Family Affair: Johnny Whitaker on how Brian Keith saved him - from beyond the grave.

[@breebarnz1346]

I love this, so glad he survived. Loved Family Affair.

[@dragonflydreamer13]

His face still lights up with the same smile all these years later.

[@mikemcginty4027]

I've always loved Johnny Whitaker. I feel like I grew up with him. It warms my heart to see him in this light. Johnny, you're awesome. What a life!

[@debbiemasi5870]

What an incredible interview with Johnny . I grew up watching Family Affair. And Sigmond.

[@MelesaEFary]

I have to say I grew up with Johnny via TV. I loved how you would say "Uncle Bill!" It was so loving ❤️ You have brought me so much joy from this interview! I started speed in 1997. I have been sober for 18 months. God Bless you Johnny! You inspire me after all these years. 50?

[@fredescher9860]

The fact that Family Affair only ran for 5 Seasons is sad, such a great and well written show.

[@angelbulldog4934]

Not sure it's true, but word on the street is that this lovely show was canceled because it was "too wholesome". It had to end so they could create programming that was...well, not so wholesome.

[@kayhinson8187]

@angelbulldog4934 I'd believe it, these were made back when good TV was made, not the ranchy evil dirty shit of today.

[@c.e.b.underpar1746]

@@angelbulldog4934 Brian just got a divorce and was grumpy around the set, so that didn't help.

[@brendaphillips6379]

Johnny you are a great story teller. I am delighted to see that you have survived the obstacles that tried to overcome your bright light. Continue on your amazing journey. Peace and blessings upon you. One of you admirers, Brenda 🙏🏽 ❤

[@occamsrazor7939]

Hey, Johnny. It's good to see you. God be with you.

[@katdandy9115]

Still with that adorable smile. Jody always gave uncle Bill the best most loving hugs. I still watch family affair on tubi. ❤

[@katluann]

I loved Brian Keith so much as a kid. I hope to see him someday

[@bklynsteph66]

Where in heaven? He died almost 30 years ago.

[@caryrevels6584]

Its so sad to see how drugs destroys so many young lives. Thank you Johnny for sharing your life with others here. The good and Bad, The tragic fate of Anissa Jones taken way to young. May they all rest in peace.

[@MartyBenson-te2ie]

Fabulous interview. Thank you Craig!

[@reneateele6079]

Love him!! Loved “Family Affair!!! ❤️✌🏻

[@suzannemckitterick2781]

Loved you as Jody...You became a real mensch...So happy to hear you made it. Hoorah, hoorah!!!

[@christianbolt5761]

Johnny is very inspiring by what he overcame and how he turned it into a guiding purpose for good.

[@davedavis775]

My older brother went to live in California in like 74 and came home in 76. He met Anissa Jones while working at a place called " The Shack " in Marina Delray . He said she was really strung out and it was pretty sad . I have some pics from his time in California and one of him standing in front of The Shack. As a kid i loved watching Family Affair . Cool to see Johnny after all these years .

[@leekit6099]

Seeing Larry Lion caused a long ago HaPpy memory! My Dad got me a Larry🥰 I loved! Pull a string and Larry roared then said, Oooo I scared myself! Dad told me, This Lion reminds me of you... I was kind of bossy. From the time I was three or four I directed the children in the neighborhood to do the three bears, Little Red Riding Hood etc... I directed plays in elementary; I Loved directing. My parents came home from a vacation to Washington and your family was on that vacation too! There was a wonderful light about you⚡That excited, uplifting those around you!!! My mom came home with that light (That in it's self was really amazing!!! my mom had a difficult time carrying light) And she passed that spark on to me! And I've never forgotten your addictive Light feeling 💖 I love watching this and seeing what your experiences, challenges and crucibles have done to turn you on to become an extremely wonderful Bright, guiding, Awesome Hero ❣️🥰

[@scottburton9701]

Fondly remember "Family Affair" from back in the day-Fantastic interview!

[@davina5514]

Family Affair was one of the GOOD OLD shows waaay back in the day. So wolesome & fun 2 watch.

[@MicheleHuffman-d8c]

What a great interview. Johnny is a wonderful man. Glad he survived his drug and alcohol abuse and is helping others.

[@MollyMeyers121]

Great interview. My childhood right there. Craig, as usual, you are an excellent host!

[@BarbGleeson-hf3et]

Brilliant conversation. Johnny Whitaker is such an interesting person.

