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Scott A. Johnson, PhD

@scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social
1.7K followers 2.7K following 872 posts

retired prof and dean, active learner and educator, engaged global citizen. IDIC. Proudly Portland-born. 22 addresses across 6 states and UK, highlights SF + London. now apparently full circle back to Fresno (but circles never end)

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 04/10/2026
Jan Murry was among the first celeb letters I wrote, and he set a standard for heartfelt appreciative response. Now substitute Trump / MAGA for Jan’s zinger from 50+ years ago: Peter: “20 years ago, Thomas E. Dewey ran for President. Who opposed him?” Jan Murray: “The United States of America!”
Signed photo of comedian, actor, and television presenter Jan Murray (October 4, 2016-July 2, 2006). He was well-known for game show appearances (nearly 400 on Hollywood Squares). Inscribed "To Scott - Best Wishes, Jan Murray". Received in 1972. (See reverse side)Reverse side of signed photo sent as a "postcard" by Jan Murray. He personally addressed the card and wrote a thank you note: " Dear Scott - Thank you for your note. I deeply appreciate all you had to say about me & my work. Best wishes to you and yours - Jan Murray". Received in 1972.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 28/09/2026
Their first impact on me was Hitchcockian: he in LIFEBOAT (1944), she in THE BIRDS (1963), plus both in THE SEVENTH CROSS (1944). In a sense, Hume shone in comedies (THE BRIDE GOES WILD, TOP O' THE MORNING, PEOPLE WILL TALK) but Jessica’s sense of humor wasn’t shown until the 80s. Worth the wait.
Signed photo of married actors Hume Cronyn (1911-2003) and Jessica Tandy (1909-1994), wed from September 28, 1942 until her death. Received in 1975 or 1976.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 21/09/2026
In the 70s, I wrote to Gene as owner of baseball’s CA Angels (he headlined a Hot Stove Dinner in Fresno). I was unaware of his media prowess, Western genre innovations, & decades of superstardom. Roy Rogers was still in the public eye with wife Dale Evans. Gene wasn’t and deserved more recognition.
Signed photo of legendary Western actor/singer/radio and tv personality Gene Autry, the first King of the Singing Cowboys (1907-1998). Inscribed "To Scott, Best Wishes From Your Pal, Gene Autry". Received in 1973 or 1974.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 14/09/2026
For me & many 60s kids, she was the ultimate Disney mom in OLD YELLER (1957), SWISS FAMILY ROBINSON (1960), SUMMER MAGIC (1963): tough, loving, resilient, undaunted. Shame on AMPAS for her omission during 2002 TV In Memoriam – but as the *original* Mrs. Robinson, she likely wouldn’t have complained
Signed photo of Oscar-nominated actress Dorothy McGuire (1916-2001), star of radio, stage, film, and television for more than 50 years. Fondly remembered for her motherly roles in Friendly Persuasion (1956) and several Disney films including Old Yeller (1957) and Swiss Family Robinson (1960). Photo inscribed "For Scott Johnson, 'Enjoy', Dorothy McGuire". Received in 1975 or 1976.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 08/09/2026
4/ Julie & casts of BATMAN, THE MONKEES, & STAR TREK all eluded my requests for signed photos in the early 70s. Although I usually only post photos I received then, Miss Newmar is an exception (and exceptional!). Please visit her website to find her wonderful book & learn more. www.julienewmar.com
Cover of THE CONSCIOUS CATWOMAN, a book written by multi-faceted creative legend Julie Newar. Available at http://www.julienewmar.com/  Interior frontispiece of THE CONSCIOUS CATWOMAN, a book written by Julie Newmar. She signed with the inscription "To Scott, You Are The Gift, Julie Newmar" opposite a photo of Julie with her sons. Julie also included a signed bookmark with an image of her Catwoman portrayal and the brief inscription "Scott, Julie".
