Join our Patreon community to receive exclusive content and opportunities to meet these heroes in real life. This funding goes directly into helping us capture more incredible stories with our nation's veterans: patreon.com/americanveteranscenter
Two years ago, I was in a coma from the communist virus. It is still very Vivid to me how when I managed to extubate myself and then was laying in the hospital bed, barely able to move, laying in the hospital bed barely able to move, I had a TV I could watch. The series was playing on one of those channels so I was watching this mostly during my time when I was still groggy and hazy after waking out of that. It really had an impression on me. Especially as family was involved. One Uncle, Glen Morris Boatman, was in medical unit that received the majority of the first casualties from Normandy that were initially sent back to Britain, but then to his unit after they deployed to the Normandy breakthrough area. The other uncle was in operation Dragoon, going north and east, and he died near Biffontaine, in the in the Vosges region of France. William Edward Boatman was part of the Lost Battalion of the 38th division. On the day he died, Manning a 30 caliber machine gun, he earned the Silver Star for saving the lives of the men who were due to be overrun by waffen-ss.
One of my favorite scenes in Band of Brothers is when Perconte and a new replacement are in Germany and manning a machine gun post. Perconte is reading a book and enjoying the downtime and the new guy is wanting to kill Germans. His response was one of the best dialogues of the entire series.
I don't know if that actual scenario happened to him or not, but if it did, what I took from that scene was Perconte had at least a mild form of PTSD. I'm certain most, if not all, combat veterans are similarly afflicted. The way he dresses down the replacement (uncontrolled rage) and then almost instantly feels remorse (silent reflection) for his actions is the telling factor. Although in the moment it is hard to be sympathetic or even aware of what is happening, all combat vets deserve understanding and compassion. They've seen, and done things others can't begin to comprehend.
@@darmoklizard1729 The replacement was a reminder that one of his late buddies weren't on watch with him. It annoyed him and angered him and hes not a mean person, so he feels remorse for taking out his anger on the guy.
@@darmoklizard1729 Replacements in a war zone are universally treated with disdain until they've proven themselves, especially in a unit that had a high turnover rate from casualties. Most of the disdain is because of new guys just like the one in that scene, they're gung ho to get some action, get some kills, and they wind up doing stupid things because they're still an individual, they're not "part of the unit" yet.
As a kid growing up in Philadelphia my Uncle Bill was a big part of my life..I was too young or too scared to ask how he lost his leg..he was such a positive influence on me and only years later after watching Band of Brothers I finally had my question answered..Rest in Peace Wild Bill Guarnere..
Your uncle was a great man. When BoB first came out, my sister who was probably 11 at the time sent him a letter of appreciation. Your uncle responded to her with a phone call to our house to talk or her (to which I was EXTREMELY jealous) and sent her a hand written letter with photographs of him during his time in the service. Those men were superheroes to us. Their stories is what made me join the service at 18. God bless them all and RIP
I rewatch this series every year and idk if its just me but does anyone else get this spiritual or humbling feeling after its over? I always get somewhat emotional and it takes me a couple days to digest. Greatest mini series ever!
I’m with you. As a veteran, I love watching the more realistic war movies to get some of that camaraderie back in my life. I knew every one of the characters on BoB in the form of someone I served with.
Definitely. Especially when they go their separate ways at the end, knowing they won't talk for years or ever again after going through all of that together.
I’ve never seen a group of actors show more respect and pay more tributes than the BoB cast had to the boys of company E. Even the ones who went on to have long and very successful careers.
I think Tom and Steven deserve a ton of credit for this. If you watch the Pacific cast, they also show the same respect and reverence towards the actual Marines of that series.
@@justinthomas85 There is a audio book, Voices of the Pacific, that the actual veterans of some of the events portrayed in that series outline their stories and give some deeper insight, and mention the show. Very interesting if you liked the show and wanted to hear more. A good way to spend your commute if you have a decent drive back and forth to work.
Mike Rowe talked about running into Ron Livingston once out in LA. Its a funny story, but yeah, Ol' Nix too is still representing the BoBs and keeping their stories going.
@@sandersson2813There are a lot of now famous actors who had small roles in band of brothers like James Mcavoy, and Michael Fassbender and one is German and one is British yet they fit so seamlessly into the unit, you may not notice that they’re in the miniseries. They did the same thing with Masters of the Air with having a non American actor play Biddick who is a British actor. I personally like that the producers of Band of Brothers and Masters of the Air aren’t afraid of using non American actors to play Americans, especially if they have more likeness to the actual person they’re portraying.
I enjoyed the series and this interview. My dad was in the 101st, 506th PIR, Charlie Company and jumped behind Utah Beach, and was wounded in Eindhoven. I watched with rapt attention to learn more about my dad. I am a proud Vietnam Combat vet because of him.
Huge credit to Dale Dye for creating that "boot camp" for the actors (and to the actors for agreeing to do it). He originally did it for Saving Private Ryan and then revived it for BoB. He made it as tough and as real as he possibly could. I thought them only ever using their characters' names was brilliant. They had to legitimately live as these people and go through it together. I think that experience is a big part of what made SPR and BoB arguably the realest, most visceral portrayals we've ever seen in war cinema.
my grand dad said they didnt cast sink right. sink is my great great uncle. he was alot younger than he was in the show. also the accent isn't Lexington nc so that didnt flyover well either with him
He is an amazing human and what a soldier, and to humbly be a part of doing some amazing projects to tell pieces of history. Paycheck has nothing to do with it. It’s caring that it’s as true as it can be and keep people wanting to see and learn something that helped to shape and save the world, the world.
@@Jonacarpenter there's some great behind the scenes on the DVD box set that shows some of the boot camp. They were literally stripped of everything post 1945, up at 5 am every day doing PT and drills, night patrols, a compass navigation test...basically anything they could pull from 1940s basic training and make safe enough to get past the insurance companies lol. These actors spent weeks away from their families putting themselves through this for the sake of these productions. Their commitment to getting this right was incredible. It's no less than the people they portrayed deserved.
@@ericbrown1101 I have that set👍👍👍. Amazing information on it. I still have it on my dvr to record any time it airs…. Just so I see it on the days it should be remembered, and revisited. I’ll post a new post, with a pic and a story that you will appreciate. Keep an eye out for it, I’ll try to do it asap, before we both forget. Lol. 👍
Unfortunately, they did Lt. Dike dirty and depicted him in a way that wasn't how he really was. His men respected him and he socialized with them, and he wasn't a coward.
@@Razgriz85 Almost every man has his breaking point. In some it comes on gradually, in others they just hit "that moment" and snap. There is no time for analyzing in the heat of combat of a person's true psychological state of mind, only the outward physical responses or lack of. When it is expected for those in leadership capacities to lead and they fail to do so, then assumptions are made. Right or wrong. Should all survive the engagement or the war, then allegations can be made and adjudicated.
@@petermcgill1315 There's a Band of Brother's official podcast out that's on youtube and they actually go the actors and the writers to talk about the show and what all went into it and I do remember the writer talking about Blythe and admits that they did mess that up but as he put it, it was before the internet and some of the veterans thought that's what really happened to Blythe and took their words as gospel.
For 11 years I lived in a small town next to Joliet, IL where Frank Perconte lived. Between 2007 and 2010 I visited with Mr. Perconte three times. By that time he was a widower and lived alone, as was I. He wonderfully shared stories with me about his time in the service and stories about his family. He even signed my hardcover copy of my Band of Brothers book and let me take a bunch of photos of him, his medals, and me standing next to him. Wonderful memories.
@@macmac3374 Yes, I was very fortunate, and he was a very gracious host. I would have spent more time with Mr. Perconte, but in 2010, after 5 years being a widower, I met my second wife and life got busy for me, and I was unable to see him again before he died in 2013.
