Dick Cavett’s 1972 Interview with Raquel Welch: The Secrets She Never Wanted You to Know

Raquel Welch is truly one of the most beautiful women to ever grace this planet. However, with all the attention on her looks and acting career, many people haven’t heard her speak from the heart.

That’s why, when I found her appearance on *The Dick Cavett Show*, I noticed something surprising…

First, let’s appreciate just how stunning and elegant Raquel Welch was in the early 1970s. She had no hair extensions, no Botox, and her natural hair color, without a tattoo in sight. She had a full figure, an intriguing personality, and a sharp mind. In my opinion, Welch is one of the most beautiful women to ever appear on screen.

### Underrated Genius

In a captivating 1972 interview on *The Dick Cavett Show*, Welch’s timeless beauty and elegance were clear. At about 32 years old, she radiated charm as she settled into the chair across from Dick Cavett.

The American television host, who ran *The Dick Cavett Show* from 1968 to 1988, was a skilled interviewer. He interviewed many famous film directors like Welles, Hitchcock, De Palma, and Scorsese, making each interview feel like a lesson in film.

Cavett had a talent for making his guests feel comfortable, drawing out engaging and thoughtful conversations. This interview showed Raquel in a way many had never seen — beyond her famous looks, revealing things I didn’t know about her.

### Broke Her Wrist

Welch’s appearance on *The Dick Cavett Show* was partly to promote her latest film, *Kansas City Bomber*.

In the movie, she played roller derby skater K.C. Carr — a woman trying to balance her desire for a happy personal life with her dreams of success.

The film featured many intense scenes from the matches, and according to Raquel, she performed most of her own stunts, which took a toll on her.

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Raquel explained that she had to learn how to skate from the ground up for the role. The professional skaters in the film used a track with banked turns at a 45-degree angle, which made it even more difficult.

One day while practicing, she broke her wrist, causing the production to delay filming for about eight weeks.

“I had a lot of aches and pains for a long time,” Welch admitted.

### Recognize the Dress?

Those with sharp eyes might remember Welch’s stunning blue dress from her interview with Cavett. It was the same iconic gown she wore to the Oscars just a few months earlier. Talk about a fashion statement!

Raquel was ahead of her time in recycling outfits, and her Oscars gown wasn’t the only piece she repurposed. The beautiful dress she wore to the premiere of *The Godfather* was also the same one she wore at Elizabeth Taylor’s 40th birthday celebration in Budapest back in 1972.

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Who knew Raquel was such a trendsetter long before it became a popular term?

By the way, did you know that Welch’s wardrobe for public events was very different from her personal style? People always expected her to maintain her glamorous image, and she did so perfectly. However, when she wasn’t on the red carpet, Welch preferred simple pantsuits and comfortable clothing.

### Humorous Anecdote

For decades, Welch has been known as a sex symbol, with a lot of focus on her beautiful body. Yet, few people have had the chance to hear her talk openly, especially on serious topics that show her depth beyond her famous image.

During her time on *The Dick Cavett Show*, the *One Million Years B.C.* star discussed the difference between her glamorous on-screen persona and her real-life experiences. The conversation included her public image and the expectations placed on her as a female actress in a male-dominated sport.

Raquel shared a funny story from her experience promoting *Kansas City Bomber*, recalling an interesting press conference with sports writers.

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“I had a really interesting press conference when I first came into town to promote the film with all the sports writers. They said, ‘You know, you’re a nice-sized lady and all that, but you’re not exactly what I expected.’ I replied, ‘I know I always seem to disappoint people if I walk in the door and the door hinges don’t splinter off, like I should come in with a machete or something.’”

Some people who saw her in person were surprised by her size—she is only 5 feet 5½ inches tall with a small-boned frame, elegantly complemented by broad shoulders and beautiful olive skin.

Dick Cavett then adds, “I know people walked in and looked at you, and their reaction was, ‘There’s an attractive woman.’ But many didn’t realize it was you, even though they had seen you on screen.”

### “Downright Intoxicating”

Many viewers who watched the interview later (available on YouTube) have commented on Raquel Welch’s lovely voice. It seems some have forgotten about it because of the strong focus on her stunning images and posters over the years.

One YouTube user commented, “She becomes even more attractive when she speaks, downright intoxicating!”

Another commenter added, “I love the way she speaks; there is something unique and also time-stamped about it.”

Another viewer noted, “Raquel was not only stunning to look at; she had a wonderful voice and a captivating way of speaking.”

This detail shows that Raquel’s appeal went beyond just her looks; her voice added a special charm that still resonates with audiences today.

She was very articulate and well-spoken!

### Why Was Raquel Welch So Down-to-Earth?

Raquel Welch, who got her first name from a grandmother in Bolivia and her last name from a teenage marriage, described herself as a product of middle-class America.

She never forgot her roots and always stayed connected to the part of society that wasn’t filled with the glitz and glamour of Hollywood.

“I’m practical, but I also have dreams of how things ideally should be,” she once said.

