The Waltons - Father's Day 2024 - behind the scenes with Judy Norton

[@mountainmama898]

Ralph Waite played this role brilliantly. I could not imagine anyone else playing John Walton.

[@judynorton2598]

I agree completely.

[@gregusjay]

Ralph Waite ! The ultimate father ! Family first with compassion for all. Made me want to be a Walton.

[@judynorton2598]

So glad. Thanks for sharing.

[@timgriffith2094]

I agree with you, John Walton was a great father figure.

[@judynorton2598]

Yay!

[@lindadrugan3950]

I loved when John Curtis gets lost briefly and he says to Mary Ellen “ no child has had more looking after than that child and you can’t keep life from happening to your child ! “

[@judynorton2598]

Words of wisdom for Mary Ellen.

[@pasqualeamabile5672]

Ralph Waite was superb actor and was perfectly cast as the father in the Walton’s .

[@judynorton2598]

I totally agree.

[@m.e.d.7997]

It was like Ralph Waite was never even acting. His delivery was so natural and real

[@LisaLisa-2023]

M.e.d - yes, I believe that's why Ralph was so relatable, likable, and admired. I almost forget I'm watching a TV show.

[@gerrymcguire7521]

No doubt!

[@sherryhettinga5416]

Hands down, no question, John Walton was the best TV dad of all time. Thank you for this special addition today Judy!

[@judynorton2598]

Wonderful. Thank you.

[@kami-cotler]

The "hiding behind one of your mama's smiles" scene is one I remember making. My parents had taught me where babies came from when I was 4 or 5, so I was always a little surprised that Elizabeth didn't know. Plus, a least a stork or a cabbage patch was feasible; how do you hide behind a smile? Did he move the smile over to find Elizabeth? How does that work? It didn't make any sense to me at the time, but the script said Elizabeth accepted it, so I did my best to act as if she did.

[@lost-south-lake-crafters]

Thanks for sharing, Kami. You did an excellent job showing Elizabeth accepting his answer.

[@thekirksiffs5285]

I think that there is some truth to John's answer. 9 or so months before Elizabeth is born, Olivia had given him a special smile that led to Elizabeth joining the family! I'm sure that each one of the Walton children started out with a smile.

[@judynorton2598]

I love hearing what you remember about it. ❤️

[@Bullitt2024]

I've always said John Walton was my favorite TV Father. He set a standard that all fathers should try and follow.

[@judynorton2598]

So glad.

[@donnababi5767]

OH MY GOSH...when he says "hiding behind your Momma's smile"...how beautiful...he was truly the Best Screen Dad ever...❤

[@judynorton2598]

Such a sweet moment.

[@SuperTundra08]

Agree ....John Walton was the best!!

[@judynorton2598]

Yay!

[@robbinwofford6973]

Happy Father’s Day to your husband and all the Walton dads. And all dads around the world.

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you.

[@pbrn1729]

I loved Ralph Waite-he was the best TV fathers ever🤩💕🤩💕🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you.

[@MrKurtG]

He was a good dad for the show. We always looked up to him. I never grew up with relatives like grann

[@judynorton2598]

🥰

[@DigtheGoodLife]

He is my favorite tv dad ever. His fierce love of his family often has put tears in my eyes.

[@judynorton2598]

🥰

[@karenmariesmith3395]

Ralph as John, Michael Landon as Charles, my own Father, My son ,and my husband, my favorite fathers. HAPPY Father's Day gentleman.

[@judynorton2598]

How wonderful. Thank you.

[@carlfreeman5429]

Happy Father's Day to the Walton's Fathers!

[@Joannedeck]

I am blessed to have had a wonderful father, and I, too, love John Walton as a father figure. Another admirable father for me on TV was Hugh Beaumont as Ward Cleaver. Handsome, athletic, a loving husband and father, he provided for his family, spent time with his sons, and would admit when he had made a mistake. I've had a secret crush on him for years.

[@judynorton2598]

Great choices.

[@lost-south-lake-crafters]

Thanks, Judy! I agree... John Walton is the best TV Dad!

