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Looking Back at the Unsung Performance in Lonesome Dove
Thomas Connor’s performance as Bob Allen is generally overlooked.
I believe that Lonesome Dove is the best mini-series ever made. It had some truly amazing performances. Of course, Robert Duvall turned in the performance of his life. Tommy Lee Jones and Anjelica Huston were also excellent. Of course, you could pretty much say that about everybody involved with the project. But in all the hoopla, somebody has been overlooked. There’s a question that needs to be answered.
What about Bob?
I’m of course, talking about Thomas Connor’s powerful performance as Bob Allen. You might remember that Bob Allen was Clara Allen’s husband. And, of course Clara was Gus’ old flame. Sounds like a powerful part, right? After all, Bob was the guy who won Augustus McCrae’s old girlfriend.
But alas, by the time Lonesome Dove picks up the story, Bob has been kicked in the head and is totally disabled and bedbound. And Thomas Connor completely nails the part.
Focus on Connor’s performance
Connor’s performance, like that of his co-stars was spot on. For example, his ability to not help Anjelica Huston put his nightshirt on was totally convincing. As was his ability to lay on either side and do nothing.
