An Interview with Larry Wilcox
September marked 30 years since CHiPs premiered. How do you feel about that? Does it seem that long?
Seems like 5-10 years, until I look at the show. Memory is such a romantic tool where reality is a non tangible.
The first season was just released on DVD, introducing a whole new generation to the show. Erik Estrada contributed commentary to several episodes. Have you been asked to do the same for the second season? If not would you if asked?
I would of course but once AGAIN this was another covert manipulative deal whereby WE (other cast members) were asked if we would provide interviews for these releases and they would grant us something like a flat screen. So benevolent! I asked them if they would allow “Favored Nations” and they would not respond. That told me they had already made a deal with someone, and were trying to con us. Never heard again from these fine people. Time Honors everyone doesn’t it!
There is currently a CHiPs motion picture in production. Would you appear in it if asked? How do you feel about another actor portraying your character?
I am flattered they will do a movie. I would do a cameo of course as it would suggest or bring closure. I love the fact that they would cast another character as time has passed my “pair of shoes (wingtips) that used to be on the shelf and fashionable. I hope they do mostly comedic actors and plots.
You played Jon Baker, the cop with a heart of gold. . How did you feel about your character? Did you enjoy playing him? How much input did you have into the character’s development?
I enjoyed ole Jon. He was a senstive nice guy that was a straight man for Ponch and a support system within a “system of flux”. At times he was boring and not flamboyant and my child ego yearned for such a meal but I know now that he was very genuine, comfortable with who he was and was not, and was a leader and teacher. I had some input with the character but I would say that more wise producers like Cy Chermak and Rick Rosner tried to define my character. I think Jon was a lot like me and that they just tried to expand such. I am deeply appreciative for the experience and the indulgence at such a young age in my life cycle. What a treat in so “many ways”. The Carnival had lots of rides at such a young indulgent age for most male identity crisis issues.
Your son appeared in two episodes. How did that come to be and did you enjoy working together?
My children are a perpetuation of the good and bad of myself. I am so proud of all of them as they are unique, intelligent and sensitive. I always asked for such favors to allow my children to ride these carnival rides together. What a memory and we got paid together. My goal was to help their young self esteem; my goal was to show them off to the world; my goal was to let them be peacocks for an episode; my goal was to say Thanks.
You left the show in the 6th season. Have you ever regretted it? Have you ever seen any of the 6th season episodes?
I have never regretted it. It was the correct thing to do based upon many ugly circumstances. I have seen some of those episodes and think they did a good job. I think the show had a loyal fan base, and the new marriage may not have been accepted, or…..the show had lost its life cycle. No biggie, no blame, just shelf life is ephimeral.
Do you keep in touch with any of your fellow castmates?
Nope…..really have no time to lounge around since my wonderful family keeps me so busy.
You left acting to become a successful businessman. Do you ever miss it? Would you act again if the right opportunity came along? How do you feel when people recognize you as the guy from CHiPs?
Acting for ME is kind of juvenile now. I say that with respect to the greats like Peter O Toole, James Dean and Brando of course. However, I find it a young, indulgent, and dysfunctional way to make a living. I am proud of many actors, proud for them, and ashamed of many “performers”. I highly doubt that I would act again, ever, but…yes, there may be something. I have no desire to ever be a Star and enjoy the truth of annomity. I feel flattered when people still recognize me, even though they are not “teenagers” any more.
Did you ever watch the show when it was in syndication?
Maybe for 15 mins at 3AM in a hotel where I could not sleep. My boys tell me it is Dorky so ….time has passed the hunks who reveled in the celebrity of a TV Series on NBC produced at MGM.
Tell us what Larry Wilcox is up to these days!
I am focused on building wealth for my family in public companies while supplying the emerging continents with banking and health solutions. My public companies ticker symbols are UCHB.OB and PSPJ.OB and there will soon be another and another. I want to form an International Banking Company for my two younger boys called Wilcox and Wilcox. I want to help Africa as it is so impressive as an emerging country. I want to help deliver to villages media and content and culture of their choosing but provide access. I want to provide a Nasdaq like ticker tape health system where patients are empowered with their daily real time tests, results and preventative care. I want to help countries purify water and have access to the basics.
Thanks so much Larry!
