Tim Sampson in It's Always Sunny

I recently watched Sweet Dee Has a Heart Attack (airdate: 10/30/08), an episode of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia. In it, Frank (Danny DeVito) becomes addicted to drugs and is committed to a mental institution. A review notes the ending:I neglected to bring up Frank's "over medicated, off to the nuthouse" storyline, which was mainly an excuse to insert a few insider-y One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest gags. Two things I liked about the Cuckoo's Nest riffs: The guy at the beginning saying "hit me" over and over, just like DeVito's character does in the original film; and that "The Chief" is played by Tim Sampson.Comment:  The episode reprises the famous scene where the big, silent Indian smashes a window with a drinking fountain. DeVito plays the Jack Nicholson role and Sampson plays his father's role. DeVito calls Sampson "Chief" and "Tonto"--names I think Nicholson's character used also.

All in all, it's a cute little homage, but nothing special. For more on the subject, see TV Shows Featuring Indians.

New Will Sampson book

New Book Showcases Actor Will Sampson’s Life and Art

Now for the first time, fans and Western art enthusiasts can meet the real Will "Sonny" Sampson in a beautiful coffee table book, Beyond Cuckoo’s Nest–The Art and Life of William Sampson, Jr.Known for his unforgettable role as Chief Bromden in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, William Sampson, Jr. entertained and moved audiences in numerous films, TV shows, and on stage. But his most important role was one that he played all of his life, that of Indian cowboy and artist.

Now for the first time, fans and Western art enthusiasts can meet the real Will "Sonny" Sampson in a beautiful coffee table book, Beyond Cuckoo’s Nest–The Art and Life of William Sampson, Jr.

Illustrated with photographs of more than 50 paintings and over 70 sketches, the originals which are in private collections, the poignant book takes the reader on a rare and tender journey. The 200 glossy pages begin with a three-year-old-boy drawing in the dirt, taking the reader all the way to the 6′ 5" actor, whose talent and charm influenced many.

The Muscogee Creek Indian also holds a special place in American history. Together he and the book’s author started the American Indian Registry, forever changing how Native Americans are viewed in Hollywood.

"Painting is my life," he said. "I am first, last and always a painter."

Indeed, Will Sampson claimed that acting supported his painting habit.Comment:  For more on the subject, see Sampson Gets Walk of Fame Medallion and The Best Indian Movies.

Sampson gets Walk of Fame medallion

Circle Cinema to honor actor Will SampsonThe Circle Cinema adds to its Walk of Fame this Friday with a medallion outside the theater honoring the late actor and Okmulgee native Will Sampson. A star of film (the iconic Chief Bromden in "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest") and TV (recurring parts in multiple series) and even the local stage (the 1984 Tulsa production of "Black Elk Speaks" that also starred David Carradine), Sampson was a member of the Creek Indian tribe. He died in 1987 at age 53.Comment:  For more on the subject, see The Best Indian Movies.