Alfie was a close family friend. The day he died he arranged to go on a bear hunt with my Dad (Jimmie Widener) then left our house and went off and ran into Jack Piott. That previous Christmas was one of my all time favorites, because of him joining us He gave me a kids drum kit, and my Dad a limb off a pine tree with no pine needles mounted to a board. Hanging from the limb was a string holding a used 30-30 rifle shell. My Dad asked him what it was. and Alfie said it was " a cartridge in a bare tree" Then I went to bed and while my Dad explained that I had to go to sleep or Santa wouldn't come. Alfie snuck outside, climbed on the roof and stomped around so I would think Santa waqs landing. RIP Alfie.
Well done video! I am 74 now and I grew up in North Hollywood in the 50's I watched The little Rascals 5 nights a week on Captain Jet...ZOOOOOOM! I loved The little Rascals, everyone of them is in my heart for ever. As a fan of Alfalfa...It's sad, people are the craziest animals. RIP ALFI
True Crime often seems exploitative nowadays. Your channel is one of the very few that always remain very respectful and in good taste. Thank you. It's so refreshing to find something produced in today's world that isn't just loud, vulgar and obnoxious. Greetings from Germany ❤
I whole heartedly agree this is an outstanding documentary about Carl "Alfalfa" Switzer whom I only remember in The Little Rascals. I looked forward to every episode, even repeats. I had lost track of Alfalfa because in 1959 I was only 11 and didn't read newspapers or tabloids. It's sad how his life unfolded and of course with his final demise. We can learn from reflecting on mistakes of others. Was Carl's life void of a true relationship with Jesus Christ? That's what I get from this solum story. Thank you for your documentary.
As Tommy Bond said in the early 2000s, "I wish Alfy had lived long enough to see how special and loved he was for many decades to come, it wouldve meant the world to Alfy"
so many people here talking about Alfalfa Switzer. Poor baby, he really was doing a good job becoming an actor and losing the Alfalfa image. He seemed to be a very disturbed young man though, and drink and drugs do quite a number on your mind. Things were just too much for him in the end - his luck ran out that night. Such a good-looking sweet/sad face. so glad though that parts of his life were good, and from comments below, he was deep down a good, fun-loving, caring person. sleep in peace and happiness, Alfalfa, thanks (to you and all the gang) for being part of my childhood in the late '50's. . . thanks so much for this very balanced and caring video. . .
My favorite in the Early Fifties. Dear Mr Carl.....U are back on OUR PLANET.......but....U Must quiet those Previous Life moments that haunt U so terribly when U R under the effects of combo ETOH and Sneaky ingestions......
Wow, that was a good, maybe the best documentary on Carl Seizer.....little bit of a tear jerker. Sad to learn about his brothers demise as well. It also sobering to see how much the times have changed but also how some things never change
He was a good person. But he did play a cool character. But I guess he was a little weak-minded He just wasn't able to deal with so many up and down emotions. That has happened many times before and after his death. Truly Sad issues of Hollywood and it's disturbing effects on individuals that really never make it . Because of the Highs and Low' in there careers . They somehow become desperate putting themselves at risk. Or took there own lives. 😢
@@sabrinaselmer5766 My brother was a child actor in 1970. Parents didn't have a right to be on set to protect their children. Even if they were blessed to have avoided the extreme abuse most child actors experience, their minds can easily split due to pretending to be other people before they even know who they are. The entertainment industry has always been a horrible place for kids and it always will be.
I don't know how I found this/ or why it came up. But I got stucked here, and watched till the end! My brother and I Always watched The Rascals when we were kids. It was at Christmas and New Years Eve time! We Loved it, and I still do! But, I have a completely different feeling now in My body! Feeling SAD! 😢 For Carl Switzer 💞 A well done Documentary. Thanks 🙋
@@GorillaCrewWarGaming .... and that is all you have to contribute? I guess it is true - there is always at least one moron in the interwebs crowd willing to open his mouth and prove it..
I knew Carl Switzer had been murdered but I didn't know much of the backstory. Thanks for an excellent and complete telling of his life and tragic death. It seems a lot of lives were wasted that night.
I believe some time later there was a law made to protect the kids and their earnings. I think it was called The Coogan law. It was after the actor Jackie Coogan whose parents took all his money he had earned as a child.
It wasn't just the kids who got totally screwed on royalties shooting for Hal Roach. So did Laurel and Hardy. Roach made many millions replaying the shorts on tv.
Great documentary! I love the way you spoke clearly and slowly as opposed to the fast paced way people speak in UA-cam, the media, and film. Thank you!
@@bivio1It was a good comment, and I agree. I’m glad to see you’re still kickin after 3 years, I was afraid you had tanked on us in the meantime. May the academy awards recognize the toils of man, before our lifetimes are up.
Sometime around 1998 or so, my dad rented a VHS tape of some of the our gang shorts because he enjoyed them as a kid and thought I would too. He was right, I instantly loved them. He ended up getting all the volumes for me. I’m 32 now and still enjoy them. They’re truly timeless
Perhaps "enjoyed it" is a wrong word here - but it is a very good documentary of a sad story. Who would have guessed what destiny had in store for this charming young kid.
Thanks for compiling this - I had no idea about 80% of what you covered - this is the kind of production that makes youtube a treasure - thanks again !!
My grandfather, Max Dolan, was a "dolly grip" lighting technician for Hal Roach and "Our Gang" during this time and before sound, too. My Dad used to play with some of the kids in the back lot of the studio after school.
Wow, this story is completely different than what my Mother and Dad told me about our cousin, Alfalfa. When we were kids, Dad told us that Alfie owned hunting dogs and that one of them got lost. The dog was found, but the guy wanted a ransom for the dog that was a lot of money. Alfie got a gun and went to the guy's house to get his dog back at gun point. A fight broke out and somehow the gun ended up killing Alfie. I still have a photograph of my Mom and Alfie and my Uncle Bob, the day Alfie gave my Mom a little dog that sh ended up hating. Very strange because my mother loved all animals, something I got from her. In the photo Alfie is holding a pop gun rifle and the dog is jumping up on my mother, Uncle Bob in the back next to their family car. My Dad almost ended up in the Our Gang series. He was supposed to go to the audition, but his Mom said no. She had been a child prodigy classical pianist and was sent on tour and had a nervous break down at her early age, so she wanted none of fame for her son. Thanks for the great documentary and clearing part of our family history for me. I am 70 years old now and have never heard hardly any of what this video revealed. Good job.
Thank you for sharing such a beautiful memory of a most beloved relative. Sad to hear your mum didn't like the dog, though. Maybe get in contact with the presenter of this article on Alfalfa and let them know directly what you had been told from your mum and dad. They might be very interested in further proof that Alfalfa was a great man when he was alive
@@TheSchmed They only knew what they spun from the tabloids, like everyone else. It was decades later that the killer's stepson at age 57, came forward with his eyewitness recounting of what happened that evening. By that time, most of the adults of Switzer's generation were passed on.
Just happened to stumble on this while looking for something that I could listen to at 4:00 am to help me fall back asleep. Forget it. I stayed awake all the way till the end watching this! This was very well put together. Definitely worth staying up for!
John Ryan , I have a lot of trouble sleeping, so I listen to Reddit..bc a lot of the stories last up to almost an hour lol. I fall asleep with my ear plugs in lol
That’s crazy cause I woke up at 4am today and listened to this with my eyes closed figuring I’ll fall asleep and now it 7am and reading all the comments.
I thought, after watching 15 minutes I would get bored and tune off. But I could'nt. This is a compelling and extremely well told story. GREAT program, hope to see more.
Felt the same way wanting to know more so what happened.. love this narrator he is a great deliverer of information that keeps your attention thanks for producing this
its scary how fast the years r passing. i was born in the mid-sixties & watched the little rascals, laurel & hardy and the 3 stooges relentlessly as a kid and now i'm approaching 60. those old black & white programs made such a monumental impact. maybe it was the limited options of programming at the time but, my o my that seemed like quality programming back then. i wish we could freeze time
Go to hell freemasons. "Our particular chapter in history unfolds at a time of physical transformation in Europe that was almost as momentous as the first discovery of fire must have been in the mists of antiquity. The industrial revolution was permitting men to leash fire to machines-and to unleash fire power on each other-with a force undreamed of in earlier ages. In the midst of those fires appeared the more elusive flame that Dostoevsky described in the most searching work of fiction ever written about the revolutionary movement: The Possessed. He depicted a stagnant (tranquil?) provincial town that was suddenly inspired (infected?) by new ideas . Shortly after a turbulent literary evening, a mysterious fire broke out; and a local official shouted out into the nocturnal confusion : "The fire is in the minds of men, not in the roofs of buildings ." Dostoevsky was writing under the impact of two great fires that disturbed him deeply and heralded the transfer of revolutionary leadership from France to Russia. These fires had broken out in imperial St. Petersburg in the spring of 1861 (where the emancipation of the serfs seemed to have inflamed rather than calmed passions ), and in imperial Paris ten years later (where the flaming defeat of the Paris Commune ended forever the era of romantic illusions ). The flame of faith had begun its migrations a century earlier, when some European aristocrats transferred their lighted candles from Christian altars to Masonic lodges. The flame of occult alchemists, which had promised to turn dross into gold, reappeared at the center of new "circles" seeking to recreate a golden age : Bavarian Illuminists conspiring against the Jesuits, French Philadelphians against Napoleon, Italian charcoal burners against the Hapsburgs. When the most important anti-Napoleonic conspiracy was ridiculed for attempting "to use as a lever something which is only a match," its leader replied that With a match one has no need of a lever; one does not lift up the world, one burns it." -James H Billington
Yes it did I think it's the fact that they were just down to earth normal kids like us and it made everything they said and done so real and fun. I never lost amusement in watching and rewatching the shows!
Boy did this bring back memories, My mom, dad telling me about the death of Alalfa , I was 6 year's old in 1959. I watched Our Gang every morning. on Channel 9, in Los Angeles.
I live in Appalachia. I grew up in a town of three hundred people. One channel if your Dad could twist the antenna right. Then we moved to the BIG CITY, eight thousand people, three tv stations and one showed the Little Rascals for two hours a day. Heaven.
When I was a child they still showed the Little Rascals reruns (obviously...this was the late 70's to early/mid 80's), along with all the classic 60's and 70's cartoons, every Saturday morning...Goddamn, Saturday mornings were so magical for a child in the 70's and 80's. You woke up around 7am and watched cartoons until noon, ending with the Looney Tunes. I remember enjoying the Little Rascals, but I never knew some of their sad and depressing stories.
I grew up at the same time and remember watching the same shows. But after the cartoons ended on Saturdays I was allowed to watch one (or maybe it was two?) Tarzan movies starring Johnny Weissmuller. I wish I could go back to those days.
