PHOTO:

Me and Johnny Whitaker, July 2003

MEMORY:

Oh wow! Johnny Whitaker was one of my favorites since Family Affair in the 60's. When Sigmund & The Sea Monsters came out in the 70's, I HAD to tune in! Since I lived in NYC at that time, the setting at the beach was really cool to watch. I loved all the characters, both human and sea monster. I loved the pop cultural references the monsters would have, (w/ their characters and what they watch on "Shellivision"). I loved Johnny's singing too. I even found his album, featuring songs from the show. I love to play it on Saturdays , after my cartoon time. I have many eps from the show on tape, and love watching them on Saturday morning just like I did when I was 7. (Admittedly, I don't like the ones w/ Rip Taylor much, but I watch them sometimes). I even introduced some of my students to it, and they really enjoyed it. I actually got a chance to meet Johnny in 2003, when he was at Rusty's Surf Ranch in Santa Monica. I pointed him out to some friends, one of which is hard of hearing, so she didn't know how loud she was when she said his name. Johnny was eating at the next table and looked over at us. So I said, "Johnny, we're gonna let you enjoy your dinner, and then we'll come over and act like fans." He cracked up! I told him what a big fan I am of Family Affair and Sigmund, and The Littlest Angel. He was very sweet and offered to take a picture w/ me. It was really cool meeting one of my Saturday morning heroes! Every time I watch Sigmund, and sing that familiar theme song, I look over at Johnny's pic on my dresser, and say thank you. I love ya, Johnny!
Gold Stars: 10

BabyG said on 01/25/09...
"great show."

MusicGal said on 01/17/08...
"Great photo of the two of you! It's very cool that you got to meet him."

kmarie said on 11/17/07...
"Cool!"

Talkingfox said on 07/09/07...
"OMG! Although I only watched Family Affair in re-runs in the 80's...I'm still impressed! It's Jody! Awesome!"

Snoopygirl said on 06/30/07...
"You are so lucky!! I loved him on Family Affair and Sigmund. He seems like such a nice person with a sweet personality."

Family in Television
Family Affair in Television
Friends in Television
Sweet in Music
The Beach in Places