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At first, Robert Conrad believed that the premise for The Wild Wild West was too ''far out'' to be successful
Later, Conrad would call his character James Bond's Great-Great-Grandfather.
Sometimes, the most unlikely of duos combine to create a wonderful finished product. For some examples, please see French fries with ice cream, chicken and waffles, or cheddar cheese over a slice of apple pie.
This comparison isn't just limited to food; it applies to television, too!
When Robert Conrad first heard the premise for The Wild Wild West, he was reluctant to show his support. Putting an espionage drama in the West? It couldn't possibly be done in a believable way!
"When I first analyzed the property, I thought to myself, 'This is too far out and ahead of its time,'" said Conrad during an interview with The State. "I mean, Western fans will be alienated by hidden Derringers and super-spy stuff."
Luckily, Conrad was able to put aside his misgivings long enough to climb aboard and join the cast of the series. The actor was honest about what he was seeking in his career. He wasn't looking for success necessarily; he was looking for profit.
"Right now, I'm interested in the monetary things in life," said the actor. "The things that will give Robert Conrad the security he seeks. Every man wants security. The series gives me the money I need for the Conrad demands in a normal life."
Years later, when the series had reached unprecedented levels of success, Conrad was able to admit that his initial response was wrong, and he couldn't be more grateful.
"You might say I'm James Bond's Great-Great-Grandfather," said the actor of his character, James T. West. "We've two elements here: one, the traditional American heritage of the Old West; two, the super spy in the modern Ian Fleming tradition."
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