One of the scenes I always replayed was Frankie running back from the concentration camp desperately looking for an authority figure, searching for an officer due to the enormity of the situation... and I always thought James portrayed that scene perfectly. It was one of those things I would pause and rewind. He really killed it. It's been 20 years and it isn't surprising to hear that he put so much effort into it because you could always feel that in the performance. Even his shortest lines always felt genuine like something a kid private would say. Respect.
Makes me happy to see that there are still some actors and actresses that are humble and learn from their roles and experiences. We need more actors/actresses like this :)
It’s a deployment series for us. We used to gather ‘round the boys after a long deployment days overseas. We would watch it religiously. Brought the boys together during deployment. Until now years after deployment we still talk about how we get together just to watch this series together. I kiss my brothers. Amazing series
Only once a year?? My wife knows it by heart now. She's become a WW2 junkie because of this series. I was hesitant to watch it when it first came out, but I (we) watch it at least 6 times a year.
Thanks Frank ! That was a great interview. I will be 72 this April, and I grew up looking up to the WWII guys. They will always be my heroes... And you will always be Frank..
Thanks Frank, great of interview. I will be 72 this coming March, I grew up watching “Combat “ The series, and seeing Vic Morrow, Pierre Jalbert, Kirby , Little John, Doc, and all the guess stars. This WW2 show, I looked up to these Men, they inspired me, That Freedom is not free, I Enlisted into the The United States Marine Corps fresh out of High School June 1970, ended up doing Two Tours of Combat in Southeast Asia, and by viewing these actors portray the Greatest Generation in the World, made me the Man I am Today! SEMPERFi
@@mcburgerking1523 I was a Navy Seabee back then. Summer of seventy-two, I spent several weeks training at Camp Lejeune with Marine instructors. Best group of teachers I ever had. I still think of the "Globe and Anchor" from time to time, cold beer and the juke box in the corner.
I’m a 101st Airborne veteran, many family members have served and my grandfather was awarded a Bronze Star for his time in WW2. He was near Bastogne and his brother was killed near Bastogne. Thank you for your part/performance in such a great portrayal of the war. It’s my favorite.
One of my great Uncles was also killed on Dec 18th 44 outside St Vith I believe. Sgt Eschol Webb was with the 10th armored, after washing out of flight training. His brother Mac was in the Army fighting in Italy at the time, it was his letters home (hundreds of them) that his sister kept all these yrs I learned this information from plus so much more.
@@warrenchambers4819 I sent away for my grandfathers medals and it was a complete surprise about the bronze star. My uncle and mother didn’t even know he’d been awarded and it wasn’t on his exit paperwork. I’d like to send for my great uncles since he never married or had children. He’s buried close to where he was killed in Luxembourg Natl Cemetary.
Born in 1952 there were lots of war movies and TV series about WW II, and I now realize how bad they were. This, BoB, is gold. I'd watched one movie Saturday afternoon and went to ask my Dad if it could possibly be true (it was pretty silly) and he just exploded "It was NOTHING like the movies." Only time he ever talked about it, and he was Navy, not in the trenches. He did have to jump and abandon ship 3 times in Pacific.
Um, hello? Joe Pesce, Robert Deniro, Martin Scorsese, all extremely down to earth from working class backrounds. Actually, it must be an Italian thing....
@@jakemilligan46 Very. Are you saying only conservatives can be down to earth!? Just because he doesn't subscribe to your lunacidal world view doesn't NOT make him down to earth. You can run into Bobby anywhere in Tribeca or The Villiage, and he'll give you some time. Unlike your orange hero who never sets foot in public, and never really did.
My grandfather served in the Navy in WWII. He never talked about his experiences with us until my children were old enough to understand. When my son asked him why he fought in the war his answer was, so you never would have to. God, how I miss him. RIP, Grandpa Vogel.
I’m a Vietnam Marine Veteran. Some of the series I had trouble with but most of it hit home to me. It’s hard to watch the scenes of American soldiers getting killed and wounded but the enteracting of characters brought back memories to me from when I was 19-23 years old, my time in the Marines 1968-72. Thanks so much for putting this great work in my library so I can take it out when needed. I have The Pacific also. All of my uncles and my dad were in the military during WWII, Marines, Navy and Merchant Marines. They all came home safe thank God.
The scene in Why We Fight were he salutes the Holocaust victim, and the starving man that survived unspeakable hell mustered up a smile and saluted back never ceases to bring a tear to my eye.
I really love that they took their names away and only knew eachother by their respective character’s names. Forces them to become accustomed to calling and reacting to those specific names and brings the characters to life in a deeper way.
I've watched this series for 10 or so years ever single year around Christmas time. Kind of a tradition now. Never forget the sacrifices these young kids made. Currahee!
Same. Of the many things I've let go/didn't need, or grew out of the past 20+ years, I still have my DVD Band of Brothers series. I break it out, every year between Thanksgiving, and Chrstmas.
I watch Saving Private Ryan every June 6th, I watch Band of Brothers over the next few weeks, and I will end it with Gettysburg on July 1st. For the fun of it I will also watch Independence Day on July 3rd.
@@HighwayLand That is awesome. I too always watch Independence Day around the 4th. Lol. That speech the President gives to all the people towards the end is so good. I haven't watched Gettysburg in a long while, may have to watch it here soon.
@@JohnnyBoy8141 I did that speech in my high school theater class, way back in 1996. I was 14 when I first watched Gettysburg, and it is the movie that made me love Civil War history as well as all military history. I will be visiting Gettysburg for a second time coming up in June, and I plan on walking that entire battlefield. Don't tell anybody this but I did take a rock from Little Round Top during my first visit, and it is right here at my house in Oregon.
Met Frank myself as I lived close to Joliet Illinois. Took the same picture as he sat in his recliner...as James did. He was a very good man. Retired Postal employee. Frank even gave me a copy of a picture of him in Holland with a pair of wooden shoes.....lol...RIP Frank.
What’s crazy is that this show was released 2 days before the 9/11 attack! I didn’t watch it til about 10yrs after it was released. It still one of my favorite shows/movies of all time. It immerses you into WWII like not other movie does.
As a Vet, and as the son of a WW2 Vet, it is hard for me to watch interviews with actors who portrayed "us." But this, this is different. A great series and a great interview. Thanks guys, and thanks to James (And all invovled wit BoB...) for doing a man like Frank Perconte and his comrades justice.
James Madio was one of the best things about the series. His performance was just excellent and added great humor and humility to the role. Madio was one of the best athletes during Boot Camp.
I had 3 great uncles who chose airborne, 2 in the 101st & 1 in the 82nd, only one from the 101st came home & with a encrusted Purple Heart among others, grandpa was a Marine raider, Dad fought in Korea, I could go on for pages but these men were my heroes, thank you for making a film that makes explaining duty to my kids & now grandkids easier Semper Fi
@@jamesbecker3420 At a guess - "The presence of the 'Silver Star' device on the riband drape denotes that the recipient had been awarded 'Five further Awards' of the Purple Heart"
@@wessexdruid7598 Ok, never knew anyone personally with that many Purple Heart awards. My Purple Heart only has one oak leaf cluster designating a second award(OEF). Thank you!!
As a former recruit instructor, who’s aim was always to forge a bond between recruits, it’s so heartening to hear him say how they too recognized that bond. ❤️
I also agree with you. I’m army and tbh I don’t care if they didn’t went to an actual army base for basic but him knowing what is like, the struggle, the bond, and the trust they build. To me he’s an American soldier, he has the mentality.
I always knew Ron Livingston was a good guy, but him letting James stay in his guest house for a few years PROVES his good morals and his character. The producers knew how to pick their actors for sure. All of them, good people.
