Dick Cavett’s 1972 Interview with Raquel Welch: The Secrets She Never Wanted You to Know

Raquel Welch is truly one of the most beautiful women to ever grace this planet. However, with all the attention on her looks and acting career, many people haven’t heard her speak from the heart.

That’s why, when I found her appearance on *The Dick Cavett Show*, I noticed something surprising…

First, let’s appreciate just how stunning and elegant Raquel Welch was in the early 1970s. She had no hair extensions, no Botox, and her natural hair color, without a tattoo in sight. She had a full figure, an intriguing personality, and a sharp mind. In my opinion, Welch is one of the most beautiful women to ever appear on screen.

### Underrated Genius

In a captivating 1972 interview on *The Dick Cavett Show*, Welch’s timeless beauty and elegance were clear. At about 32 years old, she radiated charm as she settled into the chair across from Dick Cavett.

The American television host, who ran *The Dick Cavett Show* from 1968 to 1988, was a skilled interviewer. He interviewed many famous film directors like Welles, Hitchcock, De Palma, and Scorsese, making each interview feel like a lesson in film.

Cavett had a talent for making his guests feel comfortable, drawing out engaging and thoughtful conversations. This interview showed Raquel in a way many had never seen — beyond her famous looks, revealing things I didn’t know about her.

### Broke Her Wrist

Welch’s appearance on *The Dick Cavett Show* was partly to promote her latest film, *Kansas City Bomber*.

In the movie, she played roller derby skater K.C. Carr — a woman trying to balance her desire for a happy personal life with her dreams of success.

The film featured many intense scenes from the matches, and according to Raquel, she performed most of her own stunts, which took a toll on her.

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Raquel explained that she had to learn how to skate from the ground up for the role. The professional skaters in the film used a track with banked turns at a 45-degree angle, which made it even more difficult.

One day while practicing, she broke her wrist, causing the production to delay filming for about eight weeks.

“I had a lot of aches and pains for a long time,” Welch admitted.

### Recognize the Dress?

Those with sharp eyes might remember Welch’s stunning blue dress from her interview with Cavett. It was the same iconic gown she wore to the Oscars just a few months earlier. Talk about a fashion statement!

Raquel was ahead of her time in recycling outfits, and her Oscars gown wasn’t the only piece she repurposed. The beautiful dress she wore to the premiere of *The Godfather* was also the same one she wore at Elizabeth Taylor’s 40th birthday celebration in Budapest back in 1972.

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Who knew Raquel was such a trendsetter long before it became a popular term?

By the way, did you know that Welch’s wardrobe for public events was very different from her personal style? People always expected her to maintain her glamorous image, and she did so perfectly. However, when she wasn’t on the red carpet, Welch preferred simple pantsuits and comfortable clothing.

### Humorous Anecdote

For decades, Welch has been known as a sex symbol, with a lot of focus on her beautiful body. Yet, few people have had the chance to hear her talk openly, especially on serious topics that show her depth beyond her famous image.

During her time on *The Dick Cavett Show*, the *One Million Years B.C.* star discussed the difference between her glamorous on-screen persona and her real-life experiences. The conversation included her public image and the expectations placed on her as a female actress in a male-dominated sport.

Raquel shared a funny story from her experience promoting *Kansas City Bomber*, recalling an interesting press conference with sports writers.

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“I had a really interesting press conference when I first came into town to promote the film with all the sports writers. They said, ‘You know, you’re a nice-sized lady and all that, but you’re not exactly what I expected.’ I replied, ‘I know I always seem to disappoint people if I walk in the door and the door hinges don’t splinter off, like I should come in with a machete or something.’”

Some people who saw her in person were surprised by her size—she is only 5 feet 5½ inches tall with a small-boned frame, elegantly complemented by broad shoulders and beautiful olive skin.

Dick Cavett then adds, “I know people walked in and looked at you, and their reaction was, ‘There’s an attractive woman.’ But many didn’t realize it was you, even though they had seen you on screen.”

### “Downright Intoxicating”

Many viewers who watched the interview later (available on YouTube) have commented on Raquel Welch’s lovely voice. It seems some have forgotten about it because of the strong focus on her stunning images and posters over the years.

One YouTube user commented, “She becomes even more attractive when she speaks, downright intoxicating!”

Another commenter added, “I love the way she speaks; there is something unique and also time-stamped about it.”

Another viewer noted, “Raquel was not only stunning to look at; she had a wonderful voice and a captivating way of speaking.”

This detail shows that Raquel’s appeal went beyond just her looks; her voice added a special charm that still resonates with audiences today.

She was very articulate and well-spoken!

### Why Was Raquel Welch So Down-to-Earth?

Raquel Welch, who got her first name from a grandmother in Bolivia and her last name from a teenage marriage, described herself as a product of middle-class America.

She never forgot her roots and always stayed connected to the part of society that wasn’t filled with the glitz and glamour of Hollywood.

“I’m practical, but I also have dreams of how things ideally should be,” she once said.

