Harry Carey, Jr. Quotes

Powerful Harry Carey, Jr. for Daily Growth

About Harry Carey, Jr.

Harry Carey, Jr., born on July 16, 1921, was an American actor who carved a niche for himself in the Western genre, thanks to his father, Harry Carey, Sr., a well-known character actor of the silent film era. Born in Falmouth, Massachusetts, Carey spent much of his childhood on movie sets, developing a love for acting. He began his career at the age of 16 as an extra in his father's film 'The Last Trail,' and made his first credited appearance in the 1938 film 'Frontier Marshal.' Carey served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, but after returning to Hollywood, he quickly resumed his acting career. He found success as a Western character actor, often playing supporting roles alongside legendary actors such as John Wayne and Gary Cooper. Some of his notable works include 'Rio Bravo,' 'The Searchers,' and 'Stagecoach.' His most iconic role was perhaps that of the hapless Deputy Cannon in the 1960s television series 'Gunsmoke.' Carey's portrayal of the bumbling but lovable deputy brought laughter to millions of homes each week. In addition to acting, Carey directed several episodes of 'Gunsmoke' and other Western shows, showcasing his versatility in the industry. He retired from acting in 1975 but continued working as a director until his death on October 26, 1994, at the age of 73. Notable quotes by Harry Carey, Jr., include: "I've never met an actor who didn't want to be a leading man," and "You can't be any good at acting if you haven't learned to listen." These quotes reflect his humility and the importance he placed on crafting believable performances.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Ain't no man can stand in his own light."

The quote by Harry Carey, Jr., "Ain't no man can stand in his own light," suggests that when a person becomes too self-absorbed or egotistical, they blind themselves to the world around them. Essentially, it means that excessive self-importance prevents one from seeing or appreciating the people and opportunities within their vicinity. In other words, no individual can truly thrive if they are consumed by their own glory, as it obstructs growth, connection, and the potential for personal development that comes with interactions with others.


"I don't know nothin' 'bout bein' shot. Ask Jim."

This quote implies a lack of personal knowledge or understanding about a specific topic, in this case, being shot. The speaker is acknowledging that he has no experience with gunshot wounds, deferring the question to someone else named Jim who presumably does have such knowledge. It suggests humility and the value of expertise.


"I reckon I'd better ride along."

The quote by Harry Carey, Jr., "I reckon I'd better ride along," conveys a sense of determination, readiness, and responsibility. It implies that the speaker is about to embark on a journey, likely in response to a situation or call for help, and feels it is his duty to go. The phrase "ride along" also suggests that this action may be an unspoken expectation or obligation, emphasizing the idea of community and camaraderie often associated with the Old West, where mutual aid was crucial for survival.


"You sons-a-guns, you're always gettin' in trouble!"

This quote by Harry Carey, Jr., a renowned American actor, expresses exasperation and frustration. The speaker is likely a parent or authority figure who often finds themselves dealing with the recurring troubles of those addressed as "sons-a-guns." It signifies a sense of repeated difficulties that these individuals seem to encounter, perhaps due to their adventurous or headstrong nature.


"This here's my gun, these here's my ammo, and all you got is whatever I don't need." (often misattributed to Clint Eastwood)

This quote signifies a display of strength, readiness, and self-reliance. The speaker asserts his possession of the essential tools for protection - a gun and ammunition - suggesting he is prepared for any potential threat or danger. Simultaneously, he downplays the other person's capabilities by stating they only have what the speaker does not require, implying inferiority or insufficiency in comparison to himself. This quote embodies the classic "lone cowboy" persona often associated with the Western genre, where a solitary individual relies on his skills and resources to overcome obstacles in a harsh environment. It's important to note that this quote has been misattributed to Clint Eastwood, who played such characters in iconic Western films.


You can always tell a novice rider; they aren't comfortable in the saddle and have to hang on.

- Harry Carey, Jr.

Comfortable, Always, Hang, Saddle

My journey has been that of a character actor.

- Harry Carey, Jr.

Character, Actor, Been, My Journey

I was an expert horseman.

- Harry Carey, Jr.

Expert, Horseman

I've worked with the great and the not-so-great. But mostly I've worked with men and women who loved their profession, and who like me, had kids to raise and houses to pay for.

- Harry Carey, Jr.

Like, Profession, Mostly, Men And Women

I loved Allan Dwan. He was a tough old guy.

- Harry Carey, Jr.

Loved, Old, Guy, Old Guy

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