As a veteran myself I appreciate this kind of attitude and respect given by someone who's never served. Also Band of Brothers is my favorite series ever made hands down. Thank-you
As an Iraq War veteran. Infantryman, and former U.S. Army Drill Sergeant - I can say. You guys did a helluva job portraying these heroes. Loved this series back then, and still love it.
I’m not American. My grandfathers did fight in WW1 on the Allied side. But having said all that, BoB was the most moving war depiction that I have seen so I bought the DVD and have rewatched it many times. Thank you Mr. James Madio for your portrayal. You were part of a unique set of circumstances that resulted in a beautiful production that brought the book to life. This interview illustrates to all of us your heartfelt desire to do justice to those real life heroes of the 101st. Thank you sir for your dedication to your craft. Your performance is a legacy.
As a 12 year Veteran, thank you to everyone who put together Band of Brothers. It is a glimps into the life of soldiers. It helps people see that we are people as well, who laugh, cry, fight and get ticked off at our boss also.
What a series. Still an unbelievable achievement, still fresh. Madio seems like he really did this right… that level of acting talent combined with gratitude. Respect.
Band of Brothers is a masterpiece. The writing, acting, and cinematography is amazing. James did an awesome job portraying Frank Perconte. My son just turned 13 and this is the next series on our list to watch together. We don’t call these folks during this time period the Greatest Generation for no reason. They lived in hard times and they fought harder hence why we are able to thrive as we do today.
My dad and I had a yearly tradition of watching the series on the same evenings even though he's moved down to Tennessee. When he passed in 2019, I truly enjoy watching it even more now because of the memories it brings.
I'm really glad this interview was done. BoB was truly a perfect series. All the actors did a phenomenal job and Madio's portrayal of Perconte was one of my favorites.
I've always appreciated how sincerely respectful all the BoB ETO actors have been towards the veterans, but especially James Madio. He continually honors them appropriately and often and it's very refreshing to see from an actor. Best WW2 series / movie footage ever created!!
I know nothing about James Madio, but I feel like I know everything about the man he portrayed in Band of Brothers. 21 years later and I know every single line and every single detail of every single episode. I have told friends about this mini-series, even in 2022 I was still telling others about this amazing show! When that DVD box-set was available at Wal-Mart I was like the first one to buy it, and I still have it. THANKS to everybody who made Band of Brothers a reality, and God Bless to our soldiers who gave their lives for our Country.
Recently retired after 20 years in the armoured corps with two combat tours in Afghanistan that certainly changed my life forever. It's an honour to hear James tell his story with such passion. James has a warriors spirit. He would have been welcome and very successful in any military unit. It sounds very fortunate that despite not actually serving, James was able to achieve the comradery and sense of belonging from being in the Military.
This guy played the hell out of his role. One of the most iconic rants of the series was him going off on Okeef. Every new guy in the military has been on the receiving end.
This guy is so honest and genuine. Where are more people like him? Humble, honorable, and wanTing to do the best things to honor the greatest generation. What has happened to our nation? Why can’t more people be like this?
Arguably the best ten episodes of television ever made. Your portrayal of Frank Perconte was fantastic. The sacrifice these young men gave up at the prime of their life is being forgotten. If you have never watched this program, I suggest you block off a few days and immerse yourself in this beautiful story and experience the fantastic portrayals of these real-life young men.
Every aspect of this production was conceived and executed perfectly. It is, in my opinion, a timeless masterpiece of television, certainly one of the best series ever made on several levels. A young English actor who had just married my cousin landed a small but memorable role, using his best American accent to play John A. Janovec in the final two episodes - he was Tom Hardy, and though of course he went on to find huge success, participation in this series is still a career highlight as far as I’m concerned. I think every actor and crew-member involved was very lucky to have been part of such an important and entertaining work.
Mr Madio, idk if you'll ever see this, i doubt it, in fact. I grew up watching, no memorizing, every second of that series. Im a Vet myself now and i didn't realize till im now 35, just how much y'all's portrayal of their story influenced my life. I feel like i know those dudes, because of the amazing job yall did. Thank you so much for doing it and taking it so seriously. It means so much more than you may know. Thank You
I remember I watched it every day for about 3-4 months straight haha so obsessive isn't pal! I love meeting people that love it too and introducing people to it too. It's 100% the greatest piece of television ever made in my opinion! Flawless
I see you. Right or wrong, the impression left by depictions such as this, and maybe a little too much Sergeant Oddball, absolutely did and continue to impact myself and military leaders today. Sometimes you just stand back and ask yourself what 1SG Lipton would do... Absolutely. It's just a fuckin mini-series. It's just a movie. But... sometimes... with depictions as great as these it translates to real world events.
James, thanks to all of the actors who did an excellent job of portraying the real Easy Company men. This serious meant a lot to me because my favorite uncle was in the 101st during WWII. He made both jumps at Normandy & Holland and was captured on 12/23/44 during the battle of the bulge. In my humble opinion, all of those men and women that served our country then & now are our true heroes
This show is my favorite of all time. The characters are all fleshed out, real people. You can even notice early on how Lipton doesn't like talking negative about leadership. Small details and great actors. I'll rewatch it for years to come.
Thank you, Love this series and watch it almost religiously throughout the year. And I love the reactions of those who had no idea what those soldiers went through. I'm and old Air Force brat. My dad was 8th Air Force, the Brown Shoes as they eere called. Again...Thank You for your Service to their lives and Memories. I know it was the best part of war you've ever seen.
Living the dream through these guys. What an honor it must have been to spend time and represent the men of the Greatest Generation. The series still holds strong. I thank you and wish you all well! God Bless!
Great interview with James. His character as Frank Perconte was one of my favorites in BoB. I own the series and watch it about once a year. Never get tired of seeing it. The stories of the 101st and the 82nd in Normandy are always fascinating.
Band of Brothers is a masterpiece of a series. First time I watched it I was just in the army, boot camp first few weeks. I was looking for some high octane war shit to watch. I have always been a night owl and I spent a few late nights watching the show in the dark barracks in my bunk while everyone else had already fallen asleep and that show just took me on an emotional rollercoaster man. I was looking for some high octane action but what made me glued to the screen was all the other stuff. The relationship and the growth of the characters from boys to men. And the insanity that they had to endure. Probably the only series that truly affected me, it has a humbling effect. Oh and Winters is such a perfect example of a man you should try to be.
Perconte was always one of my favorite characters in BoB. He was always very “real” and just seemed like a cool friend to have in a terrible situation. And I felt really bad when he was shot in the backside.
Nice to see how much he wanted to portray the veteran as correctly as possible. Simple smoker non smoker. My dad was a WWII vet and he never smoked a day in life. I'm sure if he was portrayed as a smoker he would have been upset.
What a great interview. I have studied World War 2 history for almost 50 years. And like James, I have be in awe of the men who fought and sacrificed so much for our country. I think both Band of Brothers and The Pacific portrayed those soldiers and Marines in a realistic and honorable way.
I’ve watched Band of Brothers, must be, 15 times, yet I’ll never get enough. I’ll be watching it until the day I die. One of the most spectacular series of all time
Im right there with you brother, still yet find something new each time i see it. Maybe something in a scene i didnt pay attention enough to or a certain line.
I love the series so much. I've watched it at least 20 times. The short commentaries, by the actual 101st members, was the most important part of the series.
I met him at a static display on Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. He was doing the Band of Brothers tour with Colin Quinn. It was a brief check out our stuff but it was still cool. I met MSG Powers that day.
As a former paratrooper, I can say this BOB nailed the camaraderie and how important it is to work as a team when faced with difficult times, like no other. Thanks to all for your commitment in the production of this series.
