An interview on San Francisco's "People Are Talking" with Rusty Dennis about the movie made about her son Rocky Dennis', life. The movie, "Mask," starred Cher.
Sobriety wasn't the big thing it is now. Substance abuse still had a stigma, and the idea that it was a disease hadn't gained mainstream acceptance yet. Rehab centers weren't as prevalent. Druggies were still the butt of jokes, and nobody thought you deserved a cookie if you told them you were sober. In Rusty's case she doesn't seem apologetic about her drug use, and says Rocky "Loved to party", so it's possible she even condoned and facilitated his drug use.
@ElderOne TheFifth idk what’s hard to understand? A GENETIC MUTATION has nothing to do with drinking OR drugs during pregnancy. And she said in this interview she stopped taking drugs and slowed down in smoking. (Btw if she quit smoking cold turkey it could cause a miscarriage) so she did things the right way for her specific case. You can’t blame her for something that’s out of her control. Some people are just dealt a bad hand. Like babies born with their heart outside their chest. So sad.
It's amazing how she did everything she could to make sure thy Rocky didn't miss out on a thing in life...that he lived each stage of life as a normal kid at that stage and didn't miss out on life, no matter how long or short that life was.
I always thought Cher did an incredible job in this movie but seeing the real Rusty and how she talked and everything just shows how great an actress Cher really is
She really is such a good actress.... I read this article about Cher's correspondence with Rusty . When she met her Rust went to show Cher a class picture of Rocky from his school pictures . She said she pointed Rocky out for Cher . Cher said right there she knew that she truly didn't see him as any different than any other child and that helped her relate to her character....she did such a good job....
Cher really is a mother in that movie, and I loved Garth's character so so much, I felt the love, such a genuine heartfelt performance, I loved them both💞💞💞💞💞💞🇦🇺 interviewers need to separate the woman from the movie, I don't believe they meant malice, just a little nervous and unprepared 🙂🤷♀️✌💞💞💞.
“Self-pity is a detrimental emotion.” - Rusty. I think that is something today’s world needs to hear and chew on. What a remarkable woman. Loved the movie.
I completely agree with that statement. I just found out some unfortunate medical news from my doctor and I told my husband I was hesitant to tell certain people because I didn’t want pity. However when she said sometimes you just know things and don’t have to learn them. She lost me a bit lol especially in this context.
Most of the time all i do is cry. Sometimes tears just feel. I don't show it to people. Never, i dont think how unfortunate my life is rather the opposite, but I'm just like sad. Does it count as self pity?
@@2Bsyn I resonate with your comment as I also cry in solitude often. I don't believe it qualifies as self-pity...life is just miserable for a lot of people. As long as we're progressively working towards a goal that will better our lives, as opposed to completely giving up on ourselves and doing nothing, then I don't see that as self-pity.
Despite the awful questions she was asked, she kept her composure and handled them like a lady. The world would be a better place if we had more people like her in it.
It wasn't awful, it was honest, and if you notice, people back then did not get offended at every trifling thing. Everybody was thinking what that lady asked, and Rusty wanted to educate people, not act like a victim because some words hurt her delicate sensibilities. This is how people should talk.... without worrying about if every little thing could hurt someones feelings.
@@DybbukDEpsteinthey may not be offensive questions, but if you pay attention those reporters are doing what reporters do now, they're trying not to be offensive. But they suck at their jobs, so that's very clear!
@@staycool163 no, the questions that people are deeming 'offensive" are the ones that came from audience members.... and they were not even offensive then. You can't look at the past through a modern lens. Nothing about this interview was offensive in anyway.
It's 2023 & we need more Rusty Dennis, these days more then ever . Mask is top 10 movies in my lifetime . Edit : Cher was a great pick to play Rusty ! 🔥
Cher even sounded just like her in the movie! Cher was truly Brilliant in this movie! Possibly her finest performance! I think this woman was brilliant in the way she handled this situation with her son and how she expresses herself so eloquently. Very impressive.
Rusty was a tough New Yorker (born in Brooklyn). I loved her attitude & how assertive she was. She knew how to handle the obnoxious questions. Cher was accurate with her portrayal.
Those of us in the life are used to stupid, insensitive questions about motorcycles, drugs & gangs...(for the record, it's a club, not a 'gang') but I don't know how she kept from knocking that woman off her chair when she insinuated that her lifestyle might have caused Rocky's condition...especially after she'd already said at least twice that it was genetic...
@@Road_Rash those questions were asinine. Rusty handle it like a pro. We should all be like Florence. Be who you are. No phony bs. Just straight up. Rip Rusty
@@FrontRowVideo Dont know how you end up with a vhs that has this.... But this is the kind of thing that YT is for. The most important insight into the truth of the real persons... Good job putting it up here.
I'm obsessed with her blunt directness. She's charming and insightful as hell; two redeeming qualities in contrast to the narrow-mindedness of the audience and interviewers.
yah like when blonde lady asks but who taught u that...lol every living being is equipped with the right instincts and spirituality lives in al of us al u have to do is tap into it our dna is ancient all the right things happen in life if we use the right tools... i wish rusty had been my friend i so needed and need someone like her in my life...very sad she died
I love your kindness and compassion, in comments I have grown to realise thankfully there are so many wonderful people like you in this world, RUclips is entertainment some better than others, but the real humanity is the beautiful people in the comments speaking from your hearts, God bless you and everyone like you, you all give me hope, regardless of the interviews or videos, there is so many kind intelligent people in this world. Do you feel these condescending people are mixing up the movie with reality...idiots 🤷♀️🤦♀️💞💞💞👍🇦🇺.
Her poor eyes. You can tell she was suffering so much inside, but her heart remained strong for her children, knowing she’d have to be strong to tell their story.