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 31/08/2026
Julie wound down her career with her memorable presence in WESTWARD THE WOMEN (1951) and THE HIGH AND THE MIGHTY (1954) and then retired in '57 at 43. Her daughter Pamela Susan Shoop, featured in several horror/adventure films & series, also appears to have left the industry in her 40s (in 1996). /3
Signed photo of actress Julie Bishop (1914-2001) who started in silent films and retired in 1957. She starred with Laurel & Hardy twice and WC Fields, plus played female lead to Errol Flynn and Humphrey Bogart. Inscribed "To Scott Johnson - Every Good Wish! Julie Bishop". Received in 1975 or 1976.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 23/08/2026
Still, SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN is my most repeated all-time watch (thanks to Gene sharing with Debbie, Donald, Jean, Cyd, & young Rita!). When I wrote him in 1972, 1st response was headshot w/repro signature. Disappointed & determined to get personal autograph, I tried again. Same repro signature! /5
Signed photo of legendary actor/director/dancer/singer Gene Kelly (1912-1996). Reproduced facsimile signature inscribed "Good Luck, Gene Kelly". This was the photo received in response to my first request in 1972.Signed photo of legendary actor/director/dancer/singer Gene Kelly (1912-1996). Reproduced facsimile signature inscribed "Good Luck, Gene Kelly". This was the photo received in response to my second request in 1973 for a personal autograph.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 17/08/2026
Steve (or his people) sent me this signed photo in 1975. He had downtime, taking a break after making TOWERING INFERNO (1974) until 1978. A thrill to open that envelope & see Lt Frank Bullitt! But 50 yrs later: did HE sign it? Internet search shows various ways he signed. Still magic at the time. /3
Signed photo of actor Steve McQueen (1930-1980) in perhaps his best known role as SFPD Lt. Frank Bullitt in BULLITT (1968). Received in 1975.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 10/08/2026
He made 30+ features & left on his own terms in 1947. As he said with a Tin Man spin “A smart performer knows when to get off. It wasn't a wrench leaving movies.” For Jack from all us Tin Man &T WOO fans: "A heart is not judged by how much you love, but by how much you are loved by others." /4
Signed photo of multi-talented performer Jack Haley (August 10, 1898 – June 6, 1979) loved by generations as the Tin Man in THE WIZARD OF OZ (1939). Shown in costume with castmastes (L-R) Bert Lahr as the Cowardly Lion, Jack as the Tin Man, Judy Garland as Dorothy, and Ray Bolger as the Scarecrow. Photo inscribed "To Scott From The "TIN MAN" Jack Haley". Received in 1974 or 1975.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 02/08/2026
As Santa Rosita Police Chief Aloysius in IT’S A MAD, MAD, MAD, MAD WORLD (1963), his character is the only one to achieve a lawful “redemption arc” (noting his own complicity in past corruption, then blackmailing the mayor to help deserving friend Culpeper, & finally ordering Culpepper’s arrest). /4
Signed photo of Oscar and Emmy-nominated character actor William Demarest (1892-1983), perhaps best known as Uncle Charley from MY THREE SONS (215 episodes from 1965-1972). Inscribed "To Scott-best wishes from Wm Demarest, Uncle Charley "My 3 Sons". Received in 1972.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 27/07/2026
Olivia: “The overwhelming majority of people who make up the liberal & progressive groups of this country believe in democracy & NOT in communism….we believe that every effort should be exerted to make democracy work & to extend its benefits to every person in every community throughout the land.”/6
Signed wallet-sized photo of legendary actress Dame Olivia de Havilland DBE (1916-2020), inscribed Best Wishes, Olivia de Havilland. Received in 1977 with a personal letter from Paris explaining why she could only send the small size of photo. Personal letter from legendary actress Dame Olivia de Havilland in response to my 1977 request to "interview" her for a high school film study class project. Although she took 5 years to respond to me in 1982, she diplomatically apologized and wished me well.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 20/07/2026
Don was also a hero IRL to my kid sister. In 1971 I sent her to collect autographs at a local celebrity golf tournament. Another actor cursed her for cutting across the fairway & drove off with her plastic purse. Don comforted this crying girl as only Barney Fife could…plus he got her purse back! /5
Signed photo of comedic actor Don Knotts (July 21, 1924 – February 24, 2006), star of TV and films best-known as Deputy Barney Fife on The Andy Griffith Show (1960-65). No inscription, just his signature. Received in 1974 or 1975.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 12/07/2026
Awarded a Guinness World Record for most show-biz charity performances over 50+ years, from World War I as child performer, to foreign bases during World War II & Vietnam. In 1949 he hosted the first charity telethon (24 hours) for Cancer Research. He helped raise millions for charitable causes. / 4
Signed color photo of legendary comic/actor/entertainer Milton Berle (July 12, 1908 – March 27, 2002). Known as Mr. Television or Mr. Tuesday Night or more familiarly as Uncle Miltie, he was the first tv superstar from 1948-1956. Photo received in 1973 or 1974.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 09/07/2026
Did you walk across? (if still there and not too late - much encouraged!)
