John Wayne held his arm in the closing shot of the iconic film The Searchers as a poignant homage to legendary actor Harry Carey. This gesture was a direct imitation of a distinctive stance that Carey himself frequently used in his own films.
In this memorable final scene, Wayne can be seen holding his right elbow with his left hand, a specific pose that evoked Carey's characteristic on-screen presence. This subtle yet powerful tribute was deeply personal for Wayne, reflecting his admiration for Carey, who was a significant figure in early Western films and a mentor to many in Hollywood, including Wayne himself.
The emotional weight of this scene was profound. According to Wayne, both he and Harry Carey's widow, Olive Carey, who also costarred in The Searchers, were visibly moved by the scene's completion, reportedly weeping together. This powerful moment encapsulated a respectful nod to the past while cementing Wayne's own enduring legacy.