I looked forward to Saturday mornings, we would wake up early to do chores so we could have our bowl of cereal 🥣 and watch Saturday morning 📺, great innocent humble beginnings ❤️
@@valariest.pierre5308 Was the best thing getting up early on Saturday to watch cartoons, sometimes before your parents were up. There was something about getting a bowl of cereal and sneaking back to the living room to watch cartoons.
Alfalfa was my uncle.... Well, almost my uncle. He was engaged to my Aunt Renee, a young actress in Hollywood. He used to babysit my older brothers in LA. His adult life was tough. He was shot. My aunt still wears the diamond ring he gave her.
weißer Ritter seems to me that Switzer was wrong to expect to be repaid the $50. He had lost the property that belonged to Stiltz. It was his responsibility to retrieve Stiltz property or he would have owed Stiltz for the value of the property. If I lose something that belongs to you, it’s my responsibility to replace it, not yours.
FrenchArtAntiques Paris Thank you for sharing your connection. I'm sure you and your Aunt have special memories of Carl. Sad ending to any life cut short by murder. RIP 🙏🏻💐🇺🇸
That's interesting, I actually thought he was worse than this video would have one think. If not for alcohol, he might have been okay. I thought he died related to a drug deal, sorry for your loss.
I think I blame the entertainment industry, for giving fame to children without taking the responsibility to ensure their education. And they continue to make a mess of things.
All child-actors have parents, don't they?. It's not Hollywood's responsibility to protect them. It's the parents responsibility, with the help of laws that have been passed by the State and Federal governments since Carl Spitzers days in film. There is no such thing as Hollywood, just like there is no such thing as "The Left" and other non-specify, amorphous blobs. It Dennis wants to blame the "entertainment industry"? Good luck Dennis getting compensation in a court of law for the kids you about whom you feel so strongly if you try to prosecute the "entertainment industry".
@@edwardj.dougherty9164 Assigning blame on UA-cam comments is a fruitless endeavor. But your argument doesn't convince me to accept how "Hollywood" and the entertainment industry handles their affairs. I just happen to disapprove in a general sense because they play on the senses of their viewers through misdirection of emotional stimulus. But I do appreciate your position Edward. Thanks for commenting!
It's too bad the actors never got any royalties over the years their work made money for others. This would have made their lives just a little easier.
Red sky ... in almost all cases , when good money was paid to child actors , the parents took it all ... almost 100%. Parents are always disgusting when it comes to Hollywood.
😏O'WOW....My thoughts EXACTLY. The way he's narrating, really makes me feel as though I'm right there. U know there's always either, a smell, song, movie,food, or a place, that can take u back 2 certain memories, from your childhood/teenage years & now listening 2 this, is bringing A LOT OF GOOD MEMORIES!! 😊 (Those were the days.😉)
Good point! This narration is easy to follow, an appealing voice, and not at all like the hushed, breathless, urgetn and overly (fake) dramatic voiceovers one hears on so many TV productions.
Great story! I've known Tom Corrigan some 40 years and I've never heard this story. Tom told me many stories growing up on his dad's ranch and what it was like growing up in the 50s. This video brings clarity with nostalgia to yet another Hollywood story. Thanks!
This is AWESOME and very thorough! @15:36 The photo of grown-up Alfalfa and his cardboard cutout looking into a bottle is a photo I unearthed 18 years ago and sent to his family. Prior to me finding it's negative at an online auction no one else published it. The reason it's got a red hue is because when I scanned it from it's negative which was sightly red from aging, I placed a white sheet of paper behind it and scanned it on a cheap $100 computer desktop scanner (instead of having it professionally printed), and then I used Adobe Photoshop to Color correct it. The funny thing is, everyone that shares the image has tried to Color correct my color correction of this image, but no one can correct it properly but me because I'm the one with the original scan of the negative which I owned until it got trashed after I lost it in storage. 18 years after I brought it into online circulation, I'm so proud that photo is so far the one and only thing I produced that's gone viral. At the time I discovered it, back in 2001 I too was producing a project based on Alfalfa, and I amassed a large collection of photos and videos of him and his film appearances, but my research hit a wall and wasn't as thorough as this video is; I lost my entire collection in storage 5 years ago. All of it was trashed. But like the Phoenix that rises from the ashes, this photo seen at 15:36 is the only thing that survived. It looks worse and worse every time I see it, but it makes me smile when I see it reappear in people's collections and videos, because it's the most successful thing I ever produced. I just wish I made some money off of it. (I paid $500 for that negative.....) *Sigh!* I also lost my copy of his Coroner's inquest hearing transcript and Longform autopsy report, which costed around $150.
My mom grew up down the street from the brothers, when is she every young. I remember watching the reruns and was surprised to hear they were from Paris. I took a special interest in him, and his unfortunate demise. It is great someone took the time to put together a detailed history. Many thanks.
Jocelyn Carter: Carl was very talented. I still enjoy seeing him when I watch It's a Wonderful Life. I'm so sorry about his death. It's a tragedy that he died that way and his killer went free. It seems since he did go free, Carl's family couldn't deal with Carl's passing and the outcome of the trial. His father passed in 1960, then his brother shoots himself 7 years later. So sad. Rest in peace "Alfalfa", the world will never forget you!
Go to hell freemasons. "Our particular chapter in history unfolds at a time of physical transformation in Europe that was almost as momentous as the first discovery of fire must have been in the mists of antiquity. The industrial revolution was permitting men to leash fire to machines-and to unleash fire power on each other-with a force undreamed of in earlier ages. In the midst of those fires appeared the more elusive flame that Dostoevsky described in the most searching work of fiction ever written about the revolutionary movement: The Possessed. He depicted a stagnant (tranquil?) provincial town that was suddenly inspired (infected?) by new ideas . Shortly after a turbulent literary evening, a mysterious fire broke out; and a local official shouted out into the nocturnal confusion : "The fire is in the minds of men, not in the roofs of buildings ." Dostoevsky was writing under the impact of two great fires that disturbed him deeply and heralded the transfer of revolutionary leadership from France to Russia. These fires had broken out in imperial St. Petersburg in the spring of 1861 (where the emancipation of the serfs seemed to have inflamed rather than calmed passions ), and in imperial Paris ten years later (where the flaming defeat of the Paris Commune ended forever the era of romantic illusions ). The flame of faith had begun its migrations a century earlier, when some European aristocrats transferred their lighted candles from Christian altars to Masonic lodges. The flame of occult alchemists, which had promised to turn dross into gold, reappeared at the center of new "circles" seeking to recreate a golden age : Bavarian Illuminists conspiring against the Jesuits, French Philadelphians against Napoleon, Italian charcoal burners against the Hapsburgs. When the most important anti-Napoleonic conspiracy was ridiculed for attempting "to use as a lever something which is only a match," its leader replied that With a match one has no need of a lever; one does not lift up the world, one burns it." -James H Billington
@@RenneDanjoule interesting information u've divulged... I can only guess that the mention of Roy Rogers being a mason stirred this rant...May have gotten more viewed in the main comment section though it will prolly get a few here...
When you show up at someone's house drunk at night to start a fight.... don't be surprised at what happens.. Or what, he was supposed to believe someone drunk in a police uniform was real?
I’ve had this video in my “Watch Later” queue for months, and finally got around to watching it today. I had no idea what I’d been missing, and I’m so impressed by the quality of your content! I usually try to fact check at least a few details from channels I’m unfamiliar with, but rarely do I find videos like yours with such accuracy and authenticity. I also really appreciate you listing your sources at the end, which is also a rarity among UA-camrs. I’m a new subscriber and definitely a new fan! Excellent work!
I am just blown away! Whoever made this must work in Hollywood and have decades of experience. This is better than any TV show that would make the same documentary. Subscribed. "to greet the new day, with all of its possibilities" Cheers!
Such a tragedy! Old Hollywood threw away so many of its child stars. If they had only gotten residuals. Loved the detail in this vlog. You certainly did your research.
So many old movies always paint a pic of movie companies being greedy those kids made a lot of money for movie companies and a whole of actors and actresses even in joan crawford movie mommy dearest spoke on movie companies sounded by far superficial and greedy if they were indeed like that it is truly sad will we ever get the real facts cuz right now today hollywood still quiets everyone shakes head
As a Mason...we're still normal people with normal problems. We try to work through them and bettre ourselves and those around us....but sometimes the pressure is too much. Never knew he was a Brother.
@Mudisuda Raman are you so deluded from reality you compare someones tragic downward spiral in life to animals dying. Dont get me wrong the animals shouldn't have been hunted but still this is a human being who quite literally lost everything compared to some animals
@today is not yesterday Would not suprise me if he was one, incarnated into flesh by the Masons. Wouldn't put anything past them. Time will tell, truth will out. These child actors are extremely suspect to me.
Not really according to his own cousin, Dave Stephens, who has already commented what his parents and Uncle Bob knew about Alfalfa from a family's POV. Dave Stephens father almost joined the gang but his mother stopped him
I LOVE Grave Explorations! Hoping a new one will come out soon. It is awesome that you not only talk about famous people, but also about people who you have never heard of and tell their stories. I am sure the families are so great full! Ty for sharing these graves with their stories. :)
I’m hoping a new one comes out soon too. But I’m concerned that the last video was 9 months ago. I hope this creator is ok and that he still plans to do more videos. He has a real gift.
@@zachswitzer0408 Thanks for sharing this. No one should die at such a young age, and in such a preventable way -- what a shame. Anyway, condolences to you and your family. Take it easy.
The studio and Hal Roach got rich and the kids got nothing. No residuals. Very sad. Love of Money is the root of all evil. (Happy now!!). Really interesting.
All of the studios that reissued their old material to television had similar practices as Hal Roach. Moe Howard of the Three Stooges fought for compensation his entire life. I believe he eventually won, but it was years after he had passed. Thank you for watching and commenting! :)
@@jonnylake3rd hmmm..shame you don't know the authentic ones then--we're broken-hearted, kinda like a caring medical doctor who sees a patient putting himself in an early grave because he wont follow the treatment plan.
