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Behind the Scenes of Beverly Hillbillies

The Beverly Hillbillies stands as a testament to the golden age of television, a timeless gem that continues to captivate audiences with its blend of wit, heart, and unforgettable characters. However, behind the scenes of this beloved sitcom is a rich tapestry of untold stories, hidden dramas, and fascinating anecdotes that have largely remained hidden from the public eye. In this comprehensive exploration, we will uncover the secrets and revelations that have shaped The Beverly Hillbillies' legacy.

From the start, the show was a pioneering experiment in television storytelling, combining elements of comedy, satire, and social commentary to create a uniquely American story. Beyond its outward appeal, the series navigated a maze of creative challenges, legal disputes, and behind-the-scenes dynamics that often went unnoticed by its devoted audience.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the show's history has been its contentious casting decisions. From Buddy Ebsen's transformative performance as Jed Clampett to real-life feuds among cast members, the casting process was a delicate balancing act that ultimately shaped the iconic characters we know and love today.

Alas, you know, The Beverly Hillbillies was not immune from commercialism and corporate sponsorship. Product placements, marketing tie-ins, and sponsorship agreements were all important aspects of the show's production, influencing everything from plot development to character arcs.

In this article, we delve deep into the archives to discover The Beverly Hillbillies' untold stories, shedding light on the show's creative genius, backstage drama, and cultural impact. Join us as we peel back the layers of nostalgia to reveal the hidden truths underlying The Beverly Hillbillies' laughter and tears. Y'all come back now, ya hear?

Bea Benaderet and Irene Ryan Both Tried Out for the Role of Granny

Bea Benaderet and Irene Ryan Both Tried Out for the Role of Granny

Both Bea Benaderet and Irene Ryan, who are both highly regarded actresses, battled with one another for the coveted part of Granny in this illustrious television series. Despite the fact that Benaderet had tried out for the role, Irene Ryan was ultimately selected for the role because she impressed with her performance.

The creator of the show, Paul Henning, recognized Benaderet's great potential and decided to cast her in the role of Cousin Pearl, Jethro's mother, later in the series. After recognizing which, he would go on to design the character Kate Bradley in the TV show "Petticoat Junction" just for her.

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The Show Had an Impact on Southern Stereotypes

The Show Had an Impact on Southern Stereotypes

The Beverly Hillbillies had a profound impact on Southern stereotypes, supporting and changing opinions of rural Americans. The comedy, which revolved around the Clampett family's out-of-place experiences in rich Beverly Hills, relied on exaggerated portrayals of Southern naiveté and simplicity. While it created a funny juxtaposition between country and urban cultures, it also reinforced stereotypes about Southerners as unsophisticated and out of touch with modern civilization.

However, the show's portrayal was not all negative. Characters like Jed Clampett, despite his lack of formal schooling, were portrayed as smart, kind-hearted, and ethically sound. This nuanced representation enabled the show to quietly challenge several assumptions, demonstrating that genuine riches is found in character and ideals rather than material goods.

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Episodes Unintentionally Leaked Into the Public Domain

Episodes Unintentionally Leaked Into the Public Domain

Orion Television's astounding error resulted in a considerable number of episodes from "Beverly Hillbillies" being suddenly released into the public domain. This mishap occurred when Orion neglected to renew copyrights for 55 episodes before they expired. As a result, these episodes became freely available for redistribution, resulting to massive distribution across many platforms. 

While this mishap provided an opportunity for various firms to capitalize on the show's success, there was one catch: the renowned opening theme tune was missing. Due to residual copyright protection, the original tune had to be replaced with generic banjo music, a slight setback in an otherwise fortunate turn of events for show lovers.

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The Cement Pond Wasn't Always Cement

The Cement Pond Wasn't Always Cement

In The Beverly Hillbillies, the renowned cee-ment pond was an important component of the Clampett family's newfound opulent lifestyle. Despite its name, the iconic swimming pool was not always made of cement. Early in the show's production, it was discovered that the actual swimming pool at the estate where filming took place was composed of gunite, a concrete blend widely used for pools.

To keep the folksy appeal of Jed Clampett's vernacular, the show's makers chose to use the word cement pond. This humorous homage to Jed's rural upbringing became one of the show's lovable oddities, adding to the fish-out-of-water humor as the backwoods Clampetts navigated their upscale Beverly Hills surroundings.