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In her private life, Welch was often seen in comfortable, loose-fitting sweaters and classic blue jeans, with just a touch of eye makeup. Even with her great fame, she had a sweetness and gentleness that made her feel easy to approach.

During her interview with Dick Cavett, Welch seemed very sweet, gentle, and down-to-earth.

### Suffered from Alzheimer’s Disease

Welch was truly one of the most beautiful women to ever appear on screen. Not even Kim Kardashian, with all her surgeries, could compare to her beauty.

Raquel was something special, and we should be thankful to have experienced her brilliance. Sadly, she passed away from cardiac arrest on February 15, 2023, at her home in Los Angeles, at the age of 82. At the time of her death, she was also battling Alzheimer’s disease.

Let’s remember this amazing woman through her wonderful interview with Dick Cavett — a moment when Raquel Welch was at the peak of her career. Share this story if you also admired Raquel Welch!

Boy Sees His Birthday Deliveries Planned for the Next 15 Years and Cries When He Finds Out Why – Story of the Day

Teenage boy Charlie struggles to understand why his peers receive expensive presents while he is left listening to his mother’s excuses. He discovers that his mother has prepared 15 gifts for his future birthdays. But after learning the reason behind it, he finally realizes what he truly wants.

Charlie, a 15-year-old with a backpack slung lazily over one shoulder, trudged out of school alongside his classmate Mark.

The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the parking lot, where students chattered and cars honked in a chaotic symphony.

“Did you hear? We’ve got another test on Friday,” Mark said, breaking the silence.

Charlie groaned, his shoulders slumping.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“Oh no, not again! Is this the fourth test this week? School is exhausting…”

Mark smirked. “Don’t be so dramatic. It’s just studying. You always stress out before tests, but in the end, it all works out fine.”

“Yeah, yeah, whatever,” Charlie muttered, his eyes scanning the parking lot. His expression darkened as he frowned.

“My mom’s late again! How much longer do I have to wait?”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“Maybe something came up. Don’t be mad at her—she’s picking you up. You should be grateful,” Mark said with a shrug.

Charlie shot him a sideways glare.

“Yeah? I don’t see your mom’s car either. Are you super grateful that she’s late too?”

Mark chuckled softly and shook his head. “She won’t be picking me up anymore. My parents bought me a car for my birthday.”

Charlie stopped in his tracks, his jaw dropping.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“What!? A car!? I’d be grateful too if someone got me a car!” he snapped, his voice laced with jealousy.

Mark shrugged again, calm as ever. “You should be grateful no matter what. She’s your mom. Anyway, see you tomorrow.”

“Yeah… bye,” Charlie mumbled, watching Mark stroll off toward the student lot.

As he stood there, stewing in frustration, a car horn blared from across the lot. Charlie spun around and saw his mom’s familiar car pulling up.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

With a sigh, he slung his backpack higher on his shoulder and jogged toward it, muttering under his breath. He opened the car door and slid into the passenger seat, his face already setting in a frown.

Alice, his mom, glanced over at him, her hands gripping the steering wheel.

“Sorry, sweetheart, I’m late again. I had to finish up a few things,” she said apologetically.

“You’re always late these days…” Charlie muttered, avoiding her gaze as he slumped further into his seat.

Alice sighed, keeping her voice calm.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“I said I’m sorry. Now, tell me—how was your day?”

“Not great,” he replied shortly, his eyes fixed on the cars passing outside.

She glanced at him again, concern flickering across her face. “What happened?”

“Mark’s parents bought him a car for his birthday,” Charlie said flatly.

Alice smiled slightly, trying to lighten the mood.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“That’s wonderful! Did he give you a ride?”

Charlie turned to her, his expression incredulous.

“No. Mom, my birthday’s coming up soon. Can you get me a car?”

Alice’s hands tightened briefly on the wheel before she answered. “Sweetheart, I already have your gift planned. Maybe I can get you a car in a few years…”

“A few years!?” Charlie’s voice rose with frustration.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“So I have to wait while all my classmates drive around, and I look like an idiot?”

Alice exhaled and tried to keep her tone gentle as she said, “I know it’s hard, but I just can’t afford a gift like that right now.”

Charlie crossed his arms, his voice sharp. “Then return whatever gift you got and buy me a car!”

“I can’t do that, Charlie. I’m sorry,” she said firmly, though her voice was tinged with sadness.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

He turned away, pressing his forehead against the window.

The hum of the engine filled the silence as Alice drove, glancing occasionally at her son, his disappointment weighing heavily on them both.

As she pulled into the driveway, the car came to a slow stop. She turned to Charlie, her face softening.

“Dinner’s in the fridge if you’re hungry. I have a few errands to run, but I won’t be long. Love you, sweetheart!”

“Yeah…” Charlie mumbled without meeting her eyes. He swung the car door open and headed into the house.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

The door clicked shut behind him, and the silence of the empty house wrapped around him.

He dropped his backpack by the couch but didn’t bother to sit down. Something gnawed at the back of his mind—an itch he couldn’t ignore.