You can see the pain in her eyes and you can also hear that pain in her voice. I cannot imagine the pain and grief a mother goes through when they lose a child. My heart goes out to all of them. 💜
I didn't read that but I was more focused on the obvious strength of personality and very high level of innate intelligence. I mean this is a biker-chick. How could there not be a streak of pain inside and maybe you have a good perception there, I don't know, She strikes me as a real combo of "spiritual" beliefs, hard medical facts, unusually strong and tough sensibilities that were attracted to and nurtured by an essentially male life style. I relate to her because i was raised mainly by my grandmother who was raised by her father and 5 brothers and was also an extremely tough woman who had a huge sense of humor and self-pity etc was just not in her vocabulary. When she was born in the 1890's they were using horses still. And bikers seem like modern horsemen, at least they used to, automation is ruining about everything human.
It's really beautiful how rusty face & eyes light up when she describes rocky & the way she smiles & looks at her older son when he talks. It's clear to see she deeply loved her boys. ❤
I just wanna smack both interviewers. It’s like they are trying to shame her for her drug use and being a biker. She still managed to be a great mother and raise a great kid under the circumstances life gave to her.
Cher was the perfect person to portray the real Rusty, they have the same voice and tough exterior! Rocky was raised to be the best he could be, and he done that well with the help of his mother's tough love.
She's so naturally unapologetic... it's a breath of fresh air. I love that she doesn't deny thing she's just like look this is what it was this is what I did this is how we lived it is what it is. She had an insight into the universe that all of us strive for but we'll never achieve. I feel like our society needs her more than ever right now.
I thought that also, so I guess cher did a great job, to think Cher do a part so accurate on a person that really is or wasn't known just show's how great 👉 Some actors can be. I would suggest actors focus on acting not politics, from what I have heard from the actors the don't know much at all. But they are doing a great job with ppl getting tired of them all and tuning off no more awards shows for me. It's become a political platform and banner for left liberals.
Most actor's, or actresses will learn the person they are portraying in a role...Cher sounds like Rusty (not the other way around) because Cher studied her role. I agree great fit for the part.
I just wanna reach through my screen and slap those interviewers. A lot of their questions and comments are rude and unnecessary. Rusty handled it well and Cher did a phenomenal job of portraying Rusty
So glad to come across this interview, I don't remember seeing Rusty being interviewed back them. She seems like an incredibly honest, strong and intelligent person.
I think they thought that she was not that smart…I LOVE the fact that she answered with confidence and honesty….not hiding who she is nor allowing them to make her feel ashamed of the life she lives and LOVES
I really think Cher must have met her prior to agreeing to do the movie because she truly did an excellent job portraying this woman. One of the all-time best movies I have ever watched
They did meet which is how Cher got her to a tee in the film Mask. Such a heartbreaking film,I would have loved to have met Roy"Rocky"Dennis and shook his hand,what an intelligent,kind,caring young man he was. Bless his heart,such a shame he left us at such a young age.
This woman. ❤️ She was something. A hero. I wish I could have known her. I can't believe I got to actually see her and hear her voice!!!! Thank you so much for this!!!!!!!!
I watched this movie about Rockyn when it first came out. Today is the first time I saw this interview. Rocky and his Mom were both incredible people. May God keep Rocky and Rusty in his Eternal Loving Embrace ❤ ❤
She was a great mother. He was a great kid. She was the reason he had so much confidence in himself. They were good for each other. May they both RIP or shall I say alav ha-shalom. ♥
She is a MARVELOUS woman...!!! My god just a gem of a mother to have. I bet a lot of mom's are envious of her outlook on life. And the life she chose her son to live while he was with us. God bless him and her. Learn something from this folks. It's truly inspiring.
Sadly her elder son josh also died very young. Infact about a year after this interview. And rusty herself died in hospital after a motorcycle crash. Very troubled but gracious lady who whose spirit was captured perfectly by cher
Well in school he was tormented , we were friends and he asked me one day why no one liked him , I said because they don’t know you , later on a group of kids asked me why I wasn’t afraid of him and why are we friends , I said because he is really nice and they soon started playing with him which made me so happy , he would run and play and yell for me to come play but I couldn’t because my little brother was dying , rip Roy my friend and David my brother
I hate how they are asking rusty how she felt that her son was different? Really? I loved her answer. He was her son when your a mother you love your children period.
Respect ; Rocky's mother is true to herself, straight up & honest about herself & lifestyle. Most people would dodge the questions she was asked but she didn't & no matter how people in society judge others she was a wonderful mother, my heart goes out to her & I hope she found peace with his passing , as any parent who has lost a child its one of the most difficult that one could ever experience
I had the pleasure of speaking to Rusty years before her death.It was always a dream of mine to tell her how much Rocky ment to me.I looked her up online and was able to tell her.
I agree Cher nailed this part and a lot of people criticize Rusty but I feel like she was a good mom and definitely loved her kids . Her methods of parenting might not of been traditional but she was meant to be Rockys mom....
Where do you mean Rusty was very intelligent TOO? Cher's supported Beijing Biden and as a result the gasoline prices across the country are through the roof because we are no longer energy independent as we were under Trump. The inflation in general is ridiculous. Anyone with two brain cells would have this was going to happen. Cher is a self-centered self-absorbed radical left-wing Democrat communist... and those are her good points!!!
As a man with physical impairments myself, I completely relate to Rocky; being different is isolating and just to make real friends is challenging enough
Don't ever give up, though, hun. Not everyone is narrow minded, not everyone is judgmental. I am 100% positive you are just as epic as anyone else. Don't let anything define you except your character. And if you have a good character, your physical appearance makes no difference to those of us with open minds and hearts. Big hugs.
Rocky became a legendary character in the late eighties. Mostly from The cult film Mask, which was Cher's best thing she ever did. Underrated film and journey.
She was meant for him and vice versa nobody else would have done a better job mothering him..She's awesome hands down she's straight from the gate ..God bless her and RIP Rocky..and for the record I taught my girls to be kind and make friends with kids that are different or nobody likes never be a jerk like the other kids!
Oh you can see such resemblance with Chers character and the mom. Cher was definitely the best actress to play this role. Love this mom, her positive attitude towards Rocky’s disability is how all moms with disabled/handicapped kids need to be. Always advocating for her boy!
I would have been friends with him. I wouldn’t care what he looked like. And I wouldn’t hide it from anyone! All I can do now is hope that the family has reunited and Rocky has met his maker and some of his baseball idols!