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In her private life, Welch was often seen in comfortable, loose-fitting sweaters and classic blue jeans, with just a touch of eye makeup. Even with her great fame, she had a sweetness and gentleness that made her feel easy to approach.

During her interview with Dick Cavett, Welch seemed very sweet, gentle, and down-to-earth.

### Suffered from Alzheimer’s Disease

Welch was truly one of the most beautiful women to ever appear on screen. Not even Kim Kardashian, with all her surgeries, could compare to her beauty.

Raquel was something special, and we should be thankful to have experienced her brilliance. Sadly, she passed away from cardiac arrest on February 15, 2023, at her home in Los Angeles, at the age of 82. At the time of her death, she was also battling Alzheimer’s disease.

Let’s remember this amazing woman through her wonderful interview with Dick Cavett — a moment when Raquel Welch was at the peak of her career. Share this story if you also admired Raquel Welch!

I Helped a Disabled Man at the Restaurant Where I Worked and He Changed My Life

I had been working at this fast-food joint in a mall for a couple of years. You’d think I had seen it all by then, but the other day, something happened that really shook me. I’m Jamie, and this is the story of how an encounter with an old man in a wheelchair unexpectedly changed my life.

It was a typical busy afternoon, the kind where you barely have time to catch your breath. I was rushing from table to table, balancing trays and dodging kids running around.

A fast food joint in a shopping mall | Source: Midjourney

A fast food joint in a shopping mall | Source: Midjourney

That was when I saw him: an old man in a wheelchair. He looked lost and anxious, clutching a dead cell phone like it was his last lifeline. He started asking people for help, but most ignored him or looked uncomfortable.

You know how people get when they think someone might ask them for something: money or time, who knows? The commotion caught the attention of Mr. Hughes, our manager. Mr. Hughes was all about keeping the customers happy and the noise level down, and he didn’t look pleased.

An elderly man in a wheelchair in a shopping mall | Source: Midjourney

An elderly man in a wheelchair in a shopping mall | Source: Midjourney

“Jamie, can you deal with that?” he said, nodding toward the old man. “We can’t have him disturbing the customers.”

I felt a knot in my stomach. The elderly fellow clearly needed help, and it didn’t seem right to just throw him out. “I’ll handle it, Mr. Hughes. Just give me a minute,” I replied, hoping I wasn’t making a mistake.

Soon afterward, I approached the old man, who looked like he was on the verge of tears. “Hello, Sir. I’m Jamie. Do you need some help?”

A restaurant server guy talks to an elderly man in a wheelchair | Source: Midjourney

A restaurant server guy talks to an elderly man in a wheelchair | Source: Midjourney

His eyes lit up with a mix of hope and relief. “Yes, please. My name is Mr. Thompson. I came here with my granddaughter, Emily, but we got separated. My phone died, and I have no way to contact her.”

I nodded, feeling a pang of sympathy. “Don’t worry, Mr. Thompson. We’ll figure this out. You can use my phone to call her.”

I handed him my phone, and he fumbled with it briefly before dialing. When Emily picked up, I could hear the panic in her voice even though I was standing a few feet away.

A worried young woman talking on her phone in a shopping mall | Source: Midjourney

A worried young woman talking on her phone in a shopping mall | Source: Midjourney

“Grandpa! Where are you? I’ve been looking everywhere!” she cried.

Mr. Thompson’s voice shook as he answered, “I’m at the food court, dear. Jamie here is helping me.”

I took the phone from him gently. “Hi, Emily. I’m Jamie. We’re going to help your grandfather find you. Where are you right now?”

“I’m near the entrance by the big fountain. I was just about to call for help,” she said, her voice still shaky.

“Stay there. We’ll come to you. It’s going to be okay,” I assured her.

A restaurant server guy talking on his phone | Source: Midjourney

A restaurant server guy talking on his phone | Source: Midjourney

I handed the phone back to Mr. Thompson and gave him a reassuring smile. “Let’s get you to that fountain.”

As we started our way through the crowded mall, I took the handles of Mr. Thompson’s wheelchair, navigating through the sea of people. Along the way, I tried to make small talk to keep him calm. “So, Mr. Thompson, how often do you come to the mall?”

He chuckled softly. “Not very often, Jamie. This was supposed to be a special outing with Emily. We were going to have lunch and maybe do some shopping. My wife and I used to come here all the time before she passed.”

A restaurant server wheels an elderly disabled man through a shopping mall. | Source: Midjourney

A restaurant server wheels an elderly disabled man through a shopping mall. | Source: Midjourney

“I’m sorry to hear about your wife,” I said, glancing down at him. “She must have been a wonderful person.”

“She was,” he nodded, his eyes misting over. “We were married for fifty years. She was my rock. Emily reminds me so much of her. Kind, thoughtful, always putting others first. Just like you, Jamie.”

I felt a lump in my throat. “Thank you, Mr. Thompson. That means a lot.”

A loving elderly couple hugging outdoors | Source: Midjourney

A loving elderly couple hugging outdoors | Source: Midjourney

As we continued walking, Mr. Thompson told me more about his life. He shared stories of his late wife, their travels, and how proud he was of Emily. It was clear how much he adored her.