This is just awesome. You can tell it meant more than just a part in a show to James. They all went above and beyond the call of duty to bring those heroes to life for the later generations. 🙏
What a beautiful work of cinematic art that series is. Every actor perfectly cast, the music so moving, the cinematography sublime. It breaks my heart every time. I'll have to watch it again soon.
A great show and timeless. The bootcamp that James Madio and his colleagues attended is also where I did most of my basic training as a British Army reservist back in 92. Longmoor Camp.
Just a wonderful interview!! My Dad was in the Pacific….BoB was unique. Watched it over and over, read just about every book associated with the story….the feeling you get when you put yourself in their place during that time period is unimaginable. The actors who portrayed those men did and unbelievable job at honoring their memory….
Band of brothers is my favorite war adaptation. I’ve read the book, and seen the series so many times. After watching and seeing the heroism, this inspired me to join up, and now I am graduating airborne school in a week and moving onto ranger selection. Crazy the impact a show can have on someone. Thankyou
Lovely interview! James Madio, you took the gift and ran with it. I'm sure Frank was as honored by your portrayal as you are honored to have played him. Thank you!
Captain Dale Dye (USMC, Ret.) was the technical advisor on the series; his job was to make the actors as realistic as possible. When Madio recounts the gun story at 8:50, I call tell you for sure that's real life. In military parlance a "gun" is a crew-served weapon. That is, it takes more than one soldier to operate. Examples are a machine gun, mortar, cannon. The soldier's individual weapon is a rifle.
James you were incredible!!! I'm sure Frank was proud of your portrayal of him. Best War series ever made. I've watched it 100 times. Thank you for service honoring the veterans.
I never had the honor of serving but I totally respect those that did. They and there families sacrifice everything for this country. The greatest generation.
One of the best series I ever watched, the acting skills & production gave everyone an education at the frightening history that these incredible men went through. Hats off to each actor that portrayed these real heroes. Love this interview, James you sir will always be a super star!
I watch BoB and TP every year. I also introduce everyone I can to it. It’s an exercise in mindfulness at this point. Whatever I go through, and whatever my struggle, it’s nothing compared to these young men’s struggles. We’re able to live this life of ease because of countless sacrifices. This should be mandatory viewing for all Americans.
Incredibly honoured to have shaken your hand when i was only 10 or 11 years old i believe. NAPMA in the south of Netherlands in possibly 2003 or even 2005. My father allowed me to skip school to meet some of the cast and actual heroes of Band of Brothers and i instantly recognized you. I grew up with my late father who was also Airforce, watching Band of Brothers together. That is one day i will forever remember. Also making the actual Malarkey laugh was just the cherry on top!!
Dude you were absolutely amazing in this role. The entire cast was awesome. I have the box set and I watch it several times a year. Thank you for you doing this role the right way.
I can only agree that you really change when you meet, get involved and become very good friends with an Arnhem battle veteran and their family and their comrades. Living near Arnhem gave me an unexpected opportunity to accompany him and his best veteran friend to all commemorations for several years . An experience I will never forget. My channel is about the 2009 events. There are hardly any veterans left, so we have to do with those memories and keep honouring those who fought and fell for our freedom.
Great interview. James and all the other actors did an outstanding job honoring the Heroes of Easy Company. By doing so they created a movie that will be a tool for future generations to learn from. I hope.
A really great tribute to the 506th PIR of the 101st and Easy Company. James's genuine admiration and respect is self evident and does so much justice to Frank Picante and the entire division. Thank you James for your fantastic work.
Mr. Madio, thank you for your dedication to your craft and the efforts you and your fellow actors put forth to get it right. Thank you also for the insight. Well done sir. Well done to you all.
You guys did an awesome job portraying the real American Heroes. Without Band of Brothers, a great many people wouldn’t know what Easy Company went through. You actors were incredible at showing us what the Real Men went through. Thanks.
I wish that more producers and directors doing combat type films or shows would take a more realistic approach instead of just the Hollywood "well it doesn't happen that way but it looks good". I hope we see more of these type of shows for other major events in the 20th century.
@@PinkFloydFreak55 masters of Air i believe. I’m not sure Steven and Tom will be a part of it but I know that several writers who worked on band of brothers and the pacific are part of it. It’s supposed to be even more ambitious then bob
I've watched Band Of Brothers about 8 or 9 times and I love it every time. Every time I watch it, it has more emotional strength and that's saying something because the first time I cried. The episode on the Bastogne broke my heart. The actors were superb.
![ละลาย (LALALYE) - DAOU PITTAYA ต้าห์อู๋ พิทยา [OFFICIAL MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/wo6r9TgausI/mqdefault.jpg)
Join our Patreon community to receive exclusive content and opportunities to meet these heroes in real life. This funding goes directly into helping us capture more incredible stories with our nation's veterans: patreon.com/americanveteranscenter
Two years ago, I was in a coma from the communist virus. It is still very Vivid to me how when I managed to extubate myself and then was laying in the hospital bed, barely able to move, laying in the hospital bed barely able to move, I had a TV I could watch. The series was playing on one of those channels so I was watching this mostly during my time when I was still groggy and hazy after waking out of that.
It really had an impression on me. Especially as family was involved. One Uncle, Glen Morris Boatman, was in medical unit that received the majority of the first casualties from Normandy that were initially sent back to Britain, but then to his unit after they deployed to the Normandy breakthrough area.
The other uncle was in operation Dragoon, going north and east, and he died near Biffontaine, in the in the Vosges region of France. William Edward Boatman was part of the Lost Battalion of the 38th division. On the day he died, Manning a 30 caliber machine gun, he earned the Silver Star for saving the lives of the men who were due to be overrun by waffen-ss.
people who didn't take no for an answer
these people saved the free world everybody did
@@TheDogGoesWoof69
That is about the most anachronistic question that I have Seen on any TH-cam
@@TheDogGoesWoof69 😜
One of my favorite scenes in Band of Brothers is when Perconte and a new replacement are in Germany and manning a machine gun post. Perconte is reading a book and enjoying the downtime and the new guy is wanting to kill Germans. His response was one of the best dialogues of the entire series.
When are we gonna see some action?
I don't know if that actual scenario happened to him or not, but if it did, what I took from that scene was Perconte had at least a mild form of PTSD. I'm certain most, if not all, combat veterans are similarly afflicted. The way he dresses down the replacement (uncontrolled rage) and then almost instantly feels remorse (silent reflection) for his actions is the telling factor. Although in the moment it is hard to be sympathetic or even aware of what is happening, all combat vets deserve understanding and compassion. They've seen, and done things others can't begin to comprehend.
@@darmoklizard1729 The replacement was a reminder that one of his late buddies weren't on watch with him. It annoyed him and angered him and hes not a mean person, so he feels remorse for taking out his anger on the guy.
'2 years, it's been 2 years since I've seen home'
@@darmoklizard1729 Replacements in a war zone are universally treated with disdain until they've proven themselves, especially in a unit that had a high turnover rate from casualties. Most of the disdain is because of new guys just like the one in that scene, they're gung ho to get some action, get some kills, and they wind up doing stupid things because they're still an individual, they're not "part of the unit" yet.
As a kid growing up in Philadelphia my Uncle Bill was a big part of my life..I was too young or too scared to ask how he lost his leg..he was such a positive influence on me and only years later after watching Band of Brothers I finally had my question answered..Rest in Peace Wild Bill Guarnere..
gtfo. if true that’s badass.
❤❤❤
🙏🙏🙏
Your uncle was a great man. When BoB first came out, my sister who was probably 11 at the time sent him a letter of appreciation. Your uncle responded to her with a phone call to our house to talk or her (to which I was EXTREMELY jealous) and sent her a hand written letter with photographs of him during his time in the service. Those men were superheroes to us. Their stories is what made me join the service at 18. God bless them all and RIP
@@kennypowers1747 That is fantastic.
