The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour (1967)
The groundbreaking CBS variety series where Tom and Dick Smothers turned prime-time television into a stage for political satire, folk music, and fearless comedy.
The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour - Series Information
- Original Title: The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour
- First Air Year: 1967
- Last Air Year: 1969
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Comedy
- Content Rating (US): NR
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode: 45 minutes
- Number of Seasons: 3
- Number of Episodes: 72
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: February 5, 1967 (United States - NR)
- Networks: CBS
- Production Countries: United States of America
The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour - Plot
The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour is an American comedy and variety show hosted by the Smothers Brothers and initially airing on CBS from 1967 to 1969.
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The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour - Cast & Crew
Main Cast
- Peter Cullen
- Dick Smothers
- Tom Smothers
- Pat Paulsen
- Peter Bonerz
- Barbara Bosson
- Howard Hesseman
- Kathryn Ish
- Richard Stahl
- Mel Stewart
Writers
- Allan Blye
- Cy Howard
- Ron Clark
- Sam Bobrick
- Saul Ilson
The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour - FAQs
Why was The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour cancelled by CBS?
CBS cancelled the show in 1969 after years of escalating tension over its political content. The network objected to sketches criticizing the Vietnam War, President Nixon, and the establishment. When the brothers missed a deadline for a tape submission, CBS used it as a pretext to pull the plug on one of television's most controversial programs.
What made The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour historically significant?
The show was a trailblazer in using prime-time television as a platform for political dissent. At the height of the Vietnam War and civil rights movement, Tom and Dick Smothers pushed boundaries with anti-war satire and countercultural guests, paving the way for edgier comedy programs like Saturday Night Live.
Where can you watch The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour today?
Streaming availability for The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour is limited due to the age and rights complexity of the series. Check JustWatch for the most current viewing options in your region, as availability on streaming and digital rental platforms can change over time.
Who were the notable guest stars on the show?
The series attracted a remarkable roster of guests, including Harry Belafonte, Bob Newhart, George Gobel, Barbara Feldon, and Eddie Albert. Musical acts ranging from folk artists to rock bands also appeared, reflecting the show's embrace of the late 1960s counterculture and its broad entertainment appeal.
How many seasons and episodes does the series have?
The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour ran for three seasons on CBS, totaling 72 episodes. Season 1 featured 20 episodes, while Seasons 2 and 3 each delivered 26 episodes. The show aired from February 1967 until its controversial cancellation in 1969.
Did The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour win any awards?
Yes, the show earned Emmy recognition during its run. Head writer Mason Williams won an Emmy Award, and the series received multiple nominations. Its cultural impact has been widely acknowledged by television historians, and it is frequently cited as one of the most influential variety shows in American broadcast history.
Who wrote for The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour?
The writing staff was exceptionally talented and included Allan Blye, Cy Howard, Ron Clark, Sam Bobrick, Saul Ilson, Al Gordon, Gene Farmer, Cecil Tuck, Ernest Chambers, and Mason Williams. Several of these writers went on to distinguished careers in television comedy, a testament to the show's role as a creative incubator.
What shows are similar to The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour?
Fans of the show often enjoy Saturday Night Live, The Ed Sullivan Show, and The Carol Burnett Show for their blend of comedy, music, and cultural commentary. The Dick Van Dyke Show and Whose Line Is It Anyway? also share the spirit of sharp, ensemble-driven comedy that made the Smothers Brothers so memorable.
More About The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour
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