Let me tell you this Celeb Studded Panel scheduled in Fort Worth for the 50th Anniversary of the film Big Jake would be a once in a Life Time event for me and my husband to attend. Although, I wish my dad were here as well because he loved John Wayne and the movie Big Jack and seeing his sons in persons would be a memory my dad wouldn’t ever forget. Just as David’s dad wouldn’t.
The Stockyards in Fort Worth have always been an iconic destination, but on November 3, it’ll be even more so. Ethan and Patrick Wayne, sons of the legendary John Wayne, will join Chris Mitchum to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Western classic Big Jake, in which all three acted.
This great celeb event is open to the public, and tickets start at only $40.
When Big Jake premiered in 1971, this was one of the biggest hits of the year and the last film directed by the legendary George Sherman. For Ethan Wayne, son of the legendary actor John Wayne, the movie was more of a family affair. Ethan, then only 9 years old, played the Nephew of his real-life half-brother, Patrick Wayne, and grandson of his famed father John Wayne.
Big Jake shares the story of the McCandles family as they are ranching alongside the Texas-Mexico border. The dreaded Fain gang, led by actor Richard Boone, attacks the family ranch and kidnaps grandson “Little Jake” McCandles. Matriarch Martha McCandles (portrayed by Maureen O’Hara) sends for her estranged husband, “Big Jake,” played by John Wayne, and the drama ensues.
Actor Chris Mitchum, who had already acted with John Wayne in several movies, starred alongside the Duke in the role of his son, Michael McCandles.
Mitchum, Patrick and Ethan Wayne will join Cowboy Channel Founder Patrick Gottsch and Cowboy Channel President Jeff Medders in a live panel discussion on the filming of the 1971 classic and its enduring legacy. The discussion will occur Wednesday, Nov. 3 at 7:30 p.m. in the Fort Worth’s historic Stockyards at The Cowboy Channel Studio.
Tickets for the panel discussion begin at $40 and can be purchased at JohnWayne.com/experience
“Films like Big Jake resonate for so many reasons,” explains Gottsch. “As filmgoers, we love to see the battle between good and evil play out in front of us. But American Westerns like Big Jake gave us so much more, as the flawed hero was so much more complex. We need to find that grit and determination in our world today.”
While in North Texas, actor Chris Mitchum will present John Wayne: An American Experience with Big Jake and Rio Lobo Cowboy Hats from his collection, which will become additions to the exhibit.
For those unable to attend, the panel will be live-streamed on RFD-TV and the Cowboy Channel and later shared on The John Wayne Gritcast, the inspiring new podcast hosted by Ethan Wayne and available on Apple Podcasts and on Spotify.
Sprawling over 10,000 square feet, the John Wayne: An American Experience Exhibit is structured to give guests an intimate tour of the life of John Wayne. Starting with his early childhood and career, each room highlights an aspect of The Duke’s legacy.
For film aficionados, an extensive gallery called “Life on Screen” highlights the most iconic film props and costumes. In the “America, Why I Love Her” Gallery, guests can immerse themselves in Patriotism through Grammy-nominated original poems, recited by John Wayne.
Patrons of the exhibit have exclusive access to never-before-seen family photos and correspondences that have been thoughtfully curated by the Wayne family order to give guests a Holistic view of the icon, whose values translate both on the Silver Screen and off.
ABOUT THE EVENT:
WHAT: Big Jake 50th Anniversary Panel: “The McCandles Family Reunion,” 1971-2021
Panelists include Big Jake stars: Patrick Wayne, Christopher Mitchum, and Ethan WayneWHEN: Wednesday, Nov. 3,
5:30 p.m. Pre-panel Cocktails and Museum access at John Wayne: An American Experience
7:30 p.m. panel at The Cowboy Channel Studio
Film screening to follow at 8:30 p.m.WHERE: John Wayne: An American Experience
Fort Worth Stockyards Historic Exhibits Building
2501 Rodeo Plaza, Fort Worth, TX 76164
The Cowboy Channel Studio
409 E. Exchange Ave. Fort Worth, TX 76164TICKETS: Limited seating. $40 pp. (tickets available at John Wayne: An American Experience
For more information: www.johnwayne.com
About John Wayne Enterprises:
John Wayne Enterprises’ mission is to preserve and protect the name, image and likeness of John Wayne by associating the John Wayne brand with quality and timeless products and experiences that embody the spirit of John Wayne and give back to the community.
To further its mission, John Wayne Enterprises enters into selective licensing or partnership agreements in merchandising, Cancer research, treatment and Education as well as public facilities, institutions and agencies. For more information please visit www.johnwayne.com
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
