Mickey Rooney was scheduled to be a guest star on one of the early episodes of “The Streets of San Francisco” (first season). He wasn’t cast however, actor David Wayne ended up in the role. Early on, when it was still thought that he was playing the role, my dad went out with the episode’s director and location manager to find a house with a large bathroom and bathtub. The script called for the episode’s character to be taking a bath in one particular scene. That evening my father was telling my mother about the hunt for a large bathroom and tube, whereby my mom interrupted him for confirmation, “You say Mickey Rooney needs to use this tub?” My dad said, yes in which she replied, “Heck, put some water in your police helmet- he could use that!”

Another bit about Mr. Rooney

             After the release of “Night at the Museum” (2006) my niece interviewed Mickey Rooney for the television station she was working for. He was nice, courteous, and enthusiastic. It was evident to her that his health was failing even back then, and she noted that his devoted wife was along at the interview particularly to watch over him.

            Mr. Rooney was not just an actor, but a legend- now he joins other legends that have passed on, sadly never to be replaced.

R.I.P. Mickey Rooney…always the child, who brought out the child in all of us.

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Tony Piazza is author of the 1930s Hollywood murder mystery novel, “Anything Short of Murder,” which had its roots on the TCM fan website. His second novel, “The Curse of the Crimson Dragon” was next released early 2012, and in July of this year, his latest Tom Logan Mystery, “A Murder Amongst Angels” was published and is now available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble websites. He was an actor/extra during the 1970s and worked with such legends as Steve McQueen, Paul Newman, and Karl Malden.  His non-fiction e-book “Bullitt Points” is an in depth look at the making of “Bullitt” from a person who was there. Look for it on Amazon and Barnes and Noble websites,  or at the link posted below. All profits go to the Boys Republic charity: www.bullittpoints.com.

Also: The new Tom Logan mystery thriller, A Murder Amongst Angels is now available!

Find it at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and wherever fine books are sold. Also available for $2.99 on Kindle.