Legendary sheriff’s daughter pleased with new ‘Walking Tall’

MGM produced the modern-day version of the 1973 movie, the first of a trilogy. The film was inspired by Pusser, who from 1964-70 as sheriff fought against illegal alcohol sales, gambling, moonshining and prostitution.

Pusser was allegedly shot eight times, stabbed seven times and killed two people in self-defense. His wife, Pauline, was killed in 1967 and Pusser was seriously wounded when they were ambushed by unknown assailants.

Pusser died in August 1974 in a wreck the day he agreed to portray himself in the “Walking Tall” sequel.

“Without my daddy, there wouldn’t be the first ‘Walking Tall,'” said Dwana Garrison.

Garrison, who was 6 when her mother was killed, said she is working on a book about her family. Garrison has Multiple Sclerosis and suffered a light stroke two years ago but has mostly recovered.

“In my life, I’ve been dealt a few lemons,” she said.

An invitation-only screening of the new movie will shown Monday in Nashville, with a party to follow that will include an appearance by Johnson. The film will premiere March 29 in Los Angeles and be released nationally April 2, Garrison said.

Garrison said the movie’s an updated version of the original. A man returns home from military service, gets on the bad side of the criminal element, is left for dead, runs for sheriff, wins and begins to fight evil.

“It’s updated for what’s going on today,” she said. “In the ’60s, Daddy was fighting illegal gambling and whiskey. Today’s it’s crystal meth.”

Johnson’s character in the new movie is named Chris Vaughn, with the movie based in Washington state.

Garrison presented the actor with a replica sheriff’s badge just like her late father wore.

“He’s a real person who cares about my daddy,” she said of Johnson.

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On the Net:

Buford Pusser site: http://www.sheriffbufordpusser.com/