Frankie Thomas, who became famous in the 1950s for his starring role in the TV children’s show “Tom Corbett, Space Cadet,” has died. He was 85.
At his request, Thomas was buried Tuesday in his “Tom Corbett, Space Cadet” costume. You have to appreciate some people’s sense of humor.
One of My Favorite books
Though I never saw the TV series I remenber reading the books about Tom, Astro and Roger and how sad I was when Roger left the crew in one of the books (only to return in the next book – darn those cliffhangers!),
Rest well Frankie :) .
Frankie Thomas as Tom Corbett
>>>You have to appreciate some people’s sense of humor
I think you misunderstand the significance of this. Thomas played the role of Tom Corbett for 5 years, ending in 1955. He is still known and loved 50 years later for that role. He also gained two lifelong friends, Jan Merlin and Al Markim, from the experience.
The term ‘Space Cadet’ has a bad rap these days. In this show, a forerunner of Star Trek, themes of loyalty, friendship, courage and self-sacrifice were explored, and they influenced thousands of people to live better lives because of it.
Spaceman’s luck, Frankie.