Richard Lester

Hollywood Legend: the Johnny Duncan Story Richard Lester

In "Hollywood Legend: The Johnny Duncan Story," Johnny Duncan and author Richard Lester take the reader on a journey from a depression-era farm in Missouri, to Hollywood during the golden age of the movie studios, and then back to the family home in Missouri. Johnny Duncan still remembers walking to school barefoot in worn jeans, as his parents struggled to avoid losing their farm and going to 'the poor house.' Against all odds, Johnny turned an Irish two-step into polished dance routines that would wow Vaudeville and attract the attention of Hollywood talent scouts. Shortly after arriving in Hollywood as a teenager, Johnny found himself cast in movies with June Carlson, Humphrey Bogart, Spencer Tracy, Jimmy Cagney, and Marlon Brando. As an adult, he lived next to Audie Murphy, his weekend hunting companion. Johnny's big break came in 1949 when he was cast as Robin in the serial adventures of Batman & Robin. More movie roles followed, and then he started appearing on the new medium of television. Johnny's story will thrill and amaze all who love movies and the iconic stars who made them. He was there, working and socializing with them, and his memories are destined to become a fascinating addition to the history of Hollywood.