The Beverly Hillbillies has long been one of many’s favorite shows, and it’s not hard to see why. With no risqué humor, offensive language, or divisive politics, it offers pure, light-hearted entertainment.
One standout episode is when Granny hilariously mistakes a kangaroo for a giant jackrabbit. What’s even more fascinating is that this particular episode broke records, becoming the most-watched sitcom of its era. Even this classic had its share of production goofs, and here are some of the funniest that made it to the screen.
Ocean on the Left
In the opening scene, the Clampetts are driving home from Malibu, but something is off. Malibu is west of Beverly Hills, so if they were driving east, the ocean should be on their right. Yet, it’s on their left, making it look like they’re heading in the opposite direction!
The Boston Strong Girl
In season six’s episode The Rass’lin’ Clampetts, Granny faces off with the Boston Strong Girl, seemingly throwing her out of the ring. But watch closely — the Strong Girl gives herself a little jump to help get over the ropes. Fun fact: the Boston Strong Girl was played by Jerry Randall, a stuntman in drag!
The Missing Fish
In The Clampetts Go Fishing, Mr. Drysdale takes the Clampetts to Marineland to spark their interest in deep-sea fishing. When they arrive at the mansion, the car’s backseat is empty, but by the time they get out, a giant fish mysteriously appears!
Jane Hathaway’s Car Switch
Throughout seasons one and two, Jane Hathaway is seen driving a 1962 Plymouth convertible. But if you pay close attention, in some scenes, she magically switches to a 1963 or 1964 Dodge. It seems Jane had a knack for spontaneous car upgrades!
The Groundskeeper Cameo
In the closing credits of the Thanksgiving episode Elly’s First Date (1962), a surprise guest walks into the shot. A groundskeeper, carrying a rake and wearing a white tank top, stumbles into view. Realizing his mistake, he quickly bolts off-screen, giving viewers a laugh.
Max Baer Jr. as His Twin Sister
Max Baer Jr., who played the naive Jethro Bodine, also portrayed Jethro’s twin sister, Jethrine, for 11 episodes in season one. Although Baer played the role, Jethrine’s voice was dubbed by Linda Kaye Henning, daughter of the show’s creator, Paul Henning.
Mr. Drysdale’s Magic Hat
In the episode The Great Jethro, Mr. Drysdale throws his hat to Jethro for a magic trick. Jethro ruins the hat, but moments later, the camera cuts to Mr. Drysdale, who is calmly holding the undamaged hat. Then, in the next shot, the hat is back on the magician’s stand before being ruined again!
John Wayne’s Bourbon Paycheck
John Wayne made a memorable cameo in the episode The Indians Are Coming. Although uncredited, Wayne only asked for one thing in payment — a fifth of Jack Daniel’s bourbon. Seems like a deal to me!
The Giant Jackrabbit
The episode The Giant Jackrabbit became a historic hit, holding the record for the most-watched half-hour of television at the time. The lighthearted humor provided a much-needed escape during a somber period in American history following President Kennedy’s assassination.
The Bloopers Everyone Missed
Here’s a fun detail from The Giant Jackrabbit: As the kangaroo hops to the Clampetts’ back door, keep an eye on the bottom-left corner of the screen. You’ll spot a man’s foot — most likely the kangaroo trainer’s — briefly appearing at 09:02. It’s a tiny but hilarious goof that adds to the episode’s charm.
A Nod to Casting Genius
In the same episode, Granny’s mix-up with the kangaroo leads the Clampetts to believe she’s seeing things. The quirky characters and amusing misunderstandings remind us why The Beverly Hillbillies will always be a beloved classic.
