In Loving Memory of Russell "The Professor" Johnson

Happy Saturday, Everyone!

As you can see, today’s blog post is dedicated to the loving memory of Russell David Johnson, whom we all came to know and love as Dr. Roy Hinkley—a.k.a. the professor from Gilligan’s Island.

Mr. Johnson was 89 years old when he passed away in his sleep this past Thursday at his home in Bainbridge Island, Washington. When word got out about his passing the other day, I immediately went to Google so I could find a decent picture of Mr. Johnson portraying the lovable professor… and this was the best picture I could find! The reason why I don’t particularly care for this picture is because of the episode itself. You see, Professor Hinkley was trying to convince his fellow castaways that voodoo was nothing more than silly superstition, and while he was explaining this, he wound up being hypnotized by a voodoo priest.

Ironic, ain’t it? Well, here’s some more irony for you: I actually love that episode!

My other favorite episode is where Mr. & Mrs. Howell explain to Professor Hinkley that Gilligan and Skipper somehow found themselves pasted to the S.S. Minnow, thanks in part to some glue that Gilligan had made. Well, Professor Hinkley explains to the Howells that the glue is permanent and there is nothing on the island that can dissolve it. Professor Hinkley then goes on to say: “Do you what that would take? It would take a polyester derivative of an organic hydroxide molecule.” Well, upon hearing this, Mrs. Howell looks away in disgust, while Mr. Howell scolds Professor Hinkley: “Watch your language! You’re in the presence of a lady!”

The whole scene is funny to me, all things considered—and check this out: Professor Hinkley actually apologizes for his “language” (such as the case was)… hahahaha!

And speaking of his language, it was reported that Mr. Johnson requested that the scientific jargon and intellectual lingo be legitimate in order to play the role of such a knowledgeable character. Now, that is what I call true passion for developing one’s character.

Now, I am aware that Mr. Johnson was in various movies and dramas, and even some westerns; however, he will forever in my heart be known as Professor Hinkley. I surely hope he’s having fun up there with Gilligan, the Skipper, too, and the millionaire and his wife.

Thanks for the knowledge, Professor Hinkley—and thank you for your great acting skills, Mr. Johnson!

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha