Dale Robertson, the rugged cowboy of Hollywood, had a strong opinion about one of his contemporaries that he never hesitated to share. His disdain for fellow actor Robert Taylor ran deep, revealing a clash of values that defined Robertson’s views on authenticity and loyalty in the entertainment industry.
Born on July 14, 1923, in Hera, Oklahoma, Dale Le Moy Robertson grew up in the heartland during the Great Depression. His upbringing instilled in him a strong work ethic and a sense of independence, qualities that would later resonate with audiences in his iconic cowboy roles. After serving bravely in World War II, where he earned multiple military honors, Robertson stumbled into acting while recovering from injuries.
A photograph taken for his mother caught the eye of talent scouts, leading to small roles in the late 1940s.
Robertson’s breakthrough came with the television series “Tales of Wells Fargo,” where he portrayed Jim Hardy, a character that embodied courage and fairness. His natural charm and horsemanship captivated millions, establishing him as a beloved figure in American households. Beyond this iconic role, he appeared in films like “Dakota Incident” and “Sitting Bull,” and made guest appearances on hit shows like “Dynasty” and “Dallas,” showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Despite his success, Robertson was not one to shy away from expressing his opinions. His feelings toward Robert Taylor, a leading man of the 1930s and 1940s, were particularly strong. In candid interviews, Robertson admitted, “I really hated him more than anyone.”
This animosity stemmed from a fundamental disagreement about what it meant to be an actor. While Robertson valued authenticity and hard work, he viewed Taylor as superficial and overly concerned with his image.
Robertson’s disdain for Taylor was not just professional; it was personal. He recalled social encounters where Taylor’s arrogance and dismissive attitude toward those outside his inner circle left a lasting impression. “If you weren’t part of his little circle of yes men, he treated you like you were beneath him,” Robertson once remarked, emphasizing his belief in treating everyone with respect.
The political climate of Hollywood during the post-war years further fueled Robertson’s contempt. Taylor’s cooperation with the House Un-American Activities Committee, where he named colleagues suspected of communist sympathies, was seen by Robertson as a betrayal of loyalty. “I’d rather be blacklisted myself than turn my back on people I worked with,” he stated, highlighting his unwavering commitment to his peers.
As the years passed, Robertson’s feelings toward Taylor remained unchanged. Even decades after Taylor’s passing in 1969, Robertson stood firm in his beliefs, stating, “Some people you learn to forgive, but not him.” His perspective on Taylor was a reflection of his own values: genuine storytelling and integrity over vanity and pretense.
In his later years, Robertson faced health challenges that led him to relocate to San Diego for better care. Surrounded by loved ones and medical professionals, he battled lung cancer and pneumonia until his passing on February 26, 2013, at the age of 89. His legacy as a Hollywood cowboy and a man of principle endures, leaving fans to ponder the complexities of fame and authenticity in the industry.
As we remember Dale Robertson, one can’t help but wonder: how do we define authenticity in an industry often shrouded in glamour and illusion?
