It was the last day of shooting The Beverly Hillbillies. The whole crew was buzzing around, feeling a mix of joy and a little sadness — after nearly ten years together, it was almost time to say goodbye. Right in the middle of all that, the studio door swung open and in walked John Wayne, dressed down, without his usual cowboy gear. Everyone looked up surprised, and John just smiled wide as he made his way over to Buddy Ebsen — who played Jed Clampett — and gave him a strong pat on the shoulder.
John said, “I just got back from a checkup, and heard today was the final shoot, so I had to drop by and congratulate you.”
Buddy grinned, eyes shining: “Duke, having you here means the world. You know, this role’s brought me joy all these years.”
John looked Buddy right in the eye with that warm, deep voice: “Here’s to friendship, and to The Beverly Hillbillies — a real hit.” They clinked their glasses, the sound ringing through the studio, and everyone joined in with laughs and good wishes.
