Background: On Tuesday, October 26, 1999 Randolph Mantooth again agreed to come and answer questions submitted to him, with his trusty typist and editor, Hannah Shearer at the keyboard. As Hannah reported, “Randy says he was so thrilled with the response he got from all of you genuinely nice people, he'd like to 'chat' again.”
We thank them both for their time and support of this newsgroup.
The following is the transcript of that evening, although not in order of appearance.
NG: Hi Randy.
I was wanting to know if you have received a letter from me? In the envelope was a donation from me to the
Make-A-Wish Foundation that I asked you to forward to the right people. Just wanted to make sure you received it.
Susan Richards
RANDY: Hi, Susan,
Yes, I did receive your letter and your gift to Make-A-Wish. I want to thank you very much for that. Forgive me, it
may take some time to get back to you via letter, but I'm doing my best.
Thanks, Susan
Randy
NG:
Another question from me. Randy is there anyway I could get you to autograph some pictures for me and the script
you directed? My oldest just loves you to death. One of the pictures I have belongs to her. It would mean a lot to her
if you could autograph the one that belongs to her for Christmas. I will take care of the postage both ways.
Thanks
Susan Richards
P.S. I saw you on Richard Simmons' Dream Maker and you looked good in the "uniform" you had on. I hope that
USAR-1 gets on the air. That is one show I intend to watch. Keep up the good work .
Susan
RANDY:
Yes, just send the picture and script, along with a stamped, self-addressed 8 x 10 envelope. My apologies to
EVERYONE for not being as prompt as I'd like. I've now hired someone to help me. Believe me, I've got thousands of pieces of mail that have to be answered. Please be patient.
Randy
NG:
Thanks Randy and Hannah for meeting with us again-cool! Randy, Have you started actually filming your new project USAR1 show yet and has it been picked up yet? The offer still holds to let us know if you need folks to start writing networks to help!!! :)
Helene
RANDY: Hi, Helene,
Sure. Letters never hurt.
But let me tell you where we are with it. We're still in development with USAR1. We're happy to say that CBS has
expressed interest in it, but it seems not for this coming season (which is very disappointing to me). I would like to see it happen tomorrow! Who knows, maybe they'll change their mind. Keep your fingers crossed for us.
Randy
NG: Randy,
Any plans to bring Project 51 southeast-very south?
Helene
RANDY: Helene -
Sorry, not that far south.
Randy
NG: Hi Randy,
I have only one question to ask that I don't believe anyone else has asked before. What is your middle name or do
you have one? I have been an avid fan of yours since Emergency! first came on the air and have always tried to see
everything you have acted in. Thank you for being so generous with your limited time and I hope you have all the
success possible with your new show USAR-1.
A fan forever
Jan
RANDY: Hi, Jan,
This is one of those times when I can't answer your question. Or rather, won't. I don't like my middle name and no one will ever find out what it is. But I can tell you that Johnny Gage's middle name is Roderick, which is only slightly better than what mine is.
Randy
[from HLS: PLEASE don't ask me. I used to know, but I forgot. Randy must've given me a lobotomy.]
NG: To Hannah and Randy:
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for having another chat. I'm usually at work around 5 PM EST, but I'll make sure to have Remarq up and running then. I know the last chat was a total success, amid some confusion, so here's hoping this one will be just as fun or even more. Randy, actually I have two questions, if you don't mind answering:
1) You might have been asked this question before but what were you REALLY 'thinking' when climbing (or scaling) high rise buildings in "Emergency!"? It seemed you enjoyed doing that <g>.
2) Is there any possibility that the Project 51 lands in New York City? Perhaps at the Museum of Television and
Broadcasting? New York City would be a great location since the city's Fire Department is one of the largest in the
country. Again, big THANKS for acknowledging Emergency!- fans on the web. Both you and Hannah deserve a
case a beer from me!
Dana
RANDY:
1) What am I thinking when I'm doing all that climbing? I hope I don't f*****g fall.
2) Yes, we're hoping not only will we be in New York, but since Emergency! was an NBC show, that the Today Show will be interested in tracking our progress.
See you in the Big Apple.
Randy
NG: Dear Randy,
I, like everyone else here, have been a fan of yours for a long time. I sent you a fan letter when I was 12 that got me in a lot of trouble. I used my sister's pink stationary and sprayed it with my mother's most expensive perfume in an attempt to get your attention and ask for n autograph. I don't guess it made it past the other thousand letters you got that day. I got grounded for a week for each offense! I won't be able to be here Tuesday night (I go to college at night) so I'll post here and hope for the best. Your show-to-be USAR-1, you said somewhere that it wasn't going to be what we were expecting. Will it be fashioned as "here are the characters you will see and grow to love each week while they work" or is it going to be like Rescue 911--someone stands to the corner and tells us what really happened--sort of documentary style? I wish you the best of luck and hope to see USAR on the air very soon.
Carol Wilder
RANDY: Hi, Carol,
It will definitely be the first one.
Thanks, Carol.
Randy
NG: Hi Randy,
Thanks for doing this again! Question: What kind of part will Kevin have on USAR-1 and what will you most look forward to in regards to working with Kevin again? Thanks!
Love,
Beth (the other Beth)
RANDY: Hi, Beth,
There are some things about a show that have to be kept secret, and Kevin's participation as an actor in the show has
to be kept under wraps for the time being. But don't miss the first episode (intriguing, isn't it?) Kevin's one of my best friends, and we haven't worked together in 20 years -- that alone is enough to look forward to.
Randy
NG: Hi Randy,
First I would like to tell you that I think you are a very talented actor and a sincere individual. I get the impression that you are a very private person and so much of your personal life becomes public when you are a celebrity. I was
wondering if it makes you uncomfortable that your fans seem to want to know so much about you? Thank you for
taking the time to answer our questions.
