I had built my career in Rochester NY. I had hung out at the Radio Station WBBF where somehow I became a pet to the DJ’s . They liked my nature and honesty, with an air of humor. I would bring them doughnuts, finding a friendship in the world that wasn’t as protective as it is now. Eventually I would just walk in and eventually I called Nick Nickson a DJ, Uncle Nick. I was sweet and modeled. I don’t remember ever being stopped even at midnight after being out dancing. I then traveled and landed in Buffalo, NY. Rochester is where I got to feel so comfortable with my own private stardom.
I got to go backstage, so when someone on staff at the Natural’s filming called; they were redoing a film scene with Glen Close in the bleachers . I just went. I had a 3 year old and had to quickly find someone to take care of him. This was going to be just a chance to relive being an extra and thought of stardom. I did get this call back and just being a bit late, they got my period out fit and I got to be in the dressing room all by myself having my makeup put on. I had the same innocence of the young woman walking into the Radio Station. Part of which I regret. This was to become my adventure standing behind the Cinematographer. I have to say I had to be posing as I leaned on the rail that day, separated from the crew from the actors on the field. I was looking up at the extra’s and as I assume I had an attitude of comfortably in a red coat, scarf keeping me warm after being styled for the retake. It was cold in late October.
I loved this attention and suddenly I felt someone grab my hand lightly as I was leaning on the bar. It was Robert Redford, he nodded in an apologetic fashion, saying “sorry”. I was so cool as I looked at him. I had no sense of shock or his stardom.
Then the second chance with my interchange with him came. I was thinking about my son at home in my new mother fashion, I would like to think when I blundered as Redford talked to Cameraman and Producer. There was a man next to Glen Close who was stiff and expressionless. They were making a decision as to what to do with this man. So I was still standing there waiting for my turn amongst them and Robert Redford glanced at me as if to have me affirm what he was planning. I in a moment looked back and said; “Oh give him a Kiss” Now that is a statement I will forever remember and regret. He didn’t respond, when I wanted to play, I saw immediately, he was in his serious Hollywood needs. I am sure I will always remember that moment, I am sure he will not.
