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Actor Did Own Stunts for 'Emergency' for Low Pay
11 Jul
Summary
- Mantooth performed his own stunts on 'Emergency' for years.
- New actors on 'Emergency' earned only $250 weekly initially.
- The show significantly raised public awareness for paramedics.
Randolph Mantooth, an acclaimed American actor, left a lasting legacy through his nearly 50-year career, notably his role in the action drama 'Emergency.'
Mantooth portrayed paramedic Johnny Gage on 'Emergency,' a series that aired on NBC for six seasons from 1972 to 1979. During his time on the show, he performed his own stunts for four to five years, often without hesitation when challenged by producers. He recalled not knowing what a paramedic was at the show's inception.
Despite the demanding nature of the work, which included long hours and hazardous scenes, Mantooth and fellow newcomer Kevin Tighe earned significantly less than their counterparts, with initial weekly salaries starting at $250. This was in stark contrast to other television stars earning up to $1 million annually.
The show played a crucial role in raising public awareness about Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and portraying firefighters as heroes. While Tighe expressed dissatisfaction with the pay, Mantooth viewed the series as a pivotal opportunity, eventually earning $7.5K per week towards the show's end.