I loved watching the Little Rascals on WFLD TV channel 32 in Chicago back in the 70's and early 80's. Carl was really the main player of the talented young troupe.. He kind held the whole thing together. He deserves more credit than he gets and definitely deserved a better life after his Hollywood career. Thanks, Carl (Alfalfa) Switzer for all the joy and laughter you brought to so many kids of all ages! :)
Go to hell freemasons. "Our particular chapter in history unfolds at a time of physical transformation in Europe that was almost as momentous as the first discovery of fire must have been in the mists of antiquity. The industrial revolution was permitting men to leash fire to machines-and to unleash fire power on each other-with a force undreamed of in earlier ages. In the midst of those fires appeared the more elusive flame that Dostoevsky described in the most searching work of fiction ever written about the revolutionary movement: The Possessed. He depicted a stagnant (tranquil?) provincial town that was suddenly inspired (infected?) by new ideas . Shortly after a turbulent literary evening, a mysterious fire broke out; and a local official shouted out into the nocturnal confusion : "The fire is in the minds of men, not in the roofs of buildings ." Dostoevsky was writing under the impact of two great fires that disturbed him deeply and heralded the transfer of revolutionary leadership from France to Russia. These fires had broken out in imperial St. Petersburg in the spring of 1861 (where the emancipation of the serfs seemed to have inflamed rather than calmed passions ), and in imperial Paris ten years later (where the flaming defeat of the Paris Commune ended forever the era of romantic illusions ). The flame of faith had begun its migrations a century earlier, when some European aristocrats transferred their lighted candles from Christian altars to Masonic lodges. The flame of occult alchemists, which had promised to turn dross into gold, reappeared at the center of new "circles" seeking to recreate a golden age : Bavarian Illuminists conspiring against the Jesuits, French Philadelphians against Napoleon, Italian charcoal burners against the Hapsburgs. When the most important anti-Napoleonic conspiracy was ridiculed for attempting "to use as a lever something which is only a match," its leader replied that With a match one has no need of a lever; one does not lift up the world, one burns it." -James H Billington
Must have a contingency plan when you are an actor. Either a college degree or a trade. Look at Harrison Ford. He was a carpenter and because of that skill he became an actor. Have to have a backup plan or you live a life of desperation.
My name is Darla. My entire life, any guy I dated got nicknamed Alfalfa sometime or another. I've heard all the jokes, believe me, but my favorite thing is Alfalfa singing "Oh my Darla..." I don't know how I got here, but I'm oh so glad I did. I, like my Alfie, have been born under a bad sign, and this made my melancholy day, lying in bed disabled with MS.... but alive. Thank you for this great video. I needed it.
The studio execs made a ton of royalties from Switzer's work as a member of the rascals but didn't share it with the actors, which is why Switzer was upset about a $50.00 debt.
He did make a lot of people laugh. Those children were incredible actors although they had real lives besides that to live. I'd say our first child stars we truly enjoyed.
I remember watching The Little Rascals when I was growing up and Alfalfa was always my favorite. I knew his life was too short and ended in tragedy, but I never realized just how sad an ending this story had. Matt, I thank you for telling Alfalfa's story in such a caring and respectful way. Once again, you have amazed me with the exceptional quality of your videos. The time that you invest in your research shows my friend. And I am very happy to see that more people feel the same way. The number of subscribers you have keeps climbing, though I still believe you don't have near enough. Congratulations on another job well done! 🙂
@@graveexplorations Well done! Sad at times, yes, but it is comforting to family and friends to know that many people still care. Thank you for sharing this documentary and also your written memories on here. I look forward to watching many more!
I must admit I was thoroughly entertained by your work and the writing and the production of this piece. Normally when you click on these type of things on UA-cam the quality is not there. Take a bow and Kudos. For those of you who are Little Rascals fans, Leonard Maltin put out a great book several years ago about the history of the Gang. Highly recommend it.
When I was a child, every Sunday afternoon the series „little rascals“ was on German TV, but it we’re the ones from the silent movie times, which I preferr to this day. This documentary is great. I especially admire the artfulness.
I don't see Aflie's life as a failure. He had stardom, success, early ... but ... for gosh sake he was only 32! But, for the alcoholism, his persistence would have paid off later in life.
My compliments on how well done this is--editing, special effects, scene choices, and (excepting the ending epilogue) quite good narration. I'm surprised others haven't commented on how professional it is. Good for you and well done.
I find this incredibly sad. It takes me back to my childhood when I watched the little rascals. It's reality but I hate knowing the hard life and tragic ending that Alfalfa had.
I'd always wondered why 'Alfalfa' had been shot.I figured it was just a rumor going around when I was growing up in the 1950's. I grew up in Mission Hills and didn't realize that he died in 1959 only a mile from where we lived. What a very sad story. I loved watching the 'Little Rascals.' I heard later on that those kids made no residuals from their work. How unfair that was! Thanks for putting this documentary together.
My grandparents knew him. They were from Paris Illinois. They remembered that he begged before he was discovered for the Little Rascals. It is true that he was murdered over 40 dollars. Very sad story.
In 1975 I saw Alfalfa's mother on TV when she appeared on Little Rascals Theater in San Diego, CA. She was by then living in the nearby suburb of Spring Valley.
Reading some of the comments below, I also grew up watching the "Little Rascals" and still catch one once in a while. Always loved them, still do. There's nothing I can add that others haven't said. This is the greatest documentary I've ever come across. Now I'm left with a haunting love and sadness for all of the gang. Thank you for all you've done, and I suppose we'll be speaking one day. RIP.
I grew up 4 blocks from the house in which Switzer was shot. Two of my close friends grew up two streets over from Columbus. That was late 60s through the early 80s. Never knew. Great video. Thank you!
This is very interesting, I used to watch the reruns of The Little Rascals a lot as a kid in the 70's. I always enjoyed them very much. I have read online about Carls pranks and how he died, but definitely no where near the details that I have heard here in this very detailed documentary of his life. I had never seen him as an adult and I didn't know that he was in other TV shows and movies. He was definitely the total opposite of his Alfalfa character that he played so well, he was obviously a good actor. It was interesting to find out that the girl who played Darla was actually afraid of him. It's too bad that he made some bad decisions that ultimately ended his life, it's hard to look at the picture of him dead on the floor.
@@nikkikivett6886 You are correct. I became curious & Googled Johnny Stompanato (Date of death April 4, 1958), and sure enough, the photo presented in the above video as Carl Switzer (Date of death January 21, 1959) laying fatally injured on the floor is the same photo under Johnny Stompanato's name. Correct you are!! It's a pity since the research for this story otherwise seems legit.
Such a sad tragedy. I read awhile back how he died, but I didn’t know the details. It’s so sad that his dad died a little over year after his son, no doubt from a broken heart. Thank you so much for this documentary, well done, as well as the narrator! 👍🏼
Island man That’s so true! I know all to well the pain they went through, losing their son. I lost my son in 2018 and it’s hardest thing I’ve ever been through. The pain will be there for the rest of my life. 😥
@@naomilopez4219 not sure why I’m here but sorry for your loss. My mom and dad both lost brothers at a very young age before they met. Tore both families apart. I’ve buried many young family the same. Watched my family implode. Wish you well and strength.
@@TriTones_Music Thank you for your kind words. When I lost my son it too tore our family apart, so sad. I’m so sorry for all the pain you and your parents have experienced in losing loved ones. Best wishes to you and your family.
Your graveside videos are the best accounts, given with such respect and along with so much history. I love that you include not just celebrities but also historical people I've not known about as well as the 'every man'. Thank you so much and please keep up the great work!
A sad story of one I remember watching as a young boy. Our Gang , or The Little Rascals, was a program I enjoyed watching as a kid. Rest in peace Alfalfa.
In 1973 we had a actress from the Our Gang series speak at our elementary school. During Q&A a kid asked about Alfalfa, she said he died in a "fireworks factory explosion". Now I know why she said that, the truth is too dark.
This was a great documentary, I really didn't intend on watching it, especially in its entirety, but it was so well done, it captivated me. Thanks for the upload
Go to hell freemasons. "Our particular chapter in history unfolds at a time of physical transformation in Europe that was almost as momentous as the first discovery of fire must have been in the mists of antiquity. The industrial revolution was permitting men to leash fire to machines-and to unleash fire power on each other-with a force undreamed of in earlier ages. In the midst of those fires appeared the more elusive flame that Dostoevsky described in the most searching work of fiction ever written about the revolutionary movement: The Possessed. He depicted a stagnant (tranquil?) provincial town that was suddenly inspired (infected?) by new ideas . Shortly after a turbulent literary evening, a mysterious fire broke out; and a local official shouted out into the nocturnal confusion : "The fire is in the minds of men, not in the roofs of buildings ." Dostoevsky was writing under the impact of two great fires that disturbed him deeply and heralded the transfer of revolutionary leadership from France to Russia. These fires had broken out in imperial St. Petersburg in the spring of 1861 (where the emancipation of the serfs seemed to have inflamed rather than calmed passions ), and in imperial Paris ten years later (where the flaming defeat of the Paris Commune ended forever the era of romantic illusions ). The flame of faith had begun its migrations a century earlier, when some European aristocrats transferred their lighted candles from Christian altars to Masonic lodges. The flame of occult alchemists, which had promised to turn dross into gold, reappeared at the center of new "circles" seeking to recreate a golden age : Bavarian Illuminists conspiring against the Jesuits, French Philadelphians against Napoleon, Italian charcoal burners against the Hapsburgs. When the most important anti-Napoleonic conspiracy was ridiculed for attempting "to use as a lever something which is only a match," its leader replied that With a match one has no need of a lever; one does not lift up the world, one burns it." -James H Billington
As a child I enjoyed watching the Little Rascals, Our gang series. So saddened to hear of alfalfa's demise in this manner. Well laid out story..thanks for sharing!
Well imagine making millions of dollars as a kid and having your parents blow it all. Imagine not being able to get a serious acting role as an adult because everyone sees you as cute little Timmy or Tammy from that insanely popular TV show or movie everyone used to love and that still plays everywhere today. Since the money was pretty much gone by the time you were 18, you have to get a regular job. One where you arent even making a small fraction of what you made per episode as a kid all year long. It would seem like you regressed. It would be sad really. I know that parents shouldnt be able to exploit their children for personal gain, and the majority of a child stars money should be set aside for when they'readults. . At least 85% of it, especially if its millions of dollars. Parents should only see an amount that actually helps to take care of the child, not buy mansions, exotic cars, $20,000 vacations, etc.
Unfortantly a big percentage of child stars get sexually abused in Hollywood which is a big factor in why they end up that way. Pedophilia and s.r.a. (satanic ritual abuse) has always been a huge problem in Hollywood.
What can one say? I'm simply speechless this was a superlative documentary, par excellence.👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👍👌🏻🥇 This truly moved me and made me very reminiscent and melancholy of those days and time. This was done with such grace respect and reverence to this young man. I sincerely and deeply thank you for providing this young man the respect and dignity that he fought and sought out in his lifetime but never truly received nor did he ever have the chance to appreciate what his early part of his life brought to the general public and will continue in his film work. May he rest in peace.🙏😌
This documentary was done so well. Whoever is doing this has a voice made to tell stories! I could listen forever! I always loved The Little Rascals. Dressed my son up as Alfalfa for Halloween when he was young. I always hate hearing of tragic endings to these young actors lives.