Listening to him, I felt a profound sense of connection and gratitude. Here was a man who had lived a full life, and his stories were a reminder of the importance of family and kindness.

We finally reached the fountain, and I saw Emily scanning the crowd frantically. The moment she spotted us, her face lit up, and she ran towards us.

A fountain in a shopping mall | Source: Midjourney

A fountain in a shopping mall | Source: Midjourney

“Gramps!” she shouted, tears streaming down her face.

Mr. Thompson’s face broke into a smile, and I could see the relief washing over him. “Emily, thank goodness.”

They hugged tightly, and for a moment, I just stood there, feeling like I was witnessing something truly special.

Emily turned to me, tears in her eyes. “Thank you so much, Jamie. I don’t know what we would have done without you.”

I shrugged, feeling a bit embarrassed by the attention. “I’m just glad I could help.”

A young woman hugging her grandfather in a wheelchair in a shopping mall | Source: Midjourney

A young woman hugging her grandfather in a wheelchair in a shopping mall | Source: Midjourney

As she spoke, I couldn’t help but notice how Emily’s eyes sparkled with gratitude. Her smile was warm and genuine, and there was an undeniable connection between us.

We exchanged a look that felt like we had known each other for years, not just a few minutes. It was one of those rare moments where you feel an instant bond with someone.

Just then, Mr. Hughes appeared, having followed us to see how things turned out. He looked a bit sheepish.

A restaurant server guy talks to a woman in a shopping mall | Source: Midjourney

A restaurant server guy talks to a woman in a shopping mall | Source: Midjourney

“Jamie, I owe you an apology. I shouldn’t have been so quick to dismiss Mr. Thompson. You handled the situation wonderfully. Thank you for stepping in.”

I nodded, feeling a sense of pride. “Thanks, Mr. Hughes. I’m just glad everything worked out.”

Mr. Thompson looked up at me, his eyes filled with gratitude. “Jamie, you’ve done more than you know. Thank you for your kindness.”

As Emily and Mr. Thompson left the mall, I watched them go, feeling a deep sense of fulfillment. It wasn’t every day that you made such a difference in someone’s life.

A restaurant server guy is pictured talking to his manager | Source: Midjourney

A restaurant server guy is pictured talking to his manager | Source: Midjourney

A few days later, I found myself thinking about Emily and the connection we had during that brief interaction. Gathering my courage, I decided to call her and check in on Mr. Thompson.

“Umm… Hi, Emily. It’s Jamie from the food court. I just wanted to see how your grandfather is doing.”

“Oh, hi, Jamie! Gramps is doing great, thanks to you. He hasn’t stopped talking about how you saved the day,” she replied, her voice warm and friendly.

A man is smiling while talking on the phone | Source: Midjourney

A man is smiling while talking on the phone | Source: Midjourney

We ended up talking for hours, sharing stories and laughter. The conversation flowed easily, and I felt a growing connection with her. After a while, I plucked up the courage and asked, “Emily, would you like to grab a coffee sometime? I’d love to hear more about you and your grandfather.”

She sounded delighted. “I’d love that, Jamie. How about this weekend?”

“Works for me,” I replied before hanging up the call.

A loving couple on a coffee date in a café | Source: Midjourney

A loving couple on a coffee date in a café | Source: Midjourney

On our first date, we went to a cozy little café near the mall. The place was perfect, with soft music playing in the background and the aroma of fresh coffee filling the air.

As we sat there, sipping our drinks, Emily smiled and said, “I can’t believe how we met. It feels like fate, doesn’t it?”

I nodded, feeling a warmth spread through me. “It really does. I’m so glad we found each other.”

Luckily, our coffee date turned into many more dates. We found ourselves sharing more about our lives, dreams, and pasts.

A couple enjoying while exploring the city together | Source: Midjourney

A couple enjoying while exploring the city together | Source: Midjourney

Over time, our bond grew stronger. We spent countless hours together, exploring the city, laughing over silly jokes, and sharing quiet moments.

Emily was everything I could have hoped for; she was kind, caring, and full of life. I cherished every moment we spent together.

One evening, after a particularly wonderful day out, I turned to Emily and said, “You know, meeting you and your grandfather has been one of the best things that ever happened to me.”

A couple sharing a kiss at the beach | Source: Midjourney

A couple sharing a kiss at the beach | Source: Midjourney

She took my hand, her eyes glistening. “Me too, Jamie. That day at the mall brought us together, and I’m so grateful for it.”

I squeezed her hand, a smile tugging at my lips. “It’s incredible how one small act can change everything. I never expected that moment to lead to this.”

Her eyes sparkled with emotion. “Exactly. It just shows the power of a little kindness.”

Mr. Thompson’s need for help that day not only reunited him with his granddaughter but also brought Emily and me together. It was a powerful reminder that kindness can spark unexpected connections, forever changing lives.

A couple spending time with their elderly grandfather | Source: Midjourney

A couple spending time with their elderly grandfather | Source: Midjourney

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