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At the time of his passing, Will Rogers, a prominent figure in the ’30s, was Hollywood’s highest-earning actor. However, according to his great-granddaughter, Jennifer Rogers-Etcheverry, Rogers’ true desire was to live the life of a cowboy.
“I believe Hollywood was just a means to pay the bills,” Rogers-Etcheverry, residing in Rogers’ home state of Oklahoma, where he is celebrated as “Oklahoma’s favorite son,” shared with Fox News Digital.
“He had a contract with Fox to star in several films, although he did not complete the contract. He would quickly finish the movies just so he could return to his ranch, play polo, or engage in other activities.”
Rogers owned a 186-acre ranch in Pacific Palisades, California, which was tragically destroyed in the Los Angeles fires in January.
Rogers-Etcheverry mentioned that Rogers’ true passion was not in being a movie star but in connecting with people. Despite his success in Hollywood, Rogers was a humble man who always remembered his roots in Oklahoma.
Throughout his career, Rogers starred in over 70 movies and was known for his work as an author and newspaper columnist. He had a massive following, with over 40 million readers daily and six published books.
Despite his celebrity status and friendships with icons like Clark Gable and Walt Disney, Rogers-Etcheverry emphasized that he remained a down-to-earth individual.
“He never forgot where he came from in Oklahoma. He never forgot being a cowboy.”
Rogers began his entertainment career by showcasing his trick-roping skills in a Wild West show in Texas before moving on to the Ziegfeld Follies in New York.
His ability to entertain the audience with his wit and humor ultimately led him to a successful career in Hollywood, where he starred in numerous silent and talking films.
Aside from his acting career, Rogers was an aviation enthusiast and had a close friendship with aviator Charles Lindbergh. After the Lindbergh baby kidnapping and murder, Rogers provided refuge for Lindbergh’s family at his California ranch.
Rogers tragically passed away in a plane crash in Alaska in 1935 while surveying mail routes with aviator Wiley Post. His death had a profound impact, not only in the United States but worldwide.
Today, Rogers’ legacy is preserved at the Will Rogers State Historic Park, established by his widow Betty in 1944. The park continues to attract visitors, including celebrities, who come to pay homage to the legendary entertainer.
Rogers-Etcheverry has taken on the responsibility of preserving her great-grandfather’s memory and ensuring that future generations remember his contributions to entertainment and society.
“I want to ensure that his legacy endures. If it weren’t for me, my children and grandchildren would have no knowledge of Will Rogers,” she expressed. “In Oklahoma, he is revered as a local hero, but outside the state, it can be challenging to keep his memory alive.”
