05/09/2025
"Remembering Trigger: The Smartest Horse in the Movies"
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Do you remember the golden palomino horse with the flowing white mane and tail, performing tricks that seemed almost magical? That was Trigger, Roy Rogers' beloved companion and one of Hollywood's most iconic animals.
Trigger, originally named Golden Cloud, was born on July 4, 1934, in San Diego, California. His striking appearance and gentle nature caught the eye of Hollywood producers, leading to his first film appearance in 1938's The Adventures of Robin Hood, where he was ridden by Olivia de Havilland. However, it was when Roy Rogers chose him as his mount that Trigger's true stardom began.
Renamed Trigger for his quickness, the palomino horse became a fixture in over 80 films and 100 television episodes alongside Roy Rogers. He wasn't just a pretty face; Trigger was known as "The Smartest Horse in the Movies," performing over 150 tricks. He could bow, sit, dance, walk on his hind legs, shake hands, play dead, and even sign his name with a pencil. His ability to learn and perform these tricks endeared him to audiences and made him a beloved figure in the entertainment world.
Beyond his on-screen talents, Trigger was a loyal companion to Roy Rogers. He accompanied Roy to hospitals to visit sick children, bringing joy and comfort to many. His gentle demeanor and intelligence made him a favorite among fans and a true testament to the bond between humans and animals.
After Trigger's passing on July 3, 1965, Roy Rogers had him preserved through taxidermy to keep his memory alive. Trigger's mounted figure was displayed at the Roy Rogers-Dale Evans Museum, allowing fans to continue to honor and remember the horse that had brought so much joy to their lives.
Trigger wasn't just a horse; he was a symbol of loyalty, intelligence, and the special bond that can exist between humans and animals. His legacy lives on, reminding us of the magic that animals can bring into our lives.
