Three Most Favorite John Karlen Characterizations

And initially Willie's dialogie had him referring to himself in the third person (e.g. "Willie Loomis doesn't like it there." Which was fine until James Hall started messing it up and saying things like "Nobody pushes Willy Loman around" and "Willy Loman likes her."

Given what I had heard, I was surprised at how much I enjoyed James Hall's performance in his 4 or 5 episodes when I screened them last year.  Despite his difficulties with the line readings, I thought he had an interesting take on Willie.  Very creepy--just watching him in his scenes with Vicki practically had me biting my nails (not something one is wont to do under ordinary circumstances).

I dont't think there's any question as to who is the more skilled thespian of the two.  Karlen obviously stands head and shoulders above his predecessor. But I also don't think it diminishes Karlen's achievement in the slightest to note that Hall did a better job with the role than common fan wisdom would state.

Someone asked one of the surviving cast members in NYC last year while Hall was replaced, and she answered that he had a drinking problem and was told he would have to go "but in a nice way."  (laughter from both the stage and the audience)

G.

And initially Willie's dialogie had him referring to himself in the third person (e.g. "Willie Loomis doesn't like it there." Which was fine until James Hall started messing it up and saying things like "Nobody pushes Willy Loman around" and "Willy Loman likes her."

I can't believe I never noticed that before (I haven't seen the oldies in....well, when they were on at night...remember...1/2 hour a.m., 1/2 hour p.m).

Patti