Richard Nixon, the 37th President of the United States, was a well-known fan of the popular television show “Barnaby Jones.” The show, which aired from 1973 to 1980, starred Buddy Ebsen as the titular character, a retired private investigator who uses his skills to solve crimes and bring criminals to justice.
Nixon’s love for “Barnaby Jones” is said to have stemmed from his admiration for Ebsen, whom he had met during a campaign stop in 1968. The two struck up a friendship, and Nixon even invited Ebsen to the White House to perform a song-and-dance routine.
Despite the controversy surrounding Nixon’s presidency and subsequent resignation, his love for “Barnaby Jones” remained a source of joy for him. In fact, it is said that he would often call Ebsen after each episode to discuss the plot and offer his congratulations on a job well done.
For Ebsen, the relationship with Nixon was a complicated one. While he appreciated the President’s support for the show, he also disagreed with many of Nixon’s policies and actions. In his autobiography, Ebsen wrote that he “detested” Nixon’s politics and described their relationship as “a strange, two-faced friendship.”
Despite the complexities of their relationship, the admiration between Nixon and Ebsen was genuine. In a letter to Ebsen in 1974, Nixon wrote, “I appreciate the many fine performances you have given on the screen, and I hope that ‘Barnaby Jones’ continues to be a great success.”
As for “Barnaby Jones” itself, the show was a popular and critically acclaimed hit during its run. Ebsen’s portrayal of the title character was praised for its charm and wit, and the show’s mix of lighthearted humor and intense drama kept audiences engaged week after week.
In conclusion, the relationship between Richard Nixon and Buddy Ebsen is a fascinating and complex one. While their political beliefs may have been at odds, their mutual admiration for each other is a testament to the power of art and entertainment to bring people together. And while “Barnaby Jones” may be a product of its time, its enduring popularity and timeless appeal continue to captivate audiences today.
“Barnaby Jones” was a popular American television show that aired from 1973 to 1980. The show starred Buddy Ebsen as the titular character, a retired private investigator who uses his skills to solve crimes and bring criminals to justice. The show was created by the same team behind “The Fugitive,” and it shared a similar format of a crime-solving protagonist chasing after wrongdoers.
The show was praised for its mix of lighthearted humor and intense drama. Ebsen’s portrayal of Barnaby Jones was charming and witty, and the show’s clever writing and intriguing plotlines kept viewers engaged week after week.
Throughout its run, the show garnered critical acclaim and was a ratings hit. It was nominated for multiple Emmy Awards, with Ebsen winning for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series in 1979. The show also spawned a spin-off series called “The Duke,” which aired in 1979.
Despite its success, “Barnaby Jones” ultimately came to an end after seven seasons in 1980. However, its enduring popularity has kept it in the public eye, and the show remains a beloved classic of American television.