Go to hell freemasons. "Our particular chapter in history unfolds at a time of physical transformation in Europe that was almost as momentous as the first discovery of fire must have been in the mists of antiquity. The industrial revolution was permitting men to leash fire to machines-and to unleash fire power on each other-with a force undreamed of in earlier ages. In the midst of those fires appeared the more elusive flame that Dostoevsky described in the most searching work of fiction ever written about the revolutionary movement: The Possessed. He depicted a stagnant (tranquil?) provincial town that was suddenly inspired (infected?) by new ideas . Shortly after a turbulent literary evening, a mysterious fire broke out; and a local official shouted out into the nocturnal confusion : "The fire is in the minds of men, not in the roofs of buildings ." Dostoevsky was writing under the impact of two great fires that disturbed him deeply and heralded the transfer of revolutionary leadership from France to Russia. These fires had broken out in imperial St. Petersburg in the spring of 1861 (where the emancipation of the serfs seemed to have inflamed rather than calmed passions ), and in imperial Paris ten years later (where the flaming defeat of the Paris Commune ended forever the era of romantic illusions ). The flame of faith had begun its migrations a century earlier, when some European aristocrats transferred their lighted candles from Christian altars to Masonic lodges. The flame of occult alchemists, which had promised to turn dross into gold, reappeared at the center of new "circles" seeking to recreate a golden age : Bavarian Illuminists conspiring against the Jesuits, French Philadelphians against Napoleon, Italian charcoal burners against the Hapsburgs. When the most important anti-Napoleonic conspiracy was ridiculed for attempting "to use as a lever something which is only a match," its leader replied that With a match one has no need of a lever; one does not lift up the world, one burns it." -James H Billington
I just came across this by accident and remembered how much I enjoyed Our Gang/Little Rascals. Surprised I watched it all the way through. Riveted to it! Well presented and narrated.
A huge "Little Rascals" fan as a kid, this is the most detailed account I've ever viewed or read about the life and death of Alfalfa. Everything I've ever read before always simply mentions he got shot in a barroom brawl or something. Thanks for such a detailed and well-researched account. R.I.P. Alfalfa!
As a person who grew up in the eastern part of Arkansas my siblings loved watching reruns of "The Little Racal" on our Philco black and white tv in the 1960's. Thank you for this documentary about Alfalfa. It seems that just about all of the little Racals lives were not the same after they grew up and their series ended.
We watched it and thought it was more interesting than some 60 Minutes, Nightline shows etc. that we have watched. The narrator's voice made it even more interesting. The video was well done, above expected.
What a beautiful presentation. I am not much into biographies but this one really touched me. Magnificently written, aspiring writers could learn much from this presentation.
Another great job! I heard bits and pieces about the life of Carl Switzer but this added a lot more layers and detail I never knew before. I watched the Defiant Ones a few months ago and didn't realize the guy with the radio was him. I do remember seeing him in It's a Wonderful Life. Also did not know he was in the 10 Commandments and have seen that movie many times. He did get in some very good films even though they were smaller roles compared to his glory days doing the Our Gang shorts. Unfortunately very few child actors ever transition over successfully to movies as adults. The early success often ends up being a curse later on.
Thank you for watching! Alfalfa took whatever job he could get. Whenever he turns up in a movie I can't help but notice how hard he worked. He really poured his heart into every scene.
Pretty extraordinary how many lives this man impacted. I distinctly remember watching the Little Rascals when I was a kid in the '80s. Nobody ever talked about the fact that he had died under tragic untimely circumstances. This is the first I'm hearing about it actually.
Maybe if they had gotten the residuals they should have gotten, they wouldn't have become so desperate for money and gone down the road they did....hard to say.
Which is exactly why every field deserves to have a union. I'm sure if the SAG had been there to protect the kids, they could have/it seems they should have, been able to sue for their residuals.
They deserved those residuals but the movie business was taking advantage of not only kids but many actors. However, I must disagree that it was what destroyed kid actors. Look at the kids who had money and still became alcoholics and drug abusers. Only very strong and sensible parents ever saved their kids. It’s easy to believe the sycophants who prey on them, it’s natural to buy the hype, alas.
In so many personal tragedies lives spent in misery ang ill repute, you connect the dots and you find Financial exploitation, from the stolen land of the First Nations people to people who are individuality cheated through contract law. If you want to find a devil behind the sin, look at the bank account
@@TheAuntieBa Good parenting helps. But in the end, I think the difficulty of transitioning from a celebrated child actor into a functioning adult is more challenging than just "good parenting." For many child actors, the things that made them appealing as a kid don't translate into a career in acting as an adult. It's rare that child actors make a living as an adult actor. If they can't make a career as an actor, they have to identify and nurture other aspects of themselves to become something new in their adult lives. It's a tough transition for anyone, to lose a career you loved that paid well, that was fun, that focused positive attention on you. I feel sympathy for them.
Alfie was a close family friend. The day he died he arranged to go on a bear hunt with my Dad (Jimmie Widener) then left our house and went off and ran into Jack Piott. That previous Christmas was one of my all time favorites, because of him joining us He gave me a kids drum kit, and my Dad a limb off a pine tree with no pine needles mounted to a board. Hanging from the limb was a string holding a used 30-30 rifle shell. My Dad asked him what it was. and Alfie said it was " a cartridge in a bare tree" Then I went to bed and while my Dad explained that I had to go to sleep or Santa wouldn't come. Alfie snuck outside, climbed on the roof and stomped around so I would think Santa waqs landing. RIP Alfie.
WOW !!!
tldr
Great story. Thanks for sharing.
Jim Widener: what a great memory for u to have!!
What a great memory! Thank you for sharing!
Well done video! I am 74 now and I grew up in North Hollywood in the 50's I watched The little Rascals 5 nights a week on Captain Jet...ZOOOOOOM! I loved The little Rascals, everyone of them is in my heart for ever. As a fan of Alfalfa...It's sad, people are the craziest animals. RIP ALFI
Its amazing to see elders like you, paying respects to movies!
7:52 😅
Whatever
I lived in Eagle Rock in the 50s. Remember Engineer Bill and Tom Hatten who hosted the Popeyes cartoons?! Blessings 🙏🏼🤍
I am 73 and can still whistle the theme fir the rascals.
True Crime often seems exploitative nowadays. Your channel is one of the very few that always remain very respectful and in good taste. Thank you. It's so refreshing to find something produced in today's world that isn't just loud, vulgar and obnoxious.
Greetings from Germany ❤
Nice comment. Thanks, Mario SirSirReal Villarreal. Love&Peace from CentralCoastCalifornia 💙💜💕
My Grandma's parents are from Germany I love people from wherever they are from ❤
Qa😊@@mariovillarreal8647
I whole heartedly agree this is an outstanding documentary about Carl "Alfalfa" Switzer whom I only remember in The Little Rascals. I looked forward to every episode, even repeats. I had lost track of Alfalfa because in 1959 I was only 11 and didn't read newspapers or tabloids. It's sad how his life unfolded and of course with his final demise. We can learn from reflecting on mistakes of others. Was Carl's life void of a true relationship with Jesus Christ? That's what I get from this solum story. Thank you for your documentary.
As Tommy Bond said in the early 2000s, "I wish Alfy had lived long enough to see how special and loved he was for many decades to come, it wouldve meant the world to Alfy"
Its just too bad he scammed a guy. His last days must have been so lonely.
Well done to the writers, producers, researchers, & narrator. A difficult story told compellingly but without sensationalism. Thank you
Yes it was, well written well researched. The narrator was not over the top. Just spoke plain and clear
so many people here talking about Alfalfa Switzer. Poor baby, he really was doing a good job becoming an actor and losing the Alfalfa image. He seemed to be a very disturbed young man though, and drink and drugs do quite a number on your mind. Things were just too much for him in the end - his luck ran out that night. Such a good-looking sweet/sad face. so glad though that parts of his life were good, and from comments below, he was deep down a good, fun-loving, caring person. sleep in peace and happiness, Alfalfa, thanks (to you and all the gang) for being part of my childhood in the late '50's. . . thanks so much for this very balanced and caring video. . .
My favorite in the Early Fifties. Dear Mr Carl.....U are back on OUR PLANET.......but....U Must quiet those Previous Life moments that haunt U so terribly when U R under the effects of combo ETOH and Sneaky ingestions......
Wow, that was a good, maybe the best documentary on Carl Seizer.....little bit of a tear jerker. Sad to learn about his brothers demise as well. It also sobering to see how much the times have changed but also how some things never change
He was a good person. But he did play a cool character. But I guess he was a little weak-minded He just wasn't able to deal with so many up and down emotions. That has happened many times before and after his death. Truly Sad issues of Hollywood and it's disturbing effects on individuals that really never make it . Because of the Highs and Low' in there careers . They somehow become desperate putting themselves at risk. Or took there own lives. 😢
@@sabrinaselmer5766 My brother was a child actor in 1970. Parents didn't have a right to be on set to protect their children. Even if they were blessed to have avoided the extreme abuse most child actors experience, their minds can easily split due to pretending to be other people before they even know who they are. The entertainment industry has always been a horrible place for kids and it always will be.
@@jenynz5334and sadly, parents still sacrifice their children to Hollywood.
I don't know how I found this/ or why it came up. But I got stucked here, and watched till the end!
My brother and I Always watched The Rascals when we were kids.
It was at Christmas and New Years Eve time! We Loved it, and I still do!
But, I have a completely different feeling now in My body! Feeling SAD! 😢
For Carl Switzer 💞
A well done Documentary. Thanks 🙋
You got stucked here?
@@GorillaCrewWarGaming .... and that is all you have to contribute? I guess it is true - there is always at least one moron in the interwebs crowd willing to open his mouth and prove it..
You have lots of company my friend. No one will even produce that magic again.
Sad, rest in peace Carl "Alfalfa" Switzer!🎥🎥🎥🎥🇺🇸♥️
The mysteries of the UA-cam alogarithm.
I knew Carl Switzer had been murdered but I didn't know much of the backstory. Thanks for an excellent and complete telling of his life and tragic death. It seems a lot of lives were wasted that night.
Someone, on behalf of the children, should have sued for royalties. So many of these children died early and penniless.
I believe some time later there was a law made to protect the kids and their earnings. I think it was called The Coogan law. It was after the actor Jackie Coogan whose parents took all his money he had earned as a child.
It wasn't just the kids who got totally screwed on royalties shooting for Hal Roach. So did Laurel and Hardy. Roach made many millions replaying the shorts on tv.
Hollywood - the fantasy of Fame
Agree 👍🏼
Carl explained to me that in those years there were no royalties or residuals.
$35 a week that's what he was paid.
Great documentary! I love the way you spoke clearly and slowly as opposed to the fast paced way people speak in UA-cam, the media, and film. Thank you!
Yeah and if he speaks too slow for you you can put it on 1.25 speed.
That was well documented. Thank you mr.narrator
This documentary film should be recognized by the Academy Awards and be given at least a nomination.
