The Courtship Of Eddie's Father

The Courtship Of Eddie's Father is an American television sitcom that aired from 1969 to 1972. The show, produced by James Komack, revolved around a young boy's efforts to help his widowed father find love again. It was a blend of humor, sentimentality, and family relations that proved popular with the audience of the time.

The show was based on the 1963 movie of the same name, which was, in turn, an adaptation of a novel written by Mark Toby. The sitcom featured The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet star Bill Bixby as Eddie's father, Tom Corbett, alongside Brandon Cruz who expertly portrayed the character of Eddie. Bixby’s warm and nuanced portrayal of a widower father made him a television favorite and a name synonymous with the success of this show.

The series begins with Eddie making it his mission to find his father a new wife after his mother passes away, hence the title "The Courtship Of Eddie's Father." Eddie, a well-meaning, intelligent, and determined boy, would often try his best to throw his father into romantic scenarios with potential mother figures. The show highlighted his earnest attempts, often humorous, regularly touching and occasionally successful in creating a friendship if not romance.

Supporting characters in this heartfelt sitcom include Mrs. Livingston, the housekeeper played by Miyoshi Umeki, a veritable font of wisdom and surrogate mother to Eddie, and Tina Rickles, Tom’s secretary, played by Kristina Holland. Other characters who added to the charm and humor of the series included Norman Tinker, a photographer and comic relief character played by James Komack himself, and various love interests portrayed by guest stars.

Situated in Los Angeles, California, Tom Corbett, Eddie's father, works as the editor of a major magazine, which provides the setting for working life and the variety of characters he encounters during his bachelorhood. The show was renowned for showing the idyllic Californian landscapes, social and cultural scenes of the late '60s, and early '70s, presenting a nostalgic picture of that era.

The Courtship Of Eddie's Father blended comedy and drama, providing a realistic portrayal of a single-parent family during a time in television where such things were not often depicted. Furthermore, the father-son bond formed the core of the series, with Eddie and Tom sharing an affectionate and caring relationship despite the tensions and misunderstandings they would occasionally face.

One of the unique selling points of the series was its innovative use of dialogue scenes between Eddie and his father. These scenes were usually included at the beginning and end of each episode and provided an introspective lens into their close relationship and dynamic. It was in these segments where the most important life lessons are shared, discussed, and resolved.

Adding to the enduring charm of the show was the original theme music, "Best Friend" written and performed by Harry Nilsson. The unforgettable tune set the jovial and heartwarming tone of the sitcom from the get-go, indicative of the close friendship between father and son.

Though it only lasted for three seasons, The Courtship Of Eddie's Father left an indelible mark on television and is remembered fondly for its endearing portrayal of a single father-son relationship, which was a novel concept at that time. It dealt with real, familial situations in a gently comic and relatable way, rising above the standard sitcom fare. Its influence is visible in the family-themed sitcoms that would follow in its wake.

The Courtship Of Eddie's Father remains a beloved classic, not just for its humor, but for its mix of comedy and real-world insight into parenthood, grief, and moving forward from loss. It is unique among shows of its time, showcasing a father and son's journey to navigate life and love after tragedy. THE END.