I watched a lot of television as a kid. As an adult, I still do. I especially love shows from the 50’s and 60’s. So it was an awesome honor to be able to interview Butch Patrick AKA Eddie Munster from The Munsters.
1)Butch, I grew up on THE MUNSTERS. I loved the show, the cast, the theme music. What was it like playing Eddie Munster?
Great experience,Especially the special effects and make-up and cars too!
2)Can you describe the audition process for Eddie? Which other child stars were up against you?
Flew from Illinois for screen test with Yvonne De Carlo. No audition
3)Having grown up in show business, although behind the scenes, I have an “obsession” with child stars – especially those who didn’t make it. I think of the tragic Anissa Jones and Dana Plato. Butch, why were you different? How did you make it? Did you have supportive parents?
I actually fought drugs and alchhol for 41 years. Been sober 34 months.
4)What was it like working with the brilliant Fred Gwynne, the beautiful Yvonne DeCarlo, and the hilarious Al Lewis? Were they wonderful to you, or did they do their own thing when cameras weren’t rolling?
No all good people. But as a kid we weren’t close. But friendly
5)Beverley Owen and Pat Priest played Marilyn. As a child, was this switch of Marilyns hard on you, or did you adjust just fine? Do you remember how people felt about Beverley leaving, and Pat coming in? Who did you prefer? I preferred Pat.
I liked Beverly and had a crush on her.She was miserable as she was in love . He was in NYC and FINALLY they let her out.
6)When I saw the film ARGO, I got “introduced” to make-up artist John Chambers (played by John Goodman in ARGO), and he kind of became my new “obsession”. What was it like having your make-up done by the brilliant John Chambers? Did you know who he was at the time?
My make up man was Mike Westmore 1st Oscar winner.
7)Were you interested in learning about the filming process – what went on in an episode of the show – or were you there just to film your scenes?
Just did my job. NEVER wanted a career as an actor. Wanted to be a race car driver.
8)Having to go to school on the set, did you go to on the set school with any other child stars that were at the studio at the time?
No only visiting guest kids.
9)At the time, did you know that the show was going to become a hit/cult classic? Were you surprised at its popularity?
No NEVER saw it coming.
10)Was it hard for you to go to regular school once the series was over?
Yes at first kids were mean and jealous.
11)What was it like for you once the series was over?
Moved back to Missouri and then returned to staying busy in hollywood.
12)Butch, what are you doing today?
Projects include a 50th Anniversary book based on fan stories MunsterMemories.com Sending muscle and classic cars to Australia with Munstermuscle.com Solar energy spokesperson for 360Solar in Lake Elsinore,Ca. Plus DJ and syndicated show on WRCN Long Island NY. New Tattoo ink line with Formula 51 and I’m a minister for Goth weddings with MarryMeMunster.com. As you can see I have fun with the Eddie Munster character and also own Munsters.com to boot! Lemme know when I can see your interview. I’m ESPECIALLY Interested in promoting the GO GREEN with Solar360! Thanks