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The Show Inspired a Feature Film

The Show Inspired a Feature Film

Acclaimed for its wit and eccentric characters, this show spawned a feature film three decades after its television premiere. The Clampetts made a resurgence on the big screen in The Beverly Hillbillies in 1993. Penelope Spheeris, best known for her work on Wayne's World, directed the picture, which starred Jim Varney as the charming patriarch Jed Clampett, Diedrich Bader as the dimwitted Jethro, and Erika Eleniak as the animal-loving Elly May.

While the film got mixed reviews, it introduced the legendary sitcom's appeal to a new generation, capitalizing on nostalgia for the original series and presenting the Clampetts' escapades in Beverly Hills to a larger audience.

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The Best People Took Care of Elly May's Pets

The Best People Took Care of Elly May's Pets

Elly May Clampett's fondness for animals on "The Beverly Hillbillies" was a defining feature of her character, but behind the scenes, it was Frank Inn's expert hands that ensured her menagerie received the greatest care. Inn, a well-known Hollywood animal trainer best known for his work with the iconic cat in "Breakfast at Tiffany's," was in charge of Elly May's unique assortment of pets. 

Inn not only cared for the animals, which ranged from tame canines to exotic species, but also taught them to respond to vocal directions. It is because of his expertise, each animal was able to accomplish the required objectives, contributing to the show's representation of Elly May's unshakable devotion to her pets.

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Granny's Pew Pew Was Loaded With Paper

Granny's Pew Pew Was Loaded With Paper

Granny Clampett's fierce demeanor was frequently highlighted by her trusty pew pew, which appeared in many memorable sequences from The Beverly Hillbillies. However, Granny's hand tool was not as dangerous as it appeared. The faux shooter used by actress Irene Ryan was actually filled with paper wadding rather than real danger missles.

This provided safety on production while also allowing for the humorous effect of Granny's trigger-happy actions. The paper-loaded shot doer added to Granny's rough, no-nonsense attitude while posing no risk to the cast or crew, showcasing the innovative behind-the-scenes precautions used to balance fun and safety in this great sitcom.

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The Daughter of Paul Henning Voiced Jethrine

The Daughter of Paul Henning Voiced Jethrine

In the humorous universe of these hillbillies, the character of Jethrine Bodine, Jethro's twin sister, provided a wonderful little plot twist. Linda Kaye Henning, daughter of the show's creator, Paul Henning, provided the voice over for Jethrine, who was then played on screen by Mr. Max Baer Jr. in drag.

Linda, best known for her role as Betty Jo Bradley in her father's later series "Petticoat Junction," offered her voice talents to Jethrine, injecting the character with personality and fun. Despite Jethrine's delightfully overdone portrayal of a somewhat intimidatingly masculine woman, Linda's voice work added a new element of hilarity to the show's already beloved and colorful cast.

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The Series Lasted Longer Than Its Historical Setting

The Series Lasted Longer Than Its Historical Setting

The Beverly Hillbillies accomplished an astonishing feat by outlasting the historical time it hilariously represented. The show aired from 1962 to 1971 and followed the Clampett family as they struck oil and relocated from their impoverished Ozark mountain home to the affluent Beverly Hills.

Ironically, the series' nine-season run lasted longer than the actual 1960s rural purge, during which television networks abandoned rural-themed shows. While the world around it evolved, The Beverly Hillbillies remained a cherished fixture, combining folksy charm with scathing comments on money and society. The show's endurance demonstrated its capacity to entertain and connect with audiences beyond its original age.

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Max Baer Jr. Once Sued CBS

Max Baer Jr. Once Sued CBS

Max Baer Jr., best known for his portrayal of the endearing but simple-minded Jethro Bodine on the show, demonstrated his commercial skills off-screen with a lawsuit against CBS in 2014. Baer stated that CBS had allowed him permission to use his character for commercial purposes, specifically for a restaurant chain. 

However, he discovered that CBS had secretly granted identical rights to the Iowa-based restaurant Jethro's BBQ. In the ensuing court struggle, a settlement was struck in which CBS released Jethro's BBQ from all liability. Despite the legal wrangling, Jethro's BBQ continues to thrive in Iowa, serving patrons with its distinct charm and delectable selections, a monument to the ongoing legacy of "The Beverly Hillbillies."

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Nancy Kulp and Buddy Ebsen Fought Often

Nancy Kulp and Buddy Ebsen Fought Often

Despite their on-screen friendship, tensions rose between Nancy Kulp, famed for her depiction of the brilliant yet eccentric Miss Jane Hathaway, and Buddy Ebsen, who brought Jed Clampett to life. Their feud reached a climax when Kulp, a decade after the show ended, ran for Congress as a Democrat in Pennsylvania.