They don't give academy awards to UA-cam videos 🤣 it doesn't work that way. 🤣
@@au_barb WTF I put this comment up 3 years ago regarding my admiration of this fine documentary and all I get is a smart ass reply!!!😠😠😠
You got 51 upvotes! Make that 52, I'll up vote it right after I send this reply ❤
@@gorgeousgabrielle4u Hey thank you for your kind reply and upvote
@@bivio1It was a good comment, and I agree. I’m glad to see you’re still kickin after 3 years, I was afraid you had tanked on us in the meantime. May the academy awards recognize the toils of man, before our lifetimes are up.
Sometime around 1998 or so, my dad rented a VHS tape of some of the our gang shorts because he enjoyed them as a kid and thought I would too. He was right, I instantly loved them. He ended up getting all the volumes for me. I’m 32 now and still enjoy them. They’re truly timeless
Whoever narrated this did a fabulous job. This was a well told story and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Agreed
Perhaps "enjoyed it" is a wrong word here - but it is a very good documentary of a sad story.
Who would have guessed what destiny had in store for this charming young kid.
Really
11]pp]]]0⁰⁰⁰0] P⁰⁰ACA cc x lunn
Me also
Thanks for compiling this - I had no idea about 80% of what you covered - this is the kind of production that makes youtube a treasure - thanks again !!
My grandfather, Max Dolan, was a "dolly grip" lighting technician for Hal Roach and "Our Gang" during this time and before sound, too. My Dad used to play with some of the kids in the back lot of the studio after school.
That’s really interesting. Is your dad still around? That would be interesting to hear more.
😎
Thats COOL😃
I've no idea how I stumbled upon this but ever so happy I did. Thank you, excellent documentary.
I have no idea why this was a recommended video, but I'm glad it was. This was brilliantly written and narrated.
I agree... So interesting especially if you are a fan of older movies and westerns. This was very good.
Same lol
This. Is sad.
Same here!
Yeah I'll add to the list of those n agreement
Wow, this story is completely different than what my Mother and Dad told me about our cousin, Alfalfa. When we were kids, Dad told us that Alfie owned hunting dogs and that one of them got lost. The dog was found, but the guy wanted a ransom for the dog that was a lot of money. Alfie got a gun and went to the guy's house to get his dog back at gun point. A fight broke out and somehow the gun ended up killing Alfie. I still have a photograph of my Mom and Alfie and my Uncle Bob, the day Alfie gave my Mom a little dog that sh ended up hating. Very strange because my mother loved all animals, something I got from her. In the photo Alfie is holding a pop gun rifle and the dog is jumping up on my mother, Uncle Bob in the back next to their family car. My Dad almost ended up in the Our Gang series. He was supposed to go to the audition, but his Mom said no. She had been a child prodigy classical pianist and was sent on tour and had a nervous break down at her early age, so she wanted none of fame for her son. Thanks for the great documentary and clearing part of our family history for me. I am 70 years old now and have never heard hardly any of what this video revealed. Good job.
Thank you for sharing such a beautiful memory of a most beloved relative. Sad to hear your mum didn't like the dog, though.
Maybe get in contact with the presenter of this article on Alfalfa and let them know directly what you had been told from your mum and dad.
They might be very interested in further proof that Alfalfa was a great man when he was alive
That’s what I heard too, this exact story.
@@TheSchmed They only knew what they spun from the tabloids, like everyone else. It was decades later that the killer's stepson at age 57, came forward with his eyewitness recounting of what happened that evening. By that time, most of the adults of Switzer's generation were passed on.
I'm sorry about what happened to your cousin Dave. :-(
@@ChicagolandTube really interesting
from Canterbury U.K.
Just happened to stumble on this while looking for something that I could listen to at 4:00 am to help me fall back asleep. Forget it. I stayed awake all the way till the end watching this! This was very well put together. Definitely worth staying up for!
Indeed
John Ryan , I have a lot of trouble sleeping, so I listen to Reddit..bc a lot of the stories last up to almost an hour lol. I fall asleep with my ear plugs in lol
Same.
I do this every night! How funny! Here’s to easier nights where we can fall asleep without an Audible aid👍🏼
That’s crazy cause I woke up at 4am today and listened to this with my eyes closed figuring I’ll fall asleep and now it 7am and reading all the comments.
This is the best documentary about Alfalfa I've seen yet!!!
I thought, after watching 15 minutes I would get bored and tune off. But I could'nt. This is a compelling and extremely well told story. GREAT program, hope to see more.
Felt the same way wanting to know more so what happened.. love this narrator he is a great deliverer of information that keeps your attention thanks for producing this
@@georgeplagianos6487 it appeals to the emotions, too!
Hate this narrator 🤬🤯😡
@@Curls105anarm Jealous much.
Narrator is fine. I watched til it was over. Can't ask for more from a narrator.
its scary how fast the years r passing. i was born in the mid-sixties & watched the little rascals, laurel & hardy and the 3 stooges relentlessly as a kid and now i'm approaching 60. those old black & white programs made such a monumental impact. maybe it was the limited options of programming at the time but, my o my that seemed like quality programming back then. i wish we could freeze time
d c: In my mid 70's and feel the same. Cant 4get Abbot & Costello.....my personal fav.
Yep i miss the groovy days....we were lucky2 have grown up in better times....🙂🤸♀️💛🦜
Go to hell freemasons.
"Our particular chapter in history unfolds at a time of physical transformation in Europe that was almost as momentous as the first discovery of fire must have been in the mists of antiquity. The industrial revolution was permitting men to leash fire to machines-and to unleash fire power on each other-with a force undreamed of in earlier ages. In the midst of those fires appeared the more elusive flame that Dostoevsky described in the most searching work of fiction ever written about the revolutionary movement: The Possessed. He depicted a stagnant (tranquil?) provincial town that was suddenly inspired (infected?) by new ideas . Shortly after a turbulent literary evening, a mysterious fire broke out; and a local official shouted out into the nocturnal confusion : "The fire is in the minds of men, not in the roofs of buildings ." Dostoevsky was writing under the impact of two great fires that disturbed him deeply and heralded the transfer of revolutionary leadership from France to Russia. These fires had broken out in imperial St. Petersburg in the spring of 1861 (where the emancipation of the serfs seemed to have inflamed rather than calmed passions ), and in imperial Paris ten years later (where the flaming defeat of the Paris Commune ended forever the era of romantic illusions ). The flame of faith had begun its migrations a century earlier, when some European aristocrats transferred their lighted candles from Christian altars to Masonic lodges. The flame of occult alchemists, which had promised to turn dross into gold, reappeared at the center of new "circles" seeking to recreate a golden age : Bavarian Illuminists conspiring against the Jesuits, French Philadelphians against Napoleon, Italian charcoal burners against the Hapsburgs. When the most important anti-Napoleonic conspiracy was ridiculed for attempting "to use as a lever something which is only a match," its leader replied that With a match one has no need of a lever; one does not lift up the world, one burns it." -James H Billington
Yes it did
I think it's the fact that they were just down to earth normal kids like us and it made everything they said and done so real and fun. I never lost amusement in watching and rewatching the shows!
👍yup
Boy did this bring back memories, My mom, dad telling me about the death of Alalfa , I was 6 year's old in 1959. I watched Our Gang every morning. on Channel 9, in Los Angeles.
I live in Appalachia. I grew up in a town of three hundred people. One channel if your Dad could twist the antenna right. Then we moved to the BIG CITY, eight thousand people, three tv stations and one showed the Little Rascals for two hours a day. Heaven.
Alfalfa
This is an order of magnitude better than a lot of other celebrity documentaries out there. Thank you for such excellent and well-balanced work.
When I was a child they still showed the Little Rascals reruns (obviously...this was the late 70's to early/mid 80's), along with all the classic 60's and 70's cartoons, every Saturday morning...Goddamn, Saturday mornings were so magical for a child in the 70's and 80's. You woke up around 7am and watched cartoons until noon, ending with the Looney Tunes. I remember enjoying the Little Rascals, but I never knew some of their sad and depressing stories.
Soooo true. Saturday's were very magical.
I grew up at the same time and remember watching the same shows. But after the cartoons ended on Saturdays I was allowed to watch one (or maybe it was two?) Tarzan movies starring Johnny Weissmuller. I wish I could go back to those days.
Also for kids in the 50’ and 60’s too!
I looked forward to Saturday mornings, we would wake up early to do chores so we could have our bowl of cereal 🥣 and watch Saturday morning 📺, great innocent humble beginnings ❤️
@@valariest.pierre5308
Was the best thing getting up early on Saturday to watch cartoons, sometimes before your parents were up. There was something about getting a bowl of cereal and sneaking back to the living room to watch cartoons.
Alfalfa was my uncle.... Well, almost my uncle. He was engaged to my Aunt Renee, a young actress in Hollywood. He used to babysit my older brothers in LA. His adult life was tough. He was shot. My aunt still wears the diamond ring he gave her.
He got exactly what he deserved, he was asking for it.
weißer Ritter seems to me that Switzer was wrong to expect to be repaid the $50.
He had lost the property that belonged to Stiltz. It was his responsibility to retrieve Stiltz property or he would have owed Stiltz for the value of the property.
If I lose something that belongs to you, it’s my responsibility to replace it, not yours.
FrenchArtAntiques Paris Thank you for sharing your connection. I'm sure you and your Aunt have special memories of Carl. Sad ending to any life cut short by murder. RIP 🙏🏻💐🇺🇸
@@MichelleFaithLove You are welcome... Aunt Renee never married. He was her soul mate.
That's interesting, I actually thought he was worse than this video would have one think. If not for alcohol, he might have been okay. I thought he died related to a drug deal, sorry for your loss.
I think I blame the entertainment industry, for giving fame to children without taking the responsibility to ensure their education. And they continue to make a mess of things.
They are not social workers they are greedy people who just want to use people and throw them away.
@@gwenscott535 have you ever had a social worker? Hahaha
SO SAD !!!! HOOLYWOOD IS TO BLAME TO THE YOUNG
All child-actors have parents, don't they?. It's not Hollywood's responsibility to protect them. It's the parents responsibility, with the help of laws that have been passed by the State and Federal governments since Carl Spitzers days in film. There is no such thing as Hollywood, just like there is no such thing as "The Left" and other non-specify, amorphous blobs. It Dennis wants to blame the "entertainment industry"? Good luck Dennis getting compensation in a court of law for the kids you about whom you feel so strongly if you try to prosecute the "entertainment industry".
@@edwardj.dougherty9164 Assigning blame on UA-cam comments is a fruitless endeavor. But your argument doesn't convince me to accept how "Hollywood" and the entertainment industry handles their affairs. I just happen to disapprove in a general sense because they play on the senses of their viewers through misdirection of emotional stimulus. But I do appreciate your position Edward. Thanks for commenting!
Excellent delivery, clear, concise with received pronunciation without unnecessary drama. Well done.
It's too bad the actors never got any royalties over the years their work made money for others. This would have made their lives just a little easier.
