Luke Halpin's MOST Secret Secrets

One of YOUR top TV favorites talks from the heart about the THINGS that matter to him MOST.

(Published in 16 Magazine, May 1965 issue; transcript provided by Alan R)

(NOTE: Luke was 17 when this was written.)


GIRLS: That is just about my favorite word and when I say it, it should be followed by an exclamation point -- like this! Being a normal 17-year-old young guy, I find that girls are about all I think of in my spare time. They certainly are a fellow's best friend. I don't mean that as a joke, either. I think girls are great to have as buddies -- as well as sweethearts. In fact, a girl who can be your FRIEND is the kind you end up dating most often and enjoying most. I prefer girls who can share my interests in water sports, but who are still feminine and soft. I like girls who are interested in everything that goes on [around] them, who know a little about at least a couple of subjects, but who don't hog the conversation and are adept in the fine art of listening.

MONEY: In spite of the fact that I get a weekly salary for my work on "Flipper", I still have to go to my folks for my weekly allowance. They stash my cash and very carefully dole it out to me. You see, I spend it as fast as I get it. I'm always in need of gas for my new car and, of course, I can't resist running into any record store I pass and spending whatever I have in my pockets on the latest hits! I do think of saving, and I know that I will eventually try to invest my savings wisely, so that I can have a secure future for myself and those I love.

MARRIAGE: I am too young to think about this seriously. However, one day I will definitely wed and settle down to raising a large family. I hope to live near the sea, where the sun shines a lot, and hope my kids are wild for water sports. I would also like to spend some time in the wonderful city of New York in my later years.

VACATION: Ah, what a nice word. I have the most enjoyable respite when I can get to visit my friends up at Rocky Point, N.Y. I also love fishing with my dad and my friend, Dick Genth. We dig this sport most at Englewood, Fla., especially when we fish off the side of the racing boat "Formula".

FOOD: I like to eat a home-cooked meal after a day's work. You really don't feel like getting dressed up and going out. Besides, my mom is a great cook. There are evenings when we allow her out of the kitchen, and that's when we all dine out and enjoy Chinese food or a seafood dish.

HOBBIES: I really can't say that I have any hobbies at this time. My "hobby" is water sports of all kinds. I think water skiing is my top favorite. Next to skin diving. This is exciting and easy -- and it is thrilling to discover that whole new world underneath the sea! Racing boats are my present craze, and I think it is going to end up as the most exciting thing I could do. Let's say the bug has "bit" me.

CLOTHES: In warm climates you are pretty much restricted as to what you wear. I really like suedes and lovely woolens, but they don't go with the tropical sun. Down here I wear sports shirts and narrow slacks with canvas shoes that can be scrubbed when they are dirty. When I get a chance to really dress up, I prefer slim Continental styles with a white shirt and narrow dark tie.

CRITICISM: If it's constructive, it is always good. An actor is only as good as his last performance, and he knows he must continually improve to remain at the top (or get there, for that matter). I hope anyone who can help me with good advice and criticism will never hold back.

FANS: That's a word I still can't get used to. I think of all of you who are interested enough to care about me as FRIENDS. From the letters you write to me, I'd say you are "the greatest". I want to take this opportunity to thank all of you across America (and overseas) for the nice letters and cards you have sent me. Though I can't answer each one personally, I do read them all and cherish every one.

THE FUTURE: After I finish high school, I'd like to go to college. Which one? I haven't decided yet. Acting is a great vocation, but I think a fellow needs a college education to fall back on, if necessary. Learning different things is an exciting challenge. Remember, if you don't try to learn -- you'll never know WHAT you're missing!