Kulp expected her former castmates to support her, but Ebsen publicly endorsed her Republican opponent, widening the margin. This stunning deceit harmed Kulp, forcing her to lose her race and develop a profound resentment that lasted until she died in 1991. Despite their famed on-screen connection, Kulp and Ebsen's real-life realtionship was such a lie that they used to have to get somebody else to call their dogs for them.

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Granny Scored Her Own Real-Life Cookbook

Granny Scored Her Own Real-Life Cookbook

Granny Clampett, the indomitable matriarch of The Beverly Hillbillies, has taken her culinary renown beyond the screen with her own real-life cookbook. Irene Ryan, the actress who brought Granny to life with her keen wit and rustic charm, inspired Granny's Hillbilly Cookbook. This wonderful compilation, published in 1966, had dishes that reflected the show's homespun humor and Southern flavor.

Fans could prepare meals such as Granny's possum pie and vittles, bringing Clampett food into their homes. The cookbook not only praised the character's love of traditional cuisine, but it also allowed fans to engage with the program in a unique and delightful way, combining nostalgia and down-home culinary enjoyment.

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Alzheimer's Disease Ruined Raymond Bailey's Life

Alzheimer's Disease Ruined Raymond Bailey's Life

Raymond Bailey, widely remembered for his depiction of the neurotic banker Mr. Drysdale, subsequently suffered a devastating fight with Alzheimer's disease. Despite beginning out as a day laborer on silent film sets, Bailey's talent drove him to the part of Mr. Drysdale, becoming a breakout star on one of television's most popular sitcoms.

As the series came to a close, Bailey began to show signs of Alzheimer's disease, prompting his retirement from performing after only two more films. His passing in 1980 marked the end of an extraordinary career, but his legacy lives on through the eternal comedy of his on-screen persona as Mr. Drysdale, which will continue to provide joy and amusement to viewers for years to come.

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Buddy Ebsen Delayed Retirement to Play Jed Clampett

Buddy Ebsen Delayed Retirement to Play Jed Clampett

Buddy Ebsen, noted for his versatility and charisma, made a critical decision that changed television history. Initially pondering retirement, Ebsen was convinced to postpone his plans when offered the role of Jed Clampett in The Beverly Hillbillies. Despite his initial reservations about the script's quality, Ebsen's agency persuaded him to give it a shot.

This choice not only revived Ebsen's career, but also made him an enduring television figure. His portrayal of Jed Clampett, the good-natured father, struck a chord with fans, making The Beverly Hillbillies one of the most popular and enduring sitcoms of its era. Ebsen’s dedication to the role not only showcased his talent but also ensured that the Clampett family's adventures would be etched into television history forever.

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The Clampetts' Truck Was Won in an Auction

The Clampetts' Truck Was Won in an Auction

In 2015, the 1921 Oldsmobile Model 46 Roadster, which became synonymous with "The Beverly Hillbillies," was placed up for auction. This dependable vehicle had a powerful V8 engine when it was first purchased, and it cost around $2,000 at the time. This one-of-a-kind innovation included cylinder cups specifically intended to enable easy starting in cold weather with a little ether.

It's apparent that this revered piece of television history was wildly appealing, because by the end of the auction the car sold for a whopping $275,000. From its humble origins on screen to its successful sale decades later, the truck driven by the Clampetts is a symbol of nostalgia and curiosity for fans of the classic comedy.

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Jethro Sabotaged Max Baer Jr.

Jethro Sabotaged Max Baer Jr.

Max Baer Jr., best known for his performance of Jethro Bodine on "The Beverly Hillbillies," faced a common dilemma for actors: becoming too closely associated with a single role. Despite the show's success, Baer struggled to move on from his legendary character, which hampered his acting career. Casting directors struggled to visualize him in other parts, restricting his options when the show ended. 

After "Beverly Hillbillies," Baer tried his hand at a few small acting roles, but eventually he shifted his concentration to producing, writing, and directing instead. Some say, because of this transformation, he was able to pursue a range of creative choices outside of acting, demonstrating resilience in the face of the unpredictability that Hollywood was, and still is, experiencing.

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Paul Henning Gave a Shout Out to His Hometown

Paul Henning Gave a Shout Out to His Hometown

Paul Henning, the creator of The Beverly Hillbillies, cleverly referenced his birthplace in the show's popular theme tune. Henning, a native of Independence, Missouri, cleverly referred to his roots with the statement, "Hills, that is, Swimming pools and movie stars."

The phrase Hills, slyly alludes to the hilly terrain of his hometown, while Swimming pools, movie stars humorously contrasts the simple rural life with the extravagant lifestyle of Beverly Hills. This subtle nod not only added a personal touch to the show but also showcased Henning's pride in his Midwestern origins.

