The Tab Hunter Show - VintageFilmChannel

“The Tab Hunter Show” was a light-hearted sitcom that explored the humorous and romantic aspects of Paul Morgan’s life. The character actors, including Richard Erdman as Smitty, Jerome Cowan as Mr. Thackery, Reta Shaw as Martha, and Nancy Hadley as Sylvia, played significant roles in creating the show’s comedic dynamics and contributed to its overall appeal. While the series ran for only one season, it remains a notable part of Tab Hunter’s career in television.

“The Tab Hunter Show” was a television series that aired from 1960 to 1961. The show revolved around the life of its titular character, Tab Hunter, who played a bachelor cartoonist named Paul Morgan. Here are some key details about the show and the character actors involved:

Tab Hunter as Paul Morgan:
- Tab Hunter portrayed Paul Morgan, the central character of the show.
- Paul Morgan was a successful cartoonist and a bachelor who found himself in various humorous and romantic situations.
- The character was charming, good-natured, and often found himself navigating the complexities of love and life.
Richard Erdman as Smitty:
- Richard Erdman played the role of Smitty, Paul Morgan’s best friend and confidant.
- Smitty was often the voice of reason and provided comic relief in the series.
- He was a loyal friend who offered advice and support to Paul in his romantic escapades.
Jerome Cowan as Mr. Thackery:
- Jerome Cowan portrayed Mr. Thackery, Paul Morgan’s gruff and no-nonsense boss at the newspaper where Paul worked as a cartoonist.
- Mr. Thackery added a dose of workplace humor to the show, often giving Paul a hard time.
Reta Shaw as Martha:
- Reta Shaw played the role of Martha, Paul Morgan’s housekeeper.
- Martha’s character added a domestic element to the series and occasionally provided comedic interactions with Paul.
Nancy Hadley as Sylvia:
- Nancy Hadley played Sylvia, a recurring character on the show.
- Sylvia was one of Paul’s love interests, and her appearances added romantic intrigue to the series.

Title: Tab Hunter: A Hollywood Heartthrob’s Remarkable Career

Introduction: Tab Hunter, born Arthur Andrew Kelm on July 11, 1931, was an American actor, singer, and heartthrob who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. With his striking looks, charm, and versatile talent, Hunter enjoyed a career that spanned several decades, leaving a lasting legacy in both film and television. In this article, we will delve into the key milestones of Tab Hunter’s career, highlighting some of his most notable movies and television shows.

Early Life and Beginnings: Tab Hunter’s journey to stardom began in his teenage years when he worked as a figure skater and later as a professional horseman. However, it was his good looks and acting talent that eventually caught the eye of Hollywood scouts. He signed his first contract with Warner Bros. in the early 1950s, leading to a transformational period in his life.

Key Movies:

“Battle Cry” (1955): One of Tab Hunter’s breakthrough roles came in the World War II drama “Battle Cry.” Directed by Raoul Walsh, the film featured Hunter as a Marine who navigates the challenges of love and war. His portrayal of Pvt. Danny Forrester received critical acclaim and cemented his status as a rising star in Hollywood.
“Damn Yankees!” (1958): In this musical comedy, Hunter played the role of Joe Hardy, a middle-aged baseball fan who makes a pact with the devil to become a young and talented player. Hunter’s singing and dancing abilities shone through in this film, and it showcased his versatility as an entertainer.
“The Burning Hills” (1956): In this Western drama, Tab Hunter starred alongside Natalie Wood. The film followed the story of a young cowboy who sets out to avenge the murder of his best friend. His on-screen chemistry with Wood made this film a memorable entry in his filmography.
“Polyester” (1981): Hunter’s career went through a revival in the late 1970s and early 1980s when he collaborated with director John Waters on the cult classic “Polyester.” In this quirky comedy, he played Todd Tomorrow, a handsome and morally ambiguous suitor. The film was a departure from his earlier work and showcased his willingness to embrace unconventional roles.

Key Television Shows:

“The Tab Hunter Show” (1960-1961): Capitalizing on his popularity as a teen heartthrob, Hunter starred in his own television series, “The Tab Hunter Show.” He portrayed a bachelor cartoonist trying to navigate the complexities of love and life. Although the show only ran for one season, it further solidified his status as a beloved entertainer.
“The Love Boat” (1979-1986): Hunter made guest appearances on several episodes of the popular TV series “The Love Boat.” His roles varied from a retired movie star to a love-struck passenger, and these appearances endeared him to a new generation of viewers.

Conclusion: Tab Hunter’s career was marked by its longevity and adaptability. From his early days as a Hollywood heartthrob to his later roles in unconventional projects, he remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. His key movies, such as “Battle Cry,” “Damn Yankees!,” “The Burning Hills,” and “Polyester,” showcased his talent and range as an actor. Meanwhile, his presence on television, including “The Tab Hunter Show” and “The Love Boat,” allowed him to connect with audiences on a more personal level. Tab Hunter’s contributions to the world of entertainment are a testament to his enduring appeal and talent, making him a beloved figure in the annals of Hollywood history.