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Dean Martin’s 1987 Interview: Reflecting on the Heartfelt Grief Following the Death of His Son, Dean Paul

Dean Paul Martin Jr.: Inside The Death Of Dean Martin's Son

During this exclusive interview, the veteran performer reflects on his long, successful career and the immense joy he still gets from performing. Despite being a multi-millionaire, Dean reveals that his love for the stage and the connection with his audience keep him coming back, noting, “I get a great kick out of performing, period. But I get a greater kick out of performing at the Palladium where all the big stars have performed.“

Although many have often speculated about Dean Martin’s onstage persona, particularly his portrayal of a laid-back, almost tipsy performer, he makes it clear that it is all part of the act. He humorously adds, “I can confirm this is Coca-Cola,” referring to the drinks on stage, indicating that he is always in control of his material and his performances. Dean‘s smooth, effortless style has always been part of his charm, and he reveals that he has never felt nervous during a performance, except for extreme circumstances like fearing for his safety, humorously adding, “Unless I knew there was somebody in the audience with a gun that was going to shoot me, then I’d be nervous.“

At home, Dean enjoys a peaceful life, often playing golf or enjoying a friendly game of pool in his Beverly Hills home. He shares that when not working, he likes to visit his good friend, Frank Sinatra, where they would have fun and often host parties together. Their deep friendship, filled with humor and shared experiences, is one that Dean cherishes, recalling their fun on the road together and their entertaining performances.

The conversation takes a more somber turn when Dean discusses the tragic loss of his son, Dean Paul Martin, in a plane crash earlier that year. Reflecting on the overwhelming grief, Dean admits, “When you hear about somebody passing away, you say that’s a terrible thing, but when it strikes home, that’s… terrible. It eats you up.” Despite the deep sadness, Dean finds comfort in his family and his faith, sharing that having a large family helps them cope with the loss. Dean also reveals that getting back on stage after his son’s passing has helped him deal with the grief, noting, “When we found out that Dean Paul was gone, I had 10 days before I had the opening in Las Vegas… I couldn’t do it. And then a few days later, I said, ‘Why shouldn’t I go to work?’“

In the final moments of the interview, Dean Martin shows his enduring charm, ending the conversation with a warm compliment to the interviewer, saying, “This has been the nicest interview I’ve ever had from a very pretty lady.” He expresses his intention to continue performing for as long as possible, adding, “I’ll perform till I’m gone. I’ll be going to Las Vegas as long as they’ll have me.“

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