Episode 122 – Behind the Badge: The Legendary Career of Robert Pine – Part 2
In Part Two of his insightful conversation with Hollywood Obsessed host Tony Miros , legendary actor Robert Pine reflects on his iconic role as Sgt. Joseph Getraer on the hit 1970s series “ CHiPs .” He shares how he initially doubted the show's potential but agreed to film the pilot anyway—and how the unexpected chemistry between him, Erik Estrada , and Larry Wilcox made the series a success.
Robert opens up about his behind-the-scenes experiences, including his working relationship with “ CHiPs” creator Rick Rosner , his status as the most experienced cast member, and why the producers never sent him out to promote the show. Though he originally set his sights on comedy, he stayed with “ CHiPs” for six seasons, eventually directing episodes alongside his co-stars.
He also discusses the joy of working with Paul Linke , the unique experience of having his wife, Gwynne Gilford , play his character’s on-screen wife, and what it was like filming the reunion special “ CHiPs '99 .” Robert recalls the casting of former Olympian Bruce (now Caitlyn) Jenner as a temporary replacement for Estrada during a strike over syndication profits—and the many injuries the cast endured while filming those high-octane motorcycle scenes.
Robert reflects on “ CHiPs’” enduring legacy, the global fan base it continues to attract, and how much the industry has changed since the show first aired. He shares what it was like to suddenly become famous and how he's managed to keep working more than 50 years later.
He also talks about his recent work on the Apple TV+ miniseries “ Five Days at Memorial ,” filmed in Canada and New Orleans, and his disappointment that it was overlooked by the Emmys.
Finally, Robert opens up about his pride in his son, actor Chris Pine , and the legacy of being part of a three-generation acting family. All that, plus plenty of fascinating stories from his incredible career—and how he hopes to be remembered.
ROBERT PINE
Robert Pine’s passion for acting began in high school in Scarsdale, New York, where he performed in several plays before graduating in 1959. Although he initially pursued a medical career at Ohio Wesleyan University, his interest in acting persisted. A fateful summer performance after college on Nantucket Island changed his path when playwright Robert Anderson encouraged him to pursue acting professionally. With that, Pine left behind medicine and entered the world of show business.
By 1964, Pine had signed with Universal Studios and quickly became a familiar face on television, appearing in popular series such as “ The Virginian ,” “ Wagon Train ,” and “ Bob Hope Chrysler Theatre ,” along with several films, including “ Munster, Go Home .” After his contract with Universal ended, he remained one of the most consistently working actors in Hollywood, taking on roles in movies like “ The Graduate” and “ Day of the Locust ,” as well as stage roles.
Pine’s most recognizable role came in 1977 when he was cast as Sgt. Joe Getraer in NBC’s hit series “ CHiPs ,” a character that earned him lasting recognition. He also directed episodes of the show and remained active in the industry following its conclusion in 1983.
He has been married for over 50 years to actress-turned-therapist Gwynne Gilford, who also played his on-screen wife in “ CHiPs .” Together, they have two children: Katie, a psychotherapist, and actor Chris Pine, continuing the family’s legacy in entertainment as the third generation following Gwynne’s mother, classic film actress Anne Gwynne.
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Robert Pine
Actor
Robert’s love of acting began on the stage of Scarsdale High School which is in Westchester County just north of New York City. He enjoyed the spotlight in four or five productions before he graduated in 1959. He went on to Ohio Wesleyan University where his acting talents were put on the back burner temporarily while he slogged away in the trenches of a pre-med education pursuing what he thought was his chosen career, that of a doctor.
After graduation in 1963, Robert spent part of the summer appearing in a dreadful production of some long forgotten play on Nantucket Island. As luck would have it, playwright Robert Anderson (“I Never Sang for My Father,” “Tea and Sympathy,” “I Can’t Hear You When the Water’s Running”) happened to see him in this play and since Mr. Anderson was a family friend, mentioned he would be happy to lend his assistance should Robert want to pursue an acting career. Goodbye medicine, hello show business.
In the spring of 1964, after phone calls, interviews and screen tests, Robert’s life had really taken a new path. He had an agent, was under contract to Universal Studios and living in Beverly Hills. Not a bad beginning. Robert’s life at Universal lasted for three years where he guested on all their TV shows like “The Virginian,” “Wagon Train,” “Bob Hope Chrysler Theatre,” “Kraft Suspense Theatre,” and numerous sitcoms. He also appeared in five motion pictures, most notable of which was “Munster, Go Home,” based on the TV show which plays regularly around Halloween.
After Universal, Robert went on to be one of the busiest… Read More