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 06/07/2026
According to his NY Times obituary, ''the Vagabond Lover,'' as he was known, excited passions. A Harvard critic flung a grapefruit at him; a Middle Western woman shot her husband dead because he interrupted a Vallee broadcast by demanding, ''Why don't you get something worth listening to?'' /4
Signed photo (Christmas card) of singer/bandleader/actor Rudy Vallée (1901-1986). Received in 1974. His signature is inscribed with "To Scott In Friendship, Rudy Vallée". The front of the card is labeled as HOLIDAY GREETINGS FROM THE VALLÉES, with a caption a the bottom reading" Whos' that young kid seated next to the beautiful girl with the white fur hat?
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 06/07/2026
He sent a fun but unusual signed photo in 1974: apparently Christmas card that he had recently used (based on the 60s/70s crowd attire, although the car may be from 1953?) I appreciated the personal touch. Even more unusually, he was not the only celeb to send me a Christmas card…more to come.../ 3
Reverse of signed photo (Christmas card) sent by Rudy Vallée in 1974. Labeled Hollywood Santa Claus Lane Parade.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 04/07/2026
#1776 redux (a la Mad) The Bad Egg We’re pushing out that Twerp, Twerp, Twerp That big POT-ass will be gone Pushing out the Twerp, Twerp, Twerp Cross this empty State Fair lawn, he’s a con- -niving manipulator God knows the temperature’s hot enough To bleach a pool Now please impeach this fool
Signed photo of actor Howard da Silva as Ben Franklin in 1776 (1972 film version of the role he originated on Broadway in 1969). Inscribed "Best to Scott, Howard da Silva". Received late 1975 or early 1976.Front side of photo of actor Ken Howard, who played Thomas Jefferson in 1776 (1972 film version of the role he created on Broadway in 1969). Received in 1974 after his early TV starring roles in ADAM'S RIB (1973) and THE MANHUNTER (1974). Reverse side of photo of actor Ken Howard, who played Thomas Jefferson in 1776 (1972 film version of the role he created on Broadway in 1969). Received in 1974 . Reproduced signature "Best Wishes - Ken Howard".
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 02/07/2026
Who you gon′ call?
