Interview With Stuntman/Actor Steve ‘Bunker’ DeFrance

Rodd Wolff: How did you get in the picture business?

Steve DeFrance: After being discharged from the Navy in 1962, I returned to New Mexico. My dad had passed away while I was in the service, leaving his home in Tucson to me. In October 1963, I came to Tucson to sell the house, and while waiting I went to work at Rillito Racetrack. In December, [I read] a piece in the paper about a movie, The Outrage, [that] was to be made in the area. Having no prior experience and just plain dumb luck, I was hired. My first job with several other riders was to chase Paul Newman on horseback for a couple of days in the desert out behind the Desert Museum. In July 1964, I traveled to Gallup to work on The Hallelujah Trail and from this job I never looked back.

Wolff: Who has helped you along the way?

DeFrance: When starting out, Red Morgan was the first to give me a boost up and, until he retired, taught me a lot and helped to get me work. Al Wyatt always had a lot of good advice and a job for me. But the person I owe the most to and the stunt coordinator I most admire is Henry Wills. Oh, yes, a special thanks to Hal Needham and Bill Hart.

Wolff: What are some of your most memorable memories?

DeFrance: Any time on horseback, and the 52 episodes of High Chaparral and the series Petrocelli. 

Wolff: Would you do it all over again?

DeFrance: Definitely, yes!

Wolff: What advice can you give to your fellow members of SAG-AFTRA?

DeFrance: Get all of the education you can, and listen to and respect those who went before you. Always work on your skills and learn new ones. Be early, work hard and don’t let your ego get in the way. Take care of those around you in the business and at home.

Wolff: Thanks, Bunker!

This item was originally featured in the Spring 2017 local newsletter.