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A few words from writer/producer NAT BERNSTEIN

  • roger423
  • Dec 1, 2014
  • 2 min read

NAT BERNSTEIN is a writer/producer best known for his work on the iconic tv show Doogie Howser and most recently for the family comedy See Dad Run starring Scott Baio.

I was acting in an episode of a television show called "It Takes Two" way back in 1982 (perhaps many of you remember my stirring portrayal as "waiter") working with a young and very talented Helen Hunt (after the show, as is often the case, she and I went our separate ways. I've heard she's done okay for herself, which makes me happy. I, however, believe my work as "waiter" holds up just fine in comparison). When the taping ended, I had the great good fortune of meeting Helen's father, Gordon, who I knew was not only the author of a wonderful book "How To Audition" but also had a reputation as a top notch acting teacher. I wanted to meet him before the night ended, so I mustered up the courage and introduced myself. That kind and gentle man couldn't have been more of a mensch (that's Jewish for "awesome"). He told me about his workshop, suggested I check it out (I'm pretty sure it wasn't that evening's performance that won him over), and I joined soon after, later becoming his assistant in class. Thus began a friendship that continues to this day, almost 32 years later. That's not by accident. If you know Gordon, you know admiring him and wanting to remain a part of his life is quite common for anyone fortunate enough to cross his path.

Like so many others who've learned so much about acting from this man, I was thrilled to hear that Roger was making a documentary about him. My only regret? That I didn't think of it first. Roger and his crew came to my house and couldn't have been more kind and professional. Other than none of them remembering or caring about my role as "waiter" (I attributed it to them all being so young), it was a joy to sit and recount the numerous ways I so admire and respect my friend Gordon. I wish it could've gone on longer. There was so much more I could've said. I've been lucky enough to move from actor to writer/producer in my career, and I love advising young people who've come to Los Angeles about this crazy roller coaster we've all chosen to ride. I always find myself telling stories about the role models I've had, the people who've made a difference in my career. I tell these aspiring artists that succeeding is a mixture of luck and talent. I stress to them that they shouldn't underestimate luck. After all, my life changed when I was lucky enough to meet Gordon Hunt. And now I'm lucky enough to still be here when he gets to witness, through this film, how many of us love him.

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