[@susanrutherford866]

Amazing story how Brian saved Johnnys life !And i absolutely believe it !!Johnny is such a nice person and what a life he has had !!Thanks for the interview guys !!!❤❤❤❤

[@kelshep]

Thank you for your comment Susan and we agree with your words.

[@esdee499]

An incredibly articulate man

[@btpuppy2]

He’s such a nice guy who’s been through a lot. So glad he is doing well

[@davisholman8149]

Johnny - my ex passed away from cancer, then 3 days later, our daughter was in a horrible wreck. Her SUV flipped over 3 times, roof smashed in , & she walked away - not even a scratch. She believes her dad saved her that day….& I believe it too.🙏🏼

[@MTknitter22]

Johnny and Brian Keith were so absolutely charismatic on screen, it’s a testament to how many of us remember them clear as a bell all these decades later. Thank you Johnny for all you are doing now to help people!!

[@michelleadams474]

What a terrific guy. I always liked him and everyone on the Family Affair show, it was so wholesome.

[@billb584]

Excellent interview as usual Mr Bennett. The Family Affair cast represented how a broken home does not have to be dysfunctional. The show's premise concluded to millions of young people that there is hope.

[@meman6964]

The children were orphans. So Uncle Bill is their guardian and they adjusted nicely on TV, scripted FICTION

[@3373-g8z]

God bless you Johnny, and Brian too. Loved you in F.A. and Sigmund! Loved Brian in F.A. and Hardcastle!

[@tomjones2348]

Wonderful interview! I grew up in the 60s and 70s, and recall when Family Affair began. One day, I was with my parents at the Omaha Airport, and who walks by? Johnny and his parents! Thanks , Johnny for sharing these intimate details of your life with us.

[@kitziewitty7281]

❤Johnny. He’s awesome.

[@Belevaqua]

Johnny, when I was a little girl watching you act filled me with such joy and happiness!! Thank you!!! 🤗

[@Ms.HistoryBuff433]

Johnny is a class act! Thank you for having him on your show.

[@joanneevans1295]

What an incredible interview. Johnny's life story SHOULD be told in a memoir. He's an inspiration. His Brian Keith revelations are extraordinary. really enjoyed this compelling interview.

[@robyntattersall236]

A master class in allowing the interviewee the space to tell their story guided by excellent questions.

[@jomama5186]

Beloved actor 🧡🙏🏻

[@foxworthhall726]

I am watching the show on Tubi. It came out when I was very little, so I don't remember the episodes. I am enjoying them now. God Bless Johnny, I wish you the best.

[@mathgeek7966]

I am so impressed by the interviews on your channel. Craig is a great interviewer!! So well prepared, and lets the guests tell their stories without interruption. I'm sure this is also due to great production work by Kelley! Thank you!!

[@kelshep]

Thank you @mathgeek7966. Craig and I do our best to be honest and respectful with those we interview. Thank you for your comment and so glad you enjoy our channel.

[@robertladue7647]

Hey Johnny! My brother and I met and spoke with at length in Provo where you had owned that little shop. I didn’t know you were still in Utah! Fantastic! That was a lot of years ago we met! Good to see you again and that you well!

[@vickyabramowitz2885]

I like these interviews with former child actors. I also enjoy the enthusiasm that this particular interviewer displays when interviewing his subjects.

[@benhudson515]

Me too. These are the best interviews, which really showcases the celebrities and their careers, also their private life and ups and downs with respect. Would love to see Linda Evans being interviewed, and Patrick Duffy. He was great in Man From Atlantis.

[@helenslak6407]

I loved his smiling eyes as a child he still has them in his golden years. There are only two still alive

[@Belevaqua]

I know! Right??? 🤗😘

[@tommurphy4307]

as a child actor- he was truly like a 'miniature man'....

[@Belevaqua]

@@tommurphy4307 AWWWE! I KNOW!

[@CyndisKrist]

Having been in a situation himself, he has a personal understanding of its challenges. It's wonderful that he's devoted so much of himself to assisting others in these situations.

[@garrettdavis6500]

1960's, early 70's, This guy was THE GUY !!!

[@darmonweir5910]

Such a good interview. Mr Whitaker has so much to be proud of. A terrific talent who conquered his demons and now helps others. Bravo

[@kph2858]

Wonderful interview as always . I just enjoy your shows so much . I’m going to contact Johnny . My son passed from an OD at 24 and SEPTEMBER 9 is his 32 birthday ! The day JW picked for rememberance day Bless you all .

