Roy Rogers

Roy Rogers Boyhood Home at Duck Run

Lynne Roberts-Roy Rogers in Billy the Kid Returns

Roy Rogers - Hart - 1938

Roy Rogers and Gail Davis 1948

RoyRogersDaleEvansKBF1970s

RoyRogersperformingKBF

Roy Rogers (born Leonard Franklin Slye; November 5, 1911 – July 6, 1998) was an American singer and actor. He was one of the most popular Western stars of his era. Known as the "King of the Cowboys", he appeared in over 100 films and numerous radio and television episodes of The Roy Rogers Show. His show was broadcast on radio for nine years and then on television from 1951 through 1957. His productions usually featured his wife, Dale Evans, his golden palomino Trigger, and his German shepherd dog, Bullet.

Early Life

Roy Rogers was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, but he moved with his family to a boat near Portsmouth, Ohio, at an early age. The family eventually settled in Duck Run, near Lucasville, Ohio, where they owned a small farm. Rogers developed an early interest in horseback riding and singing, which would shape his career in later years.

Career

Rogers' entertainment career began with singing in a group called the Sons of the Pioneers, which became known for their Western music and harmonies. The group had hits with songs like "Cool Water" and "Tumbling Tumbleweeds." Rogers' transition to films came in 1935 when he appeared in his first movie, The Old Corral. His good looks and singing ability made him a natural star for Western films, a genre that was immensely popular at the time.

Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, Roy Rogers became a household name. His films often portrayed him as a heroic cowboy who fought for justice in the American West. He was known for his moral code, which included never shooting to kill and always helping those in need. This persona made him an ideal role model for children.

Personal Life

Roy Rogers was married three times. His third wife, Dale Evans, was also his co-star in many of his films and television shows. Together, they became one of Hollywood's most enduring couples. They were advocates for children with disabilities, inspired by their own daughter, Robin Elizabeth, who had Down syndrome and died before her second birthday.

Legacy

Roy Rogers left an indelible mark on American culture. He was not only a film and television star but also a symbol of the American West that captured the imagination of the public. Rogers and Evans founded the Roy Rogers-Dale Evans Museum, initially located in Apple Valley, California, before moving to Branson, Missouri, and eventually closing in 2009.

Rogers' influence extended beyond entertainment. He was a role model to millions of children, teaching them the importance of honesty, kindness, and perseverance. His legacy is preserved through his films, music, and the memories of those who admired him.

Filmography

Roy Rogers appeared in over 100 films. Some of his most notable films include:

• Under Western Stars (1938)
• The Arizona Kid (1939)
• King of the Cowboys (1943)
• The Yellow Rose of Texas (1944)
• My Pal Trigger (1946)

Television

• The Roy Rogers Show (1951–1957)

See Also

• Western genre
• Dale Evans
• Trigger
• Sons of the Pioneers