Jan in Wisconsin
RANDY: Hi, Jan
Sometimes it can get a little uncomfortable, but I know it just goes with the biz.
Randy
NG: Hi Randy,
I just want to know if you had received your gift and notification from Yosemite Fund from us at randyfans?? I was coordinator for this project and responsible for sending this out to you. I sent it to your agent. Can you please verify that you have received these things so I can pass this on to randyfans and if you have, what does this mean to you and what was your reaction regarding the donation to Yosemite Fund?? Thank you for taking the time w/all of us again. I for one, really appreciate it. Please take care,
Laurie
RANDY: Hi, Laurie,
Yes, I did get it. I want to thank you very much. Yosemite is one of my favorite places on earth. I call it "God's Front Yard." I'll try to respond personally as soon as I can.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Hi Randy,
We are the USAR 1 women from the Project 51 event on October 17th. We were wondering if you have received the photo that you requested we send you?
USAR 1 Women
RANDY: Hi, Dawn
The shirt idea was awesome! But I have not received the picture. Hopefully, you sent it to my agent's and I'll be able
to pick it up there.
Again, that address is:
Stone Manners Agency
8436 West Third Street #740
Los Angeles, California 90048
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Greetings from north of the border!
Dear Mr. Mantooth,
Thank you so much for doing this again. I missed out the first time. I blame my shyness for that one. You mentioned
in the last 'chat' that the thing we would be most surprised to find out about you, is that you write. Now you have a
number of us curious as to what you write, where we would see the fruits of your efforts and how you write it? We
figure you don't use a computer, but how about a trusty ol' typewriter or maybe longhand? Good luck with USAR-1.
Nancy
RANDY: Hi, Nancy,
I write in longhand, and you'll see it when USAR1 gets picked up by a network.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Dear Randy,
Thank you so much for the opportunity to talk to you again. My question concerns the movie Enemy Action. I
understand from something I read recently that you did not like the movie either. I know as a viewer why I was not
impressed with the overall product (your performance as the Mad Russian was the only redeeming quality to the
whole film), but I am curious to know why you as a performer who chose to participate in that particular project
disliked it so much? Just one more question if you do not mind, but do you still smoke or have you kicked the habit?
Thank you again for talking with us Randy. You and Hannah are the BEST!!! I hope to get the chance to meet you both when Project 51comes to Pittsburgh. And I wish you the best of luck on your new show USAR-1.
Betsy Harbin
RANDY: Hi, Betsy,
I got pressured into doing it by my agent, because it was a Roger Corman film (so what?).
I'm still struggling with not smoking.
Thanks,
Randy
NG:
I missed the last one because of a government proposal deadline. This one I will be at the cash management
conference in Los Angeles - WITHOUT a computer. Any chance you want to utilize my services of typing since I do over 125 WPM with 85%+ accuracy? My Question: Randy, are you aware of all the USAR research that is available on the WEB such as the FEMA sight, the association of USAR committees, the LACoFD USAR section of their web page, several other city/county web pages, etc.. It was really enlightening to read all this material. I knew nothing about USAR units and your interest in promoting them peeked my interest.
Ann in Albuquerque
RANDY: Hi, Ann
Yes, I am aware of all these different sites. Let me clear up a big misconception right now about me and computers. I do use them in my work, but I absolutely refuse to have them in my home. I am not nearly as adept at it as Hannah is, nor do I want to be. Having said that, I think I just stepped on Hannah's mouse. EEK!
Even with all the great web sites and information they offer, there is nothing like riding out with these guys red light
and siren.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Hi Randy,
Laurie again, I have another question. I was wondering if you know if your schedule will permit you to join the Squad on the Project 51Tour, or if you will at least be able to join the Squad at the Smithsonian?? Thanks again for
answering my question and please keep us informed on this.
Laurie
RANDY:
I'm hoping to make as many cities as I possibly can, with the Squad and the Project 51 Crew. Kevin is hoping to do
the same. We however right now don't know how many or which cities that will be. We're hoping the majority of them will be on our list.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Dear Mr. Mantooth,
I was wondering how much of an active role you are going to take in front of the cameras on "USAR-1"? If anyone
can make a yellow jumpsuit work for him, as in 'tres cool', you can.
Thanks,
Nancy
RANDY: Hi, Nancy
It will be a 10-member ensemble piece, and I am one of those members. So I will be in front of the camera quite a bit.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Randy and Hannah,
Hello from Toronto. Thank you so much for doing this again!!!! Here is my question: Is there a type of character that you would really like to portray?
Beth
RANDY: Hi, Beth,
Yes. I would really like to play Captain of a USAR1 squad.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Hi!
Jan in Wisconsin again with another question! I was wondering if you, Hannah, were planning on coming to the
Smithsonian in May? We (myself and Laurie) are planning to attend the induction ceremony and would very much
like the chance to meet you. Please let us know if this is possible? Thanks again Hannah for helping Randy with
responding to our questions.
Jan
HANNAH: Hi, Jan,
Yes, barring someone offering me a million dollars not to go (any offers?) I'll be there. Along with the rest of us.
It'll be great to see you there.
Hannah
NG: Dear Hannah, and Randy
Thank you both for doing this I know you both are very busy people. I just wanted to know more about Randy's new
project. Have you landed a network yet? Is there anything we can do to help promote it. Like writing sponsors or
networks? Also where can we find the tour dates of Project 51? Thank you again for your time and I wish you both
success in your current projects. Have a good evening,
Jenny Williams
RANDY: Hi, Jenny
The tour dates, when they're finalized, will be posted on the Project 51Website. That's www.squad51.org It's going to be a great site, so just keep looking.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Dear Mr. Mantooth,
This, I hope, will be my final question. I wish I could be at a computer tonight so I could see your answers 'live', but
I've got a big night of editing ahead of me, so I'll catch up later. I hope you remember the episode, "To Buy or Not to
Buy". There is a scene in that show in which Johnny rescues a boy who has an epileptic seizure while sitting on a
bridge span. How much of what we saw was actually you? I've heard the rule of thumb, "if you can't see our faces,
then it's probably a stunt person", but this scene was particularly good. One that I remember from my childhood.