[@judynorton2598]

Yay!

[@irishlady1625]

Ralph Waite was a wonderful actor. Loved his character! Happy Father's Day to all the dads out there. June 2024!!

[@judynorton2598]

Glad you feel that way.

[@julieann5196]

Thank you Judy for this great tribute to Ralph. He is truly a one in a million father. Ralph is for sure on the top of the list along with Michael Landon(Charles Ingalls).

[@m.e.d.7997]

A strong father figure for sure.

[@judynorton2598]

Yay!

[@Mjt1262]

When I watch the series now I appreciate John and Zebs relationship. They supported each other and could disagree at times and always came back together.

[@judynorton2598]

Good point. Another wonderful relationship.

[@gokuvegeta3163]

Happy Father's Day to all the Fathers here on earth and in heaven 💙

[@LisaLisa-2023]

Absolutely! Love is infinite. 👍

[@cruzfamily7777]

Ralph was my favorite TV father I grew up watching the Waltons in the 70s thank you Judy for bringing all this wonderful insight on this character.

[@judynorton2598]

So glad. Glad you enjoyed this.

[@PhillipCampbell-js3ho]

Happy Fathers Day. Let's remember Ralph today

[@DevikaK100]

Great episode, Judy. Here are my favorite father moments portrayed by Ralph in the Waltons: * In Season 8, when Elizabeth is hitting puberty and wants to speak to her mother. John goes out of his way to see Olivia, who stitches Elizabeth a camisole. * As you noted, when he reads Erin the letter GW left her. * Around Season 8 or 9, when he tells Jason that he thinks of him as not only a son, but a confidante and friend. * When John Boy is working to get his printing press, and he leaves home to live closer into town, John imparts life wisdom. I love that scene between them. In fact, I feel like John gave him more advice in this episode, than Richard's last one. * In John's last appearance, in Season 9, when he tries to make Ben a partner in the sawmill, but Ben refuses. John hides his pain, but shares with Ike how he feels about Ben also losing interest in the business. Later, Ben steps up and joins his father's business instead of going to college. * When John opposes Mary Ellen from being a doctor, by talking about the valuable time she'll miss with John Curtis. * The episode when Jim Bob's lifelong dream of being a pilot ends because of poor vision. John gives Jim Bob lots of support and understanding. Too bad we only saw Ben become a father, and that too, Virginia was still a toddler. He had a great character transformation from a hot-headed teenager to a loving husband. I'm sure if they'd rapid-aged Virginia, we might have seen a tender side of Ben too. Even though Jason had many kids in the reunion episodes, we did not see him "close up" as a father. Of course John Boy only had children in the last scene of last reunion movie, so we didn't see how he would be as a father. Too bad, as he played a great father figure to his siblings.

[@LisaLisa-2023]

Yes, those moments you've captured were incredible! Thank you for capturing them. 😍 If I can add another heartwrenching one, that always makes me misty-eyed each time I rewatch it. Season 3 Episode 25, The Venture; When John Walton is hospitalized with pneumonia after working around the clock on building the new Mill during Extreme weather, John Boy's proposition to pause College to work full time to save the family from losing the house and the new mill devastates John Walton because of his love for his son's future despite his own severe injury. ☺🥲

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you for sharing your favorite scenes for John as a father.

[@felipeescamilla3092]

I lost my Father when I was three,seeing him as a father made me wish I was a Walton.

[@judynorton2598]

So sorry about your father.

[@sundancita]

Hands down - Ralph Waite as John Walton was the best TV dad ever! As you said, caring, kind, firm, protective AND willing to compromise or change his mind. Always concerned for his family and doing his part to support his family. Such a special father and a great example to us all!

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you for your wonderful words on behalf of John Walton.

[@melissaphillips3088]

Ralph Waite was wonderful as John and deserved many Emmy’s for his acting on The Walton’s . I wished he was still with us. ♥️ Happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there who loved and cared for us all.

[@judynorton2598]

🥰

[@rachelotremba8100]

My favorite TV dads: definitely John Walton and also Michael Landon's portrayal of Charles Ingalls in Little House on the Prairie 👌🏻

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you.