Great series. Band of Brothers and The Pacific should be mandatory viewing for all high school students
Excellent idea Kevin.
Unfortunately the woke that run the schools would never allow that to happen🤮
My 11th grade history teacher showed us the landing scene of Saving Private Ryan
I wish our culture thought like that still rather than the stuff they put in kids heads these days
It is I watched on high school my principle won't allow to watch because it had gromsum
I rewatch this series every year and idk if its just me but does anyone else get this spiritual or humbling feeling after its over? I always get somewhat emotional and it takes me a couple days to digest. Greatest mini series ever!
I’m with you. As a veteran, I love watching the more realistic war movies to get some of that camaraderie back in my life. I knew every one of the characters on BoB in the form of someone I served with.
I was about to comment this exact same thing. 💯
I agree, it is such a deep and moving series it's hard not to feel like you really know these characters.
1000%. My wife and I have watched it a ton of times and named our dog Easy because of/in tribute to it.
Definitely. Especially when they go their separate ways at the end, knowing they won't talk for years or ever again after going through all of that together.
I’ve never seen a group of actors show more respect and pay more tributes than the BoB cast had to the boys of company E. Even the ones who went on to have long and very successful careers.
I think Tom and Steven deserve a ton of credit for this. If you watch the Pacific cast, they also show the same respect and reverence towards the actual Marines of that series.
@@justinthomas85 There is a audio book, Voices of the Pacific, that the actual veterans of some of the events portrayed in that series outline their stories and give some deeper insight, and mention the show. Very interesting if you liked the show and wanted to hear more. A good way to spend your commute if you have a decent drive back and forth to work.
Mike Rowe talked about running into Ron Livingston once out in LA. Its a funny story, but yeah, Ol' Nix too is still representing the BoBs and keeping their stories going.
Funny thing about BoB is that many are British.
@@sandersson2813There are a lot of now famous actors who had small roles in band of brothers like James Mcavoy, and Michael Fassbender and one is German and one is British yet they fit so seamlessly into the unit, you may not notice that they’re in the miniseries. They did the same thing with Masters of the Air with having a non American actor play Biddick who is a British actor. I personally like that the producers of Band of Brothers and Masters of the Air aren’t afraid of using non American actors to play Americans, especially if they have more likeness to the actual person they’re portraying.
I was a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division, and the work done by all of these actors is treasured by many of us.
Thank you for your service
STRIKE HOLD!!!
FURY FROM THE SKY!!!
Absolutely! All you guys were the real deal sir! 🇺🇸
Did you know George Blake? I know he fought at Bastogne and I think he was with the 82nd....I " think" not sure though. -My late uncle.
I enjoyed the series and this interview. My dad was in the 101st, 506th PIR, Charlie Company and jumped behind Utah Beach, and was wounded in Eindhoven. I watched with rapt attention to learn more about my dad. I am a proud Vietnam Combat vet because of him.
Thank you and your Dad for yalls service!
What an Heritage to Have, Thanks for your Family's Service.....And to all Servicemen and Women..The BEST OF THE BEST.
Thanks to your family. My GF is a naturalized US citizen from Vietnam and is doing very well here...thanks to YOU showing the way...
Welcome home.
Thank you and your father for your services and sacrifices made. Welcome home.
Huge credit to Dale Dye for creating that "boot camp" for the actors (and to the actors for agreeing to do it). He originally did it for Saving Private Ryan and then revived it for BoB. He made it as tough and as real as he possibly could. I thought them only ever using their characters' names was brilliant. They had to legitimately live as these people and go through it together. I think that experience is a big part of what made SPR and BoB arguably the realest, most visceral portrayals we've ever seen in war cinema.
my grand dad said they didnt cast sink right. sink is my great great uncle. he was alot younger than he was in the show. also the accent isn't Lexington nc so that didnt flyover well either with him
He is an amazing human and what a soldier, and to humbly be a part of doing some amazing projects to tell pieces of history. Paycheck has nothing to do with it. It’s caring that it’s as true as it can be and keep people wanting to see and learn something that helped to shape and save the world, the world.
@@Jonacarpenter there's some great behind the scenes on the DVD box set that shows some of the boot camp. They were literally stripped of everything post 1945, up at 5 am every day doing PT and drills, night patrols, a compass navigation test...basically anything they could pull from 1940s basic training and make safe enough to get past the insurance companies lol. These actors spent weeks away from their families putting themselves through this for the sake of these productions. Their commitment to getting this right was incredible. It's no less than the people they portrayed deserved.
@@ericbrown1101 I have that set👍👍👍. Amazing information on it. I still have it on my dvr to record any time it airs…. Just so I see it on the days it should be remembered, and revisited. I’ll post a new post, with a pic and a story that you will appreciate. Keep an eye out for it, I’ll try to do it asap, before we both forget. Lol. 👍
Actually, he first did the boot camp for PLATOON.
Superbly acted , meticulously produced , quite possibly the finest television series ever to grace the screen.
Unfortunately, they did Lt. Dike dirty and depicted him in a way that wasn't how he really was. His men respected him and he socialized with them, and he wasn't a coward.
@@Razgriz85 Almost every man has his breaking point. In some it comes on gradually, in others they just hit "that moment" and snap. There is no time for analyzing in the heat of combat of a person's true psychological state of mind, only the outward physical responses or lack of. When it is expected for those in leadership capacities to lead and they fail to do so, then assumptions are made. Right or wrong. Should all survive the engagement or the war, then allegations can be made and adjudicated.
@@Razgriz85 Blythe, too they got wrong.
@@petermcgill1315 There's a Band of Brother's official podcast out that's on youtube and they actually go the actors and the writers to talk about the show and what all went into it and I do remember the writer talking about Blythe and admits that they did mess that up but as he put it, it was before the internet and some of the veterans thought that's what really happened to Blythe and took their words as gospel.
agreed
For 11 years I lived in a small town next to Joliet, IL where Frank Perconte lived. Between 2007 and 2010 I visited with Mr. Perconte three times. By that time he was a widower and lived alone, as was I. He wonderfully shared stories with me about his time in the service and stories about his family. He even signed my hardcover copy of my Band of Brothers book and let me take a bunch of photos of him, his medals, and me standing next to him. Wonderful memories.
I'm willing to bet you made his day any time you showed up and just talked with him. You are so lucky
@@macmac3374 Yes, I was very fortunate, and he was a very gracious host. I would have spent more time with Mr. Perconte, but in 2010, after 5 years being a widower, I met my second wife and life got busy for me, and I was unable to see him again before he died in 2013.
What a likeable person James Madio is.
And seeing him again after so many years after B.O.B. ended.
This interview is gold.
That word you used... likeable, so many of the guys from this series seem that way in these interviews.
One of the scenes I always replayed was Frankie running back from the concentration camp desperately looking for an authority figure, searching for an officer due to the enormity of the situation... and I always thought James portrayed that scene perfectly. It was one of those things I would pause and rewind. He really killed it. It's been 20 years and it isn't surprising to hear that he put so much effort into it because you could always feel that in the performance. Even his shortest lines always felt genuine like something a kid private would say. Respect.
Makes me happy to see that there are still some actors and actresses that are humble and learn from their roles and experiences. We need more actors/actresses like this :)
Everyone can learn from this
The respect to stop and say 'sorry our acting bootcamp' shows how much this series impacted them all imo. Best series ive ever watched hands down
It’s a deployment series for us. We used to gather ‘round the boys after a long deployment days overseas. We would watch it religiously. Brought the boys together during deployment. Until now years after deployment we still talk about how we get together just to watch this series together. I kiss my brothers. Amazing series
Same.