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 28/06/2026
Nice to find him in the 21st century on favs like KING OF THE HILL, MONK, PARKS AND RECREATION, NEW GIRL, etc. (And if Norm had him on, thumbs up!) #DCComics trivia alert: Besides BATMAN 1966, Jack guested on LOIS & CLARK, SUPERMAN: THE ANIMATED SERIES, STATIC SHOCK, & JUSTICE LEAGUE UNLIMITED. /4
Signed photo of comedian and actor Jack Carter (1922-2015), inscribed "Hi Scott, Jack Carter". Received in 1975.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 21/06/2026
#OTD 1946 LOVER COME BACK premiered starring George Brent & Lucille Ball, along with many familiar faces. One belonged to George Chandler (1898-1985). Counting uncredited roles & shorts, he was on the silver screen 350+ times (starting with silents, 1928-79) & on TV more than 100 times (1950-79). /1
Signed photo of veteran character actor George Chandler (1898-1985). Inscribed "To Scott, with my best regards, George Chandler." Received in November 1975.Enveloped sent by George Chandler to me containing he signed photo, received November 1975. Poignant to note that he re-used a return address label that formerly read "Mr. & Mrs. George Chandler" by scratching out the "Mr. & Mrs." part after his wife died.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 21/06/2026
Vincent Van Gogh, Self-Portrait with Grey Felt Hat, Winter 1887–88. Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 14/06/2026
Betty said: “I'm the luckiest broad on two feet..They say once a woman passes 40 she doesn't get any good parts, so I'm blessed.” “I'm having the time of my life & the fact that I'm still working - how lucky can you get? I'm 90 years old & still able to work as much as I do. That's a privilege.”/5
Signed photo of legendary TV comedy actress and activist for animal welfare and human rights, Betty White. Received in 1973 along with the photo of her husband Allen Ludden. Inscribed "To Scott Johnson - Thanks for Watching - Best Wishes, Betty White".Signed photo of TV celebrity Allen Ludden, best known as the host of game show PASSWORD. Received in 1973 along with signed photo of his wife Betty White. Inscribed "Hi ,Scott! Best to You, Allen Ludden".
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 08/06/2026
She continued in more shows up my alley: STARSKY & HUTCH, ELLERY QUEEN, MAGNUM P.I., QUINCY M.E., HART TO HART, TRAPPER JOHN, M.D. I saw her penultimate film, I NEVER PROMISED YOU A ROSE GARDEN (1977), for high school film study class. She received a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1994. /3
Signed photo of Swedish actress Signe Hasso (1915-2002). Active in US films in the 1940s-50s, and television guest roles in the 60s-80s. Photo inscribed "To Scott Johnson, All the best of thoughts, Signe Hasso, 1976".
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 01/06/2026
In addition to playing powerful blondes in BEWITCHED & FAMILY AFFAIR, I remember her snooty ‘Richest Woman in the World’ in BEVERLY HILLBILLIES. IRL she actually got caught in 80’s money woes (loan sharks, taxes, etc.) But she did find peace, enjoying retirement at age 50 for nearly four decades. /3
Signed photo of actress Martha Hyer, received in 1975. Inscribed "For Scott, With My  Warmest Best Wishes, Martha Hyer". This photo was also a publicity still from her 1963 film WIVES AND LOVERS.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 24/05/2026
Bill Bixby quote 2: [considered his final words, publicly] Be good to yourselves, cos if you're good to yourself, you're gonna be kind to everybody else, and I'd sure like to see that before I die. /5
Signed photo of actor/director Bill Bixby, most famous for TV roles in MY FAVORITE MARTIAN, THE COURTSHIP OF EDDIE'S FATHER, THE MAGICIAN, THE INCREDIBLE HULK. Inscribed "To Scott, Best Always, Bill Bixby". Received in early 1973.Letter included with signed photo of Bill Bixby received in early 1973. It appears to be a regular communication sent to members of his Fan Club. The image on the paper if from COURTSHIP OF EDDIE'S FATHER.
(When I first read this at age 12, I wondered if he meant that I was supposed to "write soon" back to him...as he did not send another letter to me!)
