Trigger: The Smartest Horse in the Movies – The Legendary Palomino Stallion of Roy Rogers
Born on July 4, 1934, in San Diego, California, Trigger began life as Golden Cloud, a palomino stallion with a striking golden coat. His early film career included a role as Maid Marian's mount in The Adventures of Robin Hood (1938). When Roy Rogers was selecting a horse for his first starring role, he chose Golden Cloud for his agility and intelligence. Impressed by the horse's quickness, Rogers renamed him Trigger, a nod to his swift movements.
Trigger's talents were extraordinary; he mastered over 150 trick cues, including walking on his hind legs for 50 feet, signing his name with a pencil, and covering himself with a blanket. His ability to perform such feats earned him the title "The Smartest Horse in the Movies."
Throughout their partnership, Trigger appeared in all of Roy Rogers' 88 feature films and 101 television episodes. His popularity extended beyond the screen, leading to a fan club with over a million members and merchandise featuring his likeness.
Trigger's fame was such that he accompanied Rogers on numerous public appearances, including visits to hospitals where he would perform tricks to delight children. His gentle disposition and remarkable training made these interactions memorable.
After retiring in 1957, Trigger lived out his days at the Rogers' ranch in California. He passed away on July 3, 1965, just one day shy of his 31st birthday. To honor his beloved companion, Rogers had Trigger preserved in a rearing position, and he was displayed at the Roy Rogers-Dale Evans Museum.
Trigger's legacy endures as a symbol of the golden age of Westerns and the deep bond between a cowboy and his horse.
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| Roy Rogers on Trigger, the smartest movie horse, rearing in iconic cowboy style. A tribute to Western film legend. |
🐴✨ Fun Facts About Trigger – Roy Rogers' Legendary Stallion
1. Trigger Could Do Over 100 Tricks!
From untying ropes to dancing and even answering the phone (yes, really!), Trigger was trained to perform more than 100 tricks on command.
2. He Was Originally Named Golden Cloud
Before Roy Rogers renamed him, Trigger was known as Golden Cloud. Olivia de Havilland even rode him in The Adventures of Robin Hood (1938)!
3. Trigger Knew His Cues
Trigger was so intelligent that he could learn and respond to cues even faster than some human co-stars. Roy often said he had “more sense than many a man.”
4. A Star in His Own Right
Trigger received thousands of fan letters, had his own merchandise line, and even made public appearances with Rogers to promote their films.
5. Preserved for Legacy
When Trigger passed away in 1965, Roy Rogers had him preserved through taxidermy and displayed at the Roy Rogers and Dale Evans Museum — showing just how cherished he was.
6. Trigger Had a Double (Sometimes)
To protect Trigger during risky scenes, a lookalike horse named Little Trigger occasionally stood in. But fans could often tell the difference!
7. Horse of Many Talents
Trigger could walk on his hind legs, sit like a dog, bow, curtsy, and even roll out a carpet with his nose.
