The Journal

Duke’s Legacy: Part 1

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In honor of Father’s Day comes the first photo story of John Wayne in a role he played best: Dad.

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MICHAEL WAYNE

Born in 1934, Michael was John Wayne’s eldest son with his first wife, Josephine Alicia Saenz. While Duke was known for having his kids work with him, Michael got his footing in the business working behind the lens and later as a producer for his father’s production company, Batjac Productions. Over the years, Michael produced many of the legend’s films including The Alamo, McLintock!, The Green Berets and Big Jake.

John Wayne with his eldest son Michael on a dock in Hawaii.

John Wayne with his eldest son Michael on a dock in Hawaii.

Michael with his Dad on the beach in Hawaii.

Michael with his Dad on the beach in Hawaii.


“Michael was his own man and tried to watch out for other things besides just the film production side of things. But in the end, he did what my dad wanted him to do, and he always tried to look out for my dad.”

— Patrick Wayne, from The Genuine Article

John Wayne with his sons Patrick (left) and Michael (right) make an entrance at Antonia Wayne’s wedding.

John Wayne with his sons Patrick (left) and Michael (right) make an entrance at Antonia Wayne’s wedding.

John Wayne and Michael on the set of 1973 Western film Cahil U.S. Marshal, produced by Batjac Productions.

John Wayne and Michael on the set of 1973 Western film Cahil U.S. Marshal, produced by Batjac Productions.


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