[@debbiefrenette6566]

To John Walton was the absolute best TV father 💙

[@judynorton2598]

Awesome!

[@denveradams4909]

As I have eluded to before, my own family mirrored The Walton's family in many ways. Growing up with 3 brothers and 7 sisters, I can certainly relate to some of the difficulties of growing up in a large family where money was very limited. I was the youngest of the boys and was babied in a lot of ways. I was always considered too little or too young to do what my older brothers were doing. Partly for those reasons and also the way I was bullied in school, I chose to enlist in the Marine Corps as soon as I graduated from high school. My father seemed to understand my reasons, but my mother took it very hard, when I went off to Parris Island. I was just 5ft 1 1/2in tall and 117lbs. I am thankful for the determination I inherited from my father, for persevering and serving for 6 years.

[@judynorton2598]

Sounds like you have quite a family of siblings. How wonderful for you.

[@jmsask]

No question about it John Walton was the best father figure in my opinion. Happy Father’s Day to all the fathers 🍻

[@judynorton2598]

Happy to hear that.

[@michaelbrown5044]

Judy, It would be nice if Ralph Waite could have been awarded an Emmy for his role as John Walton. I think it would be well deserved.

[@2Hearts3]

Absolutely-- he deserved it every season. And Earl Hamner must have been a very proud 'father' of all of you, Judy, and all the actors and crew who brought his wonderful family to life on the screen. I don't know offhand what awards he won, but i expect many. That might be a good topic for one of your segments-- the awards won by The Waltons. And whatever they were, you all won a special place in our hearts, then and always. Happy Father's Day ♥️

[@donnababi5767]

I agree❤

[@DevikaK100]

What? He didn't win an Emmy? How unfortunate. I know one of the reasons he was picked to act in "Roots" is because of his reputation as a great father and person. They wanted to put that trustworthy face amidst all the sadness and horror that movie presented. Too bad the Emmy team didn't recognize his talent.

[@bluejay713]

He played in a movie cool hand luke i'm not sure he got a emmy for that role.

[@lmdmn1645]

He could never beat Sonny Bono's widow in politics either. Sad.

[@andrewmccormack2613]

Dear Judy I just want to thank you for all you do. In today's world to be grounded is so needed. Your channel gives hope and reminds us of what is important....Family

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you so much.

[@sandrabraswell6352]

I can't imagine a more perfect fit for John Walton than Ralph Waite. So many scenes were good , but when he ran to the mountain to comfort John Boy when Olivia had polio was a favorite. His comforting turned into a heated debate in an instant and some of the best acting I've seen from both of them. Thanks Judy!

[@judynorton2598]

I forgot about that - one of my favorites between John and John Boy.

[@susansumler1105]

Hello, I really enjoyed your video today about Father’s Day. You did a beautiful job talking about John’s relationship with each of the children. He did an excellent job. John Walton would have been someone that I would’ve loved to have had for a father. He is my number one pick for a father From TV and my second choice would be Charles Ingles played by Michael Landon those two of the most perfect most the most caring and loving fathers ever on television. I truly believe that everyone could learn so much from watching both shows to Waltons had so many different lessons concerning so many different subjects which still apply today in 2024 and beyond shows like the Waltons can never ever grow old and outdated. Sadly, the lessons that we all need to remember learning from the Waltons are from real life. It’s so easy to forget them and to miss and forget about the lessons that we have learned And having the Waltons on TV and videos will always be there to go back to watch to learn and to remember. Have a wonderful fantastic Father’s Day everybody God bless. Susan from Houston, Texas.

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you for your beautiful message.

[@marlogilliland3917]

The adult actors had such a loving, respect for each other it came through their characters. Ralph Waite and Will Geer were the best at portraying fathers, men who weren't just fathers, they were dads. Loving, gentle firmness to guide and playful to ensure wonderful relationships. I used a lot of lessons learned from watching my TV family with my son. I want him to live his own life, not what I thought he should live. I am always open to listen and not judge his feelings, thoughts and wishes. Thank you for the time you give us to share your experiences and continuing our love of The Waltons.