While I'm here, I' like to comment on the quality of the sound recording & editing on "Emergency!" - it's just excellent and a contributing factor in making that scene and others, very real. I think that's it for now, but don't hold me to it.
Thanks again,
Nancy
RANDY: Nancy,
That WAS me on top of the bridge span, holding the kid. But when we both fell over, believe me, that wasn't me. It
was everything I could do just to sit up there, not to mention take a fall. No way.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Hi Randy,
I was wondering if you, Kevin and the squad are a package deal...when the squad makes it's way to Washington? If
so, how close to Iowa will you be coming? I know, nobody ever actually comes to Iowa unless they live here, but I'm really, really hoping to get a chance to see this!!!
Thanks!!
Sheryl
RANDY:
As close as we're going to get to Iowa, Sheryl, is Minneapolis-St.Paul, Minnesota. It's only a couple of hours away,
so get in your car and come on up. I'll see you there.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Randy and Hannah,
Beth from Toronto here with a question: What prompted you to become interested in USAR and to help create and develop the show?
Beth
RANDY: Beth,
My partner, Hama Washington, asked me why I didn't want to do another Emergency!, and I said 'been there, done
that'. He asked 'doesn't the Los Angeles County Fire Department have anything that will take the organization into the next millennium? (Cutting edge type stuff).' I said I didn't know, I'd find out. Well, when I did, I knew that USAR1 would make an incredible television show. Hopefully USAR1 will do for rescue personnel in America what
Emergency! did for paramedics.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Randy:
Other than USAR1, if someone could write you the perfect script, what would you want it to be? Personally, I would
love to see you do comedy, but would that type of role interest you?
--cheryl
RANDY: Hi, Cheryl,
Comedy always interests me. As far as a perfect script is concerned, I've never seen a perfect script in my life.
Thanks,
Randy
NG:
My question for Randy is: If you enjoy answering these questions so much..when are you gonna break down and
buy a computer? LOL. Also, why didn't you answer my marriage proposal I sent you when I was 12? (I’m 38 now and DON’T want to get married again-ever!)
hugs,
Taffy
RANDY: Hi, Taffy,
I don't want a computer. I have Hannah. As far as the marriage proposal, you say you never want to get married again-- see what I saved you?
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Randy,
Seeing several questions about USAR 1, I thought I would ask this question to be someone different and to hope that
you'll answer it: Seeing several movies today that are so depressing or negative, if the right script/story came along,
would you ever consider doing a simple romance story? I'm sure, the lines would be long for days on end.
Thanks
Lafemme
RANDY:
Of course I would. But I have to be offered these roles. So I suggest you write the powers-that-be and tell them to
offer me these roles.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Dear Randy,
Well, I think I'll take one more shot for now at you answering this question (or maybe the other). Considering all the
"sparkle" you added to our lives with your appearance on the Richard Simmons' show "DreamMaker", would
consider another appearance if the time and scheduling were right?
lafemme
visit my "Mantooth Mirage" page at http://nikita.acmecity.com/MomentsofMirage.html see what the active
imaginations of the "Randyfans" list can create.
RANDY:
Yes, of course I would.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Randy,
In August my daughter and I sent you a package with a game we had made--Emergency! trivia board game and also a special shirt with an embroidered logo on it. We wanted to know if you received it. Also, been a fan since I was 13 and have wanted to know what made you decide to be an actor?
Anita
RANDY: Hi, Anita,
Yes, I did receive your game and the shirt. The game was very inventive. Thank you. What made me want to become an actor? I didn't want to dig ditches.
Thanks,
Randy
NG:
How did it come to pass that a number of episodes of Emergency! featured your personal vehicle? These days that
would seem to me to be anything from unheard of to downright risky (and PS: Land Rovers rule, especially old ones).
Is USAR-1 the only thing you have going now project wise or would you consider doing another feature film, or
perhaps a character role? I should have said this last time, but it's real big of you to take time out of what must be a
hellacious schedule to answer questions in our forum. Last time was a pretty extraordinary experience, so props to
you and Hannah, and frosty beers on me. I'm out. --slg., still a little depressed about the playoffs.
-slugfish
RANDY: Hi,
They offered me a lot of money to use it on the show. It was only later I realized what a mistake it was -- everybody
started recognizing me as I was driving down the street.
USAR1 is the only thing I really have going right now. Of course I'd consider another feature, if the role was good.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Welcome back, Randy.
It's good to have you here again:-) Greetings from New Jersey. Question: I've always heard that it's difficult to direct yourself. When you were directing those episodes on Emergency!, did you find it a challenge to be both in front of and behind the camera; and why?
Thank you :-)
Monica
RANDY: Hi, Monica,
Yes, it was extremely challenging. Because when you're in front of the camera, you have no idea how the overall
picture is looking. You have to trust your assistant director to tell you that nothing is screwed up.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Hello again :-)
At the Emergency! Convention last year you joked that you once drove "the engine" into a brick wall. Were you just
kidding or did this really happen?
Monica
RANDY:
It really happened. I have the scar between my eyes to prove it.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Hi Randy and Hannah
I would like to say thanks for taking the time to answer our questions. A lot of actors would probably not do this but
once or never. I think it shows good character for you to be taking time for your fans because if it wasn't for the fans
you wouldn't be where you are today. Question: Is the squad going to be in Virginia? I hope so.
