Tony Dow on a life of art post-"Leave It to Beaver"
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 2 ต.ค. 2024
- Beginning at age 12, Tony Dow played Wally Cleaver, the polite, trustworthy "All-American" big brother on the classic sitcom "Leave It to Beaver." But for years Dow lived in the shadow of his adolescent stardom, and was dogged by feelings of depression. Dow talks with correspondent Jim Axelrod about looking beyond the curse of being linked forever to the character of Wally, and how, through creating art, and with the support of his wife, Lauren (also an artist), he addressed the struggles that life often presents.
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![Leave it to Beaver House Tour: Main Floor, Upstairs and Backyard [CG Tour]](/img/n.gif)
Tony may not realize it, but for all of us in that age group, we still love him and Always will.
As much as i hate to say it after watching this and hearing about his battle with Depression . But he will always remain Wally to us Boomers .
Forever will love him !!!
I don't think he ever knew how much he was loved by his fans
@@dbrew2u , Tony is Wally to many before the Boomers during the Boomers and after the Boomers ... He is loved by so many .
God I hope he knows it! 💖💗💛💫
You are right on, he seems like a kind soul
Rest In Peace, Tony Dow.
You were an exceptional artist.
@Baron Munchausen _What's wrong with you?_
@Baron Munchausen
Your a artist too?
Name every art piece.
@Baron Munchausen 😊😇
@Baron Munchausen As Tony Dow's Impressionist yet Cubist and Abstract Expressionist sculptural creations have been shown in the Louvre museum, being in the pioneering originalist masterpiece modern artist league and of the highest vision realizationist and formal perfectionist calibre of Rodin and Henri Moore, likely they have been out of the price range of even Baron Munchausen; and now that their maestro sculptor has passed away, will become priceless.
He was wonderful actor who want to be Wally we all love Tony Dow and give real respect to him
Rip Tony, what a gentle soul he was.
Look at that that man bought that car from him which actually made money for him and made money for Tony Dow and then when he died he left that car back to him that's what you call human connection in humanity in people in America at a time that it was different
Tony Dow was a good role model on how to be a good big brother. RIP
I'm so glad that his adult life turned out to be a blessing for him, instead of what seems to be the normal curse that most former child stars deal with but they cannot overcome.
Same goes for Jerry Mathers.
As a kid growing up in the 70s seeing old reruns of this show, I can honestly say Tony was a good role model for young boys.
He sounded like a very likable and humble person Really like that he was creative Rest In Peace Mr Dow
And through the depression and anger he struggled with, he appears to have made a really great life for himself. RIP Tony Dow. Thank you.
So shocked that he's gone. Such a gentle man. Love 💘 you, Tony.
Death report was in error. His Wife just clarified Tony is in hospice. Your words were very touching though. God bless you. 7/26/22
@@terri5757 Yes, I read about error, but now he really is gone (Wednesday 7/27/22 late afternoon).
Rest in Power Tony! I’m 26 but you helped make my childhood special! ❤️
Tony Dow still keeps his life at ease, along with his wife, Lauren. I can’t think of a better life for him, since he’s really keeping the peace and the love, flowing within his mind. I know Hugh, Barbara, Frank, and Ken are smiling down upon him.
🕊Peace be with you, Tony. 🤍
Peace to Tony Dow, our on-screen childhood friend, idol, and example of what it means to be a good kid. Never to be forgotten for good things and happy memories for so many on the earth. What a legacy.............
Tony is one of my favorites. I followed his life he shared on Facebook. He shaved his face just for this interview. I was elated when this piece came out, and now he's gone. I'm heartbroken, he passed on my birthday. God bless you Tony, thank you for making the world a better place.
Me too Tony was nicest guy in the world 🌎 Rest in Peace my brother
It's like part or your childhood dies when people like Tony Dow dies. RIP...great guy
Rest in Peace Tony Dow. You are the Real American Teenager.
.....and now, he's transitioned into eternity. We forever be grateful for his part in our lives.
very well said ............
I knew Tony as a young tech/grip/gaffer working on the set of "High School U.S.A". A definite "so bad it's good" B-movie but ironically, it was the pre-screen test that established MJ Fox and Crispin Glover as future stars. A lot of "older" TV stars like Tony, Dawn Wells, Bob Denver, were glad to get work so it was great to be around them on set. Tony was the warmest and most genuine of any actor I've ever met. Completely unpretentious and despite his fame in the 50's, he never traded on it or acted like an aloof star. Glad you're no longer suffering and RIP Tony. And anyone who wants to watch Tony, MJ Fox and Crispin go at in in a "proto" version of BTTF, definitely check out "High School U.S.A"!
Agree. He was my neighbor in Venice Beach before they moved to Topanga so many years ago. His authenticity as a human being was genuine and rare.
What an open and nice guy . RIP .
Wonderful interview. Thank you, Tony for bringing knowledge and understanding of depression to a public forum. Bless you and Lauren. ❤
Tony died today
Rest easy, good sir. TV icon. Shining soul.
Garret: you brought tears to my eyes. I need say nothing. You have said it all. Shining soul, indeed. 🌹
Tony was a terrific talent on many levels. May he rest in peace. Best wishes to Lauren and his entire family.
Such a talented person, on and off screen. R.I.P. Tony Dow.
Tony Dow's character "Wally" was a great role model for millions of boys in the 50s-60s.
Absolutely!
I understand that as actors, some celebrities can resent a character that they're identified with, but I don't think they know or can understand just how much their portrayals can mean to the people that grew up watching them. I was raised by a single mother and our TV was pretty much my companion, so watching old family shows in syndication is where I learned a lot of life lessons. I'm glad Tony's made his peace with his character and the show.
RIP, this was a great piece and a super example of channeling negative energy into something creative.
RIP. Thank you for the memories. Peace to his loved ones
The art work is just extraordinary. Lauren's mosaic fountain is absolutely exquisite!
What a terrific interview! Thanks for this.
Hi Nicole 👋 I hope my comment didn't sound as a form of privacy invasion your comment tells of a wonderful woman with a beautiful heart which led me to comment I don't normally write in the comment section but I think you deserve this complement. If you don’t mind can we be friends? Thanks God bless you….
The problem with depression is that it causes you to live in the past
instead of moving forward with your life. People with normal mental health,
probably have no knowledge of that.
Thank you. I needed to read that! I am no more a victim.
His voice never changed
I understand his fighting with depression though. I'm glad he found peace before he left the Earth. Rest in peace sir
What a great little feature. R.I.P., Tony. You were a big brother and a guiding light to so many of us that grew up with the show. Many more than you probably could’ve imagined. God Bless You.
True..his life made a profound impact on many!
Tony will be missed. Such a talented artist, actor and young/old man. Rest in peace.
RIP Tony, you are great!
Great artwork. Wonderful actor as Wally. Still watch the reruns.
Hi Wanda 👋 I hope my comment didn't sound as a form of privacy invasion your comment tells of a wonderful woman with a beautiful heart which led me to comment I don't normally write in the comment section but I think you deserve this complement. If you don’t mind can we be friends? Thanks God bless you….
My favorite show as a kid and still watch reruns !!! Thought it's what is missing today !!! Respect, loyalty, responsibility and love.
Damn he is still good looking. Glad I saw this interview. Loved that show. Great times and great shows. Great memories. Love it..🤗🥰🥰👏👏👏
Today’s news of his passing and then the news that maybe not yet, brought me to this video. I’m so glad to have seen this. What a wonderful and humble man. Just like my big brother was.
That was a false report, but he is in hiospice.
God bless you Tony..R.I.P. thanks for the my boyhood memories!!
*Sometimes we forget that the healer also needs healing. The planner also needs surprises.*
*The giver also needs to receive. The thoughtful also needs to be thought of.*
*And the considerate also needs to be considered. 💗*
Beautiful and so true ...