[@judynorton2598]

What a wonderful perspective on parenting. Your son is fortunate to have you.

[@dtmlavaca]

My father died in 1969, when I was just a kid. He never got to watch "The Waltons". I believe he would have liked it. He was sure a great father.

[@judynorton2598]

So sorry you lost your father so young. Sounds like he had a lot in common with John Walton.

[@ladyk63200]

Good Morning Judy!! You are absolutely right without a doubt, hands down, John Walton is the BEST TV dad ever! You gave the most beautiful examples of his love and kindness with his family and how each child had inherented a little piece of what he stood for. I think that is why the Waltons is so unique in that you can really see how one generation can effectively touch the next. I think, though Ralph own life experiences, he purposely directed and acted in each episode to give the audience a lasting impact. I think him being not only a father but a minister may have had something to do with that. Thank you, Judy. I hope you and your father had a wonderful Father's Day!! 🥰

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you for sharing such lovely comments about Ralph as John Walton.

[@caretaker158]

John Walton was the father I wished mine was. Even half the father he was would have been wonderful.

[@LisaLisa-2023]

I hear you. I wonder how many of us feel this way. Probably many. Although this show was adapted from Earl Hamner's real life, even the embellishments felt so true to form. ☺

[@judynorton2598]

Sorry to hear your father wasn’t more like John Walton.

[@LisaLisa-2023]

Hi Judy, What an awesome tribute to Ralph Waite as the beloved patriarch, protective and compassionate, who loved all people as much as Earl Hamner did. I always enjoy listening to your storytelling. And that beautiful blouse you are wearing is perfect for today's segment, intimate and elegant. 🤩🤠❤💙🤍

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you so much!

[@douglasthompson9482]

Thank you Judy for another fabulous episode. You always make me smile….

[@judynorton2598]

So glad, thank you.

[@rachelotremba8100]

I absolutely love that ad lib John Curtis had with John.. so sweet and Ralph went along so well with that. 🥺❤️

[@judynorton2598]

Definitely a stand out moment. So sweet.

[@loric6166]

Thank you, Judy, for this tribute. Ralph's portrayal of daddy was exceptional.

[@m.e.d.7997]

He helped hold the show together after Michael Learned left and the grandparents Ellen and Will. The loss was felt after he left as well.

[@fifi-32]

The show with Gino was scary. I think the scariest was when Ben refused to tell him about the what happened with John Boy’s car. He grabbed him by the shirt and I thought he would hit him. He also had a soft side most of the time, with all of the children. .

[@judynorton2598]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@m.e.d.7997]

@@fifi-32 That scene was so realistic though. Any father of that era would have responded that way or MUCH worse and it was a bad situation which Ben is compounding by talking back to his father saying ‘I won’t’

[@m.e.d.7997]

@@fifi-32 The scene with Ben and his father scared you?? Not me when I saw it. It was reality

[@DeniseEverett-e8u]

Ralph Waite, was a good actor, Happy Father's Day to all of the father's out there. Thanks for the special podcast Judy.

[@judynorton2598]

My pleasure. Thank you for watching.

[@sherri3615]

John Walton was no doubt the best TV dad. I wish he had won an award. His emotions came through so clear like a real father. He reminds me of my father. As the youngest of 6 children I witnessed my father go through some of the exact same situations and his feelings and actions were very much the same. Still watch the Walton's. I cry sometimes because my children were a product of divorced parents. The Walton's have shown them what a family can actually be like and it has made a difference in their lives.

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you for watching and for sharing about your own family.

[@rachelotremba8100]

That clip from The Foundling gave me chills and made me tear up. That is such a sweet little exchange between John and Elizabeth 🥺

[@judynorton2598]

It really is a sweet exchange.

[@kellyseelye7752]

John Walton was and will always be the best father on tv. I see parts of my father in John, so every time i watch the show, its like a little visit with my dad again 🥰

[@judynorton2598]

I’m so happy for you.

