The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour was a hit American TV show hosted by the Smothers Brothers, airing on CBS from 1967 to 1969. Despite competing against Bonanza, it gained popularity with its daring political satire and featured performances by renowned musicians like George Harrison, Buffalo Springfield, Pete Seeger, Cream, and the Who
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The Comedy Hour
The Comedy Hour broke norms in the conservative landscape of television. Beginning in 1967 as a slightly “hip” comedy-variety show, it quickly pushed boundaries, becoming a pioneer in television satire.
With a talented team including writers like Hal Goldman, Al Gordon, and performers like Steve Martin and Rob Reiner, the show introduced fresh talent like Jennifer Warnes and showcased hits like Mason Williams’ “Classical Gas.” Williams even won an Emmy for his writing on the show, while Warnes contributed vocals to his album, “The Mason Williams Ear Show.”
The Smothers Brothers: Groundbreaking Guests
The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour featured groundbreaking musical acts often overlooked by other variety shows due to their unconventional music or political views. Iconic performers like George Harrison, Joan Baez, and the Who graced its stage, despite potential advertiser concerns.
Pete Seeger’s appearance in 1967 marked his return to commercial television after 17 years, although his performance of “Waist Deep in the Big Muddy” was initially censored due to its political implications. The show also aired promotional films for the Beatles’ “Hey Jude” and “Revolution,” as well as songs by the Bee Gees. Jimi Hendrix notably dedicated a performance to the Smothers Brothers, showcasing the show’s impact on music culture.
The Smothers Brothers: Canceled!
The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour gained both popularity and controversy for its daring portrayal of youth culture and socially relevant issues, attracting a younger, liberal audience. However, conflicts with CBS censors escalated, leading to episodes being edited or delayed. Despite being renewed for another season, the show was abruptly canceled in 1969 due to disputes over content and delivery deadlines.
Lawsuit
The brothers filed a breach of contract suit against CBS, eventually winning in 1973. They returned to television in 1975 with a less controversial show on NBC. The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour won an Emmy for Outstanding Writing, and its cancellation was later documented in the film “Smothered: The Censorship Struggles of the Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour.”
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