[@lesliedelp3565]

Just loved your career! As a retired therapist, just want to say thank you Johnny!😀

[@catherinetiller1091]

Johnny - I worked with your cousin Pam. She was such a precious lady and so proud of you.

[@Stevenspelling123]

I had no idea Johnny Whitaker had done so much in terms of his Hollywood career. Glad he's embracing decades of sobriety, and that he overcame life's pitfalls. And kudos to the interviewer, Craig Bennett. I have watched all of the Celebrity Drop interviews. He does one heck of a great job creating highly enjoyable conversations.

[@velvetj1733]

Looking forward to his book! I have always loved him💕

[@QueenOfTheNorth65]

What a wonderful interview. I grew up watching Johnny, and truly appreciate his candor and insight.

[@AmandathePandaBooks]

He was a terrific actor. I loved him in Tom Sawyer!!

[@douglasthompson9482]

I have always loved Johnny….a very storied past after his main Hollywood career. So good how he found himself again. Good luck buddy.

[@joannallen1989]

Craig Bennett is such a good interviewer. He's always so respectful and postive to the people he interviews!

[@Bigbadwhitecracker]

Craig is better than Howard Stern, and more relevant.

[@benhudson515]

@@Bigbadwhitecracker Agreed.Brilliant interviewer and charming.

[@joanneevans1295]

Yes, one of the best celebrity interviewers ❤

[@MuzacMark1960]

I as a kid always enjoyed Johnny's work he was just a regular kid we could relate too

[@rodneykingston6420]

Him and Jodie Foster - each of them guest starred on just about every major TV show of the day back in the late 60s, early 70s. They were everywhere.

[@loriharris1215]

Wonderful talk. Congratulations to Johnny on his many years of sobriety ❤

[@debbieschmidling8158]

❤️❤️❤️

[@rickyireland3047]

I enjoyed this interview so much. Johnny, congratulations on your ongoing sobriety and your kind heart. I loved watching you on tele while growing up in Australia in the 60s and 70s. Wonderful interview, Craig. 🙏

[@sylviafranklin7291]

I loved this show Family Affair, when I was a little girl. I still watch it today just to bring back such memories from when I was a little girl.I just loved Buffy and Jody, Uncle Bill,and Mr.French.Thank you Johnny for speaking so frank about your drug,and alcohol problems.Thank you for talking about Anissa Jones,and her drug issues.I was so sad when I heard that she passed,I couldn't believe it she had drug issues,so sad to hear that Brian Keith committed suicide,so sad,and Sabastian Cabot passed I was sad to hear about this.Johnny and Kathy Garver are survivors from Family Affair, thank you Johnny fotr this informative interview, I learned so much from this interview. Gofd bless you Johnny keep up the good work with your recovery! Take care of yourself Johnny! A big fan for years. Family Affair. I still love 💕 this show!!!

[@ChristinesCraftTable]

Great interview. Best I've seen of one of a child actor not only surviving but thriving today. Johnny is a great storyteller. Thank you for allowing him to speak without interruption. Great interviewer and interviewee. Few and far between, these days!

[@kelshep]

Thank you for your kind comment @ChristinesCraftTable glad you enjoyed hearing from Johnny.

[@Joe-sw9nk]

I can remember the littlest angel. As a little boy, it was a Christmas story favorite. So nice to reminisce over a simpler time. Best wishes Johnny. Thanks for the memories.

[@debrareplogle651]

Thank You for this interview with Johnny, I watched Family Affair when I was a little girl. Always liked watching Johnny on anything he was in. So sad to know the heart ache he has had, and yet to come out of it, with such a positive attitude and will to help others. S very fine gentleman.

[@leegordon5223]

Oh me too. I adored Family Affair as a little girl as well. What a great interview. Its cool to see a lot of his facial features are still the same. Love this interview.

[@Belevaqua]

I feel exactly the same way about him!!! Always such a joy to watch!!

[@layahails9655]

It's funny we went to the same ward in California and I realized just how much we have aged !! Lol time sure does fly by ..he is a wonderful person and I thought he had the most beautiful blue eyes that I had ever seen.

[@alisong2328]

I remember seeing Johnny is everything he was in, as we're the same age. I loved him in The Littlest Angel, a TV movie he did toward the end of his TV career.

[@oliverbrownlow5615]

*The Littlest Angel* was in 1969, which is actually rather early in Johnny's career.