@@CHA-CHA- good to hear that you was friends with rocky ,I only wish that I knew rocky as I would of loved to have known rocky and been friends with him he seemed so genuine and laid back it would of been an honour to have known him
That's sort of my outlook on life If you listen to the doom that's been assigned to you well ofcourse you are doomed I just dont think about it and live On my terms Each and every one of us Our existence and lives are OUR REALITIES I spent a whole bunch of time imprisoned by the opinions of people who could care less about me So this is my life now Its MY LIFE I'm FREE I only wish this freedom for everybody!
@@Nick-zn1vj That's AMAZING That You Are Free , Now🥰🥰In My Mind, There Is ALWAYS A Loop Playing In My Head, Telling Me How Awful I Am, I'm This,That-- ALL Negatives, I'm Trying Really Hard To Stop It,I Have To Start Praying On It.Many PRAYER'SNLUV 👼👼💝💝
I noticed how much everyone relaxed the more they talked about Rocky. It took on a whole new show of how more personable his life was and it wasn't about his physical thing but more like a tribute to a incredible human he was.
The fact she lost her son and would lose her other son 2 years after this interview, is heartbreaking. Joshua had less than 2 years to live after this interview. We have no idea what happens, if anything, after death, but personally hope she's laughing in heaven with her 2 boys, healthy, free and happy.
DAMN. NOBODY deserves to suffer this much in life. Poor woman. I'd do drugs, too! No matter what she did to help herself cope, she put her kids first and loved them deeply. My deepest RESPECT to Rusty.
@@breshannondevereaux5712 But Rusty had the right outlook on life- she said herself after Joshua's death that both her kids lived life to the fullest. She found comfort in that. Of course it must've been hard to lose them but at least she didn't become bitter about it - not that I had blamed her if she did!
@@breshannondevereaux5712 I know right. Then she lost Joshua who was a completely healthy person but then stupid epidemic that sweeped the nation and targeted poor gay people. Took his life. It's very sad. He was gay and Rusty always excepted him too. She was an amazing mom. And the people judging her for the drugs are very stupid. All the stress she doubt with. We all probably would have done the same. She was a strong woman!
@@mariahmueller579 That's devastating. I didn't know that. This is the first I knew that Rocky even had a brother, let alone that he would pass shortly after this interview.
Someone ounce said we are what our mother's made us. And this was a great example. This is the first time I've seen her in a interview and what a great mother she was to Rocky and Cher nailed it.
Some people are judgemental about her addiction. But addiction is something we all deal with in some way. She was the perfect mother for Rocky. And I wish I had a mother like her. A mother who would always fight for me and never give up on me. To teach me to never feel sorry for myself.
@@GrayWoIf that may be bc he may have wanted to hook up with her..she was dating Dorothy Stratton during which hee ex came and killed her and himself,he was reeling from that when MASK WAS MADE..the dvd hansyhe original musical track which originally was all Springsteen,the theatrical movie was but the vhs tape wasn't,,I would have liked to have the fun house music included in the soundtrack,,The Moog And Me ny Dick Hyman
I look for this movie on TV often, but they don’t play it. Haven’t seen it in years. It’s a great movie. The entire cast did an excellent job. It should have won more awards.
Rocky was an amazing inspiration for ppl with disabilities he could have been a terrific teacher for kids with special needs & I wanna thank you miss rusty Dennis for raising this amazing dude may your souls reat with the angels 🤘
I’ve been intrigued by Rocky’s story, ever since I saw the movie, “Mask.” My sister had seen this original, interview, back when it aired. I, for years, was hoping to catch it, however, was never able to find it, anywhere. Thanks a million for posting this on RUclips. I never thought I’d ever get to see and hear Rocky’s mom and brother, tell their stories. I was impressed with Rusty’s intelligence and honesty. Rest In Peace, Rocky, Rusty and Joshua.
Bikers represent freedom and family this is a strong woman and a tremendous example of a mother , regardless of her lifestyle or substance use . I can imagine tho Rocky didnt have a dad around that he knew he was loved and thats what i love most about his story
Everyone should watch this interview ♥️💯.What a strong and beautiful woman, sadly she died about a year after this interview in a motorcycle accident, bless you Rusty, now your with both your boys in Heaven ❤️
Joshua died in 1987, aids 2 years after interview. Rusty's accident was in 2006, she died of infection about one month after accident, 21 years after interview.
Wow she is so evolved even when Joshua sort of “calls her out” about being conscious of people’s outer flaws she agrees that she had those tendencies but gracefully accepts the criticism ❤❤ what am amazing woman
This story also shows very strongly, never make the mistake of judging people by there mistakes but how they overcome them. They can actually teach us the most 💞💞💞💞💞💞🇦🇺✌🙂.
Rest in peace Rocky. In these 16 years you spent among us you definitely thought us lessons that probably no school can teach us! Thank you! You and your mom will forever remembered as Heroes!
I watched this movie for the first time when I was a little boy, now I'm 40 ... I will never forget, my dream has always been to visit his grave, visit the area where he lived, unfortunately I'm from Poland, it's too far away.
@@nightynightshade My parents' neighbor is a biker. I've known him for about 20 years. He's part of a biker "gang". I'm a gay man and I've hung out with his "crew". They're all nice and accepting. As long as you don't f*ck them or one of their own over.
Хобби
Why didn't anybody clap when she said I have been sober for almost a year? Rusty this is for you👏👏👏👏♥️♥️♥️♥️.
Almost a year isn't that long.
Maybe because she really didn’t appear to be sober! Idk
Sobriety wasn't the big thing it is now. Substance abuse still had a stigma, and the idea that it was a disease hadn't gained mainstream acceptance yet. Rehab centers weren't as prevalent. Druggies were still the butt of jokes, and nobody thought you deserved a cookie if you told them you were sober. In Rusty's case she doesn't seem apologetic about her drug use, and says Rocky "Loved to party", so it's possible she even condoned and facilitated his drug use.