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 17/05/2026
Celebrating the subtle, simmering brilliance of JAMES MASON (b. 5/15/09) during his long b-day weekend. No Norman Maine-style benders! How was he not royally honored over 50+ yrs on stage, screen, tv? Critics/peers DID recognize him with multiple noms (3 Oscars, 3 Globes/1 win, 2 BAFTAs, etc.) /1
Signed photo of James Mason, award-winning British actor of stage, screen, tv, and radio over five decades. Inscribed "For Scott / James Mason." Received 1975.Envelope containing signed photo from James Mason, postmarked 15.10.75 (October 15, 1975). Sent from Saint-Légier village in Switzerland.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 11/05/2026
I cherish this photo Groucho sent in early 1975 as he experienced a renaissance of appreciation (Academy Award honors, tributes on Merv, Mike, Dick, David, Johnny, his solo Carnegie Hall show later released as An Evening With Groucho). Great to have all 3 Marx Bros. – though Zeppo was cool too! /4
Signed photo of legendary comedian and star of film/radio/television/live performance Groucho Marx, shown with his brothers Harpo (left) and Chico (right). Simply signed "Groucho". Received early 1975. Publicity still for his LP "An Evening With Groucho" on A&M Records.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 03/05/2026
He was one of the first celebs I wrote to. His office on Gower sent a small color 40’s photo w/ a repro signature “Bing”. After receiving personalized inscriptions from other stars, I redoubled my efforts by sending a drawing of him (from an LP cover) w/ Christmas greetings; tacky, but it worked. /3
Signed photo of singer/actor/entertainer Bing Crosby, one of the first global cultural icons. Inscribed "To Scott Johnson, Every Good Wish, Bing Crosby." Received in 1975 or 1976.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 29/04/2026
She remains the only celeb to send me a Christmas card with her autographed photo! (The photo is wallet-sized, the card is huge.)
Signed photo of actress-singer-dancer Ann-Margret, received 1975 or 1976.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 27/04/2026
Among celebs who sent signed photos 50+ yrs ago & still with us, Shirley has inspired for the longest. (Others in my collection: Dustin Hoffman 88, Rich Little 87, Ann-Margret 84, Catherine Deneuve 82, & baby Tatum O'Neal 62.) As she said “I can't define longevity. I don't know what it means.” /4
Signed photo of actress-author-singer-dancer-activist Shirley MacLaine, received in 1975 or 1976. Inscribed "Love Always, Shirley MacLaine".
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 20/04/2026
He even voiced the Vulture in Spider-Man: The Animated Series at age 90 after being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 1995! Uncle Ben would have been proud of Eddie demonstrating a great responsibility to helping others through his great power (influence). /5
Signed photo of actor Eddie Albert, received in 1974 or 1975. Inscribed "To Scott, Best Wishes, Eddie Albert".
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 13/04/2026
SUPPORT MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS/RESOURCES: Jonathan was one of the first celebs to go public with a personal mental illness issue & felt stigmatized as a result. He suffered from nervous breakdowns & bipolar disorder, noting "These voices are always screaming to get out." “Long live the Buddha”-RW/3
Photo of improvisational innovator/brilliant impersonator/comedic genius Jonathan Winters. He sent this in November 1972 (one of the first responses I received from a celebrity). See next photo for his signature.Reverse of the photo of Jonathan Winters with his signature. Inscribed "To Scott, With Warm Wishes, Jonathan Winters". Postmarked Los Angeles, CA, 10 November, 1972.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 07/04/2026
Pedestrians are only charged if they are departing from Canada - so it's free to escape.