Michelle C
RANDY: Hi, Michelle,
The closest we're getting to Virginia is Washington D.C., but to find out exactly where we're going to be, I suggest
you log on to www.squad51.org
Thanks,
Randy
NG:
I'm a big fan of the production process, and I always enjoy hearing about all the elements that go into the show. Can
you give some insight as to the process you're going through so far to get USAR-1 off the ground? Are you at the
character development point or are you still researching USAR? Have you had any talks with producers and
distributors?
Thanks again for being patient enough to answer our questions.
Monica
RANDY:
We've already finished character development. We have pitched USAR1 to some of the networks. We have gotten
some interest from CBS on it, but they're thinking it might be something they're interested in for later on (which is
disappointing to me).
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Randy,
There has been some information posted on the internet about your upcoming project USAR-1, but I haven't
seen anything on television. Will there be any commercial advertising soon about it, and are you worried that fans of
Emergency! will expect your new show to be a reflection of Emergency!?
Thank you for your time, and best of luck on all your ventures.
Shannon
RANDY: Shannon,
Just want to make it real clear to everybody: USAR1 has not been sold to anyone. It is an idea that is in development
only. If I've misled people to think that this show is actually going to air anytime soon, I'm sorry. We are desperately
trying to sell this show to the different networks. CBS is the only one so far that has shown an interest. NBC won't
see us at all because they already have their "Third Watch". So, my answer is obvious -- you won't see anything on
t.v. about it until we sell it.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Hi, Randy!
Thanks for doing this again so soon! I never thought in a billion years I'd get to actually "talk" to you, so to speak, and here I've gotten to do it twice through this newsgroup! Thanks for being so open with us fans! My question: as you've been doing the research for USAR-1, how exactly have you been going about it? (Ride-alongs with the department? Interviews? Reading through their SOP manuals? I'm a writer and I guess I'm always curious about how other writers research their ideas.)
Thanks again, Randy, and best of luck to you.
Cathy
RANDY: Hi, Cathy,
Ride-alongs is the only research I know how to do. Since I have access to the L.A. Country Fire Department, I use it
to the best of their abilities.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Hi again Randy!
I am so glad that you and Hannah have given us another opportunity to post our questions :-) I just wanted to say that I loved your role of "Alex Masters" on Loving and The City. I especially enjoyed the chemistry you shared with Lisa Peluso ("Ava Masters", Loving) and Jane Elliot ("Tracy Quartermaine", The City).
If you were given the opportunity to work with these two beautiful ladies again, or with the entire cast of Loving/The City, would you consider going back to daytime TV? I know you have mentioned that Soap work is very demanding, but you really appeared to enjoy it at the time and it also appeared that the cast & crew had some kind of a special bond. Please enlighten with your thoughts about this.
Thanks again!
Karen :-)
RANDY: Hi, Karen,
Yes, of course I would. Especially to work with Lisa Peluso again. <She was> my onscreen wife for 7 years. I miss her desperately. But of course it would depend on what kind of role I was playing. It always does.
Thanks,
Randy
NG:
Greetings from Minnesota, Randy, and Thanks for taking the time to do this again. My question is: Is there an
"official" Randy Mantooth Fan Club in the U.S.? Unless I've really missed it, all I've seen is "unofficial" ones.
Thanks!
Sandy E.
RANDY: Sandy,
No, there is no official Randy Mantooth Fan Club in the U.S.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Dear Randy,
Thank you for doing this again. I missed the first one you did. I would like to know if you still drive the Land Rover? I cannot wait to see USAR 1. Thank you for doing Emergency!
Sandy
RANDY: Hi, Sandy,
Yes, I still do drive a Land Rover, but the one you saw on Emergency! was burned, along with my house, during the
fire. Now I have a new 1995 Land Rover.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Hi Randy and Hannah,
Thank you for doing this again - I missed posting a question the last time but enjoyed reading all the other question
and answers. My name is Debbie and I am from Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada. I have enjoyed watching Emergency! since I was the young age of 2 years old. I know you had a road trip to our east coast do you ever plan going to our beautiful west coast or have you ever visited the rest of Canada??
Thank you,
Debbie from Regina
RANDY: Hi, Debbie,
I haven't been to Canada in quite a while. Of course I'd love to come up and see Canada. I just have to put a couple of hours together to get that done. I'll let everyone know when I'm going to be up there.
Stay warm.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Dear Randy,
I missed getting to ask you a question the first time around, so thank you so much for doing this again! I've been a
fan of yours since the original run of Emergency! In fact, I still have my Emergency! lunch box!
I am very much looking forward to USAR-1's debut! Hope it's soon. I can't believe how hard it is coming up with a
question without sounding like a love-sick teenager <grin>. Here's my question: I was born in New Orleans and
currently live north of the city. I was wondering if you ever visit the city and if you have ever been to Mardi Gras.
Thanks again,
Linda (Tigger)
RANDY: Hi, Linda,
I finally got to go to New Orleans, just two years ago, when I was driving back from New York to California. I haven't been back since, so needless to say, I've never been to Mardi Gras. But Hannah and I are working very hard to try to get Project 51 (with the Squad) to make a sweep down to New Orleans on our way back from the Smithsonian.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Hi Randy and Hannah,
Randy, I was wondering other then The Gage Brigade, have you seen any of the other sites on the internet in honor
of you??
Thanks,
Debbie from Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
RANDY: Debbie,
No, I haven't. But one day I'll see them all. You have to understand it's very difficult for me to see all this homage paid to somebody I don't really think deserves it. I get a little squeamish, but don't think I don't appreciate them. I do.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Hi Randy!
What wonderful news!!! Thank you Randy - you are a doll! and thank you Hannah for making this possible. Ok....
