In January, 1947, David Wayne created the role of Og the Leprechaun in the unique Broadway musical "Finian's Rainbow", singing and dancing his way into the hearts of American theatergoers (the same role clumsily, obnoxiously played by Tommy Steele in the heavy-handed film version in 1968). When I played the same role onstage in High School (also in '68), I naturally became interested in Mr. Wayne's work, and was curious to learn about him. Eventually, via home video and cable, it was possible to do so, since he was a popular and versatile presence in film, TV, stage and industrial films.
15 years after his super-success in "Finian's", David Wayne guest starred in THIS episode of Naked City; as you watch it, keep in mind that he probably had two days to learn the entire script and develop his multi-faceted portrayal of the title character. But it's very easy to see why, in 1947, Wayne was chosen to create the role of the puckish, mischievous, but slightly melancholy little guy from Ireland in "Finian's".
His performance here is superb--- understated, whimsical, deftly delivered, and charming as all get-out. Emmy quality, without a doubt. His final scene with the series' 3 regulars (Burke, McMahon and Bellaver --who himself had created the stage role of Sitting Bull in the smash hit "Annie Get Your Gun" in 1946, the year BEFORE "Finian's") is a joy to behold. Mr. Wayne's impish, droll presence, the twinkle in his eye touched with a hint of sadness and resignation, dominates the scene (which is very cleverly written), leading us to the final resolution.
And even though Naked City's real strength was its gritty, "relevant" human dramas, I find myself absolutely enchanted by this gentle, lighthearted, maybe even "magical" show every time I watch it.
David Wayne--- who doesn't even get photo recognition on the DVD packaging (instead, Nancy Marchand and Jean Stapleton are touted as the stars), was one of our most brilliant actors, who will never get anything near the recognition he deserves. At least we can all treasure a bit of his legacy thanks to this episode.
LR