'The High Chaparral': 11 Interesting Facts

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Leif Erickson, Henry Darrow, Cameron Mitchell, Mark Slade & Linda Cristal Characters: Big John Cannon,Manolito Montoya,B

The High Chaparral cast

'The High Chaparral' combined elements of classic TV Westerns and the grittier style of Revisionist Western films. Over four seasons, the show boasted a diverse cast with prominent Latino and Latina actors, including two lead roles. Discover fascinating facts about 'The High Chaparral' in this gallery.

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Mark Slade

Mark Slade recorded a country album- Mark Slade, who played "Billy Blue Cannon", captured the hearts of viewers with his charming looks. Given his popularity, he was offered a chance to venture into music like many idols of that time. In 1969, he released the country album 'Mark Slade's New Hat,' featuring light-hearted tunes like "Skip a Rope." The album had a fitting blue cover, a smart marketing move to appeal to his fans.

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Mark Slade

Mark Slade, known as "the oldest teenager on television," not only captured hearts as "Billy Blue Cannon" but also revealed his artistic talents. He showcased his cartooning skills in the magazine 'Outasite', drawing Blue Boy and the Monkees. Later, he teamed up with Danny Arnold to create the comic strip 'Howard and Friends.'

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Bob Hoy

Bob Hoy's legacy extended beyond his acting career as he was a legendary stuntman, having worked as a double for renowned actors like Tony Curtis, Charles Bronson, Tyrone Power, David Janssen, and Telly Savalas. With over 60 films and 75 television shows to his credit, his role as ranch hand Joe Butler on 'The High Chaparral' held special significance. Additionally, Hoy showcased his skills behind the camera, serving as a second-unit director on 'Zorro'.

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The High Chaparral

It was filmed in scorching Arizona, often enduring 100-degree heat, 'The High Chaparral' showcased the authentic chaparral landscape, not just a Hollywood backlot. Exterior scenes were shot in Old Tucson and Saguaro National Park, making summers challenging with temperatures regularly soaring into the triple digits.

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Linda Cristal

Linda Cristal had taken a step back from acting to focus on raising her two sons before accepting her role in 'The High Chaparral': Born as Marta Victoria Moya Burges in Argentina, she occasionally appeared in bit roles during her time away from the spotlight. In 1964, she made an appearance in the episode 'The City Beneath the Sea' on 'Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea', alongside co-star Mark Slade, who would later join her in 'The High Chaparral'. The compelling character of "Victoria Montoya" enticed her to return to full-time work in the series.

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Cameron Mitchell

Despite the scorching heat, Cameron Mitchell, who played "Buck Cannon", found a way to stay cool on set. Wearing all black might have seemed impractical, but he made it work. Mitchell would cleverly cool off by climbing into water troughs between takes, using his dark clothing to hide any dampness on camera.

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THE HIGH CHAPARRAL, from left: Cameron Mitchell, Leif Erickson, Mark Slade, Roberto Contreras, Henry Darrow, 1967, 1967-

The High Chaparral cast

David Dortort, the creator of 'Bonanza', shifted his focus to 'The High Chaparral' after its inception in 1959. He entrusted the later seasons of Bonanza to his team, dedicating himself to The High Chaparral's success.

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THE HIGH CHAPARRAL, on horses, from left: Henry Darrow, Mark Slade, Leif Erickson, Cameron Mitchell, 1967, 1967-1971. ph

The High Chaparral cast

In southern Sweden, 'The High Chaparral' Theme Park has been delighting families since 1966, making it older than the TV show. This family vacation spot offers an immersive Old West experience and impressive cosplay, proving that even the Swedes have a fondness for cowboy adventures.

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Henry Darrow

Henry Darrow had changed his name, which almost cost him his part- Henry Darrow faced a critical moment in his career when he decided to change his name from Henry Delgado to Darrow to avoid being typecast as a Mexican actor. This decision almost cost him the cherished role of "Manolito Montoya" on The High Chaparral. Fortunately, he was located just in time, weeks before filming began, saving the role from going to another actor. The show's creator, David Dortort, had specifically envisioned "Manolito" for Darrow after seeing him in a play called The Wonderful Ice-Cream Suit.

'The High Chaparral', often overlooked in Western TV shows, captivated audiences with its stunning desert landscapes, captivating storylines, and a talented cast.

'The High Chaparral': 11 facts about the western series

'The High Chaparral' was a TV show that blended the classic Western style of the 1950s with the more realistic approach of later Western films. It ran for four seasons and featured a diverse cast with many Latino and Latina actors. Now, let's explore some lesser-known facts about The High Chaparral.