@@Fire_ov_Renewal6 months is a long time for a an addict to be clean a years even better
She was made to be his Mother. What a strong woman.
Absolutely ♥️ she was an amazing mom in the truest sense of the word
@@rubygirl2143rd3³
Rocky should have gotten Diana knocked up and made her mother's life a living hell.
@ElderOne TheFifth No, it was genetic. He was one of only six cases ever.
@ElderOne TheFifth idk what’s hard to understand? A GENETIC MUTATION has nothing to do with drinking OR drugs during pregnancy. And she said in this interview she stopped taking drugs and slowed down in smoking. (Btw if she quit smoking cold turkey it could cause a miscarriage) so she did things the right way for her specific case. You can’t blame her for something that’s out of her control. Some people are just dealt a bad hand. Like babies born with their heart outside their chest. So sad.
“he read because he didn’t believe in being blind”. truly inspirational.
It's amazing how she did everything she could to make sure thy Rocky didn't miss out on a thing in life...that he lived each stage of life as a normal kid at that stage and didn't miss out on life, no matter how long or short that life was.
I always thought Cher did an incredible job in this movie but seeing the real Rusty and how she talked and everything just shows how great an actress Cher really is
She really is such a good actress....
I read this article about Cher's correspondence with Rusty . When she met her Rust went to show Cher a class picture of Rocky from his school pictures . She said she pointed Rocky out for Cher . Cher said right there she knew that she truly didn't see him as any different than any other child and that helped her relate to her character....she did such a good job....
Yes she probably won the Oscar based on this more than Moonstruck.Sometimes when they realize they screwed up they do that.
Was about to comment this..love this movie and grew up nearby. Love Cher too
I fully agree!!!
Cher really is a mother in that movie, and I loved Garth's character so so much, I felt the love, such a genuine heartfelt performance, I loved them both💞💞💞💞💞💞🇦🇺 interviewers need to separate the woman from the movie, I don't believe they meant malice, just a little nervous and unprepared 🙂🤷♀️✌💞💞💞.
Well one thing was clear with Rusty…. She sure didn’t pretend to be anything except what she was. She was honest and very forthcoming about her life.
Someone who shares that personality trait is Cher. They both have/had that no-bullshit thing going on. Love that!
Shows integrity that she's so open about her story. The good, the bad, the ugly, she doesn't make airs & try to downplay the life she lived.
@maemae
Dennis didnt choose to be who he was. Chaz chose to be trans its a big difference.
@@brianbailey4540 I know some trans people who would disagree with you but that’s beside the point. A mother should love her child no matter what.
@@brianbailey4540 People don't choose to be trans, though
It's literally brain chemistry lol
“Self-pity is a detrimental emotion.” - Rusty. I think that is something today’s world needs to hear and chew on. What a remarkable woman. Loved the movie.
I completely agree with that statement. I just found out some unfortunate medical news from my doctor and I told my husband I was hesitant to tell certain people because I didn’t want pity. However when she said sometimes you just know things and don’t have to learn them. She lost me a bit lol especially in this context.
Most of the time all i do is cry. Sometimes tears just feel. I don't show it to people. Never, i dont think how unfortunate my life is rather the opposite, but I'm just like sad. Does it count as self pity?
@@2Bsyn I resonate with your comment as I also cry in solitude often. I don't believe it qualifies as self-pity...life is just miserable for a lot of people. As long as we're progressively working towards a goal that will better our lives, as opposed to completely giving up on ourselves and doing nothing, then I don't see that as self-pity.
God chose the perfect mom for Rocky. What a gift she was given!
She was a druggie
Facts
Despite the awful questions she was asked, she kept her composure and handled them like a lady. The world would be a better place if we had more people like her in it.
I would expect nothing less from Rocky's mom, actually, but yeah, a lot of those questions were a little on the intrusive side.
@@vickenatorthey were downright rude and the movie answered these things clearly. The old bitch asking the questions clearly enjoyed insulting her...
It wasn't awful, it was honest, and if you notice, people back then did not get offended at every trifling thing. Everybody was thinking what that lady asked, and Rusty wanted to educate people, not act like a victim because some words hurt her delicate sensibilities. This is how people should talk.... without worrying about if every little thing could hurt someones feelings.
@@DybbukDEpsteinthey may not be offensive questions, but if you pay attention those reporters are doing what reporters do now, they're trying not to be offensive. But they suck at their jobs, so that's very clear!
@@staycool163 no, the questions that people are deeming 'offensive" are the ones that came from audience members.... and they were not even offensive then. You can't look at the past through a modern lens. Nothing about this interview was offensive in anyway.
It's 2023 & we need more Rusty Dennis, these days more then ever . Mask is top 10 movies in my lifetime .
Edit : Cher was a great pick to play Rusty ! 🔥
🎉❤TRUE!! #ILuvCher❣️💯
Mask is my #1 movie . Cher never looked prettier than she did in that movie. And Sam Elliott is just delicious, especially as gar.
Great story, great movie.
I have a feeling Cher has same beliefs and attitudes as Rusty or she learned from her.
Cher even sounded just like her in the movie! Cher was truly Brilliant in this movie! Possibly her finest performance! I think this woman was brilliant in the way she handled this situation with her son and how she expresses herself so eloquently. Very impressive.
This woman was a class act. God Bless Rocky and Rusty
Together for Eternity.
The older son died of AIDS at 32. Imagine outliving both of your kids. Her strength is truly inspiring
What a strong woman!
I had no idea that she had an older son until today! Yep, a parent should never outlive her kids. Rusty was strong indeed
***from a blood transfusion***
My heart would be forever broken. She was truly inspiring. 😔
@@danni1993 That sucks, and it's scary how many times it happens.
Rusty was a tough New Yorker (born in Brooklyn). I loved her attitude & how assertive she was. She knew how to handle the obnoxious questions. Cher was accurate with her portrayal.
Absolutely!
Those of us in the life are used to stupid, insensitive questions about motorcycles, drugs & gangs...(for the record, it's a club, not a 'gang') but I don't know how she kept from knocking that woman off her chair when she insinuated that her lifestyle might have caused Rocky's condition...especially after she'd already said at least twice that it was genetic...
