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SID GOULD & VANDA BARRA
a tribute to the supporting cast of “Here’s Lucy”
Sid Gould made more than 45 appearances on “The Lucy Show,” and nearly as many on “Here’s Lucy.” Gould (born Sydney Greenfader) was Lucille Ball’s cousin by marriage to Gary Morton. He usually played delivery men and waiters. In real life he was married to…
Vanda Barra, who made over two dozen appearances on “Here’s Lucy” as well as appearing in Ball’s two 1975 TV movies “Lucy Gets Lucky” and “Three for Two”. She was also seen in half a dozen episodes of “The Lucy Show.”
Toward the end of the series Gould and Barra made several appearances as Vanda (a secretary friend of Lucy’s) and Sam (a waiter in the building’s cafe) in an attempt to make them an onscreen couple as well. They still played other roles when needed.
SID
VANDA
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MARY WICKES
a tribute to the supporting cast of “Here’s Lucy”
Mary Wickes was one of Lucille Ball’s closest friends and at one time, a neighbor. She made a memorable appearances on “I Love Lucy” as ballet mistress Madame Lamond in “The Ballet” (ILL S1;E19). In her initial “Lucy Show” appearances her characters name was Frances, but she then made four more as a variety of characters for a total of 8 episodes. She made nine appearances on “Here’s Lucy” as various character, including a nun who was Harry’s sister. Their final collaboration on screen was “Lucy Calls the President” in 1977.
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VIVIAN VANCE
a tribute to the supporting cast of “Here’s Lucy”
Vivian Vance (Vivian Jones) was born Vivian Roberta Jones in Cherryvale, Kansas in 1909, although her family quickly moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico where she was raised. She had extensive theatre experience, co-starring on Broadway with Ethel Merman in “Anything Goes.” She was acting in a play in Southern California when she was spotted by Desi Arnaz and hired to play Ethel Mertz, Lucy Ricardo’s neighbor and best friend. The pairing is credited with much of the success of “I Love Lucy.” Vance was convinced to join the cast of “The Lucy Show” in 1962, but stayed with the series only through season three, making occasional guest appearances afterwards. She made a total of six appearance on “Here’s Lucy.” She also joined Lucy for a TV special “Lucy Calls the President” in 1977. Vance died two years later.
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MARY JANE CROFT
February 15, 1916
(above art by Dave Woodman)
MARY JANE CROFT was born on February 15, 1916 in Muncie, Indiana. She began her career on the stage. She once said “from 1935 to 1939, I played parts with every kind of voice and accent: children, babies, old women, society belles, main street floozies – everything." She went from the stage to radio and then into television, where her most famous association was with Lucille Ball. She also appeared on sitcoms like “Our Miss Brooks” and “The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriett”. After divorcing her first husband, she married producer Elliott Lewis in 1959. Croft had a son, Eric, by her first marriage, who was killed in action during the Vietnam War.
On “I Love Lucy,” Mary Jane Croft first played Cynthia Harcourt
in “Lucy is Envious” (ILL S3;E23) in 1954…
…and Evelyn Bigsby in “Return Home from Europe” (ILL S5;E26).
Before taking on the role of snobby next door neighbor Betty Ramsey during six episode of season six of “I Love Lucy.” Both she and Ethel attended Albuquerque Elementary. Her maiden name was Foster.
On “The Lucy Show,” she was introduced as Audrey Simmons in “Lucy the Music Lover” (TLS S1;E8) and played the character for eight episodes – all set in Danfield.
Naturally, she was a member of the Danfield Women’s Volunteer Fire Brigade – along with Thelma Green (Carole Cook).
She was a member of Lucy’s Bridge Club with Kathleen (Kathleen Freeman).
When Lucy Carmichael moved to California in 1965, she played Mary Jane Lewis, the actor’s married name and the same one she uses on all 31 of her episodes of “Here’s Lucy.” The new iteration of her character was introduced in “Lucy and The Golden Greek” (TLS S4;E2) and she played the role for 31 episodes.
On “Here’s Lucy,” her high-pitched, squeaky voice was often the source of humor for Lucy and Harry. She appeared in a total of 34 episodes.
Mary Jane was Lucy Carter’s friend and was employed at a nearby movie studio (although not as an usher, despite wearing the above dress in many episodes).
Like Lucy, she was unmarried, and usually popped over to Lucy’s home or workplace for moral support and – like Viv before her – only to get dragged into Lucy Carter’s outrageous schemes.
