The Beverly Hillbillies (TV Series) Jed Buys Central Park (1969) User Reviews

MY UNCLE HAS 85 MILLION DOLLARS, THATS ALL

[tcchelsey · 10/10 · 18 June 2023]

So says Jethro to slickster Shifty (played by the hilarious Phil Silvers) -- and you know what's next. This is a "traveling" episode where the Clampett gang leaves Beverly Hills for family get togethers, this time to attend Elly's wedding to Matthew (played by series regular Roger Torrey). Of course, the wedding plans go south, but in comes con man of cons Shifty, who convinces Jed to fly the family out to New York City where he has a business proposal. BUY CENTRAL PARK??? Always a recurring gag in the series as almost every season had a con man or woman trying to get their hands on Jed's millions. To note, Roger Torrey was the "original" choice to play Jethro, losing out to Max Baer. Producers thought so highly of him however, he went on to appear numerous times, usually as Matthew, although his name changed occasionally. Comedian Phil Silvers is the whole show here. His role reminds me of the part he played in ITS A MAD, MAD , MAD WORLD (1963), the fast-talking con of cons. Actor and series writer Dick Wesson wrote this gem, who also did many bit roles. At the same time, he was also writing scripts for PETTICOAT JUNCTION. And don't the front doors and porch of the local hotel look very much like the front of Sam Drucker's store in PETTICOAT JUNCTION?? Seeing Miss Jane as a Mountie and Mr. Drysdale in blue suspenders and black hat is a must (riding a mule too!) SEASON 7 Restored dvd box set.