Well said!
Divineener Nicely put ❤and how is it that your print so tiny ?? !!
You never know the struggle of others hang in there, thanks for sharing 🥺
Prayers for his family and friends and of course his beloved fans. I was one of them. Thank you, Tony. Heaven bound.
As a Boomer growing up during it's 8 year run or so, this was my favorite show, and I had to see every episode I could. I'm 70 and it just tears my heart up when I hear the opening theme......what precious and beautiful memories given to us by this cast of writers and actors...Tony you are taken care of in heaven for sure! God Bless for all the great memories....in Jesus's name Bruce Towell
I still look for where it might be streaming. It was a part of our childhood and the memories it brings out are cherished. RIP Tony Dow.
Same here-70 too. I think it came on Thursday evenings and was a great start to the weekend
@Bruce Towell I understand your sentiments. Btw, you have the same last name as my late mother in law.
@@toniscott1029 Thanks for your comments:-) Where did she grow up? Haven't met that many at all, I know there is an auto dealership in Akron , Ohio owned by Dave Towell, (no relation) ..and I believe there was a Catholic Priest many years ago in Northern Ohio with this name as well.
@@brucetowell3432 she grew up in Syracuse, NY
May you Rest In Peace, Tony.
Just a lovely couple and story...
I had an older brother that I lost suddenly in 2015, but Tony/Wally was sort of like my OTHER older brother. The nicer, kinder one! My older brother and I became the absolute best of friends as adults. It was a huge, immeasurable loss. It's sort of comforting watching this interview. Thanks, Tony.
I was born in 1967, and I loved that show. It still holds up, even today. I'm glad he's making art and working through depression--that's a tough one to beat.
glad to see he's doing well
What a great guy!! May he rest in peace. I was born in 1963 and had two older sisters that loved Tony Dow, they convinced my parents to name me Tony, after Tony Dow.
I have always liked the name Tony and for a good reason. Have a great day. Tony R
REST IN PEACE TONY DOW,,,, I WATCHED SINCE I WAS KID , I DIDN'T GO SCHOOL MUCH CAUSE OF SICKNESS.. YOU STILL GIVE US COMFORT WHEN I AM SICK.. TY YOU FOR STILL BEING THERE
Neat guy. A real sweetie. Thanks for your contributions TD and may you rest in peace. A clear reminder that "nobody has it easy", but self-care is the secret to success.
Best show on TV at that time, just love it,, so real, mis the old days, just glad I was there,at the time, God Bless you all,
Wally was the best-dressed character ever. I had a crush on him just because he was always meticulously dressed. Always wore a belt. Never slouchy never ever. May Mr. Dow rest in peace. He made Wally look good.
Edit: I think I was 12. I was like wow. He is so handsome and neat! Hahaha That is how to do it!
He was a real class act ... they don't make 'em like Tony anymore. We all love ya Tony! RIP
RIP Tony. Your art looks interesting and your take on life was spot on. I'm glad you filled your final years with the joy of being an artist. ✌ and ❤
I’m glad that he decided that he should be appreciative of his character as Wally! That’s something a lot of people would have loved. It brought him lots of fame lots of money and lots of reward.
Love this guy,RIP brother.
Rip Tony Dow, thanks for the hours of enjoyment watching your show 👏❤️
I still watch this program each morning on MeTV! Rest easy Wally!
What an extraordinary Man ❤️🙏. RIP Tony Dow ❤️
Rest In Peace Tony, and Ty.. "Thank You" for the best of Memories. I'd like to think that you're Not only with your own loved ones right now but also having a reunion with Eddie and Larry too.. ♥️ 🙏
I had a mean crush on Tony even to this day at 63years old,I still watch the show here in Houston,station 51.Tony’s wife is blessed to share a life with him.💖❤️🌹
Hi Glenda 👋 I hope my comment didn't sound as a form of privacy invasion your comment tells of a wonderful woman with a beautiful heart which led me to comment I don't normally write in the comment section but I think you deserve this complement. If you don’t mind can we be friends? Thanks God bless you….