Her last appearance on “Here’s Lucy” was in “Mary Jane’s Boyfriend” (HL S6;E20), the only episode with a story that revolved around the character.
Her final acting credit was playing Midge Bowser, the mayor’s wife, on “Lucy Calls the President” (1977).
She died in 1999 at the age of 83.
After her death, Lucie Arnaz eulogized her Mary Jane as being the antithesis of the dizzy blonde she portrayed on screen and as a fun-loving and joyous spirit.
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LUCY THE STAR-GAZER! ~ Part Two
On “Here’s Lucy,” more than any other series, Lucille Ball used her vast network of Hollywood celebrities as guest stars! Here are some of the famous and near-famous who braved Lucy’s comedy Olympics!
LUCY FACES THE MUSIC: THE MUSICIANS
LAWRENCE WELK
Welk was a musician, accordionist, bandleader, and television impresario, who hosted the television program “The Lawrence Welk Show” from 1951 to 1982 on ABC. Like Lucy, one of his favorite words was “Wonderful!” Welk was to music, what Lucy was to comedy – classically old school in a changing world. He was one of the most mentioned celebrities on “The Lucy Show” and played himself on “Here’s Lucy.”
RUDY VALLEE
Vallee started his career as a saxophone player and singer and became a popular bandleader, hosting a hit radio program in the 1930s. He played himself on the very first episode of “The Lucy-Desi Comedy Hour” in 1957. Here he plays himself, dealing with the changing music scene head-on!
PATTY ANDREWS
Patty and her sisters, Maxene and LaVerne, were one of the most successful women’s singing groups, with 19 gold records and sales of nearly 100 million copies. With Patty on her own here, Lucy and Kim pose as her sisters to perform some of their greatest hits!
DINAH SHORE
Dinah Shore was a singer, actress, and television personality, and the top-charting female vocalist of the 1940s. She rose to prominence as a recording artist during the Big Band era. She played herself here, one of Lucy Carter’s favorite singers.
PHIL HARRIS
Phil Harris was a bandleader who became a comic radio star as a Jack Benny sidekick in the 1930s. He played a songwriter named Phil Stanley on “The Lucy Show.” He was sometimes the butt of jokes on the series for his reputation for drinking. Here he plays himself and sings his signature song “That’s What I Like About the South.”
‘TENNESSEE’ ERNIE FORD
Ford was the first and only celebrity to make three guest star appearances (playing a variation on himself) on “I Love Lucy.” A popular country singer of the 1950s, this was his first credited ‘acting’ job, before his big hit with the song “Sixteen Tons” in 1955. He then appeared (also as a variation on himself) on “The Lucy Show.” This is his fifth and final appearance on a Lucille Ball sitcom, playing a singer named Ernie Epperson.
LIBERACE
Dubbed “Mr. Showmanship,” he enjoyed a career spanning four decades of concerts, recordings, television, motion pictures, and endorsements. At the height of his fame, from the 1950s to the 1970s, Liberace was the highest-paid entertainer in the world, with established residencies in Las Vegas, and an international touring schedule. Prior to this episode playing himself (of course), his only appearance with Lucille Ball was the musical film ‘Best Foot Forward’ (1943).
SAMMY DAVIS JR.
Davis was a singer, dancer, actor and comedian noted for his impressions of actors, musicians and other celebrities. His comic talents were a good match for Lucille Ball. He later matched wits with Archie Bunker on “All in the Family.” Playing himself here, he sings “And When I Die.”
WAYNE NEWTON
One of Lucille Ball’s favorite singers, Newton makes his second appearance as himself on “Here’s Lucy,” having also played himself on “The Lucy Show.” He is one of the best-known entertainers in Las Vegas, known by the nicknames the ‘Midnight Idol,’ ‘Mr. Las Vegas’ and ‘Mr. Entertainment.’ Here he performs “I’ve Got the World on a String” and “Tumbling Tumbleweeds.”
STEVE LAWRENCE & EYDIE GORME
Steve and Eydie were one of the most popular singing married couples in show-business, headliners in Las Vegas and around the world. Eydie had a hit with “If He Walked Into My Life” from the musical “Mame,” which Lucy then sang in the film version.
ANN-MARGRET
Ann-Margret is one of Hollywood’s most enduring sex symbols, singers, and actors.
Craig and Ann-Margret perform the song “Country Music” by Steve March, the son of Mel Torme and adopted son of Arnaz family friend, Hal March.
