It is curious that this thread should manifest just now. I grew up in the 1940's and remember The Weavers and Burl Ives as early radio fare on our remote ranch. I can remember seeing him on early black and white television variety shows and later, of course, in a number of films; notably as "Big Daddy" in "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof." So who was he - the jolly fat man who sang children's songs or the dark and surly character he sometimes portrayed in film? I faintly recall reading some biographical information on him years ago, but cannot recall any accusations of his "hating children." Of course, he did have what many still refer to as his "dark side;" i.e., his stance during the McCarthy era. Anything's possible. I have met few show business folks over the years who were entirely what their public persona made them seem.