Rainbow Bridge pedestrian crossing over Niagara Falls between Canada and the United States. Photo taken in 2016.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 05/04/2026
Bette was the only white member of Hattie McDaniel’s troupe to perform for black servicemen during WWII. She refused to entertain segregated audiences including at the Hollywood Canteen that she co-founded (and for which in 1983 she received the Distinguished Civilian Service Medal from the DOD). /3
Signed portrait (reproduced as a black and white photo) of legendary actress Bette Davis (1908-1989). Inscribed "For Scott from Better Davis". Received in 1974-1975.,
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 30/03/2026
Appreciate the ALT text description, I have updated my file
Signed photo of Steve McQueen wearing a tweed herringbone sport coat, navy turtleneck, and charcoal flat front trousers. Received 1975-1977.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 29/03/2026
We lost Debbie just one day after her daughter Carrie Fisher in December 2016. Her son Todd said his mother joined his sister in death because she "didn't want to leave Carrie and did not want her to be alone." Thanks to her enduring life legacy & screen memories, we will always be with Debbie. /3
Signed photo of actress-dancer-singer Debbie Reynolds (April 1, 1932 - December 28, 2016). Her award-winning career lasted in film, tv, and musical theater lasted from 1948 to 2015. The photo is inscribed "For Scott, All Good Wishes, Debbie Reynolds" and was likely sent in 1974 or 1975.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 22/03/2026
Celebrating #Women’sHistoryMonth with distinguished actress Dame Sybil Thorndike, whose career lasted from 1904-1969. I cannot do justice to her stage accomplishments, social impact, & reputation as UK’s most beloved actress of her time (I had only seen her in 3-4 films when I wrote her at 14.) /1
Signed photo of leading British stage actress Dame Sybil Thorndike (1882-1976), whose career spanned 65 years (1904-1969). Received in 1975. Reverse side of signed photo from Dame Sybil Thorndike, inscribed "Best wishes from Sybil Thorndike".Note that accompanied the signed photo of Dame Sybil Thorndike, dated November 13, 1975.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 15/03/2026
An #Oscar -worthy performance in a film about family set in the 30s? Honoring the youngest-ever #AcademyAward winner #TatumONeal for her role as Addie in Paper Moon (1973). Wishing Tatum O'Neal all the best on her continuing journey toward health & happiness. She’s given us so many happy memories./1
1974 signed photo of father-daughter Ryan O'Neal and Tatum O'Neal, inscribed "For You Scott" by Tatum.1974 signed photo of Tatum O'Neal as Addie in Paper Moon (1973), the role for which she received the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress (the youngest ever recipient). She inscribed the photo "To Scott From Tatum O'Neal"1974 signed photo of Tatum O'Neal at the Academy Awards ceremony holding her Oscar for Best Supporting Actress (the youngest-ever recipient). Original photo is wallet-sized.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 08/03/2026
On International Women’s Day, celebrating the grace & GRACIE of Burns & Allen’s funniest partner. George was the straight man for 40 years (lost @100, 30 years ago on 3/9/96). Gracie made his career; he struggled before they met, & achieved his 3-decade legendary solo status after her 1964 death. /1
Signed photo of legendary comedian George Burns, inscribed "To Scott, Best Wishes, George Burns". Received February, 1973.MEMO FROM...JACK LANGDON (Secty. to Mr. Burns.

2/22/73 Letter evidently lost in mail. Just received this week. Sorry.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 01/03/2026
…he was a WWI veteran who served in France, roomed with Cary Grant in the 30s/40s (in a Malibu Beach house dubbed “Bachelor Hall”), and like Grant, married an heiress (Marion duPont). Although a GOP supporter (Dewey, Warren, Goldwater, Regan) he might’ve drawn a line at the moralistic rot of MAGA./3
Signed photo of iconic Western star Randolph Scott (1898-1987), dressed in traditional cowboy garb with his horse. Inscribed "To Scott Johnson, Best Wishes, Randy Scott". Received in 1973 or 1974.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 22/02/2026
Honoring a powerful voice for representation & justice during Black History Month: the legendary Ms. Cicely Tyson, igniting stage/screens over 2/3 of her 96 yrs. She played the strongest women I saw early on, Rebecca Morgan (Sounder, 1972) & Miss Jane Pittman (1974). Both would’ve kicked MAGA ass…/1
Signed photo of actor Cicely Tyson, received 1974 or 1975. Her career on stage & screen spanned more than 60 years, nearly two-thirds of her 96 years upon her death in 2021.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 15/02/2026
Celebrating a President & Founding Father, separately: remembering Howard da Silva (d. 2/16/86). A protean talent over 50+ year career who played FDR (1977) & fondly remembered as Ben Franklin in 1776 (stage & screen). He also originated Jud in Oklahoma! (1943) & directed Ossie Davis on Broadway. /1
Signed photo of actor Howard da Silva in character as Ben Franklin from the film version of 1776 (reprising his role from the Broadway musical). Inscribed Best to Scott, Howard da Silva. Received 1974.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 08/02/2026
In 1974 I knew only his kid-friendly comic roles: Some Like It Hot, The Great Race, Mister Roberts, etc. Wow! (So much to come over next 25 years). In midst of his Oscar race (Save The Tiger), I babbled about Professor Fate, & he sent a warmly-inscribed color photo, in a hand-addressed envelope./3
Color photo of actor Jack Lemmon, received 1974. Inscribed To Scott, My best wishes, Jack Lemmon.Envelope that contained signed photo sent by actor Jack Lemmon, postmarked July 8, 1974. Jack personally addressed the enveloped (evidenced by comparing it to the inscription on the photo.)