Was always playing in the Mess...
"I kiss my brothers." Must be Navy?
@@FelverFelv #CherryMarines?
@@FelverFelv 😂😂😂😂
@@FelverFelv lmao... you must be a Marine with that comment. Semper Fi
Band of Brothers is the best series I’ve ever seen. I watch it 1 time a year and it’s amazing every time.
Only once a year?? My wife knows it by heart now. She's become a WW2 junkie because of this series.
I was hesitant to watch it when it first came out, but I (we) watch it at least 6 times a year.
Thanks Frank ! That was a great interview. I will be 72 this April, and I grew up looking up to the WWII guys. They will always be my heroes... And you will always be Frank..
Thanks Frank, great of interview. I will be 72 this coming March, I grew up watching “Combat “ The series, and seeing Vic Morrow, Pierre Jalbert, Kirby , Little John, Doc, and all the guess stars. This WW2 show, I looked up to these Men, they inspired me, That Freedom is not free, I Enlisted into the The United States Marine Corps fresh out of High School June 1970, ended up doing Two Tours of Combat in Southeast Asia, and by viewing these actors portray the Greatest Generation in the World, made me the Man I am Today! SEMPERFi
@@mcburgerking1523 I was a Navy Seabee back then. Summer of seventy-two, I spent several weeks training at Camp Lejeune with Marine instructors. Best group of teachers I ever had. I still think of the "Globe and Anchor" from time to time, cold beer and the juke box in the corner.
I’m a 101st Airborne veteran, many family members have served and my grandfather was awarded a Bronze Star for his time in WW2. He was near Bastogne and his brother was killed near Bastogne. Thank you for your part/performance in such a great portrayal of the war. It’s my favorite.
One of my great Uncles was also killed on Dec 18th 44 outside St Vith I believe. Sgt Eschol Webb was with the 10th armored, after washing out of flight training. His brother Mac was in the Army fighting in Italy at the time, it was his letters home (hundreds of them) that his sister kept all these yrs I learned this information from plus so much more.
@@warrenchambers4819 I sent away for my grandfathers medals and it was a complete surprise about the bronze star. My uncle and mother didn’t even know he’d been awarded and it wasn’t on his exit paperwork. I’d like to send for my great uncles since he never married or had children. He’s buried close to where he was killed in Luxembourg Natl Cemetary.
Born in 1952 there were lots of war movies and TV series about WW II, and I now realize how bad they were. This, BoB, is gold. I'd watched one movie Saturday afternoon and went to ask my Dad if it could possibly be true (it was pretty silly) and he just exploded "It was NOTHING like the movies." Only time he ever talked about it, and he was Navy, not in the trenches. He did have to jump and abandon ship 3 times in Pacific.
@@veramae4098 glad the sharks didn’t like him too closely!
What a down to earth guy. Heartening to know the acting community has this caliber of individual.
Um, hello? Joe Pesce, Robert Deniro, Martin Scorsese, all extremely down to earth from working class backrounds. Actually, it must be an Italian thing....
@@Yoseman1 -"Other guys did stuff, too!"
You also misspelled Pesci
@@Yoseman1Robert dinero down to earth??😂
@@jakemilligan46 Very. Are you saying only conservatives can be down to earth!? Just because he doesn't subscribe to your lunacidal world view doesn't NOT make him down to earth. You can run into Bobby anywhere in Tribeca or The Villiage, and he'll give you some time. Unlike your orange hero who never sets foot in public, and never really did.
My grandfather served in the Navy in WWII. He never talked about his experiences with us until my children were old enough to understand. When my son asked him why he fought in the war his answer was, so you never would have to. God, how I miss him. RIP, Grandpa Vogel.
I’m a Vietnam Marine Veteran. Some of the series I had trouble with but most of it hit home to me. It’s hard to watch the scenes of American soldiers getting killed and wounded but the enteracting of characters brought back memories to me from when I was 19-23 years old, my time in the Marines 1968-72. Thanks so much for putting this great work in my library so I can take it out when needed. I have The Pacific also.
All of my uncles and my dad were in the military during WWII, Marines, Navy and Merchant Marines. They all came home safe thank God.
Thank you for your service.
Thank you for your service to our country. God bless you and all the members you served with.
You and your family were completely blessed to make it home. I just want to thank you all for what you did for us.
God ,Family & , Country🙏🇺🇲
Did the Merchant Mariner ever get torpedoed?
People forget just how dangerous it was to get the troops to Torch, Dragoon, Overlord…
Welcome home sir! Thank you for your service.
The scene in Why We Fight were he salutes the Holocaust victim, and the starving man that survived unspeakable hell mustered up a smile and saluted back never ceases to bring a tear to my eye.
Me too every time
I cried when one of the prisoners hugged and kissed a trooper knowing that he had been liberated.
The respect that these actors show for the story they told is truly amazing. Band of Brothers was a perfect storm.
I really love that they took their names away and only knew eachother by their respective character’s names. Forces them to become accustomed to calling and reacting to those specific names and brings the characters to life in a deeper way.
There’s a great “behind the scenes” reel filmed by Nixon/Ron Livingston that’s fantastic
@@Former11b Thanks. On what platform?
@@martaupward5992it’s on TH-cam! Just look up something similar to Ron Livingston Band of Brothers Diaries or behind the scenes
I've watched this series for 10 or so years ever single year around Christmas time. Kind of a tradition now. Never forget the sacrifices these young kids made. Currahee!
Yes, me too
Same. Of the many things I've let go/didn't need, or grew out of the past 20+ years, I still have my DVD Band of Brothers series. I break it out, every year between Thanksgiving, and Chrstmas.
I watch Saving Private Ryan every June 6th, I watch Band of Brothers over the next few weeks, and I will end it with Gettysburg on July 1st.
For the fun of it I will also watch Independence Day on July 3rd.
@@HighwayLand That is awesome. I too always watch Independence Day around the 4th. Lol. That speech the President gives to all the people towards the end is so good. I haven't watched Gettysburg in a long while, may have to watch it here soon.
@@JohnnyBoy8141 I did that speech in my high school theater class, way back in 1996.
I was 14 when I first watched Gettysburg, and it is the movie that made me love Civil War history as well as all military history. I will be visiting Gettysburg for a second time coming up in June, and I plan on walking that entire battlefield.
Don't tell anybody this but I did take a rock from Little Round Top during my first visit, and it is right here at my house in Oregon.
Met Frank myself as I lived close to Joliet Illinois. Took the same picture as he sat in his recliner...as James did. He was a very good man. Retired Postal employee. Frank even gave me a copy of a picture of him in Holland with a pair of wooden shoes.....lol...RIP Frank.
What’s crazy is that this show was released 2 days before the 9/11 attack! I didn’t watch it til about 10yrs after it was released. It still one of my favorite shows/movies of all time. It immerses you into WWII like not other movie does.
As a Vet, and as the son of a WW2 Vet, it is hard for me to watch interviews with actors who portrayed "us." But this, this is different. A great series and a great interview. Thanks guys, and thanks to James (And all invovled wit BoB...) for doing a man like Frank Perconte and his comrades justice.
James Madio was one of the best things about the series. His performance was just excellent and added great humor and humility to the role. Madio was one of the best athletes during Boot Camp.
What were you watching? He is a terrible actor, and can only play one charecter...an Italian guy....
@@Yoseman1 That's all he was asked to play in the series- an Italian guy. So why does that make him a "terrible actor"?? Seems a bit judgmental, lol.
@@iamcruzing Because that is all he ever plays. He is Frank Vincent. Listen, it's a good gig, but lets not pretend he is a gifted actor.