[@janaeshepherd5854]

The Prophesy is one of my favorite episodes. You see how the children and family truly respect their dad.

[@judynorton2598]

Indeed.

[@l.m.malcolm2685]

A very thoughtful and insightful introspecton of the character of John Walton! I was fortunate enough to have a father like the character - and although I lost him early in life, the stunning parallels between the two were not lost on me as I evolved as a man, a father and a husband. It's unfortunate that the concept and character of both John and Zeb seem to be lost to the last couple of generations, though. But one thing is sure: Even at my age, I still need my Dad... Best wishes to your Father, Judy - for many more wonderful years to come! 😊

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you for sharing. Glad you had such a wonderful father in your own life. Sorry you lost him too soon.

[@KlassyKat45]

Ralph Waite and Michael Landon were my favorite TV fathers. My dad passed away last year in May so this is my second Father's Day without him. I miss him but I still said Happy Father's Day to him and to all the fathers out there.

[@judynorton2598]

So sorry for the loss of your own father.

[@KlassyKat45]

@@judynorton2598 Thank you, Judy.

[@NKOTBJovifangirl]

Ralph Waite was a great actor. He reminded of my late father. Always ready to lend a helping hand & for always giving great words of wisdom. Happy father’s day to all the dads still living and the ones that are no longer with us. ❤💙

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you for watching and sharing.

[@RoseannPerez-gr6qb]

Ralph Waite best TV father for sure. Im 74 now and still watching the Waltons. It was my favorite show when it was on. Ill never get tired of watching this great show.

[@judynorton2598]

So happy to hear that.

[@stacystoltz8722]

Happy Father's ♥️ Today In2024 Every one Stacy From Walton show 📺 ❤😊😊😊🎉😊

[@judynorton2598]

❤️

[@anthonytelly1489]

Happy Father's Day John Walton! ❤

[@LisaLisa-2023]

I didn't have a Father anywhere close to John Walton. Maybe that's why I am so drawn to your Tribute Judy and to Ralph Waite's performance. ❤To all of you who had that Father's Love, you are so blessed. Happy Father's Day to all loving Fathers every day. 👍

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you. Sorry to hear your own father wasn’t like John Walton.

[@LoriChance-rd8ob]

I loved watching the Waltons and I think Ralph Waite's portrayal of John Walton was wonderful. We need more TV shows like The Waltons!😊

[@judynorton2598]

Yay!

[@robertshawiv1513]

Excellent tribute to fathers everywhere. As a father myself, it’s much appreciated. Thank you from fathers all over the world. 👍🏻

[@judynorton2598]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@m.e.d.7997]

John Walton was so good! I loved him as a father! Ward Cleaver was also great! He would lose his temper and get mad sometimes like John Walton but he also admitted at times he was wrong and would reevaluate a disciplinary situation. 2 great TV fathers.

[@judynorton2598]

Nice choices 🥰

[@kc0lif]

john walton was a great father definitely someone I'd wanna be like. happy father's day to all father's. very nice thanks.

[@judynorton2598]

Couldn't agree more!

[@elizabethhjenkins6172]

This was, indeed, special. My parents were much older when they married. I came to see Ralph as John Walton as one of the best father figures ever. Will Geer was great as well. I wish he had been mine but true life does not work that way. I enjoyed seeing father figures in Littie House on the Prairie, Father Knows Best and a few other shows but Ralph as John Walton was the best. Thanks, Judy.

[@judynorton2598]

That’s very sweet. Thank you.

[@npr1300A8]

Thank you, Judy, for your Father's Day message. There is no workshop manual on how to be a good father, however, I always admired John Walton Snr. What a beautiful answer to Elizabeth. ❤️

[@judynorton2598]

Well said. It’s a tough job and some manage it wonderfully.

[@theresacarlson8822]

Thank you this wonderful video & tribute to "The Waltons" Dads. I not only think of Ralph but Zeb and then in later years, Curt, and then the Walton boys. I think of Ike and how he was a soft landing for Amy. Wishing all the Dads a happy Father's Day & may the Dads who are no longer with us, rest in eternal peace.