[@sailordude2094]

Thanks for the interview, great channel! I watched this show as a kid in reruns in the early 70s. It was on everyday on daytime TV. The whole concept of them being orphans and my own broken family really resonated and engulfed me as a child (I had a teddy bear I named Mr. French). When they ran away from home, OMG. I think I copied it in a way in real life.

[@kelshep]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@debbiedebbie9473]

Thank you so much for this. I just found your channel.❤

[@emmylou-y4b]

Many years ago, I worked in media and on one occasion, I met Dana Plato. She was with her manager at the time, passed me in the hall and sweetly complimented me on my hair. She was bubbly and was definitely trying to psych herself to do a good job; she needed the work. I was heartbroken when she was arrested and later committed suicide. Howard Stern was very cruel and delighted in putting struggling folks in terrible positions. God bless Dana. She was a very sweet young woman. This was a wonderful interview with Johnny Whitaker. What a terrific man and may he continue to do this good work for those in need.

[@evdallas123]

God bless Johnny Whitaker he still looks great he was an awesome actor

[@wookinooki9023]

Johnnyyyyyy! one million hugs and kisses!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! not all at once, but spread out, from 60 years ago to 60 years from now. just for being YOU.

[@nancyhank9928]

What a great interview and Johnny is a very sincere person. I have several family members in AA and appreciate all that he has gone through to stay clean and sober, and to help others through the process. I still watch reruns of Family Affair, and amazed at his acting skills at such a young age. Thank you, Johnny for the great acting, the compassion and for helping all those in need who didn't know who to turn to.

[@kelshep]

Thank you for sharing @nancyhank9928

[@2009cochinos]

What a wonderful interview. You asked all the correct questions, timing in point and as you point his candor. I can't wait to read his book.

[@donna4865]

Great interview with Johnny Whitaker. Brought back memories for me as a child watching Buffy And Jodie.

[@davina5514]

Buffy & Jody. 😊😊 Fun good old times.

[@tomgrant3893]

My favorites may hold political views I don't share, but they never shy away from being honest when you let them. I have a son who was and maybe still is addicted. People who know us tell me it was caused by his bad choices and not us. Thank you Johnny for your honesty and insight.

[@cceldrid01]

Enjoyed this interview. Johnny seems to be a down to earth man. Sorry to hear of so much loss in his life. Thanks for the childhood memories from your acting, Johnny.

[@RebeccaKhan-fx7jf]

You were just adorable, Johnny. I loved Family Affair-great family show.

[@mikepeterson7175]

Sigmund and the Sea Monsters was the TV show I remember Johnny from. The show was part of the Kroftt Superstars hour in the 1980s. The sea monsters answered the phone ‘shell-o’, lol I still think about that.

[@trace13est]

Lovely interview and a lovely man. So happy for Johnny that he dedicates his life to others.

[@deniseoates7147]

Had the most ultimate crush on Johnny during Family Affair, but it was the cherry on top when my mom took me to see Tom Sawyer. with fame seem to come sacrifice and loss. I was shocked when I heard that Buffy (Mary Jones) had taken her life thru a drug overdose. It great to hear the story on how you came out an accident a live because listened and obey the voice in your head. This was such a great interview because Jonny is such a good storyteller, and I really enjoyed it. I have been trying to find the Tom Sawyer (musical) on streaming but with no success hopefully it will come up soon. This kind of childhood experience I want to share with my granddaughter. Because there was some life lesson in the story. I have white picket fence her a few times. LOL! Getting to the age where most of old Hollywood is gone, still a few hanging in there like Dick Van Dyke, Julie Andrews and others that made it out of their young adulthood alive. Live long Johnny and keep up the good work. Thanks for sharing and blessings to you and all in the days to come.

[@allisonmarlow184]

Ok, this is the second video I've just seen on this channel and I just had to subscribe when I saw ALL the great interviews on this channel. Excellent interviews, fabulous idea for a channel. Thank you much! 🇺🇸🇺🇦

[@TadSanDiego]

Great interview. You handled the delicate topics with Johnny with class and dignity. Well done

[@carysbenson8061]

My husband and I can't wait for the next Celebrity Drop interview. This one is exceptional We are thoroughly enjoying these exceptional interviews with the Hollywood greats of the past. Mr Bennett is a most personable interviewer who listens, asks knowledgeable questions and clearly has a great respect for the celebrities he interviews. Thank you for sharing this first rate conversation.

[@kelshep]

Our pleasure and more to come.