FRANKIE AVALON
A recording star and musician, Avalon’s movie career took off when paired with Annette Funicello in “Beach Party” (1963) and its string of sequels. He played Teen Angel in “Grease” (1978) and considers “Beauty School Dropout” to be his most popular song. He previously played Tommy Cheever on “The Lucy Show” in 1967 but here plays himself. He memorably impersonates Sonny Bono opposite Lucie Arnaz as Cher.
PETULA CLARK
Clark is a British-born singer and actor who became well-known for her pop hits “Downtown”, “I Know a Place”, “A Sign of the Times”, “Color My World”, “This Is My Song” and “Don’t Sleep in the Subway”. She was dubbed ‘the First Lady of the British Invasion’. Playing herself (and pregnant) she appears here with her real-life husband Claude Wolff.
JOHN DAVIDSON
Davidson is a singer / actor who appeared on Broadway and television, and made the transition to game show host with “The Hollywood Squares.” Davidson plays music professor John Kleindorf here, and sings “Happy Together” and “I Believe In Music.”
BUDDY RICH
Rich first appeared with Lucille Ball as a member of the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra in “DuBarry Was a Lady” (1943). Widely considered one of the most influential drummers of all time and known for his virtuoso technique, power, and speed, Rich was billed as ‘the world’s greatest drummer’ during his career. Naturally, here he is teamed with Desi Arnaz Jr., a drummer like his father.
DONNY OSMOND
Donny began his career singing with his brothers, The Osmonds. Osmond became a teen idol in the early 1970s as a solo singer, while continuing to sing with his older brothers. Here, as himself, he sings “Too Young” (to Eve Plumb!) and “I’ll Never Fall in Love Again” with Lucie Arnaz.
WELCOME TO THE CLUB: NIGHTCLUB PERFORMER SUPERSTARS!
TOTIE FIELDS
Fields was a nightclub comedienne whose first big break came on “The Ed Sullivan Show.” After that, she appeared on many TV talk and variety shows. This appearance (as Mrs. Poopsie Butkus, the milkman’s wife) was just one of handful of ‘acting’ jobs. Fields also sang her signature tune, “You’re Nobody Till Somebody Loves You” as part of the episode.
JOAN RIVERS
The legendary performer was a stand-up comedian, actress, writer, producer, and television host. Rivers gained prominence in 1965 as a guest host on “The Tonight Show,” interviewing Lucille Ball three times. Here she plays jury member Joan Reynolds.
JIM BAILEY
Bailey was spotted by Lucille Ball and had this episode written for him. He became one of the world’s most famous female impersonators, transforming himself into such stars as Judy Garland, Liza Minnelli, Peggy Lee, and Phyllis Diller, who he impersonates here, although he also appears out of drag, singing “Fever” with Lucie Arnaz.
FOSTER BROOKS
Brooks’ drunk act went over well with crowds at Las Vegas nightclubs and on television. He was a frequent guest on talk and variety shows and several Dean Martin celebrity roasts. Here he plays an alcoholic mystery novelist, David Benton Miller, that Lucy helps finish writing his latest book.
RICH LITTLE
Is a Canadian nightclub comic who became famous for his vast repertoire of impressions. His screen career began in 1964 and he appeared on virtually every TV talk and variety show over the next thirty years. He was known as “The Man of a Thousand Voices.” Here he does John Wayne, Jimmy Stewart and Jack Benny on the episode.
MY NEXT GUESTS: TV HOSTS!
JOHNNY CARSON
Carson was a talk show host and comedian, best known for his 30 years as host of “The Tonight Show” for which he received six Emmy Awards. Carson and Lucille Ball appeared together many times on TV specials and award shows. Carson played himself on “Lucy Moves to NBC” in 1980.
ED McMAHON
McMahon was a comedian, actor, singer, game show host, and announcer. He is most famous for his thirty year run as Johnny Carson’s sidekick, announcer, and second banana on “The Tonight Show.” In his first appearance on “Here’s Lucy” he played himself with Johnny Carson. In his second he played a bank loan officer named Ed McMillan. In 1977 he acted with Lucille Ball on “Lucy Calls the President” where he became the only other actor besides Desi Arnaz to play Lucy’s husband on television!
ART LINKLETTER
Linkletter was the host of “House Party” (aka “The Linkletter Show”) which ran on CBS radio and television for 25 years, and “People Are Funny,” on NBC radio and TV for 19 years. He was mentioned on “The Lucy Show” and where he also played himself in 1966.
