Gordon "Whitey" Mitchell, a multifaceted and accomplished individual, embarked on a storied career as a celebrated jazz bassist, traversing the country and the world as a member of esteemed big band ensembles led by the illustrious Benny Goodman and Pete Rugolo.
In the mid-1960s, Mitchell embarked on a transformative journey, shifting his focus from one creative pursuit to another, as he opted to transition into the realm of screenwriting, leaving behind the familiarity of his previous endeavors.
As he ventured forth, Mitchell made the bold decision to relocate to the city of dreams, Hollywood, where he set his sights on securing a foothold in the competitive world of television. His perseverance and talent soon paid off, as he landed work on a multitude of notable television shows.
Among his impressive credits, Mitchell's expertise was showcased on the esteemed Bob Hope Show, the groundbreaking All In The Family, the hilarious Get Smart, the iconic The Jeffersons, the beloved Mork & Mindy, the iconic Mary Tyler Moore, and the timeless The Odd Couple.
In addition to his impressive television portfolio, Mitchell also ventured into the world of feature films, penning the script for the 1985 comedy classic Private Resort, which boasted a then-young and up-and-coming Johnny Depp in a starring role.
Through his tireless efforts and unwavering dedication, Mitchell established himself as a talented and versatile screenwriter, leaving a lasting impact on the world of entertainment.
Mitchell made a significant move in 1995, relocating to the picturesque Palm Desert, California, where he had the opportunity to host his very own talk radio shows, The Power Lunch and The Natural Golf Hour, a unique platform that allowed him to engage in thought-provoking interviews with an array of celebrity guests from the entertainment industry.
As he settled into his new surroundings, Mitchell became an integral part of the Palm Springs community, taking on the role of board member for the prestigious Palm Springs Walk of Stars, a coveted honor that recognized his contributions to the area. In a testament to his enduring popularity, Mitchell was awarded his very own star on the Walk of Stars, a fitting tribute to his dedication and hard work.
Throughout his illustrious career, Mitchell has received numerous accolades, including his induction into the Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame at his alma mater, Ridgewood High School, in New Jersey, a recognition that acknowledges his outstanding achievements and commitment to his craft.
Mitchell's creative pursuits extend far beyond his work in broadcasting and screenwriting, as he has also ventured into the realm of authorship, penning two notable books: "Star Walk, A Guide to the Palm Springs Walk of Stars", a comprehensive guide to the iconic Palm Springs Walk of Stars, and his autobiography, "Hackensack to Hollywood: My Two Show Business Careers", a deeply personal and insightful account of his remarkable journey in the entertainment industry.
In addition to his writing endeavors, Mitchell has also shared his expertise with the next generation of television writers, serving as an instructor at the prestigious University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) in Los Angeles and the University of California, Riverside (UCR) in Palm Desert, California.
Furthermore, Mitchell has utilized his writing skills to contribute to various publications, including Golf News Magazine and Desert Entertainer Magazine, where he has penned engaging columns that showcase his wit, wisdom, and passion for storytelling.