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Elly May Sued Barbie

Elly May Sued Barbie

Mattel released the "Elly May" Barbie doll in 2010, which featured a portrait of Donna Douglas as the renowned figure. However, the actress, who was 77 at the time, was dissatisfied with CBS and Mattel's failure to provide consent and pay. Douglas filed a lawsuit against the corporations, alleging illegal exploitation of her picture.

The lawsuit resulted in a settlement, albeit the exact sum remains unknown. We're not sure why they didn't get permission and compensate her for commercial use of ther likeness, but it didn't work out in the end for them. It serves as a cautionary tale for businesses and even individulas to ask before using someone's image. You go girl!

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John Wayne Made a Legendary Cameo on the Show

John Wayne Made a Legendary Cameo on the Show

The Beverly Hillbillies reached new heights of Hollywood elegance when famous actor John Wayne made a stunning cameo appearance. In a star-studded episode titled "The Indians Are Coming", Wayne made a big debut into the Clampetts' world, bringing his typical swagger and larger-than-life charisma.

The cameo was a nod to Wayne’s friendship with series creator Paul Henning, who cleverly incorporated the iconic actor into the storyline. Wayne's appearance added an extra layer of excitement and prestige to the show, delighting audiences and further solidifying The Beverly Hillbillies as a beloved cultural phenomenon where even the biggest stars of the silver screen couldn’t resist making an appearance.

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The Clampetts Were Filthy Rich

The Clampetts Were Filthy Rich

The Clampett family found themselves catapulted from rural poverty to staggering wealth after striking oil on their land. Overnight, they became one of the wealthiest families in the country, moving from their humble shack in the Ozarks to a lavish mansion in Beverly Hills. The show humorously portrayed their struggles to adjust to their newfound fortune, often emphasizing their rural sensibilities in the midst of Beverly Hills opulence.

Despite their unrefined manners and lack of sophistication, the Clampetts' immense wealth allowed them to live a life of luxury, with a grand mansion, extravagant cars, and all the trappings of high society. Their status as filthy rich became a central theme of the show, driving many of its comedic plotlines and ensuring its enduring popularity with audiences.

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There Was a Lot of Product Placement

There Was a Lot of Product Placement

This show pioneered commercial placement, with Kellogg's Corn Flakes serving as one of its most notable advertisers. Kellogg's used the catchy tune "K-E-Double L-O-Double Good. Kellogg's best to you" to remind viewers of their support at the end of each show. In addition, the characters made periodic references to Kellogg's in promotional segments and ads. 

In a manner that was reminiscent of the advertising practices of the 1960s, the theme song of the show included lines that promoted Winston cigarettes and Corn Flakes. This particular partnership between a well-known comedy and a well-known Corn Flake was referred to as the "breakfast of champions" at an era in which those kinds of partnerships were highly valued.

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Sharon Tate Had a Recurring Role on the Show

Sharon Tate Had a Recurring Role on the Show

Before her tragic and untimely passing, actress Sharon Tate had a recurring role on The Beverly Hillbillies, adding a touch of Hollywood glamour to the beloved sitcom. Tate portrayed the character Janet Trego, a bank secretary who caught the eye of Jethro Bodine, played by Max Baer Jr.

Her appearances on the show brought an extra spark of energy and charisma to the screen, showcasing her talent and charm. Tate's time on The Beverly Hillbillies remains a poignant reminder of her contributions to the entertainment industry and serves as a testament to her enduring legacy in television history.

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The Clampetts Were Victims of the Rural Purge

The Clampetts Were Victims of the Rural Purge

The Beverly Hillbillies succumbed to the television industry's Rural Purge in the early 1970s, a movement in which networks cancelled rural-themed shows in favor of more urban and current programming. Despite its massive popularity, The Beverly Hillbillies was not spared.

The sitcom, along with other famous classics such as Green Acres and Petticoat Junction, threatened termination as network officials attempted to attract younger, more urban viewers. The decision to stop The Beverly Hillbillies after nine great seasons disappointed both viewers and cast members. However, the show's legacy lives on, demonstrating the continuing popularity of its ageless humor and likable characters.

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Denim Was Made Popular by Elly May

Denim Was Made Popular by Elly May

On the show Donna Douglas' character, Elly May Clampett, unwittingly sparked fashion trends with her signature hillbilly chic clothes. In each show, she wore flannel blouses and snug blue jeans, and her style, albeit uncommon at the time, captivated audiences. By the end of the first season, Elly May's fashion effect was evident, resulting in an increase in the popularity of denim products among women. 

