Il magnifico King

I was about the same age as Lori Martin when she starred in the TV version of "National Velvet" and I loved horses. I longed to be her, wanting my own horse, desperately. I even dressed like her, wearing blue jeans and checkered button-down shirts and sneakers. I wore my long ash-blond hair the way "Velvet" wore hers. I bought, and read and re-read dozens of times, the few comic books published that were related to the show.

I sat glued once a week to watch "....another lovable adventure of "National Velvet"...". I would then nag my Mom to take me to our local riding stable the next day so I could be Velvet for that one precious hour of a trail ride.

I am now a middle-aged woman who is lucky enough to own three wonderful horses. And every time I saddle one of them up and get ready to ride, I remember how I felt when I watched this wonderful program...that exhilarating feeling that I will never lose, thanks to "National Velvet". I just wish the shows were available on DVD or even on video, I would buy every one of them!

I used to love this show. I had a bad crush on Carole Wells. I remember that beautiful smile at the beginning of the show. Those were really simple days. Neither Lori nor Carole have done much since the 70's, I wonder what ever happened to them. I have searched for the classic DVD's hoping one day to find a couple of shows, but to no avail.

The shows of the era were much simpler than today, the good vs. bad lines were clearly delineated and good always won. Velvet won every race even under insurmountable odds where she looked as if she was about to lose. Lori Martin was the Elizabeth Taylor of the era, a raven-haired-blue-eyed beauty. Other Liz Taylor's were Lynda Carter (Wonder Woman) an Delta Burke.

I agree with the other post that this television series had the most basic good elements for family viewing and was good for all ages. Without the customary killings and explosive special effects we witness in so many of today's film materials you don't have to worry if young folks will be exposed to adult themes in National Velvet. Lori Martin was a pretty plus to this series and did look somewhat like a young Elizabeth Taylor. She went on to work with Gregory Peck, Polly Bergen, and Robert Mitchum, also, in Cape Fear. I am only just now realizing that there must have been a great many kids who liked Lori then, and lots of guys with a crush on her! What more can a viewer ask for; a girl with a great horse, living with family out on a farm or ranch. We need more of these wholesome kinds of entertainment and this series should be released in DVD and preserved. America needs you, Lori!

I was very young and no doubt it would of been a rerun that I had watched, but watch it I did and over that period I would find my self falling deeply in love with then this young lady, Velvet Brown. I have 3 boys and I am nearing the Big 50, and have been looking, searching for this TV Series for some time. As I would love to show my 3 sons the whole series. It maybe a bit old fashion in its appearance and the acting skills would not be of the standard that is expected today. Make no mistake this TV Series still has the every day moral standards that our current young generation need to understand. It delivers good clean fun and always finishes on a high. Try the movie with Elizebeth Taylor in it, as I am sure it can be found, although I can not get yet in Australia.

Maybe we can find Lori Martin (see the "aunt" posts at her profile!)and petition her to do a set of DVDs (I added a FAQ) for this wonderful show. VERY fond memories of dragging the TV into the kitchen when Daddy would get home from work late so we all could watch together while eating our roast beef, mashed potatoes and string beans - or any permutation thereof. My little horse-crazy sister was forever wanting to watch - she was only two and three - and it fixed in her bosom a lifetime love of equestrian science. To this day she is a grooms-person and massage therapist with a business of her own.I would love to sit with my grandkids and watch it. Maybe Lori will do intros and study guides for improving family values? Lord knows we need you, now more than ever, ms Martin! please consider your calling and your fans. THANKS!