Say Goodnight to THE WALTONS Home...

The end of an era has come. Recently I read an on-line article, which stated producers from the TNT network believe "little remember" the long running television drama series "The Waltons". Therefore, in order for them to proceed to what they deem as progress, "The Waltons" home, where interior shots were filmed for the series on a Warner Brothers Studios stage in Burbank, California, has been destroyed, so they can make room for, and I quote: "for buzzy, edgy fare". In a nutshell, that is essentially more thrillers and crime dramas.

The Waltons Home - Exterior
image: DVDtalk

According to the article, the new boss at TNT, Kevin Reilly wants to re-make the network over with a new vision, in the course of the next three years.

This particular paragraph about "The Waltons", in the article, jumped out at me and I must say, offended me, my family, and millions of TV viewers, past and present:

"Such comfort food was fine in an era of passive television viewing, when there were relatively few choices. "The Waltons" didn't have much competition. But it's also, in Reilly's view, little remembered. People actively choose what shows to watch now, and they need some flash and critical attention." (excerpt from article: "New Management Maps a Radically Changed TBS and TNT")

image via: theopulentpoppy.blogspot.com

"Comfort food?" Yes! "The Waltons" are Americana as apple pie. Sadly, this is reflection of the times in which we live, as the family unit is being torn down. The Waltons were and still are a comfortable place to visit for an hour. They are family and always make you feel at home. A moral teaching was often given in each episode that taught us right from wrong. Love was not thrown away like trash, as it is in most television programs today, but was respected and cherished. Set in the Great Depression era, "The Waltons" series is also a great historical teacher, as it depicts the hardships of that time.

Since many first welcomed "The Waltons" in their homes in 1972, and as it continued to Season 9 in 1981, and then later on with reunion movies, re-uniting specials, etc... the show has continued on since those days in re-runs. And, still today, it remains on TV! With all the entertainment choices available, numerous channels at our very fingertips... many still happily, purposefully choose to watch this beloved series, whether it is through re-runs, streaming sources, or DVD. Why? Because we love the lasting truth of family values, hard work, togetherness, faith, heartwarming stories, and lessons learned during good and bad times.

Looking back now, I am proud I grew up watching the re-runs of this beautiful series, and I pray many children and families will again do so today. The stories and the family feel like they are a part of me. It's a world where cell phones and hand held gadgets don't exist. Is it peaceful? Yes. Perfect? No. It's real. Emotional. Tough. Hard times can test and try anyone's faith, but in the end coming together as a family at the dinner table is such a beautiful moment for the Walton family, when everyone joins hands and bows their head in prayer, as Daddy or Grandpa, typically says grace.

image via: allaboutthewaltons.com

No matter what Hollywood creates or destroys today, in the name of progress, "The Waltons" iconic home will forever live in the hearts of all Walton fans as a place of love and beauty, a treasured home-place, where everyone jumps up to greet you and welcome you home with a warm embrace, where Momma and Daddy tuck you in at night, where you feel safe and loved, and where everyone takes a turn to say "Goodnight".

Do you still remember or watch "The Waltons"? I certainly hope and pray many families will continue to gather around the TV and watch this beloved, heartwarming series together. I know I think of it fondly and in spite of all the options out there, I still choose and always love to catch a favorite episode in re-run.

The Waltons continues to air today in re-runs on the INSP network, weekdays at 3pm/2c., 4pm/3c. and 7pm/6c. Thank you INSP for carrying this beautiful series on your network for all of us to continue to enjoy watching with our families today and hopefully for many years to come!

You can find all Nine Seasons of DVDs of "The Waltons" at Amazon plus the Reunion Movies!

If you have a special memory of "The Waltons" or would like to share your thoughts on this article or "The Waltons" home - please share in the comments below...

Please read the comments below for details on a Waltons Reunion and how to get The Waltons back on the Hallmark Channel.

Would you like a Walton Christmas Movie? Click Here!

"When Calls the Heart" Episode 7: Second Chances ... Plus a Special T.V. Tribute and the Next Hallmark Series!

Hallmark Channel's "When Calls the Heart"

 

Episode 7: "Second Chances"

Abigail decides to re-open an abandoned cafe but must strike a risky deal with harsh businessman Henry Gowen. Elizabeth and Jack misunderstand each other after Elizabeth's brief romance with a miner, leading them to start facing their feelings for each other.

