance to showcase her comedic skills and screen presence, traits that would fuel her lasting career. At just 19, Field had already solidified her status as a television star, and it was clear that even bigger opportunities awaited her.
After “Gidget,” Field’s career rapidly advanced. Her next major role came with “The Flying Nun” (1967–1970), another TV hit that cemented her place in American pop culture. While these early roles highlighted her fun and lighthearted side, Field soon sought more dramatic and challenging projects. By the late 1970s, she had successfully transitioned into serious film roles, winning awards for standout performances in movies such as “Norma Rae” (1979) and “Places in the Heart” (1984). Her career became a story of growth and versatility, with Field proving that she could excel in both comedy and drama.
Paul Petersen, standing alongside Field in the photo, was also enjoying a significant moment in his career. Best known for playing Jeff Stone on “The Donna Reed Show” (1958–1966), Petersen had already built a strong television presence. His portrayal of the all-American teenager made him one of the most familiar faces on TV at the time. Unlike Field, who was relatively new to the industry, Petersen had been working in entertainment for several years, having started as a child actor.
Petersen’s big break came earlier when he joined “The Mickey Mouse Club,” but it was his role on “The Donna Reed Show” that cemented his place in Hollywood. Playing the son of Donna Reed’s character, Petersen personified the ideal suburban teen of the 1960s, and his performances resonated with viewers. His character’s wholesome, relatable qualities helped make him a beloved figure in television’s golden age.
In addition to acting, Petersen dabbled in music, releasing albums during the 1960s that appealed to his young fanbase. Although his music career never reached the same heights as his acting, he remained a prominent figure, regularly attending events where Hollywood’s young stars gathered, such as those at Whisky A Go Go.
As the 1960s drew to a close, both Sally Field and Paul Petersen entered new phases in their professional lives. Field pursued more demanding roles that showcased her range as an actress, while Petersen’s focus shifted. He later became an advocate for child actors, founding the organization A Minor Consideration to support former child stars in navigating life after fame. His dedication to this cause became a significant part of his legacy.