ALAN FUNT
Funt is best known as the producer, director, and host of the hidden camera show “Candid Camera.” He produced “Candid Microphone” on radio before moving the format to television in 1948. Here he not only plays himself, he also plays a con-man pretending to be Funt. It was a stretch for him, as he was not an actor.
STAGE TO SCREEN: BROADWAY BRILLIANCE!
HELEN HAYES
Hayes was known as ‘The First Lady of the American Theatre’. She won a 1932 Oscar for “The Sin of Madelon Claudet.” On Broadway, she won Tony Awards in 1947, 1958, and a special Tony in 1980. She has had two Broadway Theatres named after her. Hayes threw herself into television and screen work after being diagnosed as allergic to stage dust! Lucille Ball was in awe of Hayes, who played an Irish widow named Kathleen Brady.
ROBERT ALDA
Alda originated the role of Sky Masterson in Broadway’s “Guys and Dolls,” winning the 1951 Tony Award. He was seen in a variety of character roles (usually eligible bachelors) on both “The Lucy Show” and “Here’s Lucy.”
HOWARD KEEL
Keel was discovered by Oscar Hammerstein II during auditions for John Raitt’s replacement in Broadway’s “Carousel” in 1946. After that, he also went on to play Curly in “Oklahoma!” Here he plays big game hunter Stanley Livingston, on the trail of the wild Gorboona, in what is widely considered the worst episode of the series! What’s worse, it is a non-musical episode!
JACK GILFORD
Gilford began his career in the Amateur Nights of the 1930s moving on to nightclubs doing satire and pantomime. He was nominated for Tony Awards for Best Supporting Actor in the musicals “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” (1962) and “Cabaret” (1966). Here he plays a driving instructor with Craig behind the wheel and Lucy as back seat driver!
SPORTS & POLITICS: PLAYERS IN THE LIMELIGHT!
O.J. SIMPSON
An alumni of the University of Southern California and winner of the Heisman Trophy, he is is former NFL running back for the Buffalo Bills (1969-77) and the San Francisco 49’ers (1977-78).
Once a popular figure with the public, he is most well known today for his trial and acquittal for the murders of his former wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman.
JOE NAMATH
Joe Namath was a record-setting and award-winning professional football player. His career on the gridiron began in 1965 with the Jets and ended 1977 with the Rams. Nicknamed ‘Broadway Joe’, he also was an actor doing stage, screen, and television commercials.
JACK LaLANNE
LaLanne was a nationally known exercise guru who owned a chain of health clubs and hosted a long-running television show from 1952 to 1983.
SAM YORTY
Yorty was the mayor of Los Angeles from 1961 to 1973. During his tenure he earned numerous nicknames from both admirers and detractors, such as Travelin’ Sam, Airplane Sam, Shoot-From-the-Lip Sam, the Maverick Mayor, Mad Sam Yorty, Scrappy Sam, Suitcase Sam, Saigon Sam, and the Reform Republican.
In 1997, a survey of urban historians and political scientists rated Yorty the third worst big-city mayor in the USA since 1960.
BEST FOR LAST: THE QUEEN OF COMEDY!
LUCILLE BALL
Ball plays herself in this episode where she meets the mother of a look-alike contestant, Lucy Carter. Ball was the star of three hit television shows and numerous Hollywood films.
Alan Funt, Art Linkletter, Buddy Rich, Dinah Shore, Donny Osmond, Ed McMahon, Foster Brooks, Helen Hayes, Here’s Lucy, Howard Keel, jack gilford, Jack LaLanne, Jim Bailey, Joan River, Joe Namath, Johnny Carson, Lawrence Welk, Liberace, Lucille Ball, O.J. Simpson, Patty Andrews, Petula Clarke, Phil Harris, Robert Alda, Rudy Vallee, Sam Yorty, Sammy Davis Jr., Tennessee Ernie Ford, Totie Fields, Wayne Newton -
LUCY THE STAR-GAZER! ~ Part One
On “Here’s Lucy,” more than any other series, Lucille Ball used her vast network of Hollywood celebrities as guest stars! It became a great honor to be asked to guest star on “Here’s Lucy,” and even the most accomplished actors were nervous about appearing with the great Lucille Ball. Here are some of the great stars of Hollywoodland who braved Lucy’s comedy Olympics!
HOLLYWOOD ROYALTY: LEGENDS!