Here's a Video Clip:
  See this all new episode of "When Calls the Heart" February 22nd, Saturday Night at 9 PM est and a re-peat airing - Sunday Night at 10 PM est.  

  Also on Saturday, February 22, 2014, The Hallmark Channel will give a special day of Movie Tributes to Ralph Waite, who portrayed John Walton on the T.V. drama series, The Waltons. "A Decade of The Waltons" will air at 1 PM, A Walton Wedding at 3 PM, A Wedding on Walton's Mountain at 5 PM, and Mother's Day on Walton's Mountain at 7 PM.    

    

On Sunday night, February 23rd, on the Hallmark Channel, be sure to catch Eric Mabius and Kristin Booth in the Mystery Movie: "Signed, Sealed, Delivered". It is the next Hallmark Channel Movie - to become a T.V. drama series! Coming in April, 2014!

 

 

 

Have a Wonderful Weekend, Everyone!

Love is in the air this Weekend on the Hallmark Channel, UP, and INSP!

An all New episode of "When Calls the Heart" premieres this weekend on the Hallmark Channel.

"When Calls the Heart"

First, on Saturday, get swept away in a Movie Marathon, on the Hallmark Channel, of the Love Comes Softly series.

Love Finds a Home ... 1 PM
Love Begins ... 3 PM
Love's Everlasting Courage ... 5 PM
Love Comes Softly ... 7 PM
Love's Enduring Promise ... Hallmark Channel ... 10 PM

Near the end of the "Love Comes Softly" Marathon, you can see the all new episode of "When Calls the Heart" at 9 PM, titled "These Games". Repeat air times on Sunday!

In this episode of "When Calls the Heart": The Miners' Games allow the townspeople to cut loose and have a little fun. The towns teacher Elizabeth Thatcher and newcomer Billy Hamilton spend more time together. Jack, in the meantime, investigates a series of robberies that are plaguing Coal Valley.

Romantic Comedy Movies will continue all day Sunday on the Hallmark Channel, including their newest Movie, Chance at Romance... plus a repeat airing of "When Calls the Heart"!

INSP will have a *Special Valentines Marathon of "Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman" ~ "Dr. Quinn in Love" on Sunday, February 16th. And then at 6 PM, INSP will have a lovely TV Tribute to Ralph Waite, who portrayed John Walton, on "The Waltons" TV Series.

The UP Network will have 2 Special airings of The Waltons Reunion Movies on Sunday, which are nice love stories, and tributes to "John Walton", Ralph Waite. A Wedding on Waltons Mountain, which takes place on Valentines Day, airs at 9 AM and A Walton Wedding airs at 11 AM.

Have a Lovely Weekend, Everyone!

Stay Safe and Warm... and Cherish Time Spent

with dear Family and Friends!

 

Blessings to You All!
Net

Remembering Ralph Waite - "Goodnight John"

I am sad to share with you all... actor Ralph Waite, the patriarch of 1970's Drama Series, The Waltons, who portrayed Daddy, John Walton, has passed away.

*TV Tributes to Ralph Waite added below.

 

Ralph Waite was born on June 22, 1928 and passed away

on February 13, 2014, at the age of 85.

I saw the news on-line and new it to be sadly true when I saw it confirmed by members of the "Walton family".

Here are some quotes, I have found, from "The Waltons":

Earl Hamner (creator of The Waltons series):

"I have just learned that we have lost Ralph Waite. This sudden news is shocking and heartbreaking. Ralph’s portrayal of my father on “The Waltons” was so true, so genuine and so close to the real man that it is like losing my father all over again. Actors have great gifts to give and his gift to me was an image of my father that I will cherish always. Thank you, Ralph and Good Night."

 

Eric Scott (Ben):

"Sad news to share. .. Ralph Waite passed away today. I will miss my other daddy. Good night Ralph."