I hope my question makes it through this time - there were so many last time to go through and your patience was
wonderful! Here's my second try! I first of all wanted to comment on your acting abilities - am sure you've heard this a thousand times but what's one more - you are wonderful and your diversity is amazing, thank you!
Second, you have played many characters with many different personalities. What was your favorite character and
why? Also what character did you feel was most like you and why? And finally - is the Squad 51 tour coming to
Denver?
Thanks Randy - you're the best!
Lauren
RANDY: Hi, Lauren,
I've said this many times before: my favorite character was "Abraham Kent" in The Seekers mini-series. The character probably most like me is John Gage on Emergency!
Unfortunately, Lauren, it doesn't look like Denver is going to work out for us.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Randy and Hannah
Many thanks for doing this once again, and at a time that us on EST can enjoy. The last time I went to work grinning
so much the people were asking what I was up to. Are you surprised that show that is over 25 years old still gets all
this attention.? You said the last time that Hawaii was one of your favorite places to visit. What is your favorite
out side of the states? (mine would be Ireland) Best wishes on USAR-1. If you need any help to promote the show please let us know.
Thanks again.
Cathy Mc
RANDY: Cathy,
Yes, I am very surprised that the impact of this show has been so great. My favorite place outside the United States is Italy. But if I ever one day go to Ireland, I've been told that will be my favorite place.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Hi Randy,
I would like to know more about your new project USAR-1 and help you in anyway I can. I have started a web site for USAR-1 for people to get more information on what this is. I could really use some information on what the show will be about too and anything else that you could contribute to the web site (http://usar1.tsx.org). If could contact me when you have some time I would really appreciate it. I have an email address on the site as well. I really look forward to hearing from you and wish you the best of luck!
Take Care,
Debbie Howser
RANDY: Debbie,
In regards to your question -- I've printed it out (Hannah thinks) and let me take it back to my partner so we can
discuss it and get back to you on that.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Hi Hannah/Randy:
The first time you guys got together to answer questions, I was in my first EMT class, and I missed most of it. I was
so happy to be able to post the transcript on The Gage Brigade page, for those who couldn't participate for one
reason or another. I plan to do the same again this time. Luckily, I won't be in class this time, so maybe I can compile them as they appear on the ng.
Randy - I wanted to extend a heart felt thanks for the autographed photo you sent to me on behalf of The Gage
Brigade. I scanned and posted it on the site for all the Gage Brigade members to enjoy. Thank you also for signing the guest book. Marco signed it this past Thursday, too. I have completely revamped the layout of The Gage Brigade site since the last time you saw it. I'd be honored if you and Hannah could take a few minutes and look around. I have added a page on the site dedicated entirely to USAR-1, and will be happy to add updates or information as it
happens. I know that everyone is very enthusiastic about this project, and will do whatever they (we) can to help you
get it off the ground. I can think of only a few, very stupid questions to ask, so I'll ask them. With your permission, I
will add them to the "Randy's Dressing Room" page on The Gage Brigade site.
The first is, what blood type are you?
The second is, do you prefer Coke or Pepsi?
The last question is, which way does your toilet paper hang? Over the roll, or under the roll? (there is only one correct answer to each of those last two questions:)
I am working on planning something special for next May when The Squad (hopefully) comes through Denver. I am
looking forward to the opportunity to meet both of you and the rest of the Emergency! cast and crew who will be
travelling with Project 51.
Again - thanks so much for doing this again and especially for doing it on a Tuesday night, when I'm not in class.
-Beth
RANDY: Hi, Beth,
Okay, this is very, very, very embarrassing, but believe it or not, Randolph Mantooth, aka Johnny Gage, does not
know what blood type he is. The second question: I try not to drink either one, but if I do, I prefer Pepsi. Third question: (over Hannah's objections) what is toilet paper? Seriously, over the roll.
About Denver, Beth, I wish we could do Denver, but it does not look like that's going to happen. I'm so, so, so sorry.
We were looking forward to it.
Love your Web Page.
Thanks,
Randy
NG: Okay, a real question for you this time <GRIN!> Are you setting up your USAR-1 show to portray a group that operates in one general locale (i.e., LA County) or operates “on-call” from a common base for whatever disaster requires help, wherever it may be? Thanks, sweetie; you’re a peach for coming to visit with us again!
-Patty
RANDY: Patty,
The way we’ve structured it now is that it will be the Los Angeles County Fire Department USAR1, dealing only with local rescue events. But it is structured for later to act as an arm of FEMA, and that would make them available
for international rescues, like earthquakes in Turkey, Taiwan, that type of thing.
[RANDY: Slight break folks, Hannah’s grumpy. And she’s so grumpy, she just typed that.]
NG: Okay, I promise this is my absolute last question to Mr. M. Have you ever considered teaching acting?
Thx again very much.
--slg.
RANDY: Good question, Slug.
Yes, I have considered it, but I keep remembering the old adage, 'those who can, do, those who can't, teach'. Right now I can, so I do. When I can't, I will. As Bob Cinader would always say, You follow? You follow?
Thanks, Slug.
Randy
QUESTION 47: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NG: Hi Randy,
Speaking of Enemy Action, where was that filmed? You portrayed the Russian wonderfully and your performance MADE the movie in spite of your "distaste" for it. Are you and your sisters and brother Don close and what is Don doing these days? Do you have any nieces and nephews?
RANDY:
First off, yea!! the Yankees just won, in Yankee style, with a home run.
Now, Enemy Action which was supposed to take place in Russia, was filmed entirely in Los Angeles.
As far as my sister and brother are concerned, yes, we are all very close. My sister is a producer and my brother is a photographer. My other sister is a housewife, and lives in Houston. I have three nieces and one nephew.