Ooo
Red sky ... in almost all cases , when good money was paid to child actors , the parents took it all ... almost 100%. Parents are always disgusting when it comes to Hollywood.
Most Black songwriters from that time were treated the same way.
For film it would be residuals, not royalties.
@@dme1016 So we're most child actors no matter the race.
I use to watch the Little Rascals all the time. Had no idea he was dead before I was even born.
I suppose you mean, "I useD to."
You wouldn't know this unless your Parents would have told you.
I had no idea either, and I was born the next year!
Same hear
I watched them while growing up in the late 60’s, early 70’s. Had no idea till around 10 yrs ago that he died before I was even born.
The narrator has such a great voice and great way of telling old stories. Perfect for these type of videos.
😏O'WOW....My thoughts EXACTLY. The way he's narrating, really makes me feel as though I'm right there. U know there's always either, a smell, song, movie,food, or a place, that can take u back 2 certain memories, from your childhood/teenage years & now listening 2 this, is bringing A LOT OF GOOD MEMORIES!! 😊
(Those were the days.😉)
Good point! This narration is easy to follow, an appealing voice, and not at all like the hushed, breathless, urgetn and overly (fake) dramatic voiceovers one hears on so many TV productions.
Excellent. Hints of profundity.
Carl Switzer’s mother, Pamela, was my ballet teacher.
The narrator's voice reminds me of the movie "Stand By Me."
Great story!
I've known Tom Corrigan some 40 years and I've never heard this story. Tom told me many stories growing up on his dad's ranch and what it was like growing up in the 50s.
This video brings clarity with nostalgia to yet another Hollywood story.
Thanks!
This is AWESOME and very thorough! @15:36 The photo of grown-up Alfalfa and his cardboard cutout looking into a bottle is a photo I unearthed 18 years ago and sent to his family. Prior to me finding it's negative at an online auction no one else published it. The reason it's got a red hue is because when I scanned it from it's negative which was sightly red from aging, I placed a white sheet of paper behind it and scanned it on a cheap $100 computer desktop scanner (instead of having it professionally printed), and then I used Adobe Photoshop to Color correct it. The funny thing is, everyone that shares the image has tried to Color correct my color correction of this image, but no one can correct it properly but me because I'm the one with the original scan of the negative which I owned until it got trashed after I lost it in storage. 18 years after I brought it into online circulation, I'm so proud that photo is so far the one and only thing I produced that's gone viral. At the time I discovered it, back in 2001 I too was producing a project based on Alfalfa, and I amassed a large collection of photos and videos of him and his film appearances, but my research hit a wall and wasn't as thorough as this video is; I lost my entire collection in storage 5 years ago. All of it was trashed. But like the Phoenix that rises from the ashes, this photo seen at 15:36 is the only thing that survived. It looks worse and worse every time I see it, but it makes me smile when I see it reappear in people's collections and videos, because it's the most successful thing I ever produced. I just wish I made some money off of it. (I paid $500 for that negative.....) *Sigh!* I also lost my copy of his Coroner's inquest hearing transcript and Longform autopsy report, which costed around $150.
Who cares?
You cared enough to take time and comment.. So i guess.. You care?
All them kids were probably abused by Hollyweird.
@@eddieorfield1172 I do!
My mom grew up down the street from the brothers, when is she every young. I remember watching the reruns and was surprised to hear they were from Paris. I took a special interest in him, and his unfortunate demise. It is great someone took the time to put together a detailed history. Many thanks.
My name is Carl Switzer and my family came from Paris Il but I can't find the tie to Alfalfa. I know it is there somewhere.
Jocelyn Carter: Carl was very talented. I still enjoy seeing him when I watch It's a Wonderful Life. I'm so sorry about his death. It's a tragedy that he died that way and his killer went free. It seems since he did go free, Carl's family couldn't deal with Carl's passing and the outcome of the trial. His father passed in 1960, then his brother shoots himself 7 years later. So sad. Rest in peace "Alfalfa", the world will never forget you!
Go to hell freemasons.
"Our particular chapter in history unfolds at a time of physical transformation in Europe that was almost as momentous as the first discovery of fire must have been in the mists of antiquity. The industrial revolution was permitting men to leash fire to machines-and to unleash fire power on each other-with a force undreamed of in earlier ages. In the midst of those fires appeared the more elusive flame that Dostoevsky described in the most searching work of fiction ever written about the revolutionary movement: The Possessed. He depicted a stagnant (tranquil?) provincial town that was suddenly inspired (infected?) by new ideas . Shortly after a turbulent literary evening, a mysterious fire broke out; and a local official shouted out into the nocturnal confusion : "The fire is in the minds of men, not in the roofs of buildings ." Dostoevsky was writing under the impact of two great fires that disturbed him deeply and heralded the transfer of revolutionary leadership from France to Russia. These fires had broken out in imperial St. Petersburg in the spring of 1861 (where the emancipation of the serfs seemed to have inflamed rather than calmed passions ), and in imperial Paris ten years later (where the flaming defeat of the Paris Commune ended forever the era of romantic illusions ). The flame of faith had begun its migrations a century earlier, when some European aristocrats transferred their lighted candles from Christian altars to Masonic lodges. The flame of occult alchemists, which had promised to turn dross into gold, reappeared at the center of new "circles" seeking to recreate a golden age : Bavarian Illuminists conspiring against the Jesuits, French Philadelphians against Napoleon, Italian charcoal burners against the Hapsburgs. When the most important anti-Napoleonic conspiracy was ridiculed for attempting "to use as a lever something which is only a match," its leader replied that With a match one has no need of a lever; one does not lift up the world, one burns it." -James H Billington
@@RenneDanjoule interesting information u've divulged... I can only guess that the mention of Roy Rogers being a mason stirred this rant...May have gotten more viewed in the main comment section though it will prolly get a few here...
@@reverrage Its on the photo of his grave
When you show up at someone's house drunk at night to start a fight.... don't be surprised at what happens.. Or what, he was supposed to believe someone drunk in a police uniform was real?
@@RenneDanjoule Sir, can you repeat that for me? Appreciate ya.
I’ve had this video in my “Watch Later” queue for months, and finally got around to watching it today. I had no idea what I’d been missing, and I’m so impressed by the quality of your content!
I usually try to fact check at least a few details from channels I’m unfamiliar with, but rarely do I find videos like yours with such accuracy and authenticity. I also really appreciate you listing your sources at the end, which is also a rarity among UA-camrs. I’m a new subscriber and definitely a new fan! Excellent work!
Same. Regarding the watch later
I am just blown away! Whoever made this must work in Hollywood and have decades of experience. This is better than any TV show that would make the same documentary. Subscribed. "to greet the new day, with all of its possibilities" Cheers!
Such a tragedy! Old Hollywood threw away so many of its child stars. If they had only gotten residuals. Loved the detail in this vlog. You certainly did your research.
Thanks so much for watching and your very kind words :)
In most cases the parents of the child spent the money made. They would have spent any residuals as well.
So many old movies always paint a pic of movie companies being greedy those kids made a lot of money for movie companies and a whole of actors and actresses even in joan crawford movie mommy dearest spoke on movie companies sounded by far superficial and greedy if they were indeed like that it is truly sad will we ever get the real facts cuz right now today hollywood still quiets everyone shakes head
Hollywood did nothing to this guy. He did it to himself.
As a Mason...we're still normal people with normal problems. We try to work through them and bettre ourselves and those around us....but sometimes the pressure is too much. Never knew he was a Brother.
He’s the guy who opens the floor to the pool in the movie “It’s a Wonderful Life”
Thanks. I was wracking my brain trying to figure who he was.
Alfalfa was??
I clicked on this video after a mention of Alfalfa's demise in a Harry Bosch novel. Well done and thanks for filling in the blanks. RIP Carl
What a sad story. I must give this documentary its due praise, as you have laid out Carl's life in a captivating yet respectful way.
Well done!
@Julie W. I'm here to listen. What's going on with your life?
@Julie W.Okay. That makes sense.
@Mudisuda Raman are you so deluded from reality you compare someones tragic downward spiral in life to animals dying. Dont get me wrong the animals shouldn't have been hunted but still this is a human being who quite literally lost everything compared to some animals
@Mudisuda Raman wtf
Very sad story.
He actually got more work then any of the other Little Rascal cast. He was a really good actor.
Damani Scott Jackie cooper and Robert Blake also managed to get work after little rascals
@today is not yesterday Would not suprise me if he was one, incarnated into flesh by the Masons. Wouldn't put anything past them. Time will tell, truth will out. These child actors are extremely suspect to me.
Bug Hall, who play Alfalfa in the 90s, is like that too he is actually the only who has got parts since then really.
EGPMH Ross Elliot who plays Buckwheat has also been cast in other roles as well
@@gr8fulone384 ah cool did not know that
By far the most in depth presentation of Carl’s life I’ve seen.
Not really according to his own cousin, Dave Stephens, who has already commented what his parents and Uncle Bob knew about Alfalfa from a family's POV. Dave Stephens father almost joined the gang but his mother stopped him
@@ZoomZoomBoom24 kazaa
I LOVE Grave Explorations! Hoping a new one will come out soon. It is awesome that you not only talk about famous people, but also about people who you have never heard of and tell their stories. I am sure the families are so great full! Ty for sharing these graves with their stories. :)
I’m hoping a new one comes out soon too. But I’m concerned that the last video was 9 months ago. I hope this creator is ok and that he still plans to do more videos. He has a real gift.
I am hoping so as well. He does such a beautiful job and his voice is so wonderful to listen to. Really enjoy his documentaries! :)
Ditto
@@kellyoehrle2693 💫 I second that
I have an overwhelming and abundant sense of sadness after viewing this video. Condolences to anyone who knew Carl "Alfalfa" Switzer.
Didn't know him personally...but, he is my cousin! 🙂
@@zachswitzer0408 Thanks for sharing this. No one should die at such a young age, and in such a preventable way -- what a shame. Anyway, condolences to you and your family. Take it easy.
I feel the same sense of sadness. Only 31 years old. Such a shame.
@@watchman1178 yeah it is a shame.
he chose to having affairs, playing with fire
The studio and Hal Roach got rich and the kids got nothing. No residuals. Very sad. Love of Money is the root of all evil. (Happy now!!). Really interesting.
People are the root of all evil.
Money is nice
All of the studios that reissued their old material to television had similar practices as Hal Roach. Moe Howard of the Three Stooges fought for compensation his entire life. I believe he eventually won, but it was years after he had passed. Thank you for watching and commenting! :)
hollywood for you....and millenials worship these people
Tom Wood
I’m glad you said this brother you are absolutely correct and blessed for knowing it 😇
It's the lust of money that's the root of all evil!
Alfalfa will live forever and has gained more fans than he could ever have imagined. RIP little rascal
That's no comfort to him on the other side if he entered a Christless eternity.