His mom had seemed calm, too calm, especially after their earlier argument. Why couldn’t she just tell him what she was up to?

His curiosity got the better of him. Quietly, he tiptoed into her bedroom, the air feeling heavier as if he were crossing an invisible line.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Sitting at her desk, he opened her laptop.

The screen glowed to life, and he hesitated for a moment before clicking on her email.

Most of it was unimportant—work notices, receipts, newsletters.

Then he spotted something unusual: an email confirming a delivery scheduled for his upcoming birthday.

His brow furrowed as he clicked it open.

His eyes widened. The delivery wasn’t a one-time thing. There were 14 more planned—one every year for the next 15 years.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“What the…?” he muttered, his heart racing.

Confused and uneasy, he dug deeper, scrolling through her emails until he found an address for a storage unit.

Beneath a pile of papers in her drawer, he found a small key labeled with the same address.

His pulse quickened as he grabbed the key and headed out the door.

The storage unit loomed ahead, its metal door glinting faintly under the dull light of the parking lot.

Charlie unlocked it with trembling hands. As the door creaked open, he froze.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Inside, more than a dozen neatly wrapped gifts were arranged in a row.

They were all different sizes, some small enough to fit in his palm, others big enough to hold a bike.

Each was topped with a handwritten note in his mom’s familiar, looping script.

He stepped inside, the scent of cardboard and faint perfume hanging in the air. He picked up one note and read:

“Happy 17th birthday, sweetheart. I love you more than anything in the world. I hope you like this computer. Study hard!”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

His throat tightened as he set the note back. Why had she done this?

He moved to the first gift, a small box with two notes attached. Pulling off the first, his breath caught as he began to read:

“My dear son, if you’re reading this, I may no longer be with you. For years, I’ve known I had cancer, and no treatment has worked. My time is limited, but I didn’t want your birthdays to feel empty after I’m gone.”

The words blurred as tears filled his eyes. He wiped his face, but the tears kept coming, spilling onto the paper.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“That’s why I prepared these gifts ahead of time. They may not always be exactly what you want, but please open one each birthday and know I love you. Always.”

Charlie let out a shaky breath as he clutched the note. His chest ached in a way he’d never felt before.

He looked around the storage unit, the gifts that suddenly felt so much more than just objects.

They were pieces of her love, her effort to stay with him even when she couldn’t.

He gently placed the note back, closed the door, and leaned against it for a moment.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

His heart was heavy, but it was full of something else too—a deeper understanding of what his mom had done for him.

The drive home was quiet. The world outside blurred, but his mind raced with emotions. He didn’t care about a car anymore.

What mattered now was something far greater.

Charlie stepped quietly into the living room, his shoes scuffing softly against the wooden floor.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

His mom, Alice, was perched on the couch, a book resting in her lap.

She was smiling faintly, her eyes scanning the pages, completely unaware of the emotional storm that had just swept over her son.

Charlie hesitated in the doorway, his chest rising and falling with uneven breaths. His eyes were red, swollen from crying, and his face held a mix of fear and heartbreak.

Alice looked up, her smile fading as she took in his expression. Alarm spread across her face.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“Charlie! What’s wrong? Where were you?” she asked, setting the book aside and leaning forward.

“Mom!” he choked out, his voice breaking as he rushed across the room. He threw his arms around her, clinging to her tightly.

“Sweetheart, tell me what’s going on,” she said, her voice soft but urgent. She stroked his back gently, trying to calm him. “How can I help?”

Charlie pulled back slightly, his hands trembling as he wiped at his face.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“I know, Mom. I went to the storage unit,” he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper.

Alice stiffened, her eyes widening.

“What? Why? What were you doing there?” she asked, a hint of panic creeping into her tone.

“Why didn’t you tell me?” Charlie cried, his voice breaking again.

“Isn’t there anything we can do?”

Alice took a deep breath, her lips quivering.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“There’s nothing, Charlie. I’m so sorry,” she said, tears brimming in her eyes.

“No, Mom, I’m sorry,” he said quickly, shaking his head.

“I’ve been such a terrible son. I don’t need a car or any gifts. None of that matters. I just want you to be with me.”

“Charlie…” she whispered, her voice thick with emotion.

“Please, Mom,” he begged, his voice desperate.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“I want to spend as much time with you as I can. I love you!”

Alice pulled him close again, her own tears spilling over now.

“I love you too, sweetheart,” she said, her voice breaking as she held him tightly.

The room was quiet except for their soft cries, their embrace a fragile but powerful moment of love and understanding.

Tell us what you think about this story, and share it with your friends. It might inspire them and brighten their day.

If you enjoyed this story, read this one: Every man reaches a moment when he wants to settle down and have a loving family. But not Henry—he was convinced he would stay single forever, believing it was the better life for him. However, a day spent with his nine-year-old niece makes him realize the true reason behind his life choices.

This piece is inspired by stories from the everyday lives of our readers and written by a professional writer. Any resemblance to actual names or locations is purely coincidental. All images are for illustration purposes only. Share your story with us; maybe it will change someone’s life.

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