Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · July 30, 2025 · Entertainment

The Sound Of Music Star Defies Odds: Daniel Truhitte's Remarkable Survival Tale

The American actor who played Liesl's boyfriend Rolfe Gruber in the classic family movie, (right), The Sound Of Music has said he's lucky to be alive after suffering two heart attacks

ROLFE REVEALS: 'I Thought I Was Gonna Die!': Sound of Music Star Daniel Truhitte Shares Shocking Health Scare and Juicy Behind-the-Scenes Secrets

In a shocking health scare, American actor Daniel Truhitte, who played the dashing Rolfe Gruber in the beloved family movie The Sound Of Music, reveals he's lucky to be alive after suffering two heart attacks. The 81-year-old, now on his third marriage and with six children and 13 grandchildren, spoke exclusively to TheScholarlyNote.com from his home in North Carolina.

"I had my first heart attack on Christmas Day of 2019, and the second at a funeral in June of 2022," Daniel reveals. "The second one was particularly close to the edge – they couldn't get my heart started for a bit, but then suddenly it began beating again. I was in ICU for five days, and no one expected me to pull through."

Daniel Truhitte, now 81, portrayed the Hitler Youth member who danced with Liesl in the gazebo to the song Sixteen Going On Seventeen in the 1965 film

This near-death experience hasn't slowed down Daniel, who's been enjoying his role as a grandfather and still has a passion for singing and performing. His latest project is a documentary called A Life Of Music: The Daniel Truhitte Story, now available on Amazon Prime.

"I've always wanted to share my story with the world," he explains. "I'm thrilled that this documentary is finally out – it's about time I got some recognition! People have been fans of mine for years, but I've never really participated in Sound Of Music events or projects, so this is a great way to rectify that."

The Real Rolfe: Secrets from Behind the Scenes

Daniel said: 'I was in ICU for five days that I can't even remember. They didn't expect me to be here, but I am and I'm fine now'

Daniel takes us on a fascinating journey through his life and career, revealing juicy behind-the-scenes secrets about making The Sound Of Music. "I was 20 when I auditioned for the film, and I had to beat out hundreds of other blond-haired actors to get the part," he recalls.

"We filmed in Hollywood, not Austria as many people think – we even used water sprayers and rain machines to create a fake gazebo scene!" Daniel spills. "Charmian Carr, who played Liesl, slipped on the wet floor during one take and put her leg through a glass pane, but it was all fixed up by the time the film came out."

The Star Struck Connection

Daniel, who beat the likes of Jon Voight (who'd played Rolfe on Broadway) to the part, was the last person cast in the movie

Daniel reveals that he had a close connection to Charmian Carr, who played his on-screen love interest. "We never had a romantic relationship," he confesses. "We were both too young and had other relationships going on, but I do think of her often and miss her – she passed away in 2016."

The Role That Changed Everything

Playing the role of Rolfe Gruber was a turning point in Daniel's life. "I remember being told to go to 20th Century Fox and join 'a little line', but there were at least 500 other blonde guys vying for the part," he recalls.

Daniel won't reveal much he got for his significant contribution, but says: 'At the time I thought I was well-paid, and it's nice to still get residual cheques for something I did 60 years ago'

"I didn't get picked the first time, but then they decided I was the best fit for the role – and that's when things started happening for me," Daniel reveals. "I got to sing Sixteen Going On Seventeen with Charmian in front of the entire cast, including Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer, and it was just magic."

The Actor's Secret Life

After making The Sound Of Music, Daniel joined the Marine Corps, where he served six months active duty and five years reserve. "It was a great experience – I got to be part of something much bigger than myself," he says.

The Sound of Music starred Julie Andrews as Maria Von Trapp

When he left the Marines, Daniel toured with dance legend Juliet Prowse, who was engaged to Frank Sinatra at the time. "I got to hang out with The Rat Pack in Vegas, and Sammy Davis Jr. was my favorite – what a talented guy!" he reminisces.

A Life of Music: The Daniel Truhitte Story

The documentary A Life Of Music: The Daniel Truhitte Story is a testament to Daniel's perseverance and talent. "I'm grateful that this project has come along at the right time," he says. "It's been an incredible journey, and I feel blessed to have had the opportunities I've had."

A Legacy That Lives On

The Sound Of Music remains one of the most beloved films of all time, and Daniel Truhitte is proud to be a part of it. "I don't think about what could have been – I'm happy with how things turned out," he says.

As he looks back on his life and career, Daniel admits that there are some regrets. "I probably should have stayed in LA and tried harder to break into the business," he acknowledges.

However, he's not one to dwell on the past. "I've had a wonderful life with The Sound Of Music – it's been an endless blessing," Daniel concludes. "And I'm grateful that this documentary will be here for generations to come."

In conclusion, Daniel Truhitte's story is a reminder that sometimes life takes unexpected turns, but with hard work and determination, anything is possible. As he so aptly puts it, "I may not have been the biggest star, but I've got a legacy that lives on – and that's all that matters."