The Beverly Hillbillies is an American television sitcom that originally aired on CBS from September 26, 1962, to March 23, 1971. The show was created by Paul Henning and starred Buddy Ebsen as Jed Clampett, a rural hillbilly who strikes it rich after finding oil on his property.
The show also starred Irene Ryan as Granny, Jed’s feisty and wise grandmother; Donna Douglas as Elly May, Jed’s beautiful but naïve daughter; and Max Baer Jr. as Jethro Bodine, Jed’s simple-minded but lovable nephew.
The Beverly Hillbillies was popular with viewers and critics alike, and won three Emmy Awards during its run. The show has been praised for its light-hearted and humorous approach to the wealthy lifestyle of the titular characters.
However, the show has also been criticized for its stereotypical portrayal of rural Americans.
Regardless of its controversial aspects, The Beverly Hillbillies remains an iconic part of American pop culture and is fondly remembered by fans of classic television.
5 little known facts about the show:
1. The show was created by Paul Henning, who also created The Andy Griffith Show and Green Acres.
2. Buddy Ebsen, who played Jed Clampett, was originally going to play the role of Gilligan on Gilligan’s Island but had to leave due to health reasons.
3. Irene Ryan, who played Granny, was actually only 10 years older than Buddy Ebsen.
4. Donna Douglas, who played Elly May, was originally going to play the role of Daisy Duke on The Dukes of Hazzard but turned it down.
5. Max Baer Jr., who played Jethro Bodine, is the son of boxer Max Baer Sr., who famously fought and killed an opponent in the ring in 1930.
