CHARLTON ― In 1974, “Mad Jack” graced television sets across the country and attempted to set the record straight, sharing “The Life and Times of Grizzly Adams.” Instead, Hollywood created a character based on the Massachusetts man’s nickname, leaving the true tale of John Capen Adams on the cutting room floor.
“He’s one of the most misunderstood historical figures,” said writer and film producer Tod Swindell, who is co-owner of the Grizzly Adams brand. The Grizzly Adams Co. owns the rights to all things Grizzly, including merchandise, film, TV and literature licensing.
The real Adams was born in Medway in 1812 and was indeed part of that Adams family — including Presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams, as well as Revolutionary War Patriot Samuel Adams…