The Mothers-In-Law

The Mothers-In-Law is an American sitcom that aired on NBC for two seasons from 1967-1969. Based around the comedic interplay of its stars Eve Arden and Kaye Ballard, the show offers unique insights into family dynamics, especially those revolving around in-law relationships. Its lively script, generous helpings of humor, and brilliant performances by its cast members make it a classic television show worthy of remembrance.

Eve Arden, famous for her titular role in "Our Miss Brooks," plays the character of Eve Hubbard, an elegant, poised, and quick-witted woman who is married to Herbert Rudley's character, Herb Hubbard. He is a successful attorney with a penchant for mixing up popular phrases. Kaye Ballard plays the character of Kaye Buell, an Italian-American woman with flamboyant tendencies and a love for show business. Her husband, Roger C. Carmel, played by the character Roger Buell, is a bumbling television executive.

The sitcom explores the lives of these two dramatically opposite neighboring couples who are thrust into a rollercoaster of family chemistry when their children - Jerry Hubbard (portrayed by Jerry Fogel) and Suzie Hubbard Buell (originally portrayed by Deborah Walley, who was later replaced by Lyn Peters) decide to get married. This event sets the stage for a delightful chaos that ensues throughout the series as Eve and Kaye navigate their new roles as mothers-in-law.

As the show's title suggests, Arden and Ballard, as the mothers-in-law, are at the heart of the series. Their vibrant personalities clash on many occasions, making them the source of some of the show's funniest moments. It effectively depicts their amusing attempts to impose their values and ways on each other's families causing many heartwarming, often hilarious, episodes.

Herbert Rudley portrays an almost deadpan Herb Hubbard, adding to the humor with his manipulation of expressions and providing the right foil to Eve's witty persona. Roger Buell, portrayed by Roger C. Carmel, and in the second season, by Richard Deacon, adds to the humor with his quirky and clumsy character. The children, Jerry and Suzie, are the classic all-American young couple trying to manage their personal lives amid the intriguing pairing of their feisty mothers-in-law.

Created by renowned writers Bob Carroll Jr. and Madelyn Davis, who had previously worked on the iconic "I Love Lucy" show, The Mothers-In-Law displays their deft knack for humor and hilarious conflict. The show masterfully uses various scenarios, including cultural clashes, misunderstandings, and everyday situations, to craft humor that still rings true even after decades since its original telecast.

Unforgettable guest appearances, including ones by Desi Arnaz and Lucille Ball of "I Love Lucy" fame, add extra star power and nostalgic value to the series. The show also made good use of physical comedy that was a trademark of Carroll and Davis's earlier work.

Although the series was short-lived, The Mothers-In-Law left an indelible mark and continues to entertain audiences with its reruns. The show was known for its well-crafted script, tight plotting, and hilarious performances. The witty one-liners, amusing plot twists, and engaging storytelling style are all part of the sitcom's enduring appeal.

Aside from its brand of humor and exceptional cast performances, The Mothers-In-Law's significance also lies in how it reflects the societal and cultural trends of its time, showing the evolution of the television family setup during the late 1960s. Mothers-in-law and their place in family life have rarely been explored so humorously and in such depth on American television. This unique focus on the relationship between mothers-in-law and their children-in-law, rather than the traditional nuclear family, sets it apart from other contemporary sitcoms.

In conclusion, The Mothers-In-Law, with its delightful array of characters and relatable comedy, remains a testament to the timeless appeal of family sitcoms. The show not only celebrates in-law relationships but also nostalgically portrays a poignant time in American television history, delivering laughs along the way. It is a classic example of the dynamic, ever-evolving world of American comedy television.