The final episode of “The Beverly Hillbillies,” titled “The Beverly Hillbillies Go Home,” saw the Clampetts seriously consider returning to their original Ozark mountain home after believing their fortune had dwindled, only to discover a new, even larger oil strike on their California property. In the end, they opted to remain in Beverly Hills, cementing their legacy as wealthy outsiders deeply embedded in the fabric of Californian society.
A Potential Homecoming Foiled by Fortune
The concluding episode of “The Beverly Hillbillies” initially plays on the show’s central premise: the culture clash between the simple mountain folk and the sophisticated Beverly Hills elite. Jed Clampett, ever the practical patriarch, becomes concerned when he overhears conversations suggesting his bank account is running low. Misinterpreting innocent chatter as signs of financial ruin, he announces to the family that it might be time to return to their humble beginnings in the Ozarks.
This announcement throws the Clampetts into a state of flux. Elly May, always attached to her critters, is particularly distressed by the prospect of relocating them. Granny, ever eager to meddle, begins planning their journey back, already envisioning the familiar comfort of her old ways. Jethro, perpetually dreaming of grand schemes, envisions himself as a local celebrity upon their return.
However, the family’s anxieties are quickly dispelled. It turns out that the rumors of their financial woes were based on a misunderstanding. Unbeknownst to the Clampetts, a new, even more lucrative oil strike has been discovered on their Beverly Hills property. This revelation, delivered with the characteristic comedic timing that defined the series, instantly alleviates their financial concerns and solidifies their decision to remain in California. The episode culminates in the Clampetts reaffirming their commitment to their Beverly Hills life, while still retaining their unique Ozark values and traditions. The potential move back home is ultimately nothing more than a scare, serving to underscore the Clampetts’ unlikely but permanent place in Beverly Hills society.
FAQs About “The Beverly Hillbillies” Finale
Here are frequently asked questions that illuminate details about the final episode and its significance within the broader context of the show:
Why Did the Show End After Nine Seasons?
The cancellation of “The Beverly Hillbillies” was part of a larger network strategy known as the “Rural Purge.” CBS, facing criticism for targeting an older, rural demographic, decided to revamp its programming lineup to attract a younger, more urban audience. Despite high ratings, “The Beverly Hillbillies,” along with other popular shows like “Green Acres” and “Petticoat Junction,” were abruptly cancelled.
Did Any of the Cast Members Want the Show to Continue?
While there’s no explicit record of the cast publicly campaigning to save the show, it’s widely understood that they were surprised and disappointed by the cancellation. The show was consistently a ratings winner, and the actors had become accustomed to their roles and the steady work it provided. Irene Ryan (Granny) was reportedly the most upset, feeling the cancellation was premature.
Were There Any Notable Guest Stars in the Final Episode?
The final episode didn’t feature any major guest stars, focusing instead on the core Clampett family and their familiar interactions with characters like Mr. Drysdale, the banker. The show generally relied on the comedic chemistry of its regular cast rather than stunt casting.
What Happened to the Clampett Family After the Series Ended?
The series finale doesn’t definitively state what happens to the Clampetts, but the implication is that they continue their life in Beverly Hills. The show’s enduring popularity has fueled fan speculation about their continued adventures, but officially, the family’s story concludes with them remaining in California. Special reunion episodes in the 1980s revisited the characters, but these weren’t considered canon.
Was the Oil Discovered in Beverly Hills a Recurring Theme?
Yes, the discovery of oil on their property was a recurring theme throughout the series. It was the initial catalyst for their move to Beverly Hills and often served as a source of comedic misunderstandings and financial windfalls. The perpetual oil discoveries were a running gag, highlighting the Clampetts’ naive approach to wealth.
How Did Granny React to the Prospect of Moving Back to the Ozarks?
Granny was initially enthusiastic about returning to the Ozarks, viewing it as a return to her roots and a rejection of the “fancy” ways of Beverly Hills. However, her enthusiasm quickly waned when she realized the potential loss of her Beverly Hills comforts and the social standing she had begrudgingly accepted.
Did the Series Finale Tie Up Any Loose Ends?
The finale didn’t explicitly tie up any major loose ends. The show’s episodic nature meant that storylines were typically self-contained within each episode. The overarching narrative of the Clampetts adjusting to life in Beverly Hills remained consistent throughout the series, and the finale simply reinforced their permanent, if peculiar, place within that society.
Was the “Rural Purge” a Successful Strategy for CBS?
The success of the “Rural Purge” is debatable. While CBS did eventually attract a younger audience with shows like “All in the Family” and “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” the network initially suffered a significant ratings decline after cancelling its popular rural comedies. The long-term impact is complex and multifaceted.
Where Was the “Beverly Hillbillies” House Located in Real Life?
The exterior shots of the Clampett mansion were filmed at a large estate in the Bel Air neighborhood of Los Angeles, specifically at 750 Bel Air Road. The house has since been renovated and sold multiple times. The interior scenes were filmed on a soundstage at General Service Studios.
How Did the Show Portray the Culture Clash Between Rural and Urban Lifestyles?
“The Beverly Hillbillies” relied heavily on comedic stereotypes to depict the culture clash between rural and urban lifestyles. The Clampetts’ naive interactions with wealthy Beverly Hills residents, their misunderstandings of modern technology, and their adherence to traditional Ozark values all contributed to the show’s humor. While often exaggerated, the show touched on real differences in values and perspectives.
What Made “The Beverly Hillbillies” So Popular During Its Run?
The show’s popularity stemmed from several factors, including its simple, relatable characters, its comedic storylines, and its escapist portrayal of a rags-to-riches story. The Clampetts’ genuine kindness and down-to-earth nature, despite their newfound wealth, resonated with audiences. The fish-out-of-water narrative provided endless opportunities for humor.
Are There Any Plans for a Reboot or Revival of “The Beverly Hillbillies”?
There have been various attempts to reboot “The Beverly Hillbillies” over the years, including a 1993 film adaptation. While rumors of a television reboot occasionally surface, none have materialized. The unique charm of the original series and the challenges of recreating its specific comedic style have likely contributed to the difficulties in reviving the franchise.