J.D. Blackwell articles

Discover the surprising casting stories behind Hollywood’s biggest stars. From Harrison Ford and Al Pacino to Jennifer Lawrence and Robert Downey Jr., these actors nearly lost the roles that made them famous.

Looking back five decades to one of the best movies of all time, and the actors who made it happen.

Steve Clark was the guitarist and songwriter who shredded for Def Leppard. But the only thing he shredded harder than a guitar riff was his liver. His struggles with alcoholism ultimately led to his demise at the tender age of 30. But not before he left his mark.

Putting together the ultimate dad movie list for Father's Day.

WKRP In Cincinnati premiered on CBS in 1978 and followed the staff of a struggling Ohio radio station. The sitcom ran for four seasons and 90 episodes before signing off in 1982. Its mix of workplace chaos, smart character comedy, and radio-world satire helped it become one of television’s most beloved late-1970s comedies.

Sterling Hayden lived more adventure in his real life than in any of his movies.

Pop culture can be brutal to yesterday’s stars, but Andy Williams never seemed to fade away. Long after many of his contemporaries slipped from the spotlight, his voice was still showing up on television screens and holiday playlists. From "Moon River" to Christmas classics, Williams had a knack for staying relevant without ever changing who he was.

Larry Hagman became a television legend as Dallas villain J.R. Ewing, but his complicated career stretched far beyond Southfork. Discover his rise, struggles, reinventions, and enduring Hollywood legacy.

Clint Eastwood has spent more than six decades as one of Hollywood’s most recognizable stars and filmmakers. Now, at 96 years old, the legendary actor-director appears to have stepped away from filmmaking. While retirement seems to have arrived at last, fans are not entirely ready to say goodbye.