@@granny58 why even say such a thing? That isn't a very Christian thing to say
Bucky Blue Eyes I would have to disagree. Most Christians that I know Love the thought of people burning in hell.
@@jonnylake3rd hmmm..shame you don't know the authentic ones then--we're broken-hearted, kinda like a caring medical doctor who sees a patient putting himself in an early grave because he wont follow the treatment plan.
RIP little rascal Alfalfa
I loved watching the Little Rascals on WFLD TV channel 32 in Chicago back in the 70's and early 80's. Carl was really the main player of the talented young troupe.. He kind held the whole thing together. He deserves more credit than he gets and definitely deserved a better life after his Hollywood career. Thanks, Carl (Alfalfa) Switzer for all the joy and laughter you brought to so many kids of all ages! :)
Many of those Little Rascals died well before their time. Sad.
JumboJetPilot
What was their time?
@@kasperkjrsgaard1447 Good question! Nobody know when they goin 7feet under. Only the Cyclops in the movie Krull.
they should all be dead by now
take solace in the fond shorts and timeless laughs and not their bittersweet endings.
@@judewilliams3911 They're not all dead.
As kids we loved watching “The Little Rascals”!
Go to hell freemasons.
"Our particular chapter in history unfolds at a time of physical transformation in Europe that was almost as momentous as the first discovery of fire must have been in the mists of antiquity. The industrial revolution was permitting men to leash fire to machines-and to unleash fire power on each other-with a force undreamed of in earlier ages. In the midst of those fires appeared the more elusive flame that Dostoevsky described in the most searching work of fiction ever written about the revolutionary movement: The Possessed. He depicted a stagnant (tranquil?) provincial town that was suddenly inspired (infected?) by new ideas . Shortly after a turbulent literary evening, a mysterious fire broke out; and a local official shouted out into the nocturnal confusion : "The fire is in the minds of men, not in the roofs of buildings ." Dostoevsky was writing under the impact of two great fires that disturbed him deeply and heralded the transfer of revolutionary leadership from France to Russia. These fires had broken out in imperial St. Petersburg in the spring of 1861 (where the emancipation of the serfs seemed to have inflamed rather than calmed passions ), and in imperial Paris ten years later (where the flaming defeat of the Paris Commune ended forever the era of romantic illusions ). The flame of faith had begun its migrations a century earlier, when some European aristocrats transferred their lighted candles from Christian altars to Masonic lodges. The flame of occult alchemists, which had promised to turn dross into gold, reappeared at the center of new "circles" seeking to recreate a golden age : Bavarian Illuminists conspiring against the Jesuits, French Philadelphians against Napoleon, Italian charcoal burners against the Hapsburgs. When the most important anti-Napoleonic conspiracy was ridiculed for attempting "to use as a lever something which is only a match," its leader replied that With a match one has no need of a lever; one does not lift up the world, one burns it." -James H Billington
Hollywood has so many of these tragic stories. Fame always has a price to pay!
Jeff Goff , Sadly, tragedy & price paid was brought upon self, or so, it seems.
freemasonic symbols on the gravestone. Says all i need to ever know without bothering to waste time watching. THUMBS DOWN!!!!!
Missy Moonwillow
Irony. Your request for thumbs down got thumbs up
You just don’t hear about them to people who lack fame
Must have a contingency plan when you are an actor. Either a college degree or a trade. Look at Harrison Ford. He was a carpenter and because of that skill he became an actor. Have to have a backup plan or you live a life of desperation.
My name is Darla. My entire life, any guy I dated got nicknamed Alfalfa sometime or another.
I've heard all the jokes, believe me, but my favorite thing is Alfalfa singing "Oh my Darla..."
I don't know how I got here, but I'm oh so glad I did.
I, like my Alfie, have been born under a bad sign, and this made my melancholy day, lying in bed disabled with MS.... but alive.
Thank you for this great video.
I needed it.
What a beautifully done documentary, whomever narrated has a wonderful voice, would love to watch more done by him...
The studio execs made a ton of royalties from Switzer's work as a member of the rascals but didn't share it with the actors, which is why Switzer was upset about a $50.00 debt.
Charlie Charlie
Lame
Anna please tell us your favourite movies and actors
*Whoever*
Agreed, he's definitely talented. Clear, concise, easy to understand. So rare.
He did make a lot of people laugh. Those children were incredible actors although they had real lives besides that to live. I'd say our first child stars we truly enjoyed.
I remember watching The Little Rascals when I was growing up and Alfalfa was always my favorite. I knew his life was too short and ended in tragedy, but I never realized just how sad an ending this story had.
Matt, I thank you for telling Alfalfa's story in such a caring and respectful way. Once again, you have amazed me with the exceptional quality of your videos. The time that you invest in your research shows my friend. And I am very happy to see that more people feel the same way. The number of subscribers you have keeps climbing, though I still believe you don't have near enough. Congratulations on another job well done! 🙂
Great work. The algorithm brought me to this documentary, and I'm glad. I was captivated from the start.
Wow! This is an amazing, brilliant, and thorough documentary. Honestly, one of the best documentaries I’ve ever seen-and I’ve seen quite a few.
I really appreciate your kind words, thank you!
@@graveexplorations Well done! Sad at times, yes, but it is comforting to family and friends to know that many people still care. Thank you for sharing this documentary and also your written memories on here. I look forward to watching many more!
Today it would be his birthday!!😨😭 Rest In Peace!! BORN 93 YEARS AGO.🖤🖤 💜🖤August 7, 2020, 11:06 PM...
August 7 is my late moms birthday too, what a coincidence.
@@jcadaver7327 Why is your mom late? Why can't she be early?
@@prezidenttrump5171 is that an attempt at humor? you failed miserably.
I must admit I was thoroughly entertained by your work and the writing and the production of this piece. Normally when you click on these type of things on UA-cam the quality is not there. Take a bow and Kudos. For those of you who are Little Rascals fans, Leonard Maltin put out a great book several years ago about the history of the Gang. Highly recommend it.
When I was a child, every Sunday afternoon the series „little rascals“ was on German TV, but it we’re the ones from the silent movie times, which I preferr to this day.
This documentary is great. I especially admire the artfulness.
I don't see Aflie's life as a failure. He had stardom, success, early ... but ... for gosh sake he was only 32! But, for the alcoholism, his persistence would have paid off later in life.
Yea he was in freaking Defiant Ones. Still, if he was taking drugs and alcohol it was only a matter of time before health problems would start.
I think he should have stayed on the farm, he had a wife and daughter. I suppose it wasn't fun but hard work never hurt anyone!
But for the grace of God, I've not had a drink in over 22 years.
31 actually
Don’t arguing with you but he was 31 and he did I do agree with you for everything else
My compliments on how well done this is--editing, special effects, scene choices, and (excepting the ending epilogue) quite good narration. I'm surprised others haven't commented on how professional it is. Good for you and well done.
I just wrote that comment. Yes, it was very impressive and the research for all the artifacts, newspaper clippings, etc must have taken a long time
It's largely excellent! The presentation gets better as it goes along. Very in depth.
I find this incredibly sad. It takes me back to my childhood when I watched the little rascals. It's reality but I hate knowing the hard life and tragic ending that Alfalfa had.
Truth Indeed
Yes sadly I watched this as a child with my siblings and parents
I'd always wondered why 'Alfalfa' had been shot.I figured it was just a rumor going around when I was growing up in the 1950's. I grew up in Mission Hills and didn't realize that he died in 1959 only a mile from where we lived. What a very sad story. I loved watching the 'Little Rascals.' I heard later on that those kids made no residuals from their work. How unfair that was! Thanks for putting this documentary together.
Alcohol always - always makes a bad situation worse.
I"ll drink to that!
I just smoke pot
@@michaello7635 Amen to that and it always makes a bad situation better
🔥💨💨💨😚👌😤😁
That’s why I huff jenkem
God I know.....I wish I could just smoke pot....but it makes me feel like I'm going to die......
My grandparents knew him. They were from Paris Illinois. They remembered that he begged before he was discovered for the Little Rascals. It is true that he was murdered over 40 dollars. Very sad story.
In 1975 I saw Alfalfa's mother on TV when she appeared on Little Rascals Theater in San Diego, CA. She was by then living in the nearby suburb of Spring Valley.
Reading some of the comments below, I also grew up watching the "Little Rascals" and still catch one once in a while. Always loved them, still do. There's nothing I can add that others haven't said. This is the greatest documentary I've ever come across. Now I'm left with a haunting love and sadness for all of the gang. Thank you for all you've done, and I suppose we'll be speaking one day. RIP.
I grew up 4 blocks from the house in which Switzer was shot. Two of my close friends grew up two streets over from Columbus. That was late 60s through the early 80s. Never knew.
Great video. Thank you!
This is very interesting, I used to watch the reruns of The Little Rascals a lot as a kid in the 70's. I always enjoyed them very much.
I have read online about Carls pranks and how he died, but definitely no where near the details that I have heard here in this very detailed documentary of his life.
I had never seen him as an adult and I didn't know that he was in other TV shows and movies. He was definitely the total opposite of his Alfalfa character that he played so well, he was obviously a good actor.
It was interesting to find out that the girl who played Darla was actually afraid of him.
It's too bad that he made some bad decisions that ultimately ended his life, it's hard to look at the picture of him dead on the floor.
actually unless I'm very wrong, I think that picture is of Lana Turner's boyfriend Johnny Stonpanato who was fatally stabbed by her daughter
@@nikkikivett6886 You are correct. I became curious & Googled Johnny Stompanato (Date of death April 4, 1958), and sure enough, the photo presented in the above video as Carl Switzer (Date of death January 21, 1959) laying fatally injured on the floor is the same photo under Johnny Stompanato's name. Correct you are!! It's a pity since the research for this story otherwise seems legit.
Such a sad tragedy. I read awhile back how he died, but I didn’t know the details. It’s so sad that his dad died a little over year after his son, no doubt from a broken heart. Thank you so much for this documentary, well done, as well as the narrator! 👍🏼
Parents should never have to bury their children. Very sad. . .
Island man
That’s so true! I know all to well the pain they went through, losing their son. I lost my son in 2018 and it’s hardest thing I’ve ever been through. The pain will be there for the rest of my life. 😥
@@naomilopez4219 not sure why I’m here but sorry for your loss. My mom and dad both lost brothers at a very young age before they met. Tore both families apart. I’ve buried many young family the same. Watched my family implode. Wish you well and strength.
@@TriTones_Music Thank you for your kind words. When I lost my son it too tore our family apart, so sad. I’m so sorry for all the pain you and your parents have experienced in losing loved ones. Best wishes to you and your family.
Your graveside videos are the best accounts, given with such respect and along with so much history. I love that you include not just celebrities but also historical people I've not known about as well as the 'every man'. Thank you so much and please keep up the great work!
