Q: Ed Asner was the star of a made-for-TV movie in the 1970s or '80s where he played an alcoholic and had a son who also was an alcoholic. Can you tell me the name of this movie and the actor who played Asner's son?
A: You probably are remembering "Vital Signs" from 1986. Asner played an alcoholic doctor with a doctor son who had a drug problem. The son was played by Gary Cole, who lately has been appearing on "NCIS" as Alden Parker, the replacement for Leroy Jethro Gibbs (Mark Harmon).
Acting is in his blood
Q: I read recently that actor Sam Rockwell celebrated his 53rd birthday. At 88 years old, I am still a fan of the B Westerns of my youth and wondered if Sam Rockwell is related to the character actor Jack Rockwell, who appeared in so many of those old movies.
A: Sam Rockwell, an Oscar winner for his performance in "Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri," does have an acting bloodline, but not one connected to Jack Rockwell. Sam Rockwell is the son of actors Pete Rockwell and Penny Hess.
Turning back 'Timeless'
Q: Our question is about the television show "Timeless." Is there any hope of a revival? Or will someone be streaming the episodes?
A: I do not know of any plans for a revival of the time travel drama. You can find the old episodes streaming on Hulu, including the series finale.
Write to brenfels@gmail.com.
