Episode 164 - Up Close and Personal With Emmy Winner Gary Frank - Part 2
Part Two of Tony Miros’ unforgettable conversation with Emmy Award–winning actor Gary Frank begins with the unforgettable night he won his Emmy for “Family.” He also shares stories of working with extraordinary talents like Elizabeth Ashley and Hollywood legend Henry Fonda, who guest-starred on “Family” in an episode directed by legendary actress Joanne Woodward.
Gary reflects on the deep bonds he formed with his co-stars, including James Broderick, and shares touching memories of the show’s creative team and the challenges that ultimately led to the series ending after five celebrated seasons. He offers fascinating behind-the-scenes insights and explains why “Family” never received the reunion it deserved.
Beyond the series, Gary recounts working with screen icons such as Glenn Ford, Julie Harris, Billy Crystal, and Eva Marie Saint, as well as early collaborations with rising talents including Jennifer Lopez. Gary shares fascinating stories about the projects that shaped his career—including his memorable appearance on “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.”
The conversation takes a deeply personal turn as Gary opens up about stepping away from acting, confronting life’s challenges, and finding renewed purpose through writing his powerful memoir “Up From Down.” With honesty, humor, and hard-earned wisdom, he reflects on sobriety, self-discovery, and the message he hopes readers take away: that even when life looks perfect on the outside, everyone faces struggles—and it’s never too late to begin again.
For information on the Family 50th Anniversary Celebration with Kristy McNichol, Gary Frank, and their friends on October 25, 2026 at the Courtyard Marriott in Monterey Park, CA please email carolyn@niteofdreams.com
GARY FRANK
Frank’s screen career began in 1974 when he was cast by director Richard Donner in the television movie “Senior Year,” which evolved into the CBS series “Sons and Daughters,” where he starred opposite Glynnis O'Connor.
Just days after that series ended, Frank was cast by director Mark Rydell, alongside producers Mike Nichols, Leonard Goldberg, and Aaron Spelling, in the acclaimed ABC drama “Family.” His portrayal of Willie Lawrence earned him the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in 1977. The series, which ran from 1976 to 1980, also starred James Broderick, Sada Thompson, Meredith Baxter, and Kristy McNichol.
Following the show’s successful five-season run, Frank built an extensive TV and film career, appearing in numerous movies and guest-starring on many of the era’s most popular series. His credits include “The Streets of San Francisco,” “T.J. Hooker,” “Charlie’s Angels,” “Fantasy Island,” “The Love Boat,” “Hill Street Blues,” “Friday the 13th: The Series,” and “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.” He also appeared in the feature film “Deadly Weapon” and had a recurring role in “Remington Steele.”
He also starred in numerous TV movies, including the acclaimed historical drama “Enola Gay: The Men, the Mission, the Atomic Bomb.” His film work includes the holiday movie “The Gift” opposite Glenn Ford, Dominick Dunne’s “People Like Us” with Eva Marie Saint, and the Eddie Murphy comedy “The Distinguished Gentleman.”
Beyond acting, Frank is an accomplished writer. He has written numerous scripts . His recent memoir, “Up From Down,” offers a deeply personal and heartfelt look at the triumphs, challenges, and defining moments of his life and career.
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Actor / Author
A longtime member of the famed Actors Studio, Gary Frank began studying in 1969 under the legendary Lee Strasberg, as well as renowned teachers Peggy Feury and Bill Traylor.
Frank’s screen career began in 1974 when he was cast by director Richard Donner in the television movie “Senior Year,” which evolved into the CBS series “Sons and Daughters,” where he starred opposite Glynnis O'Connor. He soon became a contract player at Universal Studios.
Just days after that series ended, Frank was cast by director Mark Rydell, alongside producers Mike Nichols, Leonard Goldberg, and Aaron Spelling, in the acclaimed ABC drama “Family.” His portrayal of Willie Lawrence earned him the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in 1977. The series, which ran from 1976 to 1980, also starred James Broderick, Sada Thompson, Meredith Baxter, and Kristy McNichol.
Following the show’s successful five-season run, Frank built an extensive television and film career, appearing in numerous movies and guest-starring on many of the era’s most popular series. His credits include “The Streets of San Francisco,” “T.J. Hooker,” “Charlie’s Angels,” “Fantasy Island,” “The Love Boat,” “Hunter,” “Magnum, P.I.,” “Murder, She Wrote,” “L.A. Law,” “Hill Street Blues,” “Friday the 13th: The Series,” and “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.” He also appeared in the feature film “Deadly Weapon” and had a recurring role in “Remington Steele.”
He also starred in numerous television movies, including the acclaimed historical drama “Enola Gay: The Men, the Mission, the Atomic…Read More