A sad story of one I remember watching as a young boy. Our Gang , or The Little Rascals, was a program I enjoyed watching as a kid. Rest in peace Alfalfa.
In 1973 we had a actress from the Our Gang series speak at our elementary school. During Q&A a kid asked about Alfalfa, she said he died in a "fireworks factory explosion". Now I know why she said that, the truth is too dark.
Oh dear
Good grief this is so good! I watched Our Gang as a kid. Born in 67 I saw them all in reruns. I never knew this is how his life ended. Great work!
What an amazingly well researched and presented story. Thank You.
This was a great documentary, I really didn't intend on watching it, especially in its entirety, but it was so well done, it captivated me.
Thanks for the upload
Same here. I saw how long it was and I thought I would just watch a few minutes and I ended up seeing the whole thing
@@davidhavens3947 same
tragic how young actors grow up with everyone stealing their money, then end up pennyless.
Go to hell freemasons.
"Our particular chapter in history unfolds at a time of physical transformation in Europe that was almost as momentous as the first discovery of fire must have been in the mists of antiquity. The industrial revolution was permitting men to leash fire to machines-and to unleash fire power on each other-with a force undreamed of in earlier ages. In the midst of those fires appeared the more elusive flame that Dostoevsky described in the most searching work of fiction ever written about the revolutionary movement: The Possessed. He depicted a stagnant (tranquil?) provincial town that was suddenly inspired (infected?) by new ideas . Shortly after a turbulent literary evening, a mysterious fire broke out; and a local official shouted out into the nocturnal confusion : "The fire is in the minds of men, not in the roofs of buildings ." Dostoevsky was writing under the impact of two great fires that disturbed him deeply and heralded the transfer of revolutionary leadership from France to Russia. These fires had broken out in imperial St. Petersburg in the spring of 1861 (where the emancipation of the serfs seemed to have inflamed rather than calmed passions ), and in imperial Paris ten years later (where the flaming defeat of the Paris Commune ended forever the era of romantic illusions ). The flame of faith had begun its migrations a century earlier, when some European aristocrats transferred their lighted candles from Christian altars to Masonic lodges. The flame of occult alchemists, which had promised to turn dross into gold, reappeared at the center of new "circles" seeking to recreate a golden age : Bavarian Illuminists conspiring against the Jesuits, French Philadelphians against Napoleon, Italian charcoal burners against the Hapsburgs. When the most important anti-Napoleonic conspiracy was ridiculed for attempting "to use as a lever something which is only a match," its leader replied that With a match one has no need of a lever; one does not lift up the world, one burns it." -James H Billington
@@RenneDanjouleall pass P
John Barber making people’s lives hard is a bullshit excuse for “business.”
Capitalism
I suppose you mean "penniless."
A shame "Alfalfa" could never get his post Our Gang life together.
So well put together! I've heard about Alfalfas death all my life...and now finally...I've heard the story!
I loved watching the Little Rascals as a child. I enjoyed this documentary, very well done. Thank you.
As a child I enjoyed watching the Little Rascals, Our gang series. So saddened to hear of alfalfa's demise in this manner. Well laid out story..thanks for sharing!
Child actors often end up as tragic adults.
Well imagine making millions of dollars as a kid and having your parents blow it all. Imagine not being able to get a serious acting role as an adult because everyone sees you as cute little Timmy or Tammy from that insanely popular TV show or movie everyone used to love and that still plays everywhere today. Since the money was pretty much gone by the time you were 18, you have to get a regular job. One where you arent even making a small fraction of what you made per episode as a kid all year long. It would seem like you regressed. It would be sad really. I know that parents shouldnt be able to exploit their children for personal gain, and the majority of a child stars money should be set aside for when they'readults. . At least 85% of it, especially if its millions of dollars. Parents should only see an amount that actually helps to take care of the child, not buy mansions, exotic cars, $20,000 vacations, etc.
Joshua Traffanstedt - True. Also, I don’t imagine realizing that the peak of your life was at 12 would feel all too good.
a lot of adults end up like tragic children.
Two who didn't. David Henesy from Dark Shadows is a successful international restaurateur and of course, Cole Sprouse who is bigger than ever.
Unfortantly a big percentage of child stars get sexually abused in Hollywood which is a big factor in why they end up that way. Pedophilia and s.r.a. (satanic ritual abuse) has always been a huge problem in Hollywood.
What can one say? I'm simply speechless this was a superlative documentary, par excellence.👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👍👌🏻🥇 This truly moved me and made me very reminiscent and melancholy of those days and time. This was done with such grace respect and reverence to this young man. I sincerely and deeply thank you for providing this young man the respect and dignity that he fought and sought out in his lifetime but never truly received nor did he ever have the chance to appreciate what his early part of his life brought to the general public and will continue in his film work. May he rest in peace.🙏😌
This documentary was done so well. Whoever is doing this has a voice made to tell stories! I could listen forever!
I always loved The Little Rascals. Dressed my son up as Alfalfa for Halloween when he was young. I always hate hearing of tragic endings to these young actors lives.
Sounds like Michael Moore, the famous documentarian.
Go to hell freemasons.
"Our particular chapter in history unfolds at a time of physical transformation in Europe that was almost as momentous as the first discovery of fire must have been in the mists of antiquity. The industrial revolution was permitting men to leash fire to machines-and to unleash fire power on each other-with a force undreamed of in earlier ages. In the midst of those fires appeared the more elusive flame that Dostoevsky described in the most searching work of fiction ever written about the revolutionary movement: The Possessed. He depicted a stagnant (tranquil?) provincial town that was suddenly inspired (infected?) by new ideas . Shortly after a turbulent literary evening, a mysterious fire broke out; and a local official shouted out into the nocturnal confusion : "The fire is in the minds of men, not in the roofs of buildings ." Dostoevsky was writing under the impact of two great fires that disturbed him deeply and heralded the transfer of revolutionary leadership from France to Russia. These fires had broken out in imperial St. Petersburg in the spring of 1861 (where the emancipation of the serfs seemed to have inflamed rather than calmed passions ), and in imperial Paris ten years later (where the flaming defeat of the Paris Commune ended forever the era of romantic illusions ). The flame of faith had begun its migrations a century earlier, when some European aristocrats transferred their lighted candles from Christian altars to Masonic lodges. The flame of occult alchemists, which had promised to turn dross into gold, reappeared at the center of new "circles" seeking to recreate a golden age : Bavarian Illuminists conspiring against the Jesuits, French Philadelphians against Napoleon, Italian charcoal burners against the Hapsburgs. When the most important anti-Napoleonic conspiracy was ridiculed for attempting "to use as a lever something which is only a match," its leader replied that With a match one has no need of a lever; one does not lift up the world, one burns it." -James H Billington
I just came across this by accident and remembered how much I enjoyed Our Gang/Little Rascals. Surprised I watched it all the way through. Riveted to it! Well presented and narrated.
Aroha Uea me too
A huge "Little Rascals" fan as a kid, this is the most detailed account I've ever viewed or read about the life and death of Alfalfa. Everything I've ever read before always simply mentions he got shot in a barroom brawl or something. Thanks for such a detailed and well-researched account. R.I.P. Alfalfa!
As a person who grew up in the eastern part of Arkansas my siblings loved watching reruns of "The Little Racal" on our Philco black and white tv in the 1960's.
Thank you for this documentary about Alfalfa.
It seems that just about all of the little Racals lives were not the same after they grew up and their series ended.
31:00 can you imagine the pain of the mother to lose all 3 men in her life?
We watched it and thought it was more interesting than some 60 Minutes, Nightline shows etc. that we have watched. The narrator's voice made it even more interesting. The video was well done, above expected.
It’s 3:21am and I have no clue how this was recommended but I can’t stop watching.
Twilight zone : as i read your comment i glance at the clock ... 3:21am °•~
321 is the most played n a lucky number in pick or cash 3 play it sometimes
@@LowLuvR117 it's 1:11 on my clock lol. I always see that number-
If I had a dollar for every time I thought the same thing... I would have a lot of dollars at 3:21am
Bahahahaaaaha it takes u down the rabbit hole
What a beautiful presentation. I am not much into biographies but this one really touched me. Magnificently written, aspiring writers could learn much from this presentation.
The poor mom lost his two sons and husband. It must’ve been heartbreaking.
Her*
Farewell Alfalfa. From someone who watched you as a child
I grew up with these kids, they were always such great fun!
Another great job! I heard bits and pieces about the life of Carl Switzer but this added a lot more layers and detail I never knew before. I watched the Defiant Ones a few months ago and didn't realize the guy with the radio was him. I do remember seeing him in It's a Wonderful Life. Also did not know he was in the 10 Commandments and have seen that movie many times. He did get in some very good films even though they were smaller roles compared to his glory days doing the Our Gang shorts. Unfortunately very few child actors ever transition over successfully to movies as adults. The early success often ends up being a curse later on.
Thank you for watching! Alfalfa took whatever job he could get. Whenever he turns up in a movie I can't help but notice how hard he worked. He really poured his heart into every scene.
I just subscribed. I think I'm stuck. Good work. Great narration
Pretty extraordinary how many lives this man impacted. I distinctly remember watching the Little Rascals when I was a kid in the '80s. Nobody ever talked about the fact that he had died under tragic untimely circumstances. This is the first I'm hearing about it actually.
RIP Alfalfa May you have eternal happiness. Your fan that finally found out what happened to you.
My fav show Little Rascles
Maybe if they had gotten the residuals they should have gotten, they wouldn't have become so desperate for money and gone down the road they did....hard to say.
Exactly!
On and on; it continues to this day.
Which is exactly why every field deserves to have a union. I'm sure if the SAG had been there to protect the kids, they could have/it seems they should have, been able to sue for their residuals.
They deserved those residuals but the movie business was taking advantage of not only kids but many actors. However, I must disagree that it was what destroyed kid actors. Look at the kids who had money and still became alcoholics and drug abusers. Only very strong and sensible parents ever saved their kids. It’s easy to believe the sycophants who prey on them, it’s natural to buy the hype, alas.
In so many personal tragedies lives spent in misery ang ill repute, you connect the dots and you find Financial exploitation, from the stolen land of the First Nations people to people who are individuality cheated through contract law. If you want to find a devil behind the sin, look at the bank account
@@TheAuntieBa Good parenting helps. But in the end, I think the difficulty of transitioning from a celebrated child actor into a functioning adult is more challenging than just "good parenting."
For many child actors, the things that made them appealing as a kid don't translate into a career in acting as an adult. It's rare that child actors make a living as an adult actor.
If they can't make a career as an actor, they have to identify and nurture other aspects of themselves to become something new in their adult lives. It's a tough transition for anyone, to lose a career you loved that paid well, that was fun, that focused positive attention on you. I feel sympathy for them.
This was a really good documentary!!! I never heard the story told like this before!! The true story!! Good 👍🏾 video and story telling!!