DEAR STACY: I'd like to know Clint Eastwood's political orientation. I thought he was more conservative, but not so sure of late. Is he a Democrat or a Republican? — Bill O., Warren, Ohio

DEAR BILL: The Oscar-winning actor-filmmaker-composer has characterized himself as a "nothing," a "moderate" and a "libertarian" — too much a maverick to be called either conservative or liberal. Through the years, he has been aligned with candidates and causes from both sides. He endorsed John McCain last election (having known McCain for years). He is pro same-sex marriage. He's been a registered Republican since the '50s.

DEAR STACY: In the old Hallmark movie "Love Comes Softly" with Dale Midkiff and Katherine Heigl, Dale sings a hymn while sitting alone on top of a hill. I'd like to know the name of it. — Jana D., Chattanooga, Tenn.

DEAR JANA: It's "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing." It's been covered by such recording artists as Jars of Clay and Matthew Smith in recent years, though it's a real oldie — composed in the 18th century by Methodist pastor and hymnist Robert Robinson.

DEAR STACY: Is it true Sean Murray, who plays McGee on "NCIS," played the enchanted cat and the boy he turned into in the movie "Hocus Pocus"? How old was he? —- Yvette L., Albuquerque, N.M.

DEAR YVETTE: It's true, and Sean, who is the stepson of "NCIS" creator Don Bellisario, was 15. He also played Danny Walden on Bellisario's "Jag" and has a long list of credits on other episodic shows.

DEAR STACY: Can you tell me why the actor Clifton Gonzalez Gonzales changed his name to Clifton Collins, Jr.? — A.R., Santa Ana, Calif.

DEAR A.R.: Clifton used to use his maternal grandfather's surname to honor him. Pedro Gonzales Gonzales, who passed away in 2006, was "a genius comedian," Clifton said. He was seen in dozens of movies, including John Wayne's "Rio Bravo." However, Clifton began using his late father's surname years ago for reasons having to do with overcoming his bitterness over his father's suicide.

To find out more about Marilyn Beck and Stacy Jenel Smith and read their past columns, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.