Ever watched Charlie's Angels and wondered about that mysterious, unseen boss giving orders over the speakerphone? Who exactly is the voice of Charlie?
It's a question that plagued fans for years! And the answer is... well, it's a bit of a Hollywood secret with a heartwarming twist.
The Man Behind the Speakerphone
The voice of Charlie Townsend was provided by none other than the legendary John Forsythe. Yes, the same John Forsythe who later became a household name as Blake Carrington on Dynasty!
Can you imagine Angel's listening to the commands from future Carrington patriarch? The 80's crossover we never knew we needed!
A Serendipitous Choice
How did Forsythe land such an iconic, albeit unseen, role? Apparently, the producers of Charlie's Angels were struggling to find the perfect voice. They needed someone with authority, charm, and a hint of mystery.
As the story goes, Forsythe was a last-minute suggestion, almost an afterthought. But when he delivered his lines, everyone knew they had found their Charlie!
It's funny to think that such an integral part of the show was almost an accident!
The Unseen Star
What's truly remarkable is that John Forsythe rarely, if ever, actually appeared on the set of Charlie's Angels. He recorded all of his lines in a sound booth, completely separate from the actresses.
He was the ultimate absentee boss, a voice in the machine guiding the Angels through their dangerous missions. Forsythe was essentially the Wizard of Oz, but instead of dispensing courage, brains, and heart, he was dispatching crime-fighting instructions!
It adds a layer of mystique to the character, doesn't it?
A Generous Angel
Here's the heartwarming part: John Forsythe reportedly negotiated a deal where he received a percentage of the show's profits. But instead of keeping all the money for himself, he shared a portion of his earnings with the three lead actresses: Farrah Fawcett, Kate Jackson, and Jaclyn Smith.
What a classy move! A real Angel, in his own right.
He recognized their hard work and contribution to the show's success. It's a testament to his character and generosity.
More Than Just a Voice
So, the next time you hear that smooth, commanding voice issuing instructions to Sabrina, Jill, and Kelly, remember John Forsythe. He was more than just a voice; he was a generous and integral part of the Charlie's Angels legacy.
He may have been unseen, but he was certainly not unheard, and his impact on the show is undeniable.
John Forsythe, the voice of Charlie, a true Hollywood angel both on and off the screen.