[@judynorton2598]

So true.

[@PhillipCampbell-js3ho]

I'm enjoying watching with my dad today old episodes of Father Knows Best

[@jaamman]

Hands down John Walton best TV Dad ever!!!

[@judynorton2598]

Yay!

[@maryangeladouglas]

What a beautiful analysis of John Walton's character as a father. So complete and satisfying a portrait. Really well done. Thank you for this. I dont see how anyone could have put together a more complete picture, referencing so many episodes and nuances. And your personal reflections and good wishes for everyone are so touching. Regarding the best ever father on tv I dont think ANYONE could hold a candle to the character of John Walton, espcially as you have described him. Just outstanding.

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you so much.

[@tracyb1957]

This was wonderful Judy. My Dad died when I was 17 and John Walton helped me through life as a surrogate father in a way.Happy Father's Day to all you dad's out there.I love and miss mine every day,even after 49 years.

[@judynorton2598]

So sorry you lost your dad so young. I’m glad John was a help to you.

[@lmdmn1645]

You are blessed to still have your father Judy. I hope you and your family have a blessed time with him today. I had mine until 2012 when he died at age 91. My parents were older. Thankfully our relationship improved over the years. It was tempestuous when I was younger to say the least! Even now I tend to remember the bad stuff at times. I guess it is a coping mechanism so that I do not miss him as much during those times.

[@judynorton2598]

Sorry you have lost your own father.

[@lmdmn1645]

@@judynorton2598 ty! ❤️

[@michelleclawsey9565]

Loved his acting ❤

[@judynorton2598]

He was so good.

[@garymaccarone1730]

All through this I was thinking of the episode when Mary Ellen decides to become a Dr. much to John's dismay. I especially loved those episodes that were pivotal to the character.

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you.

[@sharroncasey9739]

What a lovely tribute to fathers..tfs..I loved it..

[@judynorton2598]

So glad. Thank you.

[@victorbuhler-tw6gh]

Ralph Waite should have won an Emmy. I love the scene in 'The Choice' when John-Boy said: "I am going to write a novel about a great man, you." John: "Me? John-Boy, have you been dipping in the recipe." I also love the scene earlier when John-Boy talks about the good things his father has done. John always seemed to want the children to be independent. But in 'The Choice' he didn't want Jason to go to music school. Olivia had to straighten him out. Reading the letter to Erin is Mary Beth's favorite scene and episode. I loved the way John let Ben go in 'The intruders' episode and had to deal with Olivia about his decision. Judy, was that your mother with you when you came here to Nashville last fall?

[@judynorton2598]

I agree - there were sooo many episodes I felt Ralph deserved and Emmy for. His scene with John Boy on the mountain in An Easter Story was so powerful and heartbreaking. I’m not sure which woman you might be referring to in Nashville, but I lost my mother in 2013.

[@lindajones8895]

I loved watching Ralph Waite my parents were divorced too. He always had love and words of wisdom. Happy Father's Day Everyone. ❤❤❤❤

[@m.e.d.7997]

Wonderful father on The Waltons

[@judynorton2598]

🥰

[@lindajones8895]

@@m.e.d.7997 I couldn't agree more..

[@Curly34584]

Ralph was just the Best👍❤️

[@judynorton2598]

Yay!

[@sharonc6505]

❤ Beautiful heart felt tribute he was such a great man . I've been watching the waltons evey night 📺

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you.

[@dougreed2257]

Wonderful presentation & sentiments judy,i remember all these stories/episodes mentioned here! I introduced my daughter brooke to the walton's when she was 8 years old(she's 19 now)and absolutely loved the show,you were her favourite of course😊,her favourite episode was 'The shivaree' i was so glad she was affected by this wonderful show,as i myself was ad a teenager here in the uk in the 70s,wednesday night was WALTON night! yes,john walton,greatest tv dad ever!!!👍

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you so much. I love that Brooke loves the show too. Glad John Walton is your pick!

[@jocelyngrimm3850]

No one reads a letter like Ralph Waite did. What an experience to listen him.

[@judynorton2598]

So true.

