Nick Nolte didn’t disappoint his many fans present. I didn’t know what to expect. He has always been a “Rebel” as an actor and basically a “crazy man”. That’s what’s so interesting about him. He does his own thing. I went last night to see for myself.
Coyote asked Nick to talk about different areas in his life, mentioning sections of REBEL. He spoke of having a “giant of a man”, who was 6′ 6″ tall, as a father. His mom was professor type in Ames, Iowa where he grew up. Football was his game, but when he was introduced to acting, it was something that he just had to do!
He recounted first meeting her at her Manhattan, New York apartment. That was before he was cast at Tom Wingo from the wonderful Pat Conroy novel. He said Barbra offered him some red wine, but was a bit nervous about Nolte possibly spilling it on her ALL white carpet. That of course, got a big chuckle from the packed room at the book store. More questions came his way and each was answered indirectly with many tangents and lots of work details. For a man of 76, he has a strong recollection of details and the work.
There was very little spoken about his personal life, except for his early years and his accepting parents. As I waited in line to get my copy of his book signed, I ran into two other Barbra Streisand fans who were happy that I asked about The Prince of Tides. Nick signed my book and I told him I was looking forward to reading it. He said, “I haven’t read it yet, either” in his raspy, deep voice. (He worked over seven years with various ghost writers, finally settling on a woman who wrote in his “voice” and he is happy with the end product.)
Add another book and autograph to my collection. It’s always fun to see people you’ve enjoyed on the big and little screen in person and hear their stories. As I shuffled through the photo section of the book, I recall just how handsome Nick Nolte was when he did “Rich Man, Poor Man”, one of the first Mini-Series on TV from back in the 1970’s. He may have changed in appearance over time, but inside he is still a dedicated actor who cares about his work and has put many demons behind him.
Martha
How exciting that must have been. The book and autograph is extra special I’m sure!
Mike Wingo
Great post !!! I love Little bookstores!!!!! I am about to visit Argentina where I hear they lead in most bookstores per capita In Buenos Aires!!!!! Great Pix!!!
Doug
Hi Anne,
That must have been a real thrill. What other famous book authors have you met?