Yep, for me, him and Mark McCain.
That is cool they have been together for over 4 decades! He has a son from his first marriage.
Had a crush on him. Still have, and even more now that I know of his struggles. Like so many of us his life took him in a direction he didn’t control. So much love.
We can never afford to lose legendary tv actors. They’ll never be replaced no matter how hard writers and directors try. RIP Wally ♥️
We've been losing them for decades and decades.
I'm glad that tony was able to live a happy life I had know idea that he had cancer he will be missed
A mythical representation of a middle class family in the 60s? Pretty accurate actually!
All that history aside, his artwork is truly impressive and rightly stand on its own merit. Well done T. Dow! Thank you for sharing it with all of us.
I grew up with that show. It’s like a part of my life spent watching The Beav is ingrained in me. RIP Tony 😔
My dad was a kid when this show aired and I remember watching it with him when I was a kid. Then when my Son was born in the early 2000s we would watch it together. Rest In Peace Tony
RIP Tony. You were and always will be, the ultimate big brother.
This is a great story. CBS Sunday Morning is the best show for seeing something to learn about life, then the next minute you see something that lets you enjoy life. Now that Tony has left us, this story they did a year ago has twice the impact...Thank you.
Tony Dow. A good man. Keep smiling and thanks for your gifts. Your dog has nice hair!
STILL WATCH IT THOSE PIECES HE MADE LOOK WONDERFUL REST IN PEACE MY PRAYERS ARE WITH HIS FRIENDS AND FAMILY
A part of my life, Tony, thank you.^
I watch this great iconic show almost daily. That’s when things were a lot simpler. Wally…RIP
He was such a hottie!! Rip
R.I.P. Tony Dow you gave us a lot Wally!!!!
Rest peacefully, Tony Dow. ♥️
Yes, What a Guy, that Tony Dow! I never thought he would be depressed, like me, but there we go!
I was born 6 yrs after the show started and not sure when they wrapped it up! But like they said, it has never gone off the air since it's creation!!! Rest in Peace Big Brother!
You will be remembered for more than being Wally rest in peace my friend.
I’m glad he survived. A lot of child actors didn’t
41 years of marriage. Huzzah!!
I loved this interview.
We lost a treasure when Tony passed. He was an all-American guy who will forever live in our memories and hearts. RIP Tony.
Peace blessings and love to the family. Heartfelt condolences 🙏
R.I.P Tony :(
Rest in peace Tony Dow 🙏 I watch this show on METV and love ❤️ it. I wish we had good TV like this today.
as an only child about the same age as the Beave I'd watch this show and thought I wish I had Wally as a real life brother and this certainly didn't change that feeling one bit
Wish my older brother was a little more like Wally! RIP Tony.
Leave it to a progressive narrator to call it a "mythical version" of life. It was REAL LIFE for MUCH of America. The only reason it didn't work for Tony Dow is because he was NOT in the reality he was portraying. The rest of America WAS.
A great man!!
I'm so glad they got this interview just in time! They captured Tony and his dear wife, Lauren, so beautifully!
Rest in peace Wally.
You lived an influential life. Thank you for sharing your gifts, both unconsciously and later, more consciously. You have been a blessing to us all.
Loved him in reruns in the late 60’s and still think the energy he radiated was beyond the lines he read. The world lost a great one. 😔
RIP Tony 🙏
Rest in peace .. Wally....You will always be cherished !
What a very nice and beautiful wife! She seems so caring!
Gee Wally , we are sure going to miss you . RIP Mr.Dow and Thank You for all of the wonderful Childhood memories .
Forgot all about this show, and it's the first time I've seen this guy in color.
Tony Dow is a true artist in many ways. We’re big fans. Thank you for this impactful interview!