"I didn't know what to expect from a famous movie star; maybe that he'd be sort of stuck-up, you know. But not Gary Cooper. He horsed around so much... that I had a hard time painting him"

Norman Rockwell's quote about Gary Cooper exposes his surprise at the actor's down-to-earth mindset. Rockwell anticipated Cooper to be "stuck-up" due to his popularity, but instead found him to be quite the opposite. Cooper was so relaxed and spirited that it made it tough for Rockwell to paint him. This quote shows that Cooper was not impacted by his popularity and had the ability to stay simple and approachable. It also shows that Rockwell was impressed by Cooper's attitude and discovered it rejuvenating. This quote is a testimony to Cooper's character and reveals that he was a truly kind and simple person. It likewise reveals that Rockwell was an excellent admirer of Cooper and appreciated his down-to-earth attitude.