In the last episode of Bewitched, titled “The Good Old Days,” Samantha and Darrin Stephens grapple with time travel and the nostalgia for simpler times, ultimately reaffirming their love and commitment to their modern life, family, and each other. While the episode ends on a heartwarming note, it notably lacks a true resolution to any overarching storylines and creates several continuity issues that have perplexed fans for decades.
The Final Bewitchment: Deconstructing “The Good Old Days”
“The Good Old Days,” aired on March 25, 1972, marked the end of an era for the beloved sitcom Bewitched. Instead of a grand finale wrapping up loose ends, the episode offered a standalone adventure focused on Samantha’s meddling father, Maurice, who, feeling underappreciated, transports himself and Darrin back to the “good old days” of his youth. This trip down memory lane is intended to show Darrin a better, more appreciative world.
The episode’s plot revolves around Maurice’s attempts to impress Darrin with the supposed advantages of his era. However, Darrin quickly becomes disillusioned, witnessing the chauvinism and limited opportunities of the past. Samantha follows them through time and ultimately convinces Maurice that Darrin’s modern life, with its challenges and complexities, is preferable due to its freedom and progress. The episode concludes with all three returning to the present, with Maurice seemingly gaining a newfound respect for Darrin and Samantha’s choices.
Despite the lighthearted nature of the episode, it is widely considered one of the weaker installments in the series. Many fans found the plot uninspired and the humor lacking. The abrupt ending, without any acknowledgment of the show’s long run or closure for its characters, left many feeling dissatisfied.
Examining the Episode’s Shortcomings
The ending of Bewitched is often criticized for several reasons:
- Lack of Closure: Unlike many successful sitcoms, Bewitched didn’t offer viewers a sense of closure for its beloved characters. There was no discussion of future plans for Samantha, Darrin, Tabitha, or Adam.
- Plot Disconnect: “The Good Old Days” feels disconnected from the overarching themes and character arcs developed throughout the series. Its focus on Maurice feels like a distraction from the central dynamic between Samantha and Darrin.
- Continuity Issues: The episode introduces inconsistencies in the established lore of the Bewitched universe, particularly regarding Maurice’s past and the limitations of witchcraft.
- Missing Characters: The absence of some of the show’s most popular recurring characters, such as Aunt Clara and Endora, further contributes to the feeling of incompleteness.
The lack of a proper finale has fueled speculation and debate among fans for decades, making the “last episode of Bewitched” a topic of enduring fascination.
FAQs: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Bewitched Finale
Below are the answers to the most frequently asked questions surrounding the final episode of Bewitched.
1. Why was “The Good Old Days” chosen as the final episode?
The choice wasn’t intentional. Bewitched was abruptly canceled due to declining ratings after a drastic cast change (Dick Sargent replacing Dick York). At the time of filming, there was no indication that “The Good Old Days” would be the last episode. The series was simply not renewed for another season.
2. Why did the show’s ratings decline so drastically in the later seasons?
Several factors contributed to the decline. The change in Darrin, the shifting storylines, and the emergence of more contemporary sitcoms all played a role. The show also suffered from creative fatigue, with many viewers feeling that the plots had become repetitive and predictable. The rise of more socially conscious and topical shows also drew audiences away from the lighter, more fantastical Bewitched.
3. What happened to Aunt Clara in the final seasons?
Aunt Clara, played by Marion Lorne, was a beloved character known for her quirky spells and affinity for doorknobs. Sadly, Marion Lorne passed away from a heart attack in May 1968. While the character was mentioned a few times after her death, she was effectively written out of the show.
4. Did Dick Sargent enjoy playing Darrin more than Dick York?
Dick Sargent publicly stated that he enjoyed the role of Darrin. However, some believe he felt pressure to live up to Dick York’s portrayal, which was deeply ingrained in the minds of viewers. Sargent’s Darrin was often perceived as less charismatic and more stern than York’s, contributing to the show’s decline in popularity.
5. Why was Dick York replaced as Darrin?
Dick York suffered from chronic back pain stemming from an injury sustained during the filming of They Came to Cordura in 1959. The pain became increasingly debilitating, making it difficult for him to work. He ultimately left the show in 1969 and was replaced by Dick Sargent.
6. Were Elizabeth Montgomery and Dick Sargent friends before Bewitched?
Yes, Elizabeth Montgomery and Dick Sargent were friends long before they co-starred in Bewitched. They had even worked together in a play in the late 1950s. Their established friendship likely contributed to their on-screen chemistry, despite the challenges of replacing the original Darrin.
7. Did Elizabeth Montgomery ever get tired of playing Samantha?
While she initially enjoyed the role, Elizabeth Montgomery reportedly grew weary of playing Samantha in the later seasons. She felt that the character had become stagnant and that the storylines had become repetitive. She expressed a desire to explore more challenging and diverse roles.
8. Was there ever a plan for a Bewitched movie sequel or reboot with the original cast?
There were various discussions and rumors about a potential Bewitched movie sequel or reboot featuring the original cast members. However, these plans never materialized, primarily due to the passing of key cast members and the difficulties of reuniting the remaining actors.
9. How did the show handle the changing social norms of the late 1960s and early 1970s?
Bewitched attempted to address some of the changing social norms of the era, but often did so in a superficial or comedic way. While Samantha was a powerful and independent woman in many respects, the show still upheld traditional gender roles in its portrayal of the Stephens’ marriage. The series also shied away from controversial topics, preferring to focus on lighthearted and escapist entertainment.
10. What is the legacy of Bewitched today?
Despite its shortcomings, Bewitched remains a beloved and iconic sitcom. Its themes of family, love, and the clash between the magical and mundane continue to resonate with audiences. The show’s innovative special effects, witty writing, and memorable characters have solidified its place in television history. It paved the way for many other fantasy-themed sitcoms.
11. What are some of the most common plot holes or inconsistencies in the Bewitched series?
The series is rife with plot holes and inconsistencies. The rules of witchcraft often shifted depending on the needs of the storyline. The ages and relationships of various characters were sometimes inconsistent. Characters would occasionally forget previous events or interactions. These inconsistencies, while frustrating for some viewers, are often seen as part of the show’s quirky charm.
12. Are there any alternative endings to Bewitched that were considered but not filmed?
There is no documented evidence of alternative endings that were seriously considered. Because the cancellation was unexpected, there was no time to develop a proper series finale. “The Good Old Days” was simply the last episode produced before the show was axed.