Episode 121 – Behind the Badge: The Legendary Career of Robert Pine – Part 1

In this unforgettable episode of Hollywood Obsessed, host Tony Miros sits down with veteran actor Robert Pine, best known as Sgt. Joseph Getraer on the iconic 1970s TV series “CHiPs.” With a career spanning more than 60 years, Robert opens up about his incredible journey from small-town dreams to Hollywood legend.

Robert shares colorful stories from his early days as a studio contract player—earning just $125 a week—where he crossed paths with stars like Cary Grant and Leslie Caron and filmed episodes of “The Virginian” and “Wagon Train”. He even took singing and horseback riding lessons to boost his chances of landing roles. One of his early film credits includes the cult favorite “Munster, Go Home,” where he faked a British accent alongside Fred Gwynne and Yvonne De Carlo.

From his breakout guest role on “Gunsmoke” to appearances in classic Quinn Martin shows like Cannon and The FBI, Robert quickly became one of the busiest working actors in Hollywood. He also dishes about filming the campy horror flick Empire of the Ants with Joan Collins—who, as he fondly recalls, turned out to be a “scrabble shark” on set!

This wide-ranging and deeply personal conversation traces Robert Pine’s fascinating evolution as an actor, from the studio lot to over 400 screen credits—and he’s still going strong.

ROBERT PINE

Robert Pine’s passion for acting began in high school in Scarsdale, New York, where he performed in several plays before graduating in 1959. Although he initially pursued a medical career at Ohio Wesleyan University, his interest in acting persisted. A fateful summer performance after college on Nantucket Island changed his path when playwright Robert Anderson encouraged him to pursue acting professionally. With that, Pine left behind medicine and entered the world of show business.

By 1964, Pine had signed with Universal Studios and quickly became a familiar face on television, appearing in popular series such as “The Virginian,” “Wagon Train,” and “Bob Hope Chrysler Theatre,” along with several films, including “Munster, Go Home.” After his contract with Universal ended, he remained one of the most consistently working actors in Hollywood, taking on roles in movies like “The Graduate” and “Day of the Locust,” as well as stage roles ranging from Chekhov and Molière to musical theatre and opera. His career also included a steady stream of commercial work.

Pine’s most recognizable role came in 1977 when he was cast as Sgt. Joe Getraer in NBC’s hit series “CHiPs,” a character that earned him lasting recognition. He also directed episodes of the show and remained active in the industry following its conclusion in 1983. Beyond television, Pine has remained committed to the theatre, performing with the Antaeus Theatre Ensemble in Los Angeles, an organization dedicated to classical theatre and actor training.

Outside of acting, Pine is an avid tennis player and participates in charity tournaments, including ones supporting the California Highway Patrol and SAG-AFTRA. He has been married for over 50 years to actress-turned-therapist Gwynne Gilford, who also played his on-screen wife in “CHiPs.” Together, they have two children: Katie, a psychotherapist, and actor Chris Pine, continuing the family’s legacy in entertainment as the third generation following Gwynne’s mother, classic film actress Anne Gwynne.

 

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