@@Road_Rash those questions were asinine. Rusty handle it like a pro. We should all be like Florence. Be who you are. No phony bs. Just straight up. Rip Rusty
@@FrontRowVideo
Dont know how you end up with a vhs that has this....
But this is the kind of thing that YT is for.
The most important insight into the truth of the real persons...
Good job putting it up here.
Native NYer here (although currently living in MN) and I agree.
I'm obsessed with her blunt directness. She's charming and insightful as hell; two redeeming qualities in contrast to the narrow-mindedness of the audience and interviewers.
Yes!! Thank you for mentioning the stupid audience and interviewers. They know it was a HOLLYWOOD movie right????
I noticed engineer people have that way of getting to the point. Analytical thinking skills
I thought that the Interviewers were out of line and rude during much of the Interview.
@@HoldenNY22 that’s up for the guests to take offense
yah like when blonde lady asks but who taught u that...lol every living being is equipped with the right instincts and spirituality lives in al of us al u have to do is tap into it our dna is ancient all the right things happen in life if we use the right tools... i wish rusty had been my friend i so needed and need someone like her in my life...very sad she died
The ignorant, rude questions asked by interviewers back then....this kid's mom was so much of a better person than most
I agree,she beat all the odds!
It’s just that time period, may sound rude but we all wanted to hear her answer. Tougher times than having to please everyone these days.
I love your kindness and compassion, in comments I have grown to realise thankfully there are so many wonderful people like you in this world, RUclips is entertainment some better than others, but the real humanity is the beautiful people in the comments speaking from your hearts, God bless you and everyone like you, you all give me hope, regardless of the interviews or videos, there is so many kind intelligent people in this world. Do you feel these condescending people are mixing up the movie with reality...idiots 🤷♀️🤦♀️💞💞💞👍🇦🇺.
"Did you think you were being punished?" I literally cringed. So ignorant🤦♀️
I thought the same .
She makes the interviewers look silly, so matter of fact. Bravo.
How were the interviewers being "silly"? They were just doing their job of asking questions.
Rocky genuinely seemed like a great guy
With her for a mother, no way he wouldn't be wonderful. ❤️❤️❤️
Whatever. You don't know nothing.
@@rockydennis2662 that was a compliment lol.
@@AnAdorableWombat I'm a surly person
Seemed how? You met him? Or thru a hollyweird movie
Her poor eyes. You can tell she was suffering so much inside, but her heart remained strong for her children, knowing she’d have to be strong to tell their story.
Her eyes, no matter how many times she smiled during the interview. Her eyes were just broken, but she fought.
And lost her other son just two years after he appeared here. 😔
heartbroken
You can see the pain in her eyes and you can also hear that pain in her voice. I cannot imagine the pain and grief a mother goes through when they lose a child. My heart goes out to all of them. 💜
Never read a book by its cover it's just the weed 😜
I didn't read that but I was more focused on the obvious strength of personality and very high level of innate intelligence. I mean this is a biker-chick. How could there not be a streak of pain inside and maybe you have a good perception there, I don't know, She strikes me as a real combo of "spiritual" beliefs, hard medical facts, unusually strong and tough sensibilities that were attracted to and nurtured by an essentially male life style.
I relate to her because i was raised mainly by my grandmother who was raised by her father and 5 brothers and was also an extremely tough woman who had a huge sense of humor and self-pity etc was just not in her vocabulary. When she was born in the 1890's they were using horses still. And bikers seem like modern horsemen, at least they used to, automation is ruining about everything human.
R.I.P Dusty and Rocky. Hope the two of you are eternally reunited. You were the epitome of strength.
Not to mention her other son that also passed away
Rusty and Joshua and Rocky rest peacefully 😢
Rusty can teach us a lot. She should have been a speaker to all struggling with life’s troubles.
I totally agree!
I read an old article that she did to speeches for a short while. Must've been inspiring to attend.
She abused drugs.
I agree to bad she has passed
One thing about Rusty Dennis she was very well spoken and smarter than people thought she was and she was a great mom to,rip Rusty and Joshua.
It's really beautiful how rusty face & eyes light up when she describes rocky & the way she smiles & looks at her older son when he talks. It's clear to see she deeply loved her boys. ❤
I just wanna smack both interviewers. It’s like they are trying to shame her for her drug use and being a biker. She still managed to be a great mother and raise a great kid under the circumstances life gave to her.
Rusty is so incredibly well spoken and articulate. I could listen to her interviews for hours
Cher was the perfect person to portray the real Rusty, they have the same voice and tough exterior! Rocky was raised to be the best he could be, and he done that well with the help of his mother's tough love.
I closed my eyes and listen to Rusty speak and I can hear Cher
Right on. I know Cher was in other movies but she should of acted more
She's so naturally unapologetic... it's a breath of fresh air. I love that she doesn't deny thing she's just like look this is what it was this is what I did this is how we lived it is what it is. She had an insight into the universe that all of us strive for but we'll never achieve. I feel like our society needs her more than ever right now.
She's so dam honest , you just gotta love her for it.bless her heart
She even sounds like Cher. Cher was made for that role.
But she looks nothing like her.
I thought that also, so I guess cher did a great job, to think Cher do a part so accurate on a person that really is or wasn't known just show's how great 👉 Some actors can be.
I would suggest actors focus on acting not politics, from what I have heard from the actors the don't know much at all. But they are doing a great job with ppl getting tired of them all and tuning off no more awards shows for me. It's become a political platform and banner for left liberals.
I just watched it 100pct agreed .
Cheers
Most actor's, or actresses will learn the person they are portraying in a role...Cher sounds like Rusty (not the other way around) because Cher studied her role. I agree great fit for the part.
