Author, Crane: Sex, Celebrity, and My Father's Unsolved Murder
This week on Ira's Everything Bagel Podcast, host Ira Sternberg engages in a captivating conversation with Robert Crane, a prolific author known for his deep dives into the worlds of sex, celebrity, and the tragic unsolved murder of his father, Bob Crane. With a career spanning decades and a bibliography that includes ten books, Robert Crane brings a wealth of experience and insight into the literary world. In this episode, Crane discusses his journey as a writer, his decision to focus on Jack Nicholson in his first book, and the emotional complexities of writing about his father’s life and untimely death.
The Decision to Pursue Writing
Robert Crane begins by explaining why he chose a life of writing, despite growing up in the shadow of his famous father, Bob Crane—a radio and television star best known for his role in Hogan’s Heroes. Born in Stamford, Connecticut, and later moving to Los Angeles in the 1950s, Crane was immersed in the world of show business from an early age. However, instead of following in his father’s footsteps, he pursued a different path, studying film at USC and eventually turning to writing as his primary creative outlet. Crane discusses how writing allows him to be the "ruler of his universe," giving him control over the narrative in a way that acting or other forms of entertainment could not.
Choosing Jack Nicholson for His First Book
One of the most intriguing aspects of Robert Crane’s career is his decision to feature Jack Nicholson in his first book, Jack Nicholson: Face to Face (later reissued as Jack Nicholson: The Early Years). Crane talks about what drew him to Nicholson as a subject—his enigmatic personality, his rise to stardom, and his influence on American cinema. As a young writer, Crane was fascinated by Nicholson’s ability to navigate the often tumultuous waters of Hollywood while maintaining his unique identity. This book marked the beginning of Crane’s long and successful career as an author, setting the stage for his later works.
Writing About His Father: A Personal Journey
In this episode, Robert Crane also delves into the deeply personal and challenging process of writing Crane: Sex, Celebrity, and My Father's Unsolved Murder. Co-written with frequent collaborator Christopher Fryer, this book is more than just a biography—it’s a reflection on Crane’s own life and the impact of his father’s murder on his family. Crane explains that this was the one book where he refused to settle for less, as the story was not just about his father, but also about himself, his mother, stepfather, and two sisters. The book chronicles the turbulent years of Bob Crane’s infidelities, his parents’ divorce, and the unresolved trauma of his father’s murder.
Balancing the Internal and External Life
One of the key themes in Robert Crane’s discussion is the balance between the internal and external life. As a writer, Crane has had to navigate the challenges of being deeply introspective while also engaging with the world around him. He shares how writing serves as a tool for processing emotions and experiences, allowing him to make sense of the complexities of his life. This balance is particularly evident in his work on Crane: Sex, Celebrity, and My Father's Unsolved Murder, where the personal and professional aspects of his life intersect in powerful ways.
From Freelancing to Playboy and Beyond
Robert Crane’s career began with freelancing for magazines and newspapers, which eventually led to his first book on Jack Nicholson. His success with this project opened the door to a twenty-year stint at Playboy Magazine, where he continued to hone his craft and expand his portfolio. During his time at Playboy, Crane developed a reputation for his insightful and often provocative writing, tackling subjects that ranged from Hollywood’s elite to the broader cultural shifts of the time. This experience not only shaped him as a writer but also deepened his understanding of the intersection between celebrity and society.
Crane’s Collaboration with Christopher Fryer
A significant portion of Robert Crane’s literary output has been in collaboration with Christopher Fryer. Together, they have authored several books, including those on Jack Nicholson and Bruce Dern. Crane discusses how this partnership has been instrumental in his success, with Fryer providing complementary skills and perspectives that enhance their work. The two share a deep commitment to storytelling, often focusing on the darker, more complex aspects of their subjects’ lives.
Navigating Personal Tragedy: The Losses of Kari and John Candy
In Crane: Sex, Celebrity, and My Father's Unsolved Murder, Robert Crane also explores the personal tragedies that have shaped his life, including the deaths of his first wife, Kari, and his close friend, actor John Candy. These losses, compounded by the unresolved trauma of his father’s murder, have profoundly influenced Crane’s writing. He shares how these experiences have informed his understanding of grief and loss, and how they have driven him to explore these themes in his work.
A Journey Through American Social Fabric
Beyond his personal story, Crane: Sex, Celebrity, and My Father's Unsolved Murder offers a broader commentary on the American social fabric, from the days of the Vietnam War through the cultural upheavals of the 1960s and 70s. Robert Crane discusses how his book reflects the changing landscape of American society, particularly in relation to issues of celebrity, media, and personal identity. Through his narrative, Crane provides a unique lens on the cultural shifts that have defined the past few decades.
Crane’s Legacy as a Writer
As the episode concludes, Robert Crane reflects on his legacy as a writer. With ten books to his name, Crane has established himself as a significant voice in the world of literary non-fiction. His work continues to resonate with readers, offering a blend of personal insight, cultural commentary, and sharp wit. Whether exploring the life of a Hollywood icon like Jack Nicholson or delving into the complexities of his own family’s story, Robert Crane remains committed to telling stories that matter.
Robert Crane Podcast Episode Conclusion
This episode of Ira's Everything Bagel Podcast offers a deep and engaging exploration of the life and work of Robert Crane. From his early days as a film student at USC to his current status as a respected author, Crane’s journey is one of resilience, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of truth. His latest book, Crane: Sex, Celebrity, and My Father's Unsolved Murder, stands as a testament to his ability to navigate the complexities of both his personal and professional life with grace and insight.
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FAQs About Author Robert Crane
Who is Robert Crane?
Robert Crane is an author and the son of Bob Crane, the star of Hogan's Heroes. He has written several books, including a memoir titled Crane: Sex, Celebrity, and My Father's Unsolved Murder, which explores his life growing up in a show business family and dealing with his father's tragic death.
Who is Bob Crane?
Bob Crane was an American actor best known for his role as Colonel Hogan in the television series Hogan's Heroes. He was a popular radio host before transitioning to television and film acting.
How did Bob Crane die?
Bob Crane was murdered in 1978 in Scottsdale, Arizona. His death remains officially unsolved, although there were suspects and ongoing investigations over the years.
How old was Bob Crane?
Bob Crane was 49 years old at the time of his death in 1978.
How many books does Robert Crane have?
Robert Crane has written or co-written ten books, including biographies and memoirs that often explore the complexities of celebrity life.
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