The story of John Wayne’s act of kindness on the set of “The Searchers” involves the rescue of a little girl, Lana Wood, who was the younger sister of Natalie Wood. Lana Wood had a small role in the film, and the incident occurred during the shooting of a river-crossing scene.
During the scene, Lana Wood, who was about 8 years old at the time, was clinging to a piece of driftwood as the river’s current carried her downstream. The current was stronger than anticipated, and Lana Wood found herself in a perilous situation. John Wayne, who was known for his roles as a tough and heroic figure on screen, displayed a similar heroism off-screen.
Witnessing Lana’s struggle, Wayne immediately took action. He jumped into the river, fought against the current, and reached Lana in distress. With his strength and determination, Wayne managed to grab Lana and bring her safely to the shore, saving her from what could have been a dangerous situation.
This act of kindness and bravery earned John Wayne not only the admiration of the cast and crew but also solidified his reputation as a man of integrity and compassion. It showcased a side of Wayne that went beyond his tough screen persona, revealing a genuine concern for the well-being of those around him, especially a young co-star.
The incident is remembered as a touching moment in the production of “The Searchers” and stands as a testament to John Wayne’s character both on and off the screen. It reflects the real-life heroism of a Hollywood legend who, in a critical moment, stepped up to ensure the safety of a young member of the film’s cast.