Carroll O’Connor and Larry Hagman, both legends of television, shared more than just their iconic roles in All in the Family, I Dream of Jeannie, and Dallas—they shared a deep, decades-long friendship that weathered the highs and lows of Hollywood. Their bond, which began in the late 1950s during a stage play, blossomed into a brotherhood that lasted 40 years, a relationship built on mutual respect, shared experiences, and a commitment to watching each other’s backs, both on and off the set.
In his memoir, Hello Darlin’!: Tall (and Absolutely True) Tales About My Life, Hagman fondly recalls the early days when he and O’Connor were still finding their footing in the acting world. Long before they became household names, the two were just young men with big dreams and a shared passion for theater. As their careers took off, they remained inseparable, often spending time together with their families, whether it was at O’Connor’s house or Hagman’s Malibu beach home.
But their friendship wasn’t just about good times; it was also about being there for each other in moments of crisis. One such moment came shortly after Hagman moved into his new Malibu home. During a visit from the O’Connors, the families were enjoying a peaceful day on the beach when disaster nearly struck. As their young sons played in the sand, a single-engine, pre-World War II plane suddenly made an emergency landing, narrowly missing the children by mere feet. The terrifying sight of the plane skidding to a stop with its nose buried in the sand sent both fathers into a panic.
Hagman and O’Connor sprinted toward their sons, but the situation quickly escalated when the pilot, unhurt but furious, began cursing at the boys for being in his way. As the pilot unleashed his anger, calling the children names, O’Connor’s protective instincts kicked in, and he nearly lunged at the man in a fit of rage. It was Hagman who had to step in, physically restraining his friend from turning the beach into a battleground. The incident was a stark reminder of how quickly things could turn dangerous, even in the seemingly safe enclave of Malibu.
Despite the scare, the Hagmans stayed in the community for years, and their friendship with the O’Connors only grew stronger. After Hagman’s liver transplant, the O’Connors welcomed him into their home, providing a safe haven during his recovery. Their bond, forged in the fires of Hollywood and solidified by a lifetime of shared experiences, remained unbroken until O’Connor’s passing. Hagman always viewed O’Connor not just as a friend, but as a mentor, someone who had guided him through the labyrinth of fame with wisdom and grace.
In the end, their story is more than just a tale of celebrity friendship; it’s a testament to the enduring power of loyalty, the importance of standing by those you care about, and the rare but precious gift of a friendship that can withstand even the most harrowing of trials.