 

Jon Walmsley (Jason): 

"The Waltons cast were all together for a lovely evening at Michael Learned's house in November. It was great for all of us to reconnect. Before Ralph left the party, he asked each of us what we were up to and if we were happy. I don't know if he knew this would be the last time we would see each other but I'm so glad we had the chance to spend this time together. R.I.P. Ralph Waite. ;( "

Judy Norton (Mary Ellen):

"There are no words to express the loss of Ralph Waite. My friend, my co-worker, my "Daddy". You will forever live on in my heart and in the lives of all you have touched over your lifetime. We are lucky to have known you. R.I.P - good night."

Mary McDonough (Erin):

"Missing my "Daddy." Such a good man, so talented and so funny.

Goodnight sweet Ralph."

 

 

Ralph Waite's character of John Walton is still so well known today and I think that it is because he was such a strong male role model and father figure. John Walton was a man who worked hard to make a living with wood, tools, and his hands.... and yet, he was a tender man who loved his wife, his children, his parents, and his neighbors.
 

 

Besides "The Waltons", you might also know Ralph Waite from "Cool Hand Luke", "Bonanza", "Roots", "Murder, She Wrote", "CSI : Crime Scene Investigation", "NCIS", "Letters to God", "25 Hill", Hallmark Movies: Murder 101: If Wishes were Horses, Generation Gap, and many more series, movies, and Television Appearances, including a recent "short" production on INSP, starring Ralph Waite, titled "Old Henry".

 

It is sad to say goodbye to one of the Walton family. So many of us have grown up watching them with our families... they feel so much like our extended family!

Our prayers go out to Ralph's family, the Walton family, and his friends.

 

Goodnight Ralph Waite / John Walton.

There will always be a place for you at the "Walton" table.

 

TV Tributes to Ralph Waite:

 

INSP:

Sunday, February 16, 2014 at 6 PM

"The Waltons Reunion Special" 

a special episode of "The Waltons"

and "Old Henry".

 

UP:

Sunday, February 16, 2014:

"A Wedding on Walton's Mountain" at 9 AM

"A Walton Wedding" at 11 AM

and

Thursday, February 2Oth:

Two Special "Pa" Episodes of "The Waltons" at 8 PM

 

Hallmark Channel:

Saturday, February 22, 2014 

The Waltons Reunion Movie Marathon 1 PM - 9 PM

 

 

"Old Henry" returns to INSP

Ralph Waite (John, from "The Waltons)

stars in the series "Old Henry" on INSP.

This time around... instead of individual commercial-like segments, it will be a 30 minute special.


Details excerpted from INSP press release:
--------------------------------------------------------

Ralph Waite Stars in Original INSP Drama, “Old Henry”

30-minute special set to air on Thursday, October 24th at 7PM

An INSP original, Old Henry was initially produced as a series of six short-form programs airing as interstitials. The 30-minute version incorporates the entire series along with never before seen footage and exclusive interviews.

Rising star Rachel Hendrix plays Henry’s co-star, Jessica. Hendrix garnered national acclaim for her inaugural leading role in the 2011 award-wining film, October Baby.

Plot description:
Henry (Ralph Waite, The Waltons) is a man in his 80s dealing with the challenges of aging in a society that has moved on without him. When he makes a new friend in Jessica (Rachel Hendrix, October Baby), a woman in her 20s who shows him a respect and honor absent from the world around him, Henry finds a new perspective on life, and in turn becomes an inspiration to Jessica.

------(end of excerpted details from Melissa Prince, INSP)---------

*To learn more, visit www.insp.com.

"Old Henry" series stars America's Favorite TV Father

One of America's All-time Favorite TV Fathers... Legendary Actor Ralph Waite, who portrayed the role of the father John Walton in the Television Series, The Waltons, will now star in this short series, titled "Old Henry", on INSP.

Here are the Press Details I received directly from INSP:

Old Henry, a six-part scripted series, is part of INSP’s “Moments” campaign starring
Ralph Waite (The Waltons) and Rachel Hendrix (October Baby)

Indian Land, SC – A six-part short-form series, Old Henry, created by family entertainment network INSP, will premiere on INSP on Monday, June 17th and Tuesday, June 18th. The announcement was issued today by David Cerullo, Chairman and CEO of The Inspiration Networks.

“As an extended storyline in INSP’s Moments initiative, Old Henry is groundbreaking,” said Cerullo. “To our knowledge, no network has ever created a multi-part, 2-3 minute (per episode) series that airs in back-to-back prime time blocks over a two night period. Not only is the delivery method revolutionary; the subject matter is relevant and poignant.”

