05/17/2025
Another memorable story about John Wayne takes place during the filming of "True Grit," the 1969 film for which he won his only Academy Award for Best Actor.
In one scene, Wayne's character, Rooster Cogburn, had to ride his horse across a river while carrying his co-star, Kim Darby. The water was freezing cold, and the current was strong, making the scene challenging and potentially dangerous.
As they prepared for the scene, Kim Darby expressed her nervousness to Wayne. She was worried about falling into the river and being swept away by the current. Wayne, sensing her anxiety, reassured her with his trademark calm and confidence.
"Don't you worry, little lady," Wayne said with a smile. "I've got you. Just hold on tight, and we'll get through this together."
When the cameras rolled, Wayne took the reins and guided his horse into the river. Despite the frigid water and strong current, he remained steady and focused, ensuring that Darby felt safe and secure throughout the scene. His reassuring presence and firm grip helped her overcome her fear, and they successfully completed the shot in one take.
After they made it across the river, Wayne looked at Darby and said, "See? Nothing to it. You did great." His words of encouragement and his protective nature left a lasting impression on Darby and the entire crew.
This incident highlighted John Wayne's professionalism and his willingness to go the extra mile to support his co-stars. It also demonstrated his natural leadership and ability to inspire confidence in those around him, both on and off the set. Wayne's dedication to his craft and his colleagues was just one of the many reasons he was beloved by so many in the industry and by fans worldwide - John Wayne
