Vanguard of Hollywood

Patrick Wayne is an actor and former chairman of the John Wayne Cancer Foundation.  His more than four decade-long acting career includes roles in over 40 films, several of which paired Patrick with his legendary father, John Wayne.  Whether starring alongside his dad in such classics as McLintock! (1963) and Big Jake (1971), or swashbuckling his way through cult classics like 1977’s Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger, Patrick proved himself a captivating leading man with Old Hollywood class and charm.  Listen as Shannon and Patrick discuss his impressive acting career and legendary father.

Shannon is joined by acclaimed film historian, biographer, and interviewer Foster Hirsch to discuss the 1955 cult classic, The Night of the Hunter.  Listen as Foster and Shannon discuss the fascinating origins of the film, cast performances, behind-the-scenes dynamics, and religious allegory and faith-based themes that make The Night of the Hunter an enduring classic.

Nancy Kwan is an actress, author, dancer, screenwriter, and filmmaker.  With films such as 1960’s The World of Suzie Wong and 1961’s Flower Drum Song, Nancy became Hollywood’s first Asian Superstar.  Her casting in roles specifically written for Asian actresses, and in non-race-specific roles, was unprecedented, changing the way moviegoers viewed the Asian community and creating more opportunities for Asians in the film industry.  Join Shannon and Nancy as they discuss Nancy’s extraordinary life and career, from her films to her friendship with Bruce Lee and what it’s like to be serenaded by Elvis Presley. And be sure to read Nancy's new book, The World of Nancy Kwan: A Memoir by Hollywood’s Asian Superstar, for Nancy’s full story.

In an incredible career that has spanned 60 years, Engelbert Humperdinck has sold over 150 million records worldwide, with songs ranging from romantic ballads to movie theme songs, disco, rock, and gospel. These records have earned him 64 gold albums, 35 platinum albums, four Grammy Award nominations, and a Golden Globe.  Among Engelbert’s hit songs are “The Last Waltz,” “A Man Without Love,” “Quando, Quando, Quando,” and 1967’s “Release Me,” which dominated the music charts for 56 weeks, beating out the Beatles’ “Penny Lane” and “Strawberry Fields” for the number one position on the charts, and depriving the Beatles of their 13th consecutive No.1.  At 89 years old, Engelbert still performs around the world.  Join Shannon and Engelbert as they discuss his inspiring life, from his childhood in India to his early career struggles, to meeting the love of his life and becoming an international music star who still makes audiences swoon.  Don’t miss this charming conversation with the King of Romance himself.

Billy Gray is an actor, motorcycle speedway racer, and inventor.  You may know him best as Bud Anderson from the hit television show, Father Knows Best (1954-1960).  From his earliest film roles, Billy stood out as a kid actor who consistently brought great depth to the characters he created.  Whether playing Doris Day’s mischievous little brother in On Moonlight Bay (1951) and By the Light of the Silvery Moon (1953), Dan Dailey’s wise-cracking son in The Girl Next Door (1953), or Michael Rennie’s trusted young ally in The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951), Billy Gray never played the same character twice.  His uncanny ability to bring his roles to life underscored a talent developed well beyond his years. Listen as Shannon and Billy discuss his fascinating life in Hollywood, speedway racing, and innovation.