Old Henry spotlights the pervasive devaluation and dismissal of the elderly within society and focuses on Henry, a man in his 80s dealing with these challenges. When Jessica (October Baby’s Rachel Hendrix), a friendly stranger, shows him the respect and honor absent from the world around him, Henry begins to rediscover the true value inherent within himself and, in turn, becomes an inspiring example to Jessica.

The production features famed actor, Ralph Waite, in the role of Henry.

“It particularly is appropriate that Ralph is featured as Henry,” Cerullo said. “He gained fame for portraying John Walton on the hit TV series, ‘The Waltons’ (which airs daily on INSP). Waite has earned the trust and respect of American audiences; traits needed to effectively communicate such an important and timely message.”

“The reason I wanted to play Henry was because of the script,” explained Waite. “It was warm and beautiful and told a story that needs to be told. It’s not easy to find a script that brings everything together in a way that respectfully deals with hard issues while at the same time entertaining an audience. This script does that. It only took me a few moments to decide that I wanted to be involved.”

Old Henry is part of INSP’s Moments intiative. “This short-form content has been hugely successful and had an enormous impact,” Cerullo said. “These ‘programs’ air several times a day throughout the INSP schedule and are designed to provide an inspiring and enlightening ‘Moment’ that encourages individuals to do the right thing. Similar to PSAs, this unique art form is richer and more detailed. And audiences love them.”

According to Cerullo, the Moments’ spot with the most impact to date has been Thank You For Your Service. “This has a strong message of support for veterans. The video has been honored and showcased by many veterans groups. It has resonated with those (past and present) who have served in the military, as well as the general public. I believe that Old Henry will resonate with American audiences in a similar way. Old Henry speaks to a different issue, but is sure to tug just as hard on the heart strings of all who see it.”

Old Henry will debut in six, two-to-three minute “episodes,” during breaks in the following prime time programs:


June 17th - Monday

Little House 8:19pm EDT - Old Henry Episode 1

The Waltons 9:16pm EDT - Old Henry Episode 2

Matlock 10:16pm EDT - Old Henry Episode 3


June 18th – Tuesday

Little House 8:18pm EDT - Old Henry Episode 4

The Waltons 9:15pm EDT - Old Henry Episode 5

Matlock 10:23pm EDT - Old Henry Episode 6


Missed episodes will be released online immediately following their television debut. The entire series will be available at www.moments.org after the airing of Episode 6 on June 18th. Following the series debut, Old Henry will be rotated throughout the INSP schedule, joining the Moments library.

INSP is available in more than 75 million households across the U.S. via cable systems, telcos and on Dish Network channel 269 and DirecTV channel 364. Viewers can check their local program guides for channel line-up information or visit www.insp.com.

See this Video Clip of Ralph Waite talking about "Old Henry":



    Thank you, Melissa, at INSP for sharing this news with me! I hope many of you will enjoy this series!

Letters to God - GMC Movie Premiere

MOVIE REVIEW



Letters to God

Network: GMC

Original Air Date: July 8, 2012

This Movie is Available on DVD.

*Please Note: This movie premiered in Theaters in 2010. This is it's first premiere on TV - Basic Cable.

CAST:

Robyn Lively ... Maddy Doherty
Jeffrey S.S. Johnson ... Brady McDaniels
Tanner Maguire ... Tyler Doherty
Michael Christopher Bolten ... Ben Doherty
Maree Cheatham ... Olivia
Ralph Waite ... Cornelius Perryfield
Bailee Madison ... Samantha Perryfield
Dennis Neal ... Lester Stevens
Cristian Cunningham ... Carl - Postal Supervisor
Christopher John Schmidt ... Walter Finley
Tom Nowicki ... Jack, the Bartender
Derek Leonidoff ... Pastor Andy
Danny Rawley ... High School Friend
Lyanna Tumaneng ... Linda Baker
Mandy Best ... Nurse Jamie Lynn
Avery Sommers ... Nurse Carol
Brendan Doughtie ... Justin McDaniels
Salem Murphy ... Dr. Rashaad
Carl Joseph Amari ... Alex Wheaton
Andrea Conte ... Miss Emily
Karley Scott Collins ... Ashley Turner
Brett Rice ... Bar Guy
Luke Shrader ... John
Brad Benedict ... Coach Dave
Wintley Phipps ... Give Kids the World Emcee
Erin Bethea ... Chemotherapy Nurse
Tyler Cravens ... Samatha's Dad
Whitney Goin ... Ex-Wife
Josué Gutierrez ... Referee
Matt Swanson ... Colt
Pam Landwirth ... Miss Pamela
Lee Dawson ... Joe, Letter Carrier
Carol Saragusa ... Cathy - Postal Clerk
McKay Ball ... Sally

