Robert Morse was performing in play in Philadelphia while I stilled lived in Bucks County attending college there.  I recieved his permission to do a portrait session with him.  During a day off from classes I drove in to Philly to shoot these portraits.  This black and white photograph, of actor Robert Morse, was taken outside of the theatre where he was performing, during a break from rehersals.

Growing up, I had liked a movie of his, the very funny comedy, "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying."  I found out that Bobby had originated the role of "J. Peirpont Finch," a young man who rises to the top of the advertising world, in the original Broadway version. He then reprised the same role, for the film.  Robert Morse eventually won the 1993 Emmy award in the category of Outstanding Lead Actor in a Miniseries or Special for: "American Playhouse"  for episode "Tru".  "Tru" was the highly acclaimed, one man Broadway hit, which he starred in from 1989-1990. In that show he brought to life the real life character, and I do mean character, of the late American writer, Truman Capote.

About a year or so after shooting these photos, I had finished college and moved to New York City to become a fashion photographer.  I had been invited by a friend to the popular night spot, Studio 54. It was my first time there and true to its reputation, it was an impressive place, known for its many beautiful people, celebrities and models.  Shortly after arriving, as I was checking out the place, looking around at all the people, I was shocked to see and recognize Bobby Morse waving to me from the vicinity of the DJ booth.  It was one of those times where you think to yourself, "he couldn't be waving to me, could he?" Then you look around, to try and see if some one else is acknowledging this greeting, and realize the greeting is intended for you, after all.  This, of course, didn't really sink in at the time, because: #1. I was too dense;  #2.  It was my first time ever at any big nightclub/disco, let alone Studio 54, and someone famous is waving to me?  #3.  I was too stunned to go over and say hello, which would have been polite and made sense.  But it just didn't compute.  See another portrait from this session by clicking here.

About the photographer . .
Steve Landis has travelled through many parts of the world during a career in professional photography incorporating the areas of photojournalism, fashion, beauty, and celebrity portrait photography for major publications for over 25 years.  Steve has turned his life over to Yeshua the Messiah, (Jesus the Christ) and now primarily photographs weddings, family, actor, and executive portraits.

"I have been greatly blessed during my life and give the glory and thanks to Yeshua for a renewed life of peace and joy," states Landis. 

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