[@Belevaqua]

@@kelshepWHOOOOO HOOOOOO 🎉

[@johnnypalooka]

Johnny seems like he's really doing well. I'm glad. I always try to support former actors when I see them at conventions. If they provided hours of entertainment for me growing up I don't see why I can't buy an autographed photo and have a nice conversation with them. They are not all millionaires and can use the income in their retirement.

[@kelshep]

Well said @johnnypalooka

[@Anchor5777]

7/31 I remember at recess my friends and I would fight over who was Jody and who was Buffy. Good memories. You are looking great! I always loved your smile.

[@carolpeek7429]

Thank you Mr. Bennett for this great interview. Thank you Johnny for sharing your story and congratulations on your sobriety and your kindness in helping others. You are a blessing.

[@janetwalker587]

I watched Family Affair religiously! I now watch reruns on now! I was just thinking the other day how you and Annisa were good little actors! Then, I saw this! Love your story! So sad about Anissa...and Dana! Heartbreaking...

[@teel714]

This was a great interview! I was a BIG "Family Affair" fan! I admire the interviewer because I've seen other interviews he's done and he's one of the few I've seen, within recent memory, that is very up on knowing about the life and career of the people who he's interviewing!

[@kelshep]

Thank you for watching @teel714

[@LizC1213]

What a great interview! Now I'd love to see 1 with you interviewing Brandon Cruz from Courtship of Eddie's Father.

[@kelshep]

Great suggestion @LizC1213 ... we'll reach out to Brandon ... thank you for watching.

[@LizC1213]

Thanks. I'm looking forward to watching it.

[@kelshep]

We have reached out to Brandon's people @LizC1213. Hopefully we can get some time with him soon.

[@kevinbarry3548]

Excellent interview as are your other celebrity interviews.....

[@theboyisnotright6312]

I remember watching the show and thinking how horrible to lose both parents in a car crash. First time i realized how horrible things do happen. I was 6-7.

[@CrazyArt-r5e]

Wow Johnny looks great! What a humble individual. Loved the show. He’s so funny as well. Great backstory, thanks for doing this interview. Glad he is doing very well ❤

[@leegordon5223]

Fabulous interview, I learned so much. Johnny, you are as adorable now as you were as a kid. As a little girl I found Family Affair to be loving, warm and magical. Thank you for the treasured memories. ❤❤❤

[@deborahstrickland4624]

Great interview, so happy to see him doing well!!

[@kathykoeven]

What a great update from and about Johnny Whitaker! Thank you so much!!

[@kelshep]

Our pleasure @kathykoeven

[@deborahbryant3266]

You are a fabulous interviewer! I've only watched you a couple times and I'm always amazed at how much research you do! That is so honoring to your guest and your followers. 💚💜💙💛

[@kelshep]

Thanks for watching!

[@carriedillmann4455]

I love your interview style Craig!!!! Johnny Is a wonderful man !!!❤

[@markeast9221]

Wow , I just stumbled on to this interview , How interesting it all was ! Great Interviewer !

[@kelshep]

Glad you enjoyed it @markeast9221

[@AdamShaiken]

I really enjoyed(loved), 'The Littlest Angel'...that was my favorite Johnny Whitaker performance !!!

[@alwaysblake148]

An extraordinary interview of a magnificent man.

[@lemurianchick]

Johnny Wittaker was a big deal when I was a kid. I think he was in "Tom Sawyer" but certainly he was the go-to child in the early '70s and his red hair and freckles were part of his trademark look.

[@tonycollazorappo]

I never missed an episode of Family Affair! I even re-watched it on Tubi last year, every episode :)

[@sailorbychoice1]

6:30 As a former child-performer (nowhere near the same level as Johnny, but I _can_ relate), I know one of the secrets to half hour soap operas... for a half hour show, 30 minutes, there is 8 minutes removed for commercial breaks, this leaves 22 minutes, minus 1 minute for intro, and one minute for outro {music and credits running} that leaves 20 minutes to be broken down into 6 to 8 scenes 2-3 minutes in length broken down for a reoccurring cast of usually 8-12 actors. It breaks down to each actor not needing to memorized more than 3 minutes of dialog at a time. Assuming the dialog makes sense in the scene that is usually not so hard once one is used to it~ it is a tool of the short term memory, unlike memorizing an entire play and having to be able to retain that dialog in the long term part of your mind where ten years later most actors can still recite from plays, but would forget the lines in a soap twenty minutes after they've performed the show because it isn't needed anymore.

[@kelshep]

It's great to get another perceptive @sailorbychoice1. Thank you for sharing.