Thanks,
Randy
QUESTION 48: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NG: Howdy Randy,
What type of stuff will go on when Project 51 visits the cities (i.e. parades, autograph and picture taking sessions, etc...)? If Chicago is a stop along the way, I recommend a carriage ride!
Thank ya kindly!
Connie W.
RANDY: Hi, Connie,
You name it, we're going to try to sell it, because we have to pay for this trip all the way across the country. It's only by selling the memorabilia that's financing our trip back. We're sponsored by no one company, however we're gathering sponsors as we speak. We're going to make available Squad 51 t-shirts, Project 51 posters, Station 51 hats, and replicas of our old Los Angeles County fire helmets. Not to mention the Mattel hot wheel replica of the Squad, and a commemorative coin.
Kevin and I are going to try to make as many cities as we can possibly squeeze into our schedule. We'll be signing autographs and pictures as well, and each fire department has been invited to participate. As far as a horse-drawn carriage is concerned in Chicago, all I have to say is giddy-up, giddy-up.
[It's easy for Randy to say giddy-up, but Hannah hasn't a clue how to spell it.]
Thanks,
Randy
QUESTION 49: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NG: Hi again Randy Davina here again,
This is a little trivial amusing question but do you cook your own meals or do you eat out a lot? Surely you must know how to cook a hamburger or make a boiled egg? If you do, what is your specialty? Inquiring minds want to know this trivial question and thanks for answering it.
You're the best and thanks Hannah.
Davina
RANDY: Davina,
When I'm with a woman, she usually cooks for me. When I'm not -- I eat out.
Thanks,
Randy
QUESTION 50: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NG: Hello Randy and Hannah,
Randy, you and Kevin had such excellent chemistry in Emergency!--I know you are good friends; however, both of you are also outstanding actors. When you have to play opposite someone who's not such a good actor, do you find it more difficult to get through the scene? And do you find that it affects your performance in any way?
Thanks tons to both of you.
Kaye
RANDY: Hi, Kaye,
It used to bother me a lot, but it doesn't anymore. I just do my thing, and if the person can't hit the ball back, there's not much I can do about it. So far I haven't found too many people that were actually *bad*.
Thanks,
Randy
QUESTION 51: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NG: Hi Randy! *waving*
First, let me thank you and Hannah for doing this again. We fans had such a blast last time and you two were great sports to go to the trouble to connect with us that way. It's amazing you have chosen to do it again; you are too good to be true! My question is, are you planning to be ON USAR-1 or just behind the scenes producing? I read somewhere (erroneously, I hope) that it's a project you're doing but do not plan to appear. Please say that's wrong!
Carol D
RANDY: Hi, Carol,
Okay. That's wrong.
Thanks,
Randy
QUESTION 52: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NG: Randy and Hannah, you've heard it before and will hear it lots more; THANK YOU from the bottom of our hearts for your generosity in time and soul sharing. You are making a lot of folks very, very happy! I have a question in reverse for Randy. Randy, during the first Q&A, you commented if there was any way we could help with your USAR-1 project, that you would let us know. Actually, there are some ways we can help you, in return for the contributions you and the other E! cast made to many of our lives. Allow ME
to give YOU an answer to your indirect question:
1. web sites (it's high time you got online, so keep up your excellent dip into the internet waters via Hannah; let's go, son, this is one of the most important markets you'll ever tap, with the biggest bang for the buck in return!). There are several dozen sites already online revolving around you, Kevin, Marco, Mike, E! in general; you name it. Not to mention the hundreds of fire, EMS and medical sites. Tap them all; we're here to help and this could be your greatest groundswell of support for when those execs start asking "yeah, but what target audience are you aiming for?" I guarantee our demographics will make them ... drool.
2. Special projects: like "Project 51." Those of us who appreciate the efforts and opportunities opened up by E! will continue to support efforts to preserve and share the legacy. Publicity for one ties to publicity for the other.
3. Publicity: like the new DreamMakers show. Carol was fortunate to be among the first to help kick off some publicity for USAR-1 with her wish to meet you. Did you know that more than 100 of us from the Gage Brigade, randyfans, and other newsgroups wrote in to that show as well to ask for a reunion with you
and/or the E! cast and crew? I doubt there's any other "wish" filed by so many for the same thing; and if it comes to pass, that will bring your name once again into the light for those who will make decisions on USAR-1.
4. Letters, letters, letters: We're a vocal bunch, as you know! with a common goal; to promote and support someone we admire a great deal. You've proven worthy of our attention, and we want to help. I personally feel USAR-1, done correctly, can do the same for Search and Rescue that Emergency! did for EMS, and will open up a new frontier for folks wanting to get into public service. Keep in touch with us, with the newsgroups and the webmasters; let us know where and when our letters and support can do the most good for you. We will continue to pitch in when and where we can, in the meantime.
A final note: for this latest Q&A session, I will also once again simulcast your responses to the randyfans group and we will also post them to our web site after the session. (You know, you just never know who is a member of these groups and how they can help, too. We've got members from all walks of life amongst
us, including the industry.) So, Randy, let's light this candle and get this USAR-1 show going! Your legacy is not quite finished yet!
Respectfully and with love,
Patty Beasley
RANDY: Hi, Patty,
Hannah has actually printed your question out. I'm taking it to my partner, Hama Washington, and we're going to discuss this in detail. You have some great ideas that really need to be studied. I will get back to you on this.
Thank you for your concern and help.
Randy
QUESTION 53: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NG: To both Randy & Hannah-
Did the recent fire or earthquake near Los Angeles affect either of you in anyway? All of your fans (yes, Hannah - you have fans too!!) were concerned about you and your homes.
Kaye
RANDY: Kaye,
No, the fires didn't get anywhere near me, or Hannah from what she says (considering she forgot there were any). The earthquake was actually kind of fun. You can tell we're Californians, we live with such disasters on a daily basis, if our house isn't knocked to the ground, it's just another day.