[@duanebarbic3786]

A surprise bounus segment. Well done. I have to agree with you Ralph Waite was one of the best TV dads ever. You also get credit as a great TV sister. Now your our KZbin friend, and ambassador to the Waltons. Giving us perspective, and other bits and pieces truly enhances our viewing experience watching the episodes. Nice conclusion, sometimes I'm the dad and other times I need a dad, even at my age at 65.

[@LisaLisa-2023]

Hi Duane, friend in San Jose! Catching up here with Judy's tributes. Happy every Father's Day to you too! I am also the dad (and the Mom) and many times I want and need a dad even at my age too! I don't think that feeling ever gets old, even as we age. Wish you the best.

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you for your kind comments.

[@duanebarbic3786]

@@judynorton2598 ❤️

[@PhillipCampbell-js3ho]

Yesterday, my mom took her dad out to eat at a restaurant called Country Eatery. My mom paid for his meal for his Fathers day present

[@JackKirbyFan]

I always loved John Walton Judy. I found MIchelle Landon's character far too simplistic. Ralph's portrayal had so many layers to it which made it so interesting. He was grounded and real. He had struggles and he lost his temper. He never tried to be the ideal father and it was written that way. He just tried so hard to be there for his kids. That to me is what makes him so special. Most other fathers on TV are just the perfect at all times. John Walton was a breath of fresh air. Have a great day Judy!

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you. I feel the same way about the way John was written and the way Ralph chose to play the role.

[@Angela-ho4qx]

Ralph Waite was a very good father as John Walton. Very understanding,compassionate and caring. He loved his children with an unconditional love. He really wasn’t too strict. He was very fair. I always wished I could talk to my Dad the way Erin talked to her Daddy. He said she could talk to him about anything. That would be a great thing. I didn’t have that relationship with my Dad. I was afraid to talk to him about a lot of things. I used to yearn for that type of connection. He was a wonderful father to all of his children. He protected his family. I miss my Dad in Heaven.❤️

[@judynorton2598]

I understand. It’s a special quality in a dad. Sorry you have now lost your own father.

[@robertcabral8152]

Thank you so much for taking time out of a weekend to post this! Hope you had a lovely day too! 👍❤️🙂

[@abdurraheem1970]

I always had John Walton as the number one dad of all time and I’m not just saying that. I’ve been saying that for years that John was number one followed by Charles Ingles number two and Cliff Huxtable in the Cosby show at number three. I always thought that John Walton was the best example not only as a father, but also a man he would’ve made a great president.

[@judynorton2598]

So happy to hear that.

[@barbarasolomon5962]

John was always romantic with Olivia, i loved the anniversary episode when he built the gazebo for her! It was so special ❤

[@judynorton2598]

So sweet together.

[@darrelljohnson1319]

Ralph was fantastic in every Episode . I wish I had a Grandfather like Grandpa

[@judynorton2598]

So glad you feel that way.

[@vanceholland833]

Happy Father's Day to all the fathers that are fans of the Waltons shows. Great job Judy.

[@judynorton2598]

Thanks for watching.

[@redrooster1908]

I remember when he said he found Elizabeth hiding behind one of her momma's smiles.

[@m.e.d.7997]

What a great answer that was.

[@judynorton2598]

So sweet.

[@npr1300A8]

Judy, I've often wondered how Ralph dealt with playing John Walton at the same time as playing the role of Slater, in the 1977 series Roots? What a complete opposite of characters. Sign of a true pro.

[@judynorton2598]

Definitely a real pro.

[@julienielsen3746]

Excellent video. Well put about the relationships with the family members. John Walton is my favorite TV dad.

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you.

[@maimegoulart7732]

Hey kiddo...everything you said was spot on...this brings back many memories for me watching the Walton's and the days when my Dad was still with us as well as my grandpa's.. thank you..hugs ❤️

[@judynorton2598]

That's awesome

[@catherinegleason1365]

Thank-you for the beautiful description of John Waltons relationship with each child. He was perfectly portrayed by Ralph Waite, as were all the actors in the series.I think it's the honesty & believability of the characters that has made the Waltons a timeless series.