JACK BENNY
Lucille Ball’s neighbor and friend was the first to accept her invitation to guest star on “Here’s Lucy.” He made three appearances as himself on the show, one of which was a musical biography with Lucy as all the women in his life. That episode was capped off by a cameo appearance by…
GEORGE BURNS
Burns had guest-starred on “The Lucy Show” as himself. “The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show” was competition for “I Love Lucy” in the 1950s, even stealing away Lucy’s first choice for the role of Ethel Mertz, Bea Benadaret, who signed with Burns to play his neighbor Blanche.
GINGER ROGERS
Lucille Ball did five films with Rogers and was very excited to get her to guest star. Rogers’ mother Lela was Lucy’s acting coach when she first got to Hollywood. In this episode, Rogers gets to show her acting skills as well as her dancing and comedy chops!
MILTON BERLE
Called “Mr. Television” Berle’s ground-breaking variety show competed with “I Love Lucy” during most of the 1950s. He played himself on a 1959 episode of “The Lucy-Desi Comedy Hour” and on two episodes of “The Lucy Show.” His first “Here’s Lucy” episode he played an unscrupulous used car dealer, but in his last appearance he returned to playing himself.
VAN JOHNSON
Came to Hollywood with Desi Arnaz to star in the film version of TOO MANY GIRLS (1939) where it is said that he introduced Desi to Lucille Ball. Johnson guest-starred as himself in “The Dancing Star” on “I Love Lucy.” Here he plays both himself and an imposter looking to con Lucy Carter.
SHELLEY WINTERS
Winters essentially played herself – a movie star dealing with over-eating, but declined to use her own name! Her character was named Shelley Summers. Lucy was her diet and exercise coach.
MARILYN MAXWELL
Maxwell appeared in four films with Lucille Ball between 1943 and 1963. It was rumored the Maxwell and Bob Hope were romantically linked, despite both being married to others.
VINCENT PRICE
Was considered the king of the low budget horror flicks. He played himself here, even though the premise asked him to be pretty outrageous and play into his film persona.
ELSA LANCHESTER
The original Bride of Frankenstein was first seen as a possible hatchet murderess on “I Love Lucy.” She won an Oscar for “Come to the Stable” in 1949. A true eccentric.
RICHARD BURTON & ELIZABETH TAYLOR
Possibly the most impressive “get” by Lucille Ball on “Here’s Lucy” was the real-life Hollywood couple Liz and Dick – and her million dollar diamond ring! The much-anticipated episode was used to kick off season three.
THE TV SET: SMALL SCREEN STARS!
JACKIE GLEASON
A star of the Golden Age of Television, Jackie Gleason did a wordless cameo as his most famous character, bus driver Ralph Kramden. This photo of Ball, Benny, and Gleason shows three icons of 1950s television in one scene!
CAROL BURNETT
Lucille Ball’s friend and protege was seen on many episodes of both “The Lucy Show” and “Here’s Lucy” – as both herself and a character. During “Here’s Lucy” Burnett got her own series and was launched into TV history. For every episode Burnett did of “Here’s Lucy,” Ball did one of “The Carol Burnett Show.”
ROBERT CUMMINGS
A favorite of Lucille Ball’s, Cummings first appeared on a Japan-set episode of “The Lucy-Desi Comedy Hour.” On “Here’s Lucy” he played Bob Collins, a character from one of his television shows.
ANDY GRIFFITH
Griffith was the star of his own show, one shot on the Desilu backlot. Here he played Andy Johnson, a fundraiser helping young people go to camp. His character of Andy Taylor on “The Andy Griffith Show” was first seen on another Desilu show, “Make Room for Daddy.”
DANNY THOMAS
Thomas was the star of the Desilu series “Make Room for Daddy” where he played a father and stand-up comic named Danny Williams. The Williams family met the Ricardos in a rare cross-over episode of “The Lucy-Desi Comedy Show.” Thomas previously played himself on “The Lucy Show,” but here he plays a painter named Danny Gallupi!
HANS CONRIED
Conried appeared as grammar teacher Percy Livermore on “I Love Lucy,” as well as playing Uncle Tonoose on “Make Room for Daddy.” Here he plays art gallery owner William Barkley again teamed with Danny Thomas.
DON KNOTTS
Was Andy Griffith’s co-star on “The Andy Griffith Show” as the bumbling deputy Barney Fife. Here he plays eccentric swinger Ben Fletcher, Lucy’s last blind date!
FLIP WILSON
One of the first African American television stars and a versatile comic. He plays himself with Lucy, but plays characters as well – even Prissy from “Gone With the Wind”!
DAN DAILEY
Dailey was known for stage and screen, as well as his TV show “The Governor and J.J.” Here he played himself.
