Recently while relaxing and watching the vintage tv show Starsky and Hutch, with David Soul and Paul Michael Glaser, a familiar face struck my eye. I had seen him numerous times in lots of different old shows but had never learned his identity. His appearance was soothing and pleasing, his grin infectious, and his good ole boy drawl appealing. He was one of those prolific actors that never lacked for work but did not become an everyday household name, or at least one that I knew. Right then and there I resolved to look him up.
His name is Med Flory. He was born August 27, 1926 and passed away earlier this year on March 14, 2014. Imagine my surprise to discover his excellence in dual careers. Not only was he a successful actor; he was also a brilliant musician and musical innovator. In 1972, along with Buddy Clark, he co-founded Supersax, an ensemble that performed the work of the iconic Charlie “Bird” Parker. Med Flory wrote the arrangements for the group. He also had a larger band called Jazz Wave, and sometimes the ensemble integrated with that band for concerts. Supersax won a Grammy in 1974.
Med Flory appeared in countless movies and tv series, including Route 66, The Rifleman, Rawhide, Wagon Train, 77 Sunset Strip, Surfside Six, Perry Mason, Simon & Simon, Magnum PI, Dallas, The Dukes of Hazzard, Bonanza, Gunsmoke, Mission:Impossible, and the Elvis movie The Trouble With Girls.
Thankfully, we can continue to enjoy his work.
Cheers & Happy Reading!
Flossie Benton Rogers, Conjuring the Magic with Paranormal Fantasy Romance
I didn’t recognize the name Med Flory, but I certainly recognize his face. As a diehard S&H fan, I think I even recall the episode he was in . . . he played a car dealer whose wife was killed at the beginning. He had given her a flower blossom necklace which became key to the plot. I had no idea he was a musician as well and am sad to hear that he passed away. Very nice tribute to him, Flossie.
I also love the photo of the iconic Gran Torino. I’ve heard Paul Michael Glasser say it drove like a slug…but it sure looked good!
We do have some interests in common. I didn’t know you liked Starsky and Hutch. That show was pretty gritty for its time and also humorous and appealing. You are so right about Med Flory’s episode. Yep, Med Flory. I hope I always remember his name now.
There are a couple of old shows I’m crazy about and that is one of them. I own the entire series on DVD. and you’re so right…it was defiantly gritty for it’s time….funny too with the bantering between the guys. They had awesome chemistry.