Ah Sing vs. Wyoming

💡 Did You Know?

Last appearance in the series by Charles Bickford. Per James Drury, Mr. Bickford was ill on set but insisted on finishing (Friday) and that he died a couple days later (Sunday). However, his passing was after the episode aired, not before, so other reports must be considered. Newspaper articles at the time reported Mr. Bickford being treated for emphysema since the previous July. He apparently contracted pneumonia while filming, crippling his ability to move and breathe, which is why Mr. Drury said he struggled and was encouraged to rest. Also, Mr. Bickford may have worsened or collapsed at home that weekend and was hospitalized rather than passing away as recalled by Mr. Drury--Blood poisoning added into his difficulties at the hospital and Mr. Bickford finally succumbed on a Thursday some weeks after filming but not long after the show aired. There was no explanation in the series for Bickford's departure and there were no shows carried by costars before the arrival of John McIntire- he stepped into the very next show like he'd been part of the cast the entire time- which is what Charles likely would have wanted and what he would have done if the situation were reversed. Charles Bickford was still listed as lead in the credits with John McIntire as special guest star until the end of fiscal 1967.