Douglas was even commended by a Levi Strauss executive, who claimed that she had a greater impact on blue jeans sales in a single year than cowboys did in an entire century. Elly May's ageless allure continues to attract and inspire fashion fans, cementing her place as a cultural legend.

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The Mansion's Location is Well Known

The Mansion's Location is Well Known

The renowned mansion portrayed in "The Beverly Hillbillies" is not as secluded as one may believe. The house, located in Bel-Air rather than Beverly Hills, belonged to a real estate investor and art collector, whose widow agreed to let the show use it on the condition that it be kept secret.

Maintaining this concealment proved difficult, since the persistent presence of a film crew became obvious. Despite efforts to conceal the site, the mansion's appearance became familiar to viewers across the country, eventually leading to the discovery of its genuine location. Nonetheless, the estate serves as a lasting reminder of the show's sumptuous backdrop and ageless appeal.

photo by Alan Light, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Buddy Ebsen's Career Began on Broadway

Buddy Ebsen's Career Began on Broadway

Buddy Ebsen's legacy extends beyond his iconic performance as Jed Clampett. Before dazzling television viewers, Ebsen demonstrated his talent as a singer and dancer on Broadway, where he began his career in 1936. In 1965, he returned to his musical origins, producing the country-western album "Buddy Ebsen Says Howdy in Song and Story," which is still accessible on outlets such as Amazon. 

In addition, Ebsen demonstrated his adaptability by venturing into the world of literature and penning a novel and naming it "Kelly's Quest." The legacy of Ebsen extends far beyond the cherished part he played on "The Beverly Hillbillies." His career was marked by artistic diversity and enduring contributions to the entertainment industry.

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It Wasn't Supposed to Be Science Fiction

It Wasn't Supposed to Be Science Fiction

When Paul Henning developed The Beverly Hillbillies, science fiction was probably the last thing on his mind. However, the show unwittingly flirted with the genre in a remarkable episode called "The Giant Jackrabbit". In this comic adventure, the Clampetts come across what they think to be a huge rabbit terrorizing their mansion.

What ensues is a hilarious series of misadventures as the family attempts to capture the oversized creature. Though far from typical sci-fi fare, this episode's absurd premise and larger-than-life antics inadvertently dipped into the realm of fantasy, showcasing the show's versatility and willingness to explore unconventional storylines. Despite its departure from the show's usual formula, The Giant Jackrabbit remains a beloved and quirky entry in the annals of television history.

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Jed Clampett Wasn't Too Bright

Jed Clampett Wasn't Too Bright

When Buddy Ebsen joined "The Beverly Hillbillies," he lobbied for a more sophisticated characterization of Jed Clampett than the original screenplay called for. This contrasted with the original script and writers where at first, opposed to it. Initially, the figure was portrayed as illiterate and lacking in common sense. Ebsen urged for a more nuanced representation of the character. 

His persistence prompted a critical decision: a shift in the humorous simplicity to Jethro, while allowing Jed to demonstrate keen intellect paired with comedic mistakes about city life. This change proved to be a stroke of genius, improving the character dynamics and adding to the show's long-term humorous success. Ebsen's impact on Jed's persona ultimately formed the famous representation that viewers adored.

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Jed Clampett's Hat Was Special

Jed Clampett's Hat Was Special

Jed Clampett's unique hat became an iconic symbol of The Beverly Hillbillies, but its significance went beyond just the clothes. Buddy Ebsen, the actor, added a personal touch to this aged hat. Ebsen, who played the patriarch Jed Clampett, insisted on wearing his own hat for the part, which he had worn for many years before joining the production.

The realism of the hat added to the character's genuine rustic charm, as did Ebsen's portrayal of Jed as a simple, down-to-earth family man. Over time, the hat became a prized possession, signifying Jed's link to his country roots in the splendor of Beverly Hills.

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The Show’s Theme Song Became a Billboard Hit

The Show’s Theme Song Became a Billboard Hit

The classic theme song for The Beverly Hillbillies — that is to say, The Ballad of Jed Clampett, went on to become a Billboard hit. Bluegrass superstars Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs wrote and performed the catchy song, which captures the heart of the show's rags-to-riches premise with its energetic melody and humorous lyrics. Released in 1962, the song soared up the charts, peaking at No. 44 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 1 on the country charts.

Its popularity not only reinforced its place as a cultural phenomenon, but also highlighted the broad appeal of the show's delightful and down-to-earth comedy. The Ballad of Jed Clampett is an enduring classic, forever linked to the timeless charm of The Beverly Hillbillies.

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