The picture of Rusty and Rocky in the white shirt , Cher looks like she could be her sister
Rusty was a badass person. A very strong women. She may be gone but her spirit remains
I just wanna reach through my screen and slap those interviewers. A lot of their questions and comments are rude and unnecessary. Rusty handled it well and Cher did a phenomenal job of portraying Rusty
this is how interviewing was back in those days on them talk shows but of course in today's sensitive society such questions wouldn't be tolerated 🙄
Rusty went through so much loss. First Rocky, and then she lost Joshua to AIDS. She was a tough cookie, that's for sure.
who Joshua I don’t remember that name
@@buttermybiscuitstillyoufry8263 Her other son.
Did you not watch this video? He’s literally in it.
She has multiple narratives. Her older son could be told in a movie of sort.
Oh no!
So glad to come across this interview, I don't remember seeing Rusty being interviewed back them. She seems like an incredibly honest, strong and intelligent person.
She handled herself so well in this interview. She truly was an intelligent and amazing woman! RIP, Rusty.
❤❤❤
I think they thought that she was not that smart…I LOVE the fact that she answered with confidence and honesty….not hiding who she is nor allowing them to make her feel ashamed of the life she lives and LOVES
What an adorable baby boy! Rest in heaven Rocky
Thanks
@@rockydennis2662 awwww 🤗
@@rockydennis2662 rip buddy 🙏 😢 💔
Halloween was all year long for him.
I really think Cher must have met her prior to agreeing to do the movie because she truly did an excellent job portraying this woman. One of the all-time best movies I have ever watched
They did meet, and Cher should've been nominated for an Oscar. I'll always love Mask, my first memory of seeing Cher. 🤩
Rusty did say that they talked 3 times, talking for hours.
They did meet which is how Cher got her to a tee in the film Mask. Such a heartbreaking film,I would have loved to have met Roy"Rocky"Dennis and shook his hand,what an intelligent,kind,caring young man he was. Bless his heart,such a shame he left us at such a young age.
This lady obviously had her own demons but she did brilliantly for her boy…..what an intelligent, strong women.
She could’ve done brilliantly for both of them
Cher's portrayal of Rusty Dennis is her absolute finest acting imo & Mask is a fantastic film.
This woman. ❤️ She was something. A hero. I wish I could have known her. I can't believe I got to actually see her and hear her voice!!!! Thank you so much for this!!!!!!!!
Your hero was a drug addicted mom? You're a clown
I watched this movie about Rockyn when it first came out. Today is the first time I saw this interview. Rocky and his Mom were both incredible people. May God keep Rocky and Rusty in his Eternal Loving Embrace ❤ ❤
Well she did leave her child alone to go gamble lol
@@mmhmmmyearight7183 You don’t say?
@elizabethschreffler9182 Yes. Also, the brother who died of AIDS from a blood transfusion at 32. RIP to all.. 🙏
Such a courageous woman and family. This film will always be a hit. R.I.P Rocky
“You just treated him like a regular little boy? What an ignorant and rude lady to ask such a question
As opposed to sheltering from cruel people who would hurt him with their stares and words. I don't think she was trying to be rude.
Exactly rude
"He WAS a regular boy!"
You tell her! Such a stupid question!!
God rest her soul. She lived a hard life with much heartache but remained a trooper.
Wow...seeing this interview makes me realize Cher really nailed this performance. 👏
Absolutely. Cher is great!
She was a great mother. He was a great kid. She was the reason he had so much confidence in himself. They were good for each other. May they both RIP or shall I say alav ha-shalom. ♥
I am 42 i saw this movie when I was a young girl I never have forgotten Rocky Dennis or his momma. I am glad I came across this interview
Cher was the perfect actress to play Rusty. She did so well with Rusty's personality and showed her strength well! No one could've done it better.
Absolutely!
@@FrontRowVideoThank you for posting this! ❤❤❤
I miss television like this.. natural, live and not hardcore scripted... And not the same celebrities over and over
She is a MARVELOUS woman...!!! My god just a gem of a mother to have. I bet a lot of mom's are envious of her outlook on life. And the life she chose her son to live while he was with us. God bless him and her. Learn something from this folks. It's truly inspiring.
Rusty was an amazing lady and the relationship between her and Rocky was so precious and heartbreaking.... Cher was awesome.....
She was an incredible person.
Strong woman proud woman, not afraid of anything or anyone. She wasn't a regular mom but she definitely was a really good mom 💙
Punished for something? Wtf kind of question is that!? Her son was a blessing not punishment!
Absolutely! He was a great kid! They were good for each other. People were so ignorant back then.
Completely disgusting thing to say. Everything about the 80s was so obnoxious.
Hear, hear.
Thought the same thing, what kind of rude question is that??
I felt that was a lowkey/Obvious dig~insinuation that her lifestyle and choices were "unsavory/etc" it was pretty low imho
Sadly her elder son josh also died very young. Infact about a year after this interview. And rusty herself died in hospital after a motorcycle crash. Very troubled but gracious lady who whose spirit was captured perfectly by cher
I did not know that. I thought the movie was wonderful! Sad how they all died young..
That's such a tragedy that Josh died soon after this interview and then Rusty died to that their whole family is gone sad
@@lorraineroberts3035 That is so sad. How did Josh die?
@@carolyndavis1045 aids
@@carolyndavis1045 I read it was AIDS
I love this woman. She is so honest and raw and you could tell how much she loved and adored Rocky. Mask is one of my favorite movies.
Well in school he was tormented , we were friends and he asked me one day why no one liked him , I said because they don’t know you , later on a group of kids asked me why I wasn’t afraid of him and why are we friends , I said because he is really nice and they soon started playing with him which made me so happy , he would run and play and yell for me to come play but I couldn’t because my little brother was dying , rip Roy my friend and David my brother
Was that your character in the movie that befriended him in school?
who is Roy?
@@tashajeffers613 Roy Dennis is rocky , rocky is a nickname
RIP Rusty, Rocky and Joshua ❤️🙏
They are in the hands of the lord 🙏 rip too the family 👪 🙏 😢 💔 😔
& Rube Walker
This lady is one heck of an amazing mother. Rocky was and still is an inspirational person! 🙏🌹
I hate how they are asking rusty how she felt that her son was different? Really? I loved her answer. He was her son when your a mother you love your children period.