[@judynorton2598]

So happy to hear that.

[@darkvader7231]

What a lovely segment. Happy Fathers day to all fathers everywhere. John Walton was my inspiration raising my own two boys and they both turned out very good. I fully understand how John felt when Johnboy left the nest, it reduces me to tears everytime and my own son left last year after his wedding. It was an emotional time for him, me and my other son who really felt his absence but we do see each other regularly. Today he came with my daughter in law to spend time with us and on Friday we all spent a night away at an event in a lovely hotel. You are right Judy, it is hard to let them go but as the saying goes "you have to let them go to keep them". Thank you for this segment and best wishes to you as always from your waltonian superfan in an unsettled England😉

[@LisaLisa-2023]

Dear DarkVader, Your posts have a special meaning that resonates with me. Happy Father's Day to you and to your Father too (who you care for as well). I can feel the pride & joy you have for your two sons. They are sure lucky to have parents like you. I am a single mother and have only one teenage son, Jon. I also realize that he too will be embarking on all the magic and hard work that adulthood brings. And I will miss him when he too is married someday. Haven't thought about it too much. Because it's a really strange feeling when you're not there yet. This was a very touching segment, told by our favorite host, Judy N. 💛💚🧡

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you for your beautiful, heartfelt message. Parenting is one of the most emotional challenge I’ve experienced. Glad John was an inspiration that helped you raise your boys.

[@darkvader7231]

@@LisaLisa-2023 Hi Lisa Lisa and thank you for your lovely message. Jon is lucky to have a mother like you and I can see how much he means to you. Trust me when the time comes and he embarks on his life journey, he will always return back to you when life compels him. It is difficult when they go but you do get busy with other things including helping them set themselves up besides, nothing can get in the way of the special bond you both share. When he gets married, treat your dauhter in law as a daughter which is what I did and you will gain a loving daughter.

[@LisaLisa-2023]

@@darkvader7231 Hi DarkVader, when I read your reply, It brought up so many memories of when our children were young, in elementary school, and how quickly that time has passed. Your sage advice has me imagining what I wish for: Jon going to College, pursuing his interests, finding love, and then I will be inheriting a daughter I never had!🥲 DarkVader I trust what you say is true and that "you have to let them go to keep them". Still scares me tho. But I can see it and I sure want to be there when all this comes to life. ☺ A belated congratulations on your son's wedding last year and to the daughter you now have too. 😍😍 I've always said, "You are a good seed DarkVader, and a very good Father too".

[@darkvader7231]

@@LisaLisa-2023 Thank you Lisa Lisa. When the time comes you yourself will go on that journey with Jon and be busy helping him, supporting him and guiding him every step of the way as much as you can and I'm sure he'll be expecting you to. So when it happens, you both have a goal to achieve and as a parent, you just get on with it besides, he'll always be coming home when he can and during holidays. You do get used to it very quickly. My son's 1st wedding anniversary is already upon us in August and his father in law is having a big party at a venue, my daughter in law wants me to do a speech like I did in their wedding....😬

[@lkooper]

I may suggest that you also mention John and the others' relationship with Grandpa, of course Will Geer. Grandpa exemplified fatherhood not only to John but to the other boys and men in the family through the generations.

[@judynorton2598]

Absolutely! Grandpa was a wonderful father and gave great advice to all the children.

[@PhillipCampbell-js3ho]

I'm sure your remembering your real life dad today

[@wonderrob3225]

Today i am thinking about all the wonderful Fathers in my family.

[@judynorton2598]

🥰

[@scain54]

Thank you, Judy. Happy Father's Day to all the men in your life!

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you so much!

[@CoffeeAndPrayerWithJoyce-fc9wx]

This was so beautiful... :)

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you :)

[@ruthmarner6582]

More clips from the show, please. Audio, too. Thank you for your reflections Judy.

[@judynorton2598]

Thanks for watching.

[@phyllismontoroula6454]

Very nice video Wish all fathers in your life happy fathers day

[@judynorton2598]

🥰