RICARDO MONTALBAN
Another film star who crossed over to television success with “Fantasy Island.” Montalban was just one of Lucy’s “Latin Lovers.” Here he plays Prince Phillip Gregory Hennepin of Montalbania!
EDDIE ALBERT
Albert was a film star who found great success as Oliver Wendell Douglas, a lawyer turned farmer on “Green Acres,” a show that also starred….
EVA GABOR
Gabor had played a romance novelist in her first “Here’s Lucy” appearance, but then played herself, Lucy’s hospital roomie.
PAUL WINCHELL
Winchell played himself on “The Lucy Show,” but on “Here’s Lucy” he was seen as a variety of crazy characters. He was the only character actor to play two different roles on one episode!
MIKE CONNORS
Connors was famous for playing “Mannix”, a Desilu show Lucille Ball saved from cancellation. It ran on CBS concurrently with “Here’s Lucy.” He was nominated for 5 Emmys and six Golden Globes for the role. To thank Lucy, Connors played Joe Mannix on this episode.
LLOYD BRIDGES
Bridges is probably best remembered for his starring role in TV’s “Sea Hunt” (1958-61) which was often mentioned on “The Lucy Show.” In 1959 he starred in an episode of the “Westinghouse Desilu Playhouse” hosted by Desi Arnaz. Bridges had his own show on CBS from 1962 to 1963. Here’s he plays Lucy’s doctor, Paul Murray.
JACKIE COOGAN
A film star since childhood, Coogan is probably best remembered as Uncle Fester on “The Addams Family.” Here he plays a disagreeable tenant that Lucy tries to get to move out!
VICTOR BUONO
Another hefty screen star who made good on television was Victor Buono, who played “Batman” villain King Tut after earning an Oscar nomination for “Whatever Happened to Baby Jane.” Here he played a greeting card writer who Lucy thought was a spy!
TONY RANDALL
Randall started in films, but found success on the small screen as Felix Unger in “The Odd Couple.” Here he plays a fitness freak who goes into business with Harry.
KAYE BALLARD
Ballard was a stage star who was cast by Desi Arnaz in his series “The Mothers-in-Law” with Eve Arden. Here she plays an Italian femme fatale who has her sights set on her old flame Harry.
JAYNE MEADOWS
Between 1977 and 1995 Jayne was nominated for three prime time Emmy Awards. Meadows was a panelist on “I’ve Got a Secret” for three of Lucille Ball’s appearances on the quiz show. She was married to TV host Steve Allen.
CHUCK CONNORS
Connors was also seen in action films, he came to fame as “The Rifleman” and used this appearance as himself to promote his stunt documentary series “ThrillSeekers” – even wearing the show’s distinctive jacket on the show.
CHARLES NELSON REILLY
His first TV regular role was as Claymore Gregg in “The Ghost and Mrs. Muir,” but he is perhaps best remembered as a panelist on the game show “Match Game.” Here he plays a store returns clerk named Elroy P. Clunk!
WALLY COX
Cox was one of Lucille Ball’s favorite performers. He is best remembered for as a panelist on TV’s “The Hollywood Squares” (1965-73) as well as his hit series “Mr. Peepers” (1953-55). He played two quirky characters on “The Lucy Show” and two more on “Here’s Lucy.”
ARTE JOHNSON
RUTH BUZZI
Although airing on another network, both Johnson and Buzzi were emerging stars of “Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In.” Lucie Arnaz and Desi Arnaz Jr. both also went on the variety show, which was frequently quoted and mentioned on “Here’s Lucy.”
TIM MATHESON
Played Lucy’s son in the film “Yours, Mine and Ours” and here plays Kim’s boyfriend Peter. He is probably best known as Eric Stratton in the 1978 film “Animal House,” although he also received two Emmy nominations for his work on “The West Wing” (1999-2006).
EVE PLUMB
Plumb guest-starred as Lucy’s niece while also playing Jan Brady on “The Brady Bunch.”
STAY TUNED FOR PART TWO: MUSIC AND MORE!