PLOT:

Synopsis from: http://www.allmovieportal.com/m/2010_Letters_to_God.html

A heartfelt tale of inspiration, hope and redemption, “Letters to God” is the story of what happens when one boy’s walk of faith crosses paths with one man’s search for meaning—the resulting transformational journey touches the lives of everyone around them.

Tyler Doherty (TANNER MAGUIRE) is an extraordinary eight-year-old boy. Surrounded by a loving family and community, and armed with the courage of his faith, he faces his daily battle against cancer with bravery and grace. To Tyler, God is a friend, a teacher and the ultimate pen pal—Tyler’s prayers take the form of letters, which he composes and mails on a daily basis.

The letters find their way into the hands of Brady McDaniels (JEFFREY S.S. JOHNSON), a beleaguered postman standing at a crossroads in his life. At first, he is confused and conflicted over what to do with the letters. But the decision he ultimately makes becomes a testament to the quiet power of one boy’s shining spirit and unshakeable faith.

Inspired by a true story, “Letters to God” is an intimate, moving and often funny story about the galvanizing effect one child’s belief can have on his family, friends and community.


Promo Video:




*"Letters to God" is available on DVD.


Movie Review:

Coming...


See or Skip:

Coming...




---------------------
*Images via: Vivendi Entertainment.

Catch The Waltons “Cast Favorites” Special Marathon

Airs April 20th, 2012 on INSP from 6 PM - 1 AM

Video Promo:

25 Hill - Movie created to support the All-American Soap Box Derby

MOVIE REVIEW

25 Hill

Network: INSP

Original Air Date: July 22, 2012

*Note: This movie first premiered in an Akron, Ohio Theater on July 9th 2011. This will be the movie's first Cable TV Premiere.

ABOUT:

(from the 25 Hill official web-site)

After reading a September story in USA Today about the financial difficulties of the Akron-based All American Soap Box Derby, actor, director and producer Corbin Bernsen decided he could do something to save the nearly 75-year-old youth racing league – and keep it in Akron, Ohio. Despite a record number of racers (ages 8-17), the Derby has lost money three out of the past five years. It even risks foreclosure if it does not pay its lender the $623,000 it now owes.

The USA Today story inspired Bernsen to write a screenplay about an 12-year-old boy whose Derby dreams are threatened first when his father is killed fighting in Afghanistan and then when the Derby is shut down because of money troubles. The Derby is ultimately saved, but that heroic role has been left open --purposely -- to be filled by the real-life rescuers – the new title sponsor - who comes to the Derby’s aid.

CAST:

Nathan Gamble ... Trey Caldwell
Bailee Madison ... Kate Slater
Corbin Bernsen ... Roy
Ralph Waite ... Ed
Timothy Omundson ... Thomas Caldwell
Meg Foster ... Audrey
Maureen Flannigan ... Maggie Caldwell
Michael Tucker ... Bank Manager
Rolonda Watts ... Mrs. Banner
Brad Raider ... Derek Slater
Joe Zamora ... Bank Patron
Logan Fry ... Western Regionals Track Official
SueAnn Zavarelle ... Race Fan - Sacramento
Andrew Nelisse ... Team Slater 3
Scott Sherwood ... Team Slater 1

PLOT:

The family movie is about a boy, Trey Caldwell, played by actor Nathan Gamble of “Marley and Me,” who received a derby car kit from his dad for Christmas with the promise that they would build it together. However, his father, Timothy Omundson, known for his work in “Psych” and “Judging Amy,” is called up for duty in Afghanistan and is killed in action. The saddened Trey teams up with a past derby champ who is suffering his own hurt and together they build the car for the race. Eventually, after hearing the derby is in trouble, Trey sets out to go to Akron to help save the derby. It is a movie for the entire family to enjoy together.