[From HLS: It was my cats' first earthquake. They didn't like it. I went back to sleep.]
Thanks,
Randy
QUESTION: 54 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NG: Hi Randy,
First of all Thanks to you and Hannah for doing this. I already asked you one question, but couldn't let this one get by. When you sign autographs like you did in Irvine last week and I saw people with boxes of stuff to get signed, do you wonder how much of this is going to end up on E-bay and does it bother you to think it will?
Sharon
RANDY: Sharon,
Very good question. Yes, it does concern me, and yes it does bother me. To think I'm sitting out there, in the sun, signing as many autographs as I possibly can, so somebody else can turn a dollar, irks me to no end. Everything we do, all the money we make for Project 51, is going to charity. And some greedy b*****d decides he can make a quick buck -- yeah, it pisses me off.
Thanks for your question, Sharon.
Randy
QUESTION 55: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NG: Hey Randy,
First let me say that I think you're an awesome actor and I love watching you. Ok, looking back on E there are a lot of scenes where you guys are eating….do you ever remember getting sick of something because of having to do a scene over and over?
You're great.
Cat
RANDY: Hi, Cat,
Yes, I remember only too well. I was always hungry, so I would always dive into the food. By take 6 or 7, I was ready to throw up. Ah, what great memories.
Thanks,
Randy
QUESTION 56: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NG: Randy,
First of all, thank you for holding another Q&A session for all of us. It means so much to us when you take the time to talk and share info about yourself and what's happening in your life. We know you are a very private person by nature, so these sessions are very special to us all. My question is: If there was one place in the world that you could spend the rest of your life where would that be and who would you want to share it with?Good luck with USAR 1 and Project 51! We ALL look forward to seeing the new show and the "NEW" Squad 51.
Stay safe and happy always,
Anita
RANDY: Anita,
Probably Hawaii, and it would be with the woman that I love.
Thanks, Anita.
Randy
QUESTION 57: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NG: Hello!
I'm A science teacher in an Environmental Science Elementary School. Our entire school is dedicated to having the children become aware of the problems our planet is currently facing. My question is this: If you were to come to my school and speak to the kids what environmental topic would you address? (You are welcome to come ANYTIME! Ha!Ha!)
I wish you success with your new project USAR-1!
Lynette
RANDY: Hi, Lynette,
The first of many, many concerns I have about the environment is the shocking loss of animal habitat that's creeping up on us on an almost hourly basis. How many damn shopping malls and housing developments are we going to keep building before we have nothing left? That's just one of many - it's getting late, otherwise I'd go on with a litany of concerns I have.
Thanks,
Randy
QUESTION: 58 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NG: Hi Randy and Hannah,
My name is Connie S. and I want to say thanks a million for getting together again and letting us loyal fans Ask questions. I missed the first one you did back a couple of months ago. Randy I first want to tell you that I think you are an incredible actor and have been a fan of yours for as long as I can remember. I watched Emergency! back in the 70's and am watching it again on TVLand. I also watched you on General Hospital, Loving, and The City. Randy the question I want to ask concerns Project 51. I know it is going to Atlanta as well as Washington DC. Are you and the rest of the cast going to be in both cities? If so it would be such an honor to get the chance to meet you and the others. Again, I want to say thank you for the opportunity to participate in this discussion and keep up the GREAT WORK you have been doing.
Connie S.
RANDY: Connie,
We're all going to try to be in all these cities. If we can't, please don't hold it against us. Again, you can learn more as the time gets closer where we're actually going to be by logging on at www.squad51.com
Thanks,
Randy
QUESTION 59: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NG: Hi.
I work as a Helicopter Crewchief in Navy SAR. I passed the news of your upcoming show on to a few of my crewmates who would really appreciate it and after some excitement and intense discussion we finally
settled on this simple question: Will USAR-1 deal with helicopter SAR at any time? We're real curious
because we heard recently that LA County bought a few of the same aircraft we use(UH-3/S-61)and hope to someday continue our line of work after we retire from the Navy ;)~. We're very happy that your doing this show and wish you the best of luck with it. If it proves as educational as our past, career inducing favorite "Emergency!" then you can bet we'll be watching in earnest. Thanks for your time and have a good 'un.
-Swampie
RANDY: Hi, Swampie,
Yes, in our show, USAR1, our team consists of a Captain, an Engineer, and two firefighter specialists on a 28-ton USAR rig. The other part of the team, which is called Air Ops, consists of a pilot who is not a fireman, but a pilot, and two firefighter/paramedic crewmen, and in most cases, they work in tandem.
I don't know about the helicopter acquisitions or those particular models you mentioned. I do know, however, they are trying to outfit USAR with Sigorsky Black Hawk helicopters. Believe me, it is a truly awesome sight to see this team attack a rescue, both from the ground and the air. We are going to try to be as responsible with USAR1 as Bob Cinader was with Emergency!
Good luck to you and your crewmen. Stay in touch.
Thanks,
Randy
QUESTION 60: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NG: Randy:
If this isn't too personal a question, I was wondering if you quit smoking? And if so, would you please excuse the completely inappropriate birthday gift from me? I read somewhere that you had quit. Of course, it would have been nice if I had read that *before* I sent the package to Deb.
--cheryl
RANDY: Cheryl,
It was the thought that counted. I appreciated it.
Thanks,
Randy
QUESTION 61: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NG: Hi Randy,
We think you're the greatest! Do you have any idea when USAR-1 will be aired and which channel may be showing it? We wouldn't miss it for the world! Thank you so much Randy and Hannah for doing another Q&A with the news group. I am very new here and had just arrived before the last Q&A so I wasn't sure how to post a question. Anyway, here goes. I am from Atlanta and am very proud that our Braves are in the World Series. Are you watching the games and if so, who do you want to win? I know it's sort of a dumb question but all the rest were already asked and I thought it would be fun to know who you were rooting for. I wish you the best of luck on USAR-1 and can't wait to see it on TV.I will be watching faithfully.