Arte Johnson, CBS, celebrities, Charles Nelson Reilly, Chuck Connors, Eve Plumb, film, George Burns, Ginger Rogers, Here’s Lucy, Hollywood, Jack Benny, Jackie Coogan, Jayne Meadows, Kaye Ballard, Lloyd Bridges, Lucille Ball, Mannix, Marilyn Maxwell, Mike Connors, Milton Berle, Paul Winchell, Ruth Buzzi, Shelley Winters, Tim Matheson, Tony Randall, tv, Van Johnson, Victor Buono, Wally Cox -
THE FAMILY THAT PLAYS TOGETHER…
When Lucille Ball re-formatted “The Lucy Show” to create “Here’s Lucy,” she cast her own children, Lucie Arnaz and Desi Arnaz Jr., to play her kids, Kim and Craig Carter. They were allowed to chose their own character names and the scripts would often highlight their individual talents. Here’s a look at their escapades on the series.
FAMILY ALBUM
Enjoying free tea and sandwiches at an afternoon auction.
Craig’s 18th birthday party!
A visit to the Air Force Academy. Reviewing the troops!
Rainy day picnic moved to the living room!
Hello? Hello. Hello! Telephone hour!
Undercover at an embassy ball; a mission impossible!
BROTHER & SISTER ACT
Wondering what to do about Mom….
Still wondering what to do about Mom!
Uncle Harry won’t give Mom a raise – not cool! [These signs were actually the show’s cue cards!]
Craig gets mischievous with a trolley full of pies at LAX! [The first, but not the last, episode shot fully on location.]
Their record collection isn’t jiving with Mom’s!
Varsity football hero and head cheerleader!
Kimea and Craigius: playing dress-up in one of Mom’s charity shows.
Craig goes in for Scuba and Kim rides motorbikes. To teach them a lesson, a disapproving Mom takes up skydiving!
Garage sale treasures! Yes! [One of the items for sale was Lucy Ricardo’s Vitameatavegamin dress!]
CRAIG’S ADVENTURES
Craig’s first big gig! [The first episode of the series.]
Mom explains contract law to her son.
Trying to act cool before meeting starlet Ann-Margret! Fail!
Mom and Craig on maneuvers at the Air Force Academy!
Soldier boy! Oh, my little soldier boy! [A doting mother’s vivid imagination!]
Uncle Harry and Craig play frat boy gridiron rivals!
Selling a song to get Angeles High a new gymnasium!
“When I was seventeen…It was a very good year!” Frank Sinatra – eat your heart out!
Blowing up the air mattresses while camping on the banks of the Colorado River.
On a cruise to Hawaii, Craig finds a pretty girlfriend named Wendy! [Wendy was actually played by the episode’s choreographer, Anita Mann!]
Craig meets his hero, Joe Namath! [This was Desi Arnaz Jr.’s final appearance on the series.]
KIM’S SNAPSHOTS
Kim’s first apartment! With a photo of the family nearby to remind her of home. [This episode was a ‘back-door pilot’ for a spin-off of the Kim character. For a variety of reasons, it was not picked up for series.]
Bunking with Mom in the office on Uncle Harry’s army cot. Mom looking for burglars!
“I’ve Got You Babe”! Kim and Frankie Avalon as Sonny and Cher. [Kim’s earrings and wig belonging to the real Cher!]
Cheerleader Kim and the boys raise money for a new gym.
Kim takes a part-time job waiting tables in an attempt to convince Uncle Harry that Mom needs a raise!
Kim went undercover as secretary Shirley Shopenhauer to get Mom her job back!
Kim pretends to be the domestic help to convince a banker the Carters are rich.
Mom took Kim and Craig on a cruise to Hawaii!
Kim ends up part of the cruise ship’s farewell show, doing a hula act.
Kim as Melanie Wilkes in “Gone With the Wind.” She don’t know nothin’ about birthin’ babies! Mom was Scarlet, Uncle Harry played Rhett, and Flip Wilson was Prissy!
Shopping tips from Mom! Getting the most for her money by looking for eggs that are full to the top!
Kim and her boyfriend act as carpenters! [Behind the false beard is Lucie Arnaz’s first husband, Phil Vandervort.]
Kim thinks she looks like Lucille Ball so she enters a contest and loses to Lucy Carter, her own mother!
Lucy stares lovingly at her family!
THE END!
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GALE GORDON
February 20, 1906
Gale Gordon was Lucille Ball’s co-star in every one of her radio and television shows: Rudolph Atterbury on “My Favorite Husband,” Alvin Littlefield on “I Love Lucy,” Theodore J. Mooney on “The Lucy Show,” Harrison Otis Carter on “Here’s Lucy,” and Curtis McGibbon on “Life With Lucy.” Whether bellowing or turning a cartwheel, he was Lucy’s perfect comic foil!
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COSTUME QUEEN!
