Jonathan Frid
Actor
About This Interview
Jonathan Frid (1924-2012) was interviewed for nearly two hours in Burbank, CA. Frid recalled how he discovered his voice in school plays and outlined his training as an actor, including his studies at London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts and Yale School of Drama. He talked about his many years as a professional theater actor and his early work in television on the CBC and a short stint on the daytime serial As the World Turns. He spoke in great detail about the role and series for which he is most closely associated, playing Barnabas Collins on the gothic daytime serial Dark Shadows. He described the production, gave his impressions of his co-stars, and commented on the show’s legacy. He also talked about working with such behind-the-scenes personnel as director Lela Swift and make-up artist Dick Smith. Lastly, he spoke about his later theater work, such as a revival of “Arsenic and Old Lace” and his directorial debut with a production of “The Lion in Winter.” The interview was conducted by Jim Pierson on July 21, 2008.
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Highlights
Jonathan Frid on getting cast on Dark Shadows
Clip begins at: 04:59, Duration: 00m 34s- Jonathan Frid on the character "Barnabas Collins" in Dark Shadows
Clip begins at: 11:37, Duration: 00m 38s - Jonathan Frid on "Barnabas Collins'" accent on Dark Shadows
Clip begins at: 12:38, Duration: 00m 45s - Jonathan Frid on "Barnabas Collins'" look on Dark Shadows
Clip begins at: 21:10, Duration: 01m 07s 
Jonathan Frid on the short run of Dark Shadows and its success in reruns
Clip begins at: 14:13, Duration: 01m 39s
Chapters
- Chapter 1
- Introduction
Clip begins at: 0:0 - On his early years; on his interest in theatre; on his service during World War II; on his studies at London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts and Yale School of Drama; on his first professional acting roles
Clip begins at: 01:02 - Chapter 2
- On his early film and TV work
Clip begins at: 0:0 - On his starring role as Barnabas Collins in Dark Shadows
Clip begins at: 04:31 - Chapter 3
- On his starring role as Barnabas Collins on Dark Shadows; on his co-stars; on the cult-following of the series
Clip begins at: 0:0 - Chapter 4
- On his later theater work, such as a revival of “Arsenic and Old Lace” and his directorial debut with a production of “The Lion in Winter”; on how he'd like to be remembered
Clip begins at: 0:0
Shows
Its too bad that there is only half an hour of the interview available now apparently. What happened to the rest of it? This is a very important interview and should be made available!
I have just finished watching all 2 hours of this interview and it made me squirm. I don't know whether to just cringe or start crying. I deal with old folks, and some of this is sad to watch. I guess it should be taken in the context that this is a senior citizen being interviewed. Surely all those involved should have given some thought to a little editing.
I only wish the interview had taken place some years earlier. It might have made him look less doddering.
Was the purpose of this to make him look bad? I will choose to remember him as he was when he was younger.
Definitely miss Dark Shadows. It was NOT a comedy like the movie coming out with Johnny Depp. It was scary especially to this little girl. I still have the album of the background music played on the Soap. Rest in Peace, Barnabas!
would like to see the series in reruns, lots of good memories
Whoever suggested building up an oral history of television, like we find here, was a genius. So many of the stars, writers, and people behind the people are disappearing. It's so great that they can still speak and tell their stories.
Jim Pierson is an old friend/associate of JF and Dan Curtis productions, plus DS festival key person, so part of the refreshing frankness of JF should be taken in that context...he was comfortable expressing himself. Loved it, what a great interview to leave behind...and to get the truth of the unmade DS film and the why of it not being made is appreciated
My grandmother, who is a decade younger than Mr. Frid, says when you get older, your 'filter" goes, and you don't care anymore, so your real opinions come out. He may be grumpy, but he's honest about his opinions, and that is both funny and worth the 2 hours watching this interview. As a former journalist, I feel sorry for Jim b/c J.F. is not an easy interview subect though.
ok, this trumps even the daniel j travanti interview. a few things;
1. these old guys have a terrible memory.
2. bad hearing
3. an irritated disposition
mr frid evens says the worst things about his fellow actors and his fans (nit wits!)
this interviewer seems so pissed at him too. and mr frids "we just discussed all that 3 hours ago" comments are too bad. someone should have stopped the tape and explained that they need to get his comments on tape. jeez!
for fun, watch the travanti interview. u will pee your pants!
the interviewer seems pissed at mr frid.
I love your final words. Is that all there is. But, you will be remembered, Jonathan. I will never forget you. And lots of others.
Loved the show and LOVED his character. The vampire with a heart and conscience. He was charming and gallant. Awesome man on and off screen.
Awesome interview! I met Mr. Frid back in the early 80's at a DS Convention and he was very gracious. I had about 10 minutes of one-on-one with before the crowd arrived and I'll never forget how kind and friendly he was. I only hope that I'm as sharp as he is when I'm in my 80's (if I make it that far)...
Uncomfortable - pshaw! Frid is a delight.
This is one of the most uncomfortable interviews I have ever seen.
Love hearing all about your days of 'being' Barnabas Collins,you're the best! Nan Loyd
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