I hope I'm not putting a damper on the mood here(I just saw the post ,the link to what Freddie would look like today-LOOOKING GREAT!!!) but I had a thought about Jack and I was just wondering,do you ever wonder if after Freddie's suicide and dealing with his sorrow,and probably thinking about the role if any that Hollywood really had on Freddie's death if Jack Albertson had any regrets or second thoughts about choosing Freddie to play Chico.
be assured friends I don't wonder this because I think Jack did or should have had any second thoughts about it or blamed himself in anyway but I do know that grief can make you think and do things you normally woulnt.
Sorry for the babbling,I hope you could understand the question I was trying to ask

I think I got your question. I don`t believe Jack was sorry for picking Freddie for the role,he saw a very talented young man,but didn`t realize the pack of problems he had. Jack made agood choice,Freddie didn`t, his mind was so troubled and drugged out.

Jack probably realized that Hollywood can be hard on anyone and veteran actors tend to have the philosophy "enter at your own risk". I hope he didn't feel too responsible. But I saw him as a panelist on the Gong Show; I think it was after Freddie's death and he seemed so sad and flat-didn't have much spark at all. http://www.sitcomsonline.com/ubb/frown.gif

I'm pretty sure the thought came across his head. Freddie was very talented though and he took the spotlight right from under him. I believe they shared a magic that few can share.

Another thing I'm sure it troubled Jack that Freddie was wasting away. Like someone said he was a Veteran actor he couldn't really handle such a train coming at him.....