As we get older, we become more political in terms of survival. We realize a certain amount of cunning is necessary and that you just end up a victim when you are totally honest in an environment where those around you arent. It's a matter of remaining true to yourself while continuing to move forward.

Pernell Roberts

The number one show on television should be the most informative, educational and exciting show. 'Bonanza' is not that show.

Pernell Roberts

I wanted to work strictly as a freelance actor, and that's the way it turned out.

Pernell Roberts

I've never been career-oriented. Did I ever want to be a star? What's a star? Is that something in the heavens? That's the only definition that comes to my mind. And the most important goals in my life have been to move gently, to be at ease with the mystery of what it's all about.

Pernell Roberts

There has been an obvious effort to play it safe, to make 'Bonanza' a good family show that would offend no one and hit a consistent level of mediocrity.

Pernell Roberts

Materialism isn't the panacea that so many people think it is.

Pernell Roberts

As you decline in years, you decline in the marketplace.

Pernell Roberts

I feel I am an aristocrat in my field of endeavor. My being part of 'Bonanza' was like Isaac Stern sitting in with Lawrence Welk.

Pernell Roberts

You don't have to have the capitalistic profit motive philosophy.

Pernell Roberts

My problems with 'Bonanza' were problems of communication. What we discussed would be, never was. I thought it would be a sophisticated show. Instead it never went beyond the comic strip level.

Pernell Roberts

Money Isn't that important to me.

Pernell Roberts

Money isn't that important to me. My needs are primarily artistic. Mainly I'm interested in my own peace of mind, in knowing who I am and what I am.

Pernell Roberts

When money becomes more important than any other standard, then we're all in trouble.

Pernell Roberts

I was so unhappy during the last months on 'Bonanza' I was really neurotic. I was anti-social.

Pernell Roberts

If you're locked into a philosophy of nickels and dimes, then you have a pretty limited approach to life. I don't need a lot of money to live with dignity.

Pernell Roberts

Stuck as Adam Cartwright, I was only able to use about one-tenth of my ability.

Pernell Roberts

I don't have the psychological stamina to last under artistic compromises over a prolonged period of time. I get hostile and vindictive. It wears me down.

Pernell Roberts

I didn't leave 'Bonanza' in pursuit of any particular goal. I left for my own good.

Pernell Roberts

I stay out of typecasting ruts.

Pernell Roberts

I work when, and where I want to.

Pernell Roberts

How much does one person need to live? I've never needed or wanted that much.

Pernell Roberts