Dan Blocker: A Big Man Against Racism

Dan Blocker: A Big Man Against Racism

I’ve written before about white celebrities who were ahead of their time in being allies for the civil rights movement. Click on the names of Frank Sinatra, Mr. Rogers, and Betty White to read their stories. I’d like to add another inspiring reminder that each of us can stand up for the right thing. Dan Blocker, the beloved ‘Hoss’ on Bonanza, was a gentle giant who hated bullies. Today, I present the story of Dan Blocker, A Big Man Against Racism.

Background of Dan Blocker:  A Big Man Against Racism

Dan Blocker, best known for his role as Hoss Cartwright on the iconic TV show “Bonanza,” was a talented actor and a man of remarkable character and integrity. Born on December 10, 1928, in De Kalb, Texas, Blocker grew up in a family that valued hard work and education. After serving heroically in the Korean War, the 6’4, 300-pound former football star pursued a career in acting, eventually landing his breakthrough role in “Bonanza” in 1959. Blocker quickly became a fan favorite, known for his gentle giant persona and warm-hearted portrayal of Hoss.

“Bonanza” appeared in three decades, from 1959 to 1972. The show was in the top 10 for nine consecutive seasons from 1960-61 to 1968-69 and was the number one show in America from 1964-67. It was especially popular in the American South, where its rural settings, family-oriented moral lessons, and wholesome storylines held great appeal.

Standing Against Injustice

In the 1960s, during the height of “Bonanza’s” popularity, the cast and crew often traveled for on-location shoots. One such trip took them to the Southern United States during the dark days of racial segregation. Despite the Civil Rights Movement gaining momentum, many establishments, including hotels and theaters, continued to enforce discriminatory policies that barred African Americans from receiving equal treatment.

During this trip, the cast and crew of “Bonanza” encountered such a policy at a hotel where they had reserved many rooms. The hotel staff informed them that their African American cast members and crew were not allowed to stay due to segregation laws and the hotel’s discriminatory practices. Outraged by the injustice, Blocker confronted the hotel management. He made it unequivocally clear that if the African American members of their team were not permitted to stay, then none of them would stay. He stated that the entire cast and crew would leave and find another place to stay that treated everyone with dignity and respect. Blocker used his influence and the leverage of “Bonanza’s” popularity to stand against the blatant racism.

Further Commitment to Equality

Blocker’s commitment to equality wasn’t just limited to his actions with the “Bonanza” crew. In a 1964 interview with the Daily Mirror, Blocker made it clear that he refused to perform in segregated venues in the South. On one occasion, a theater in Jackson, Mississippi, tried to deceive him by claiming it wasn’t segregated. When Blocker arrived and realized the truth, he immediately took a stand. The organizers likely hoped he would relent and proceed with his engagement, but Blocker was resolute. According to reports, it took him only six minutes to survey the situation, deliver his disapproval, and leave for Hollywood. It is important to add that his costars, Lorne Green and Michael Landon, backed his position completely and likewise refused to lend the credibility of their celebrity to the evil of racist segregation.

Dan Blocker’s life before “Bonanza” showcased his natural affinity for playing Hoss Cartwright. Known for his strong sense of justice and imposing stature, Blocker often used his physical presence to stand up against bullies and injustice. In an interview with United Press International, he expressed his disdain for bullies, stating, “I hate a bully worse than anything. I’m a big man. I don’t like fights. But if I see a 180-pound guy beating on a 130-pound guy, you can damn betcha I’ll take care of the big guy in a hurry.” He further reflected on his understanding of strength, adding, “Some big men are bullies because they are insensitive to the power of their strength. I’ll never forget it.”

Dan Blocker’s stand against racism is a testament to his character and moral integrity. He used his position of influence to challenge injustice and make a positive impact, reflecting the values of the character he portrayed on screen. Blocker’s legacy extends beyond his contributions to entertainment; he is remembered as a person who embodied courage and compassion, both in his professional life and personal actions.