Lucille Ball never shied away from dressing in the most outrageous get-ups if it served the comedy! Here’s a look at some of her wonderful wardrobe on HERE’S LUCY!
LUCY IS REALLY IN A PICKLE (S5;E15 ~ January 1, 1973)
LUCY GOES TO THE AIR FORCE ACADEMY: PART 1 (S2;E1 ~ September 22, 1969)
LUCY AND JACK BENNY’S BIOGRAPHY (S3;E11 ~ November 23, 1970)
THE BOW WOW BOUTIQUE (S6;E5 ~ October 8, 1973)
LUCY AND VIV VISIT TIJUANA (S2;E19 ~ January 26, 1970)
LUCY AND THE CELEBRITIES (S4;E10 ~ November 15, 1971)
LUCY AND THE CELEBRITIES (S4;E10 ~ November 15, 1971)
LUCY AND THE USED CAR DEALER (S2;E9 ~ November 17, 1969)
LUCY, THE SHERIFF (S6;E18 ~ January 28, 1974)
MOD, MOD LUCY (S1;E1 ~ September 23, 1968)
LUCY’S VACATION (S3;E17 ~ January 5, 1971)
LUCY AT THE DRIVE-IN MOVIE (S2;E8 ~ November 10, 1969)
MY FAIR BUZZI (S5;E13 ~ December 11, 1972)
LUCY MAKES A FEW EXTRA DOLLARS (S4;E6 ~ October 18, 1971)
LUCY AND MA PARKER (S3;E15 ~ December 21, 1970)
LUCY, THE CEMENT WORKER (S2;E10 ~ November 24, 1969)
LUCY, THE LAUNDRESS (S2;E17 ~ January 12, 1970)
LUCY’S IMPOSSIBLE MISSION (S1;E6 ~ October 28, 1968)
LUCY AND FLIP GO LEGIT (S4;E1 ~ September 13, 1971)
LUCY AND FLIP GO LEGIT (S4;E1 ~ September 13, 1971)
LUCY GOES ON HER LAST BLIND DATE (S5;E16 ~ January 8, 1973)
LUCY AND HER ALL-NUN BAND (S4;E8 ~ November 1, 1971)
LUCY AND THE FRANCHISE FIASCO (S5;E20 ~ February 5, 1973)
DIRTY GERTIE (S5;E10 ~ November 13, 1972)
WITH VIV AS A FRIEND, WHO NEEDS AN ENEMY? (S4;E23 ~ February 21, 1972)
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THAT FACE!
Lucille Ball’s facial expressions were a hilarious part of her comic brilliance. Here’s a look at some of her priceless expressions from HERE’S LUCY!
“Lucy and the Indian Chief” (S2;E3 ~ October 6, 1969)
“Tipsy Through the Tulips” (S6;E10 ~ November 12, 1973)
“Lucy Stops a Marriage” (S3;E16 ~ December 28, 1970)
“Lucy the Crusader” (S3;E5 ~ October 12, 1970)
“With Viv as a Friend, Who Needs an Enemy?” (S4;E23 ~ February 21, 1972)
“Lucy and Flip Go Legit” (S4;E1 ~ September 13, 1971)
“Goodbye, Mrs. Hips” (S5;E23 ~ February 26, 1973)
“Lucy Helps David Frost Go Night-Night” (S4;E12 ~ November 29, 1971)
“Lucy, the Conclusion Jumper” (S1;E5 ~ October 21, 1968)
“Lucy and Aladdin’s Lamp” (S3;E21 ~ February 1, 1971)
“Lucy Carter Meets Lucille Ball” (S6;E22 ~ March 4, 1974)
“Lucy and Her All-Nun Band” (S4;E8 ~ November 1, 1971)
“Lucy is Really in a Pickle” (S5;E15 ~ January 1, 1973)
“Lucy is Really in a Pickle” (S5;E15 ~ January 1, 1973)
“Lucy’s Replacement” (S4;E19 ~ January 17, 1972)
“Lucy and Joan Rivers Do Jury Duty” (S6;E9 ~ November 5, 1973)
“Lucy and Sammy Davis Jr.” (S3;E3 ~ September 28, 1970)
“Lucy Goes on Strike” (S1;E16 ~ January 20, 1969)
“Lucy’s Wedding Party” (S3;E8 ~ November 2, 1970)
“The Case of the Reckless Wheelchair Driver” (S5;E6 ~ October 16, 1972)
“Where Is My Wandering Mother Tonight?” (S6;E23 ~ March 11, 1974)
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Papermoon Loves Lucy 