You never know what you're going to find at a rodeo.
I am a horseback rider who has actually competed in weekend rodeos in Arizona and New Mexico. My friends and I did it for the challenge, certainly not the money. I rode saddle broncos, competed in cowboy surfing events, and watched the Brahma bull riders. It was exciting, challenging and often dangerous. It was part of life.
While working as a reporter for the Phoenix Gazette, my editor assigned me to cover a rodeo in Scottsdale. Vic Thornton was my city editor and he remarked, almost casually, 'Are you a fan of James Caan, the actor?' I admitted I was.
'I saw him in 'The Godfather' and 'Brian's Song,' I said. 'He's good.'
Vic smiled. 'Well, he's also a calf roper and he'll be competing in the rodeo. He might be worth a story.'
That was how I met Caan.
He had the rugged good looks of a cowboy. He wore a white Stetson, jeans, western shirt and leather boots. In fact, we both had our boots shined by the same shoeshine guy on the rodeo grounds.
Caan talked briefly about his acting career. But it was clear to me his main interest was in the roping competition.
'I love it,' he said. 'I have always been a horseback riding and the roping came later. If I could earn half as much money playing rodeos rather than acting, I would do it in a heartbeat.'
Caan kept in shape by riding horses. He appeared in a memorable movie with John Wayne called 'El Dorado' and fit the role perfectly.
Born in the Bronx in New York, Caan attended Michigan State University. He developed an early interest in horses and his good looks won him an acting contract.
He started out in television appearing on many TV series including 'Ben Casey,' 'The Untouchables' and 'Dr. Kildaire.' From there his agent secured his roles in a growing number of feature films including ''The Glory Guys,' ''A Bridge Too Far,' 'The Rain People' and 'The Gambler,' a story about a compulsive gambler who wanted to lose.
Caan's father was a Jewish meat dealer who approved of his son's choice of careers.
As we had our boots shined in the rodeo arena, I admired Caan's hat and playfully offered to swap my hat for his. He thought about it and finally said, 'Nope. I'm comfortable with this one, but thank you.'
Caan and his friend Gene Hackman were big race car fans. They often attended the Jimmy Bryant 350-mile event in Phoenix and would meet the drivers before a race.
In his private life, Caan enjoyed playing blackjack and poker and was a frequent visitor to Las Vegas. I have talked to dealers who told me he was a skilled card player who won more than he lost.
At 77, Caan is in good physical condition, still acting, still riding horses and still competing as a calf roper in rodeos. He is a tribute to the American silver screen and has done a good job reaching the public with his roles. I tip my hat to him.
CarolLivingston101 2 years ago Newbie
I don’t recall Jimmy calf roping but he was a great heeler in team roping.
Please enter your comment.
Your comment is added.
Stephen Barackman 5 years ago Newbie
I saw james caan at the riverside rancheros in southern calif back in the early 70's---he was riding the most beautiful black horse...he was competing in heading and heeling.
Please enter your comment.
Your comment is added.
Geno 7 years ago Newbie
To Jade, James Caan did well and finished in the money although he did not win the event. He's in his 70s and I suspect he is still riding. That is a sport that does not grow old with age. Thanks for the comment.
Please enter your comment.
Your comment is added.
jade 7 years ago Super Hero
Hi Geno, you didn't say how James Caan did in the rodeo that day? So.......... I have to admit , I like James Caan. He's the kind of actor that isn't just one type. He's so diverse, he could play a multitude of roles and he has. Great to know he's doing well. I like the way you write stories about celebrities...
Hi Geno, you didn't say how James Caan did in the rodeo that day? So.......... I have to admit , I like James Caan. He's the kind of actor that isn't just one type. He's so diverse, he could play a multitude of roles and he has. Great to know he's doing well. I like the way you write stories about celebrities without all the scandal and crap, like in those gossip mags........
Show morePlease enter your comment.
Your comment is added.
Geno 7 years ago Newbie
James Caan's ability as a roper and his interest in rodeos is genuine. I appreciate your comment. Have a great day.
Please enter your comment.
Your comment is added.
Mil E Na 7 years ago Full Member
Thank you, Geno, for telling us these interesting stories. I wasn't familiar with James Caan's interest in rodeo.
Please enter your comment.
Your comment is added.
Geno 7 years ago Newbie
Thanks for the email. James Caan is a solid person who is a joy to be around.
Please enter your comment.
Your comment is added.
Sydney 7 years ago Almighty Member
Another great story! Thanks for sharing it with us Geno! And it's good to hear that Caan is still doing well. I didn't know he was such a good card player. :)
Please enter your comment.
Your comment is added.