You read such goofy stories about film and television actors. OK, some horrifying ones, too. You seldom read about the people who are decent human beings, who raise their families quietly, do good works and generally would be role models if more people knew about them. One of those fine people has died. Effrem Zimbalist Jr. was 95. For those with short memories, he was the star of 77 Sunset Strip and The F.B.I. Story, must-see shows in my youth. His father was the legendary violinist Effrem Zimbalist; his daughter, Stephanie, was the star of Remington Steele. I flew out to California to interview him. I expected to meet him in some dingy office at the studio, or, if I was lucky, his trailer. Instead, he said Come out to the house and meant it. Pat and I were treated to a lovely dinner, drinks and then a walk in his garden, where, between answering questions, he pointed out various flowers, explaining why he loved them. Visually, he was every inch the movie star; in reality, he was a gracious, beautiful soul who bore his fame well. He was not vain, he spent more time talking about his children (besides Stephanie, there was Effrem III) and his wife, all of whom he clearly loved. He laughed a lot, smiled even more. I left his house knowing that I had met an exceptional man. His passing saddens me; I pray for his family and friends. But I rejoice in the knowledge that, where ever he walked, flowers of happiness and love bloomed in his wake.
Posted on: Sat, 03 May 2014 08:40:36 +0000
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