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The reason Pernell Roberts took a pay cut to guest star on The Big Valley
The actor was willing to sacrifice money.
Though many actors may feel a sense of fear leaving a secure project, Pernell Roberts suffered from no such misgivings. Roberts played the role of eldest son Adam Cartwright for six years on the popular Western series Bonanza. Though the show was more popular than ever, Roberts had felt he had outgrown the series and longed for new experiences.
“Sure, there were some bad moments, but I haven’t really regretted leaving,” said Roberts during an interview with The Buffalo News. “All you have to do is straighten out your own values and decide how you want to live.”
After he left Bonanza, Roberts went on to pursue a career on the stage, touring with various productions across the United States.
“I had to have a catharsis when I left Bonanza,” Roberts said. “I toured with Camelot in Kansas City and Pittsburgh, did Tiny Alice in New Jersey, and Two for the Seesaw in Atlanta and Chicago. It was great.”
But Pernell’s days on television were far from over. The actor made guest appearances on popular shows like Barnaby Jones and The Virginian. Later, the actor appeared in an episode of another popular Western, The Big Valley. For this appearance, Roberts was willing to accept less payment than he was accustomed to, for good reason.
“I did Big Valley for $2500, although I knew their top for guests was $3000. But they said it was near the end of the season, and they were over budget. I think they were telling me the truth, so I accepted. I wouldn’t have if I thought they were hustling me.”
The actor would later go on to star in the hit series, Trapper John, M.D.
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