I had 3 great uncles who chose airborne, 2 in the 101st & 1 in the 82nd, only one from the 101st came home & with a encrusted Purple Heart among others, grandpa was a Marine raider, Dad fought in Korea, I could go on for pages but these men were my heroes, thank you for making a film that makes explaining duty to my kids & now grandkids easier
Semper Fi
What is an encrusted Purple Heart?
@@jamesbecker3420 At a guess - "The presence of the 'Silver Star' device on the riband drape denotes that the recipient had been awarded 'Five further Awards' of the Purple Heart"
@@wessexdruid7598 Ok, never knew anyone personally with that many Purple Heart awards. My Purple Heart only has one oak leaf cluster designating a second award(OEF). Thank you!!
As a former recruit instructor, who’s aim was always to forge a bond between recruits, it’s so heartening to hear him say how they too recognized that bond. ❤️
I also agree with you. I’m army and tbh I don’t care if they didn’t went to an actual army base for basic but him knowing what is like, the struggle, the bond, and the trust they build. To me he’s an American soldier, he has the mentality.
I always knew Ron Livingston was a good guy, but him letting James stay in his guest house for a few years PROVES his good morals and his character. The producers knew how to pick their actors for sure. All of them, good people.
As a veteran myself I appreciate this kind of attitude and respect given by someone who's never served. Also Band of Brothers is my favorite series ever made hands down. Thank-you
As an Iraq War veteran. Infantryman, and former U.S. Army Drill Sergeant - I can say. You guys did a helluva job portraying these heroes. Loved this series back then, and still love it.
I’m not American. My grandfathers did fight in WW1 on the Allied side. But having said all that, BoB was the most moving war depiction that I have seen so I bought the DVD and have rewatched it many times. Thank you Mr. James Madio for your portrayal. You were part of a unique set of circumstances that resulted in a beautiful production that brought the book to life. This interview illustrates to all of us your heartfelt desire to do justice to those real life heroes of the 101st. Thank you sir for your dedication to your craft. Your performance is a legacy.
Wonderful story of the actors process. Thank you for honoring our brave veterans. The men and women who answered the call.
As a 12 year Veteran, thank you to everyone who put together Band of Brothers. It is a glimps into the life of soldiers. It helps people see that we are people as well, who laugh, cry, fight and get ticked off at our boss also.
What a series. Still an unbelievable achievement, still fresh. Madio seems like he really did this right… that level of acting talent combined with gratitude. Respect.
Band of Brothers is a masterpiece. The writing, acting, and cinematography is amazing. James did an awesome job portraying Frank Perconte. My son just turned 13 and this is the next series on our list to watch together. We don’t call these folks during this time period the Greatest Generation for no reason. They lived in hard times and they fought harder hence why we are able to thrive as we do today.
You did a great job in both the interview and BAND OF BROTHERS 🙏🏼🇺🇸
My dad and I had a yearly tradition of watching the series on the same evenings even though he's moved down to Tennessee. When he passed in 2019, I truly enjoy watching it even more now because of the memories it brings.
Man I'm sorry for your loss! They are always with us ♥️
So sorry for your loss. That's a really nice shared experience to have with your dad
I'm really glad this interview was done. BoB was truly a perfect series. All the actors did a phenomenal job and Madio's portrayal of Perconte was one of my favorites.
I've always appreciated how sincerely respectful all the BoB ETO actors have been towards the veterans, but especially James Madio. He continually honors them appropriately and often and it's very refreshing to see from an actor. Best WW2 series / movie footage ever created!!
I know nothing about James Madio, but I feel like I know everything about the man he portrayed in Band of Brothers. 21 years later and I know every single line and every single detail of every single episode. I have told friends about this mini-series, even in 2022 I was still telling others about this amazing show! When that DVD box-set was available at Wal-Mart I was like the first one to buy it, and I still have it. THANKS to everybody who made Band of Brothers a reality, and God Bless to our soldiers who gave their lives for our Country.
Recently retired after 20 years in the armoured corps with two combat tours in Afghanistan that certainly changed my life forever. It's an honour to hear James tell his story with such passion. James has a warriors spirit. He would have been welcome and very successful in any military unit. It sounds very fortunate that despite not actually serving, James was able to achieve the comradery and sense of belonging from being in the Military.
Absolutely loved Band Of Brothers, love our veterans.
This guy played the hell out of his role. One of the most iconic rants of the series was him going off on Okeef. Every new guy in the military has been on the receiving end.
Such a great interview, and an iconic production. It's hard to believe it was 20 years ago, but will never date.
This guy is so honest and genuine. Where are more people like him? Humble, honorable, and wanTing to do the best things to honor the greatest generation. What has happened to our nation? Why can’t more people be like this?
Arguably the best ten episodes of television ever made. Your portrayal of Frank Perconte was fantastic. The sacrifice these young men gave up at the prime of their life is being forgotten. If you have never watched this program, I suggest you block off a few days and immerse yourself in this beautiful story and experience the fantastic portrayals of these real-life young men.
I've probably seen the Band Of Brothers series 20 times. And I never get tired of it. Best WWII adaptation ever made in my opinion.
It has amazed me that for as long as I’ve been out of the service it never fails that if we see each other we start in like we’ve lost no time.
Every aspect of this production was conceived and executed perfectly. It is, in my opinion, a timeless masterpiece of television, certainly one of the best series ever made on several levels. A young English actor who had just married my cousin landed a small but memorable role, using his best American accent to play John A. Janovec in the final two episodes - he was Tom Hardy, and though of course he went on to find huge success, participation in this series is still a career highlight as far as I’m concerned. I think every actor and crew-member involved was very lucky to have been part of such an important and entertaining work.
Mr Madio, idk if you'll ever see this, i doubt it, in fact. I grew up watching, no memorizing, every second of that series. Im a Vet myself now and i didn't realize till im now 35, just how much y'all's portrayal of their story influenced my life. I feel like i know those dudes, because of the amazing job yall did. Thank you so much for doing it and taking it so seriously. It means so much more than you may know. Thank You
I remember I watched it every day for about 3-4 months straight haha so obsessive isn't pal! I love meeting people that love it too and introducing people to it too. It's 100% the greatest piece of television ever made in my opinion! Flawless
I see you. Right or wrong, the impression left by depictions such as this, and maybe a little too much Sergeant Oddball, absolutely did and continue to impact myself and military leaders today. Sometimes you just stand back and ask yourself what 1SG Lipton would do... Absolutely. It's just a fuckin mini-series. It's just a movie. But... sometimes... with depictions as great as these it translates to real world events.
@@danmancmufc 100%
Glad the series had such an impact. A deep respect for your service to our Country.
Currahee :)
James, thanks to all of the actors who did an excellent job of portraying the real Easy Company men. This serious meant a lot to me because my favorite uncle was in the 101st during WWII. He made both jumps at Normandy & Holland and was captured on 12/23/44 during the battle of the bulge. In my humble opinion, all of those men and women that served our country then & now are our true heroes
James, you were incredible. Your character was one of the most memorable in the series, and that is mostly because of your portrayal.
This show is my favorite of all time. The characters are all fleshed out, real people. You can even notice early on how Lipton doesn't like talking negative about leadership. Small details and great actors. I'll rewatch it for years to come.
Thank you, Love this series and watch it almost religiously throughout the year. And I love the reactions of those who had no idea what those soldiers went through. I'm and old Air Force brat. My dad was 8th Air Force, the Brown Shoes as they eere called. Again...Thank You for your Service to their lives and Memories. I know it was the best part of war you've ever seen.
Living the dream through these guys. What an honor it must have been to spend time and represent the men of the Greatest Generation. The series still holds strong. I thank you and wish you all well! God Bless!