Movie Review:

Amazing. Powerful. Real.

Corbin Bernsen has a way of creating these characters who are so real – I feel as if I know them.

A young boy, Trey Caldwell, with a dream to have a run in the Soap Box Derby – first loses his father who is a Soldier, then he becomes friends with a local firefighter, Roy – who teaches him all about Soap Box Derby racing. Roy actually had won the event himself when he was a boy. Since his own son’s death in the war, Roy has taken more to drinking and this constantly worries Trey. He is concerned about his new friend.

The boy in this film, Trey, (portrated by Nathan Gamble) was perfect! I instantly liked him and the way he spoke with such profoundness and confidence. He was great – He was... adorable in the way he laughed and emotionally powerful in the way he expressed his grief.

It was moving to see these two lives be brought together – one by the loss of a father and the other, the loss of a son. It was delightful to see Trey, a young boy, be so passionate about saving the derby – when the tradition was getting lost with children now, in todays fast-paced high-tech video world.

Win or lose – the greatest victory came in saving the derby and the relationships that were built along the way – including Roy & Trey's friendship with one another and deep faith in God.


See or Skip:

See! Very moving!


---------------------

Poll Results - Who is your Favorite TV / Movie Father?

Thank you to everyone who voted in this Poll.

Charles Ingalls was voted as Favorite TV Father, with John Walton, a close second, then Andy Taylor, third.

I love both Charles and John, so I'd definitely choose both of them. In fact, I must say... my own Father has often been compared to both of these characters - hard working and caring.

Here are the Complete Poll Results for Favorite TV / Movie Father:

Jim Anderson - Father Knows Best 27 (8%)

John Walton - The Waltons 95 (29%)

Charles Ingalls - Little House on the Prairie 101 (30%)

Ward Cleaver - Leave it to Beaver 19 (5%)

Henry Mitchell - Dennis the Menace 4 (1%)

Andy Taylor - The Andy Griffith Show 66 (20%)

Ozzie Nelson - Ozzie & Harriet 7 (2%)

George Bailey - It's a Wonderful Life 26 (7%)

Judge Hardy - Andy Hardy Movies 10 (3%)

Clarence Day - Life with Father 4 (1%)

Steve Martin - Father of the Bride / Cheaper by the Dozen 27 (8%)

Steve Douglas - My Three Sons 24 (7%)

Tim Taylor - Home Improvement 24 (7%)

Jason Seaver - Growing Pains 3 (0%)

Danny Williams - Make Room for Daddy 3 (0%)

Cliff Huxtible - The Cosby Show 61 (18%)

Rob Petrie - The Dick Van Dyke Show 10 (3%)

Tom Bradford - Eight is Enough 8 (2%)

Mike Brady - The Brady Bunch 12 (3%)

George Baxter - Hazel 3 (0%)

-- OTHER -- 12 (3%)


God bless all Fathers, who love and care for their children!

The Waltons Premiere Today on the Hallmark Channel + A Walton Easter News!

March 21, 2011:

Happy 2nd Day of Spring... a Time of New Beginnings!

Today, The Waltons finally return home to the Hallmark Channel...  at 3 PM!!! They will show two episodes every weekday! I'm hoping for an all day or weekend marathon in the future!

Until then, we can look forward to an all day marathon of The Waltons on April 3rd, on (GMC) the Gospel Music Channel. They will start airing shows at 11 AM that morning and they will last all throughout the day and into the night! A Walton Easter will be shown, as well, at 7 PM, and repeating at 9 PM! ( I was hoping for it!)

(Please Note: This blog is mostly about family films and TV movies; however, sometimes I must mention whenever there is news on any family shows or dramas, especially The Waltons, my absolute favorite!)


Season One - Opening Theme:




The Complete Series of The Waltons, is available on dvd, here:






"A Walton Easter" Intro Video:





A Walton Easter is available on DVD, along with 5 other Reunion Movies from The Waltons, here:





Enjoy Everybody!

And, Welcome back home,Walton Family, to the Hallmark Channel!