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 08/02/2026
It probably just felt like 3 centuries...😗 Seriously, is it just a coincidence that Eve married Brooks West and also played Our Miss Brooks? (starting on radio in 1948, before they married).
Signed photo of Eve Arden, received in 1974 or 1975. Inscribed For Scott, Good Luck, Eve Arden.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 01/02/2026
While the world fights to end MAGA nightmares– & Minneapolis ensures ICE gets no sleep –celebrating a queen of the Wake-Up/Call Back: Suzanne Pleshette (1/31/37-1/19/08). She & Bob created my all-time favorite final episode coda (Newhart, ‘90), built on their strong beginning together (TBNS, ‘72) /1
Signed photo of Emmy- and Golden-Globe nominated comedic and dramatic actor Suzanne Pleshette (January 31, 1973 - January 19, 2008), star of film, television, and theater. Inscribed TO SCOTT, BEST WISHES. Received in 1973 or 1974.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 25/01/2026
In a 1969 interview for La caduta degli dei (The Damned), Ingrid acknowledged challenges women faced for quality parts in reaching a certain age (she was 42!), so she forged a path in writing/directing. I had only seen her on tv, not her earlier work, when she sent me this lovely photo (see ALT)/3
Signed photo of Swedish actress/writer/director Ingrid Thulin (born July 27, 1926). Received in 1975 or 1976 after I had seen her in the miniseries Moses, The Lawgiver (as Miriam). I was 15 at the time (no excuse) and had not seen her magnificent work in Wild Strawberries, Cries & Whispers, Winter Light, The Silence, and many others. She may have thought my fan letter was written by an ignorant American tv viewer, but nonetheless sent a graciously inscribed photo in a hand-addressed envelope from Italy!
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 20/01/2026
Wonder why the Head Droog was riffing on milk and drugs last week?
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 18/01/2026
Happy Birthday Danny Kaye (born David Kaminsky, 2011). POTUS 45/47 will never match his legacy: Danny was asked to accept the 1965 Nobel Peace Prize on behalf of UNICEF ("for its effort to enhance solidarity between nations & reduce the difference between rich & poor states.") He didn’t keep it. /1
Signed photo of multitalented actor/singer/dancer/comedian/polymath Danny Kaye received in 1973 or 74. At that time I had requested a personal inscription to my name - so Danny apparently wrote that on top of a photo he had previously signed en masse. LOL!
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 12/01/2026
Not turning away from current horrors IRL, but remembering an early foundation of my faith in Good besting evil. On January 12 1966 I was hooked by the angles & spangles of #Batman on tv before ever reading a comic book. The first 60s action classic our mom let us watch at that (bat-) time. /1
Autographed photo of actor César Romero (1907-1994), best-known as The Joker on the Batman tv series. Inscribed To Scott Johnson, with the very good wishes of Cesar Romero. Received around 1972 or 1973.
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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 05/01/2026
He sent this photo in 1974 o4 75. Bold signature. But as a kid, I was thrilled when celebs inscribed it with my name. It felt more personal (ha!) José Ferrer didn't do that, but as a bonus here is the envelope that I am guessing he addressed himself. That feels like a personal touché (a la Cyrano!)
Signed photo of Puerto Rican actor / director / author José Ferrer. Received in 1974 or 1975.Envelope containing signed photo of José Ferrer, received in 1974 or 1975. It appears that he personally addressed in his own handwriting.
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