Great interview with James. His character as Frank Perconte was one of my favorites in BoB. I own the series and watch it about once a year. Never get tired of seeing it. The stories of the 101st and the 82nd in Normandy are always fascinating.
The way these guys took this seriously, and really wanted to honor the men they portrayed, has always made me like the series even more.
exactly! You can tell when an actor really cares about the man they portray!
Band of Brothers is a masterpiece of a series. First time I watched it I was just in the army, boot camp first few weeks. I was looking for some high octane war shit to watch. I have always been a night owl and I spent a few late nights watching the show in the dark barracks in my bunk while everyone else had already fallen asleep and that show just took me on an emotional rollercoaster man.
I was looking for some high octane action but what made me glued to the screen was all the other stuff. The relationship and the growth of the characters from boys to men. And the insanity that they had to endure. Probably the only series that truly affected me, it has a humbling effect. Oh and Winters is such a perfect example of a man you should try to be.
Perconte was always one of my favorite characters in BoB.
He was always very “real” and just seemed like a cool friend to have in a terrible situation. And I felt really bad when he was shot in the backside.
"getting shot in the ass is sort of an Easy Company tradition!"
I wish every actor was this kind, respectful, and overall good. What a fantastic guy.
Nice to see how much he wanted to portray the veteran as correctly as possible. Simple smoker non smoker. My dad was a WWII vet and he never smoked a day in life. I'm sure if he was portrayed as a smoker he would have been upset.
Much gratitude to Hanks and Spieberg for creating this great tribute.
What a great interview. I have studied World War 2 history for almost 50 years. And like James, I have be in awe of the men who fought and sacrificed so much for our country. I think both Band of Brothers and The Pacific portrayed those soldiers and Marines in a realistic and honorable way.
Class act. One can see how he truly felt about the man he played and the importance of the series.
I’ve watched Band of Brothers, must be, 15 times, yet I’ll never get enough. I’ll be watching it until the day I die. One of the most spectacular series of all time
Im right there with you brother, still yet find something new each time i see it.
Maybe something in a scene i didnt pay attention enough to or a certain line.
So great to see this content after all these years. The series is really a timeless classic, so well done.
I love the series so much. I've watched it at least 20 times. The short commentaries, by the actual 101st members, was the most important part of the series.
Absolutely.
I met him at a static display on Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. He was doing the Band of Brothers tour with Colin Quinn. It was a brief check out our stuff but it was still cool. I met MSG Powers that day.
Super interview!
As a former paratrooper, I can say this BOB nailed the camaraderie and how important it is to work as a team when faced with difficult times, like no other. Thanks to all for your commitment in the production of this series.
Thank you for your service.
This is just awesome. You can tell it meant more than just a part in a show to James. They all went above and beyond the call of duty to bring those heroes to life for the later generations. 🙏
What a beautiful work of cinematic art that series is. Every actor perfectly cast, the music so moving, the cinematography sublime. It breaks my heart every time. I'll have to watch it again soon.
A great show and timeless. The bootcamp that James Madio and his colleagues attended is also where I did most of my basic training as a British Army reservist back in 92. Longmoor Camp.
I can't believe it's been 20 years already. This series seems like last year. So well done.
Just a wonderful interview!! My Dad was in the Pacific….BoB was unique. Watched it over and over, read just about every book associated with the story….the feeling you get when you put yourself in their place during that time period is unimaginable. The actors who portrayed those men did and unbelievable job at honoring their memory….
Band of brothers is my favorite war adaptation. I’ve read the book, and seen the series so many times. After watching and seeing the heroism, this inspired me to join up, and now I am graduating airborne school in a week and moving onto ranger selection. Crazy the impact a show can have on someone. Thankyou
Lovely interview! James Madio, you took the gift and ran with it. I'm sure Frank was as honored by your portrayal as you are honored to have played him. Thank you!
Captain Dale Dye (USMC, Ret.) was the technical advisor on the series; his job was to make the actors as realistic as possible. When Madio recounts the gun story at 8:50, I call tell you for sure that's real life. In military parlance a "gun" is a crew-served weapon. That is, it takes more than one soldier to operate. Examples are a machine gun, mortar, cannon. The soldier's individual weapon is a rifle.
True I knew what was coming and laughed my a** of!
what do you call a grenade launcher?
the line i always used to get was "guns have wheels"
In the Marines we were taught the difference between a weapon and a gun was that one was for shooting, one was for fun.
@@imnotyourfriendbuddy1883 RPG, man portable anti tank weapon......
James you were incredible!!! I'm sure Frank was proud of your portrayal of him. Best War series ever made. I've watched it 100 times. Thank you for service honoring the veterans.
I never had the honor of serving but I totally respect those that did. They and there families sacrifice everything for this country. The greatest generation.
One of the best series I ever watched, the acting skills & production gave everyone an education at the frightening history that these incredible men went through. Hats off to each actor that portrayed these real heroes. Love this interview, James you sir will always be a super star!
I watch BoB and TP every year. I also introduce everyone I can to it. It’s an exercise in mindfulness at this point. Whatever I go through, and whatever my struggle, it’s nothing compared to these young men’s struggles. We’re able to live this life of ease because of countless sacrifices. This should be mandatory viewing for all Americans.
Incredibly honoured to have shaken your hand when i was only 10 or 11 years old i believe. NAPMA in the south of Netherlands in possibly 2003 or even 2005. My father allowed me to skip school to meet some of the cast and actual heroes of Band of Brothers and i instantly recognized you. I grew up with my late father who was also Airforce, watching Band of Brothers together. That is one day i will forever remember. Also making the actual Malarkey laugh was just the cherry on top!!
Dude you were absolutely amazing in this role. The entire cast was awesome. I have the box set and I watch it several times a year. Thank you for you doing this role the right way.
I can remember James Madio being a Lost Boy in the movie Hook. Been doing a wonderful job since. Great interview.
I can only agree that you really change when you meet, get involved and become very good friends with an Arnhem battle veteran and their family and their comrades.
Living near Arnhem gave me an unexpected opportunity to accompany him and his best veteran friend to all commemorations for several years . An experience I will never forget.
My channel is about the 2009 events.
There are hardly any veterans left, so we have to do with those memories and keep honouring those who fought and fell for our freedom.
These actors are so humanitarian! Great guys and honor the vets they portray.
Great interview. James and all the other actors did an outstanding job honoring the Heroes of Easy Company. By doing so they created a movie that will be a tool for future generations to learn from. I hope.
A really great tribute to the 506th PIR of the 101st and Easy Company. James's genuine admiration and respect is self evident and does so much justice to Frank Picante and the entire division. Thank you James for your fantastic work.
Mr. Madio, thank you for your dedication to your craft and the efforts you and your fellow actors put forth to get it right. Thank you also for the insight. Well done sir. Well done to you all.
You guys did an awesome job portraying the real American Heroes. Without Band of Brothers, a great many people wouldn’t know what Easy Company went through. You actors were incredible at showing us what the Real Men went through. Thanks.
I wish that more producers and directors doing combat type films or shows would take a more realistic approach instead of just the Hollywood "well it doesn't happen that way but it looks good". I hope we see more of these type of shows for other major events in the 20th century.
I believe they are working on another series about US bombers working out of England during WW2 - Masters of the Air I
@@PinkFloydFreak55 masters of Air i believe. I’m not sure Steven and Tom will be a part of it but I know that several writers who worked on band of brothers and the pacific are part of it. It’s supposed to be even more ambitious then bob
This one of the best series that I have watched.
He played such an awesome roll! This series is part of the reason I joined the army!
I've watched Band Of Brothers about 8 or 9 times and I love it every time. Every time I watch it, it has more emotional strength and that's saying something because the first time I cried. The episode on the Bastogne broke my heart. The actors were superb.