Larry Wilcox on CHiPs, Stunts, and Second Chances

Classic Conversations

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14d ago 56:49

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A candid, nostalgic sit-down with Larry Wilcox traces the arc from Marine Corps vet and Beverly Hills acting student to character actor on Lassie and, ultimately, CHiPs’ John Baker. Larry shares how Lassie became a crash course in continuity and stunt work; why CHiPs was his “hardest” role and how he worked with California Highway Patrol advisors to keep the technical details real; and what CHP bike training looked like when he and Eric handled ~90% of the on-camera riding. The conversation turns vulnerable as he recounts Eric Estrada’s near-fatal set accident and the leadership, calm, and compassion required in that moment and later, the choice to reconcile. Wilcox also opens up about producing wins and war stories (Ray Bradbury Theater, rights battles) and the new projects he’s chasing now.

Show highlights

Early break on Lassie: four “Lassies,” trainer Rud Weatherwax, and a trial by fire in stunts and continuity.
Why CHiPs was the hardest role and how he carved depth into John Baker over time.
Casting and negotiations that led to CHiPs (and even a near-miss with Miami Vice).
CHP technical advisors, realism vs. TV spectacle, and the details of approaching cars, mounting/dismounting, and uniform standards.
The raw, human story of Eric Estrada’s on-set crash and the life-and-death minutes that followed—and why forgiveness later mattered even more.

You're going to love my conversation with Larry Wilcox

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