@Zsuzsanna Varga no, judgier more ignorant times
@@NYD666 simpler doesnt mean better, it was simpler.
@@imadeyoureadthis1500 ok that’s so true.
her son seemed normal to me... i don't understand why people focus so much on how a person looks
THAT is how it SHOULD be. However there are parents who have No parental instincts- which I personally cannot fathom
Respect ; Rocky's mother is true to herself, straight up & honest about herself & lifestyle. Most people would dodge the questions she was asked but she didn't & no matter how people in society judge others she was a wonderful mother, my heart goes out to her & I hope she found peace with his passing , as any parent who has lost a child its one of the most difficult that one could ever experience
I had the pleasure of speaking to Rusty years before her death.It was always a dream of mine to tell her how much Rocky ment to me.I looked her up online and was able to tell her.
What did she say to you?
She told me alot about Rocky.We talked about addiction. I'm a recovering alcoholic.
She gave me her number. We talked on the phone
@@colleenhoperue5538 Very cool. And even cooler you overcame your addiction. Kudos to you :)
Thank you-sober since june 1 2018 one day at a time
That right here shows the love a mother’s unconditional love... Cher played the part of Rusty soooo on point. Rusty was very intelligent too...
I agree Cher nailed this part and a lot of people criticize Rusty but I feel like she was a good mom and definitely loved her kids . Her methods of parenting might not of been traditional but she was meant to be Rockys mom....
Right?! she was a phenomenal mother. Nothing in the world like a mother's love (a good mother, that is).
Exactly! A great mom with a great son.
Where do you mean Rusty was very intelligent TOO? Cher's supported Beijing Biden and as a result the gasoline prices across the country are through the roof because we are no longer energy independent as we were under Trump. The inflation in general is ridiculous. Anyone with two brain cells would have this was going to happen. Cher is a self-centered self-absorbed radical left-wing Democrat communist... and those are her good points!!!
As a man with physical impairments myself, I completely relate to Rocky; being different is isolating and just to make real friends is challenging enough
I accept you. 🙌
Don't ever give up, though, hun. Not everyone is narrow minded, not everyone is judgmental. I am 100% positive you are just as epic as anyone else. Don't let anything define you except your character. And if you have a good character, your physical appearance makes no difference to those of us with open minds and hearts. Big hugs.
Rest in peace Rocky, Joshua and Rusty. What Inspiring story.
Rocky became a legendary character in the late eighties. Mostly from The cult film Mask, which was Cher's best thing she ever did. Underrated film and journey.
Intelligence ran deep inside of this woman /mother. Joshua is no different RIP to all three of them.
She was meant for him and vice versa nobody else would have done a better job mothering him..She's awesome hands down she's straight from the gate ..God bless her and RIP Rocky..and for the record I taught my girls to be kind and make friends with kids that are different or nobody likes never be a jerk like the other kids!
Oh you can see such resemblance with Chers character and the mom. Cher was definitely the best actress to play this role. Love this mom, her positive attitude towards Rocky’s disability is how all moms with disabled/handicapped kids need to be. Always advocating for her boy!
Please dont judge Rusty.Nobody is perfect. r.i.p. Rusty,I will never forget you. I know your proud of me I stopped drinking.
Omg she died??? 😳
Yeah in 2006 from a motorcycle accident
😓❤
@@colleenhoperue5538 💔😢
No she died of infection
I would have been friends with him. I wouldn’t care what he looked like. And I wouldn’t hide it from anyone! All I can do now is hope that the family has reunited and Rocky has met his maker and some of his baseball idols!
Maybe he wouldn’t be friends with you , he wasn’t starving for friends !
I was friends with him
Res you are wrong , the kids were cruel to him
Yeah I didn’t know how to respond to that first comment there. I wasn’t raised in the 70s and I couldn’t guess who would like me or not!.
@@CHA-CHA- good to hear that you was friends with rocky ,I only wish that I knew rocky as I would of loved to have known rocky and been friends with him he seemed so genuine and laid back it would of been an honour to have known him
She so gets it. It only works if you comply with it. "He/we don't believe in being blind." Amazing.
That's sort of my outlook on life If you listen to the doom that's been assigned to you well ofcourse you are doomed I just dont think about it and live On my terms Each and every one of us Our existence and lives are OUR REALITIES I spent a whole bunch of time imprisoned by the opinions of people who could care less about me So this is my life now Its MY LIFE I'm FREE I only wish this freedom for everybody!
@@Nick-zn1vj That's AMAZING That You Are Free , Now🥰🥰In My Mind, There Is ALWAYS A Loop Playing In My Head, Telling Me How Awful I Am, I'm This,That-- ALL Negatives, I'm Trying Really Hard To Stop It,I Have To Start Praying On It.Many PRAYER'SNLUV 👼👼💝💝
I really like her. She seems so real and down to earth, someone easy to talk to. Thank you so much for posting this video.
I noticed how much everyone relaxed the more they talked about Rocky. It took on a whole new show of how more personable his life was and it wasn't about his physical thing but more like a tribute to a incredible human he was.
The fact she lost her son and would lose her other son 2 years after this interview, is heartbreaking. Joshua had less than 2 years to live after this interview. We have no idea what happens, if anything, after death, but personally hope she's laughing in heaven with her 2 boys, healthy, free and happy.
DAMN. NOBODY deserves to suffer this much in life. Poor woman. I'd do drugs, too! No matter what she did to help herself cope, she put her kids first and loved them deeply. My deepest RESPECT to Rusty.
@@breshannondevereaux5712 But Rusty had the right outlook on life- she said herself after Joshua's death that both her kids lived life to the fullest. She found comfort in that. Of course it must've been hard to lose them but at least she didn't become bitter about it - not that I had blamed her if she did!
@@mybiz2167 Excellent observation! You are SO RIGHT! Most of us would've adopted a " victim" attitude and become bitter. Thanks for your comment!
@@breshannondevereaux5712 I know right. Then she lost Joshua who was a completely healthy person but then stupid epidemic that sweeped the nation and targeted poor gay people. Took his life. It's very sad. He was gay and Rusty always excepted him too. She was an amazing mom. And the people judging her for the drugs are very stupid. All the stress she doubt with. We all probably would have done the same. She was a strong woman!
