Classic TV shows are a blast from the past that offer laughs for many generations. Some only lasted a few seasons, while their characters live on. Others went on for years, working their way into to the hearts of millions of Americans. Before you break out these classics to watch with family and friends, enjoy these fun facts:
‘The Andy Griffith Show’
From 1960 to 1968, “The Andy Griffith Show” featured Sheriff Andy, young Opie (played by Ron Howard) and Aunt Bee. The trio enjoyed southern cooking and saving Deputy Barney, Andy’s cousin, from various predicaments. Unfortunately, actor Andy Griffith and Frances Bavier, who played Aunt Bee, were not keen on one another. When Bavier learned she was terminally ill, over 20 years later, she contacted Griffith to apologize. “The Andy Griffith Show” was one of the only TV shows to finish while still receiving top Nielson ratings. It is joined by “I Love Lucy” and “Seinfeld” on this impressive list. You may recall the sheriff’s car was always the newest Ford model. A local Ford dealer provided the production crew with the latest variety of a Galaxie.
‘I Love Lucy’
From 1951 to 1957, Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz starred in this slapstick comedy about two married couples in show business. This show was the first to ever do reruns, showing episodes that have already played in order to allow Ball to raise newborn Desi Arnaz Jr. The backstories behind Ball and Arnaz’s characters were based very closely on their real lives. Ball really was born in West Jamestown, New York, and Arnaz was a leader of several Latin American bands with influence from his home in Cuba. Vivian Vance, who played Ethel Mertz, and William Frawley, the actor playing Fred Mertz, greatly disliked one another. While they played a lovey, goofy couple, they could barely stand to be in the same room while filming.
‘The Brady Bunch’
From 1969 to 1974, families across the U.S. gathered around the TV to watch the six Brady kids and their chaotic life. Mom Carol and Dad Mike worked with housekeeper Alice to raise their conjoined families with humor to get through very-relatable teenage drama. Did you know their dog, Tiger, was killed in real life between season two and three? The replacement pup didn’t work out, so the dog’s house stayed on set but no more canines joined the Brady bunch. When watching the show, you may notice that the Brady bathroom is visible but the audience never sees a toilet. ABC censored toilets, and didn’t allow it to be shown on screen.
‘Beverly Hillbillies’
American audiences loved watching “Beverly Hillbillies” from 1962 to 1971. This hilarious family show follows a backwoods family that strikes gold and moves to Beverly Hills. Jed Clampett, granny Daisy, Elly May and Jethro were all so loveable the show made it to top ratings spots within three weeks of its premiere. No TV show since has surpassed this speedy success. The show writers planned to make Jed Clampett naive, but actor Buddy Ebsen refused to play the role unless Jed was smart, yet uneducated.
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