Thanks again for sharing your time with your fans. You and Hannah are very special people.
Thanks,
Carissa
RANDY: Carissa,
Since the Dodgers aren't playing, I guess it'll have to be the Yankees.
Thanks,
Randy
QUESTION 62: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NG: Oh, Randy! It's wonderful to have you back so soon! Missed us, huh? We're habit forming, ya know.
Question: Over the years, I've been curious about something. In many E! episodes you had to perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation on men. Seems awkward! How did you shoot these scenes without laughing or getting engaged?
Jeannie - An RM fan, for life.
RANDY: Jeannie,
Whenever you're in the thick of a scene and you're always pressured to end the day's work, seldom do you think twice about doing things like giving mouth to mouth, because you're really into the scene, acting and doing your best. So doing mouth to mouth on somebody never really bothered me. I guess I was just too into the scene to let interrupt me.
Thanks,
Randy
QUESTION 63: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NG: Hi, Randy!
Another question for you.
Question: The last scene of "The Greatest Rescues of Emergency!" where JG/RD make captain and separate as partners, brings me to tears every time. The thought of both the JG/RD AND the RM/KT working relationships ending was overwhelming to me. This appeared to be an emotionally difficult scene for you as well. Was this indeed a difficult scene to shoot or are you just one hell of an actor?
I'll be back.
Jeannie - An RM fan, for life.
RANDY: Jeannie,
It was indeed a very difficult scene to shoot. I remember that day very well. Even though Kevin and I were so happy the show had finally come to a close and we could all sleep past 5 A.M., we knew something very important was ending in our lives. It was difficult for both Kevin and me.
Thanks,
Randy
QUESTION 64: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NG: Mr. Mantooth,
I read somewhere that you had moved around a lot when you were growing up. I did too and as I got older I developed the habit of re-inventing myself with every new town we moved to. I was just wondering if you ever did this and if it helped with your acting career? If you think this is too personal I'll understand and thanks.
Brandywine
RANDY: Brandywine,
That's exactly how I put it when I describe my many moves as a child. I don't believe it helped my acting career, I think it is the reason for my acting career.
Thanks,
Randy
QUESTION 65: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NG: Hi, Randy
My name is Rick C. from Texas. I have only one Question here, Where can I get all of these Emergency!
Episodes? & another thing What are your Favorite E! Episodes?
Rick,
RANDY:
I wish I could help you here, but I can't. I have no idea where you can get them. I have no favorites -- they were all great to me.
Thanks,
Randy
QUESTION 66: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NG: Hello again, Randy.
We've gotta stop meeting like this.
Question: So do you really sleep with your left arm over your eyes, or is that just a Gage quirk? Either way, it's rather endearing.
Thanks, Randy.
Jeannie - An RM fan, for life.
RANDY:
Yup. That's how I really sleep. And I'll tell you why. There were a lot of us kids and sometimes we didn't have enough bedrooms and I was picked to sleep on the couch. When I'd go to bed, there'd still be people up, and that's how I kept the light out of my eyes. And that's the truth.
Thanks,
Randy
QUESTION 67: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NG: Hi Hannah and Randy!
Question: wondering if you were thinking of casting any female roles for your upcoming USAR I project. I assure you...we do exist and we are out here...the few, the proud, the female! oh, my partner also had a
question...? Question: being of the male k-9 persuasion, was wondering if your USAR 1 plans included the casting of any four footed, long nosed, shaggy tailed rescue workers? (bark...bark) Thanks for your time, and on behalf of my human and animal co-workers thank you for your interest in US&R... we'll be watching for USAR 1
Eliza and my partner, Off. Bear
RANDY: Well, Eliza,
You not only exist in the real world, you exist in USAR1 as well. Actually there are two women in our show, and one dog.
Thanks,
Randy
QUESTION 68: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NG: Hi,
If you make it to my question, I will consider myself lucky and Hannah will probably have carpal tunnel syndrome. What I'm curious about is the development and production of USAR-1. A) What is your complete role(s) in the entire project right now? For example, are you writing actual scripts, are you pitching it to the networks, etc? B) What will your role(s) be when the show is prepared for airing, and once it is actually on the air? For example, will you be the director, producer, etc? And will you have final say over who is hired for writing, acting, directing, etc.?
Thanks tons-
Kaye in Fargo, ND
RANDY: Kaye,
Running the risk of repeating myself, no, we are not writing scripts, we're just developing the show, its concept, and its characters. This is all the networks are interested in. If they like the idea, they ask for the scripts. I may have some influence, but I do not have final say. I plan on being an actor in it, the Captain of the USAR squad. I will also be the executive producer, along with three or four others. Then maybe I can get behind the camera and direct a couple. But my true desire lies in seeing USAR on screen, the sooner the better. Again, CBS has expressed interest, but they're thinking more for the next season than for this coming season. I wish they would change their minds but I have no control over that.
So, gang, with that, with a numb mind and Hannah's numb fingers, we have to call it quits. I know we've already lost the East Coast, and the West Coast is going to have to sign off. Again, I enjoyed this tremendously. I promised I'd keep you up to date on Project 51 and USAR1, and I felt compelled to have another chat only a short month later. A special note to all the people who sent me birthday gifts. I received them and I was touched by every one of them. It may take me a couple of months to get back to you, but I will try my darndest to make sure everybody gets a thank you. I so appreciate all your loyalty. Let's just hope we have something new, and not 25 years old, for you to look at.
Thanks again.
God Bless you all.
Goodnight.
Compiled by Jeannie Davia
jdavia@home.com