@@mariahmueller579 That's devastating. I didn't know that. This is the first I knew that Rocky even had a brother, let alone that he would pass shortly after this interview.
Rocky was a lucky kid to have such a great mother!
Someone ounce said we are what our mother's made us. And this was a great example. This is the first time I've seen her in a interview and what a great mother she was to Rocky and Cher nailed it.
Some people are judgemental about her addiction. But addiction is something we all deal with in some way. She was the perfect mother for Rocky. And I wish I had a mother like her. A mother who would always fight for me and never give up on me. To teach me to never feel sorry for myself.
i weep at the end of Mask,Cher did her best work
That was a great movie!
The director hated her and said she couldn't act
Its the only movie that made me sob uncontrollably.
@@helixmoore7636 same here.. Cher is a great actress
@@GrayWoIf that may be bc he may have wanted to hook up with her..she was dating Dorothy Stratton during which hee ex came and killed her and himself,he was reeling from that when MASK WAS MADE..the dvd hansyhe original musical track which originally was all Springsteen,the theatrical movie was but the vhs tape wasn't,,I would have liked to have the fun house music included in the soundtrack,,The Moog And Me ny Dick Hyman
I look for this movie on TV often, but they don’t play it. Haven’t seen it in years. It’s a great movie. The entire cast did an excellent job. It should have won more awards.
Jest na CDA wczoraj obejrzałam.
Rocky was an amazing inspiration for ppl with disabilities he could have been a terrific teacher for kids with special needs & I wanna thank you miss rusty Dennis for raising this amazing dude may your souls reat with the angels 🤘
Rest in light, Rusty and Rocky.
And Joshua❤
I was 16 when Mask was released and i seen it the first time on cable. Cher's and Eric Stoltz's performance was so amazing. Great Movie ! 👍
How was the video quality did it look like this ? What else do u remember about the 80s 😍
I knew some guys in California who knew Rocky Dennis and told me how he looked much worse than the movie..
@@DrOiDjp A whole lot of things. The 80's was my favorite decade my teen years.
@@joejacobs3537 Yeah, That is sad.
@@karlastafford9623 A guy named Gregg I knew from Azusa said people literally told him to take off his mask..it is sad..
What an incredible mom. Mask is a sad but wonderful movie. Rusty was lucky to have a mom like her
You mean rocky
Thank you for uploading this. I’ve always wanted to see an interview with the real life Rusty to see what she was really like.
I’ve been intrigued by Rocky’s story, ever since I saw the movie, “Mask.” My sister had seen this original, interview, back when it aired. I, for years, was hoping to catch it, however, was never able to find it, anywhere. Thanks a million for posting this on RUclips. I never thought I’d ever get to see and hear Rocky’s mom and brother, tell their stories. I was impressed with Rusty’s intelligence and honesty. Rest In Peace, Rocky, Rusty and Joshua.
Love this mother, rusty is amazing, no wonder Rocky was so smart and put together
I used to watch this movie with my mom when it was on tv as a kid . I still love this movie
She was absolutely the perfect mum for Rocky. May they both rest in peace xx
Bikers represent freedom and family this is a strong woman and a tremendous example of a mother ,
regardless of her lifestyle or substance use .
I can imagine tho Rocky didnt have a dad around that he knew he was loved and thats what i love most about his story
Everyone should watch this interview ♥️💯.What a strong and beautiful woman, sadly she died about a year after this interview in a motorcycle accident, bless you Rusty, now your with both your boys in Heaven ❤️
Joshua died in 1987, aids 2 years after interview. Rusty's accident was in 2006, she died of infection about one month after accident, 21 years after interview.
Wonderful to see Rocky’s Mom and brother. Loved Cher in the movie and the Mom is just as cool & lovable.
Wow she is so evolved even when Joshua sort of “calls her out” about being conscious of people’s outer flaws she agrees that she had those tendencies but gracefully accepts the criticism ❤❤ what am amazing woman
My grandpa used to see rocky around town since he lived in Glendora
Do tell, did he see him doing something interesting?
@@califaern3sto ~ Probably not; he was just a kid with a physical problem.
@@califaern3sto i overheard him saying it while we watched the movie circa “1986. I was 5
So no
Yes, he used to pull quarters out of my ear
@@rockydennis2662 You vile person...I hope misfortune comes your way!
Great interview! She’s a fantastic lady. And a good mother. I love that they released mask on DVD with the original Bruce Springsteen soundtrack.
This story also shows very strongly, never make the mistake of judging people by there mistakes but how they overcome them. They can actually teach us the most 💞💞💞💞💞💞🇦🇺✌🙂.
Rest in peace Rocky. In these 16 years you spent among us you definitely thought us lessons that probably no school can teach us! Thank you! You and your mom will forever remembered as Heroes!
She wasn't the perfect mom. But she was the mom for him. She reached him not to feel sorry for himself. A true inspiration for everybody.
I watched this movie for the first time when I was a little boy, now I'm 40 ... I will never forget, my dream has always been to visit his grave, visit the area where he lived, unfortunately I'm from Poland, it's too far away.
To my understanding, there isn't a grave. She donated his body to science for further studies in genetic disorders.
Bikers crews are a family. The real Rusty seems like a really nice lady.
what are biker crews
@@robbharbeck7627 it’s like a tough yet loving family of bikers. They also tend to be very protective.
@@nightynightshade My parents' neighbor is a biker. I've known him for about 20 years. He's part of a biker "gang". I'm a gay man and I've hung out with his "crew". They're all nice and accepting. As long as you don't f*ck them or one of their own over.
@@robbharbeck7627 don’t ask questions you know the answers too.
Rusty is quite bright and articulate. Cher did a great job portraying her.
We all saw this movie as kids in the '80s. Being nine years old we still understood what was going on. It was the movie of the year then.
I surely don’t miss the vertical problems tvs gave back then . It was a nightmare when your tv started doing it.