Actress Angie Dickinson, now 91, reflects on her storied career in Hollywood, where she became a household name. She jokes that if she hadn’t landed the iconic role in the 1959 western Rio Bravo, she might have ended up working at See’s Candies. Directed by the legendary Howard Hawks and starring John Wayne, Dean Martin, and Ricky Nelson, Rio Bravo is celebrated as a western masterpiece. “I knew it was going to be an extraordinary experience, but I didn’t realize just how extraordinary it would turn out,” Angie tells Closer Weekly.
Her journey began with Rio Bravo, which not only launched her career but also introduced her to some of the biggest names in Hollywood. Over the course of her 55-year career, Angie appeared in more than 50 films, including the Rat Pack classic Ocean’s 11. She also became a beloved television star with her role as a tough-as-nails detective in the groundbreaking 1970s crime drama Police Woman. Recently, Angie introduced the 4K world premiere restoration of Rio Bravo at the Turner Classic Film Festival, bringing her legendary role back to life for a new generation of fans.
Why Does Rio Bravo Remain a Timeless Classic?
What makes Rio Bravo such an enduring classic?
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“The genius of Howard Hawks, of course. He was an incredible filmmaker who knew how to bring out the best in everyone. There’s a warmth to this movie that really resonates with audiences. Everyone on set worked together like a family. It wasn’t just about the stars—it was about the entire team pulling together to create something special.”
Starting Out on Rio Bravo
What was it like stepping onto the set of Rio Bravo for the first time?
“It was terrifying! I remember arriving on set and feeling completely overwhelmed. Everyone was already there—John Wayne, Howard Hawks, the entire crew—and they had even thrown a dinner party to welcome me. It really hit me then just how big this movie was. I hadn’t fully realized the magnitude of it until I got there. We filmed in Old Tucson, a place outside of Tucson, Arizona, where almost every western movie seemed to end up. It was an unforgettable experience.”
Working with John Wayne: A Gentleman and a Pro
What was it like working with John Wayne, aka “The Duke”?
“John Wayne was absolutely incredible. He was so generous and patient with me, even though I was relatively new to the business. This was his 300th movie, and yet he treated me like I belonged there. He was such a professional, always leaning on his rifle and quietly waiting for me to get my lines right. If you called him John, he wouldn’t even acknowledge you—it was always ‘Duke.’ He was a true gentleman, and he made me feel welcome from day one.”
Did you ever have a crush on him?
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“Oh, Duke was something else. But he was married, so I never really had a chance to explore anything beyond friendship. I think if he hadn’t been married, we might have had some fun together. He was truly divine, both as a person and as an actor.”
Dean Martin: A Delightful Co-Star
What was it like working with Dean Martin?
“Dean was a delight! I only had one scene with him where I shaved him, but it was memorable. He was such a charming guy, and he quickly became a great friend. His wife, Jeanne, was also wonderful, and our families grew close over the years. In fact, I was riding in the family car at his funeral—it was a moment I’ll never forget.”
Frank Sinatra: A Legendary Romance
How did you meet Frank Sinatra, and what was it like dating him?
“My first job in show business was on The Colgate Comedy Hour, which aired every Sunday. One night, after the show, I passed by his dressing room and said, ‘Good night, Frank.’ He came out, said good night, and asked for my number. That was the start of something special! At the time, Frank had just broken up with Ava Gardner and was having a major career resurgence. It was a great time in his life, and I was lucky enough to be a part of it.”
What was Frank like as a boyfriend?
“He was incredibly generous, kind, and warm-hearted. My mother baked cookies for me to give to Frank, and when I handed them to him, he laughed and sent her flowers in return. That moment meant so much to me. Frank was not only a brilliant artist but also a genuinely sweet and caring person.”
Working with the Rat Pack on Ocean’s 11
What was it like being part of the Rat Pack in Ocean’s 11?
“It was an absolute blast! I was so fortunate to be surrounded by some of the greatest talents in the business. The guys were full of mischief, constantly playing pranks and pulling tricks on each other. While I wasn’t directly involved in their shenanigans—it was very much a ‘man’s world’—it was an honor to be part of such a legendary film. Those were truly unforgettable days.”
Breaking Barriers on Police Woman
How did your role on Police Woman come about?
“It all started with a show called Police Story. In the last episode of the first season, there was a character who was an undercover female cop. David Gerber, the executive producer, approached me while I was filming Big Bad Mama. He said, ‘Don’t you want to be a household name?’ That was all it took! I realized I did want to be a household name, so I signed on. But looking back, I wouldn’t have done it again. The work was grueling—long days starting at 5 a.m. and ending at 7 p.m. It was physically exhausting.”
Do you have any favorite memories from filming the series?
“The most vivid memory I have is saying goodbye. Filming lasted four years, and during that time, I shot 91 episodes. Every day was interesting, but it was also incredibly demanding. I wouldn’t recommend doing a series to anyone—it’s like slave labor. Still, I’m proud of what we accomplished and the impact the show had on television history.”
Remembering Burt Bacharach and Daughter Nikki
You were married to composer Burt Bacharach. How did your relationship evolve over the years?
“Burt was a remarkable person who gave so much of himself to others. Even after we parted ways, he continued to send me orchids every birthday and Christmas. I’m looking at the last bouquet he sent me right now. We didn’t work as a couple, but he was always kind and generous. Our relationship was special in its own way.”
Your daughter Nikki passed away in 2007. What was she like?
“Nikki was an amazing and talented young woman. She faced many challenges in life due to being born three months premature, which affected her eyesight. Despite that, she had a passion for music, especially playing the drums. She was incredibly resilient and full of life.”
How do you honor her memory?
“I honor Nikki’s memory every single day, in every moment. She was such an important part of my life, and her spirit continues to inspire me.”
Staying Healthy and Wise at 91
How do you maintain your health and vitality at 91?
“I follow a largely vegetarian diet, though I do indulge in country fried chicken from time to time. I don’t eat heavy dinners, and I make sure to get eight hours of sleep each night. Gardening is one of my favorite hobbies, and it keeps me active. I also try to stay out of trouble!”
What are some of the greatest lessons you’ve learned in life?
“I’ve learned to appreciate the beauty of a sunset whenever possible. I’ve learned to be kind, even when I want to let loose with some choice words. And I’ve learned to know when to stop talking—sometimes silence is the best answer.”
