When A Talking Horse Rooted For The Dodgers: Mr. Ed's Unforgettable Baseball Ties
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The Phenomenon of Mister Ed
*Mister Ed* was an American television sitcom produced by Filmways, first airing in syndication from January 5 to July 2, 1961, before moving to CBS where it ran from October 1, 1961, to February 6, 1966. The show's title character, a talking horse, originally appeared in short stories by Walter R. Brooks. The premise was simple yet ingenious: a talking horse named Mister Ed (voiced by Allan Lane) who only communicates with his owner, architect Wilbur Post (played by Alan Young). This unique dynamic led to countless comedic situations as Wilbur struggled to keep Ed's secret, often leading to misunderstandings with his wife Carol (Connie Hines) and neighbors. The series, directed by Arthur Lubin, quickly became a staple of family viewing. Its gentle humor, combined with the novelty of a talking animal, ensured its popularity. But beyond the standard sitcom fare, *Mister Ed* often ventured into surprisingly creative and sometimes surreal plotlines. One such recurring theme, and arguably one of its most memorable, involved Ed's fervent passion for baseball, particularly his unwavering devotion to the Los Angeles Dodgers. This passion was not just a passing gag; it became a significant part of Ed's character, leading to some of the show's most iconic episodes and guest appearances.Mr. Ed and the Dodgers: A Match Made in Hollywood Heaven
The connection between *Mr. Ed and the Dodgers* was more than just a fleeting mention; it was a cornerstone of several memorable episodes. Mister Ed, the talking horse, was portrayed as a passionate Dodgers fan who believed he possessed an innate understanding of the game, often convinced he could offer valuable insights to the team. This premise set the stage for hilarious interactions and brought real-life baseball legends into the fictional world of the Posts. Ed's devotion to the Dodgers was palpable. The episode starts with Mister Ed watching a Dodgers game in his stable, expressing his frustration when the Dodgers are performing poorly. "He is mad because the Dodgers are bad," a sentiment many real-life fans can relate to. His expressions of concern were often comical, as he looked "perfectly normal and would not cause concern at all if" you didn't realize he was a talking horse offering unsolicited baseball commentary. This deep-seated fandom was the catalyst for some of the show's most beloved storylines, showcasing the unique bond between the talking horse and his favorite team."Leo Durocher Meets Mister Ed": The Iconic Episode
Perhaps the most famous crossover between *Mr. Ed and the Dodgers* occurred in the episode titled "Leo Durocher Meets Mister Ed," which aired on Sunday, October 6th, 1963. This episode was a revival of a dormant theme in the series and quickly became a fan favorite. The setup was classic *Mister Ed*: Ed, through Wilbur, offers useful batting tips to Los Angeles Dodgers team manager, Leo Durocher. The premise was simple yet brilliant: Ed, with his supposed equine wisdom, believes he can turn the Dodgers' fortunes around. He begins by offering unsolicited, yet surprisingly insightful, batting tips to the legendary manager Leo Durocher. Durocher, initially skeptical, finds himself intrigued by the mysterious source of these tips. The episode culminates in a memorable scene where Ed then takes it to the field when he himself bats a few and slides onto bases himself at the L.A. stadium, a truly surreal and hilarious moment that perfectly encapsulated the show's charm. This episode not only cemented the *Mr. Ed and the Dodgers* connection but also provided an unforgettable glimpse into the show's unique brand of humor.Dodger Legends on the Small Screen
The authenticity of the *Mr. Ed and the Dodgers* crossover was significantly enhanced by the appearance of several actual Dodgers players and personnel, playing themselves. This was a remarkable feat for a sitcom of its time and added a layer of realism and excitement for baseball fans. The list of guest stars reads like a who's who of 1960s Dodgers legends: * **Leo Durocher (2):** The iconic manager, as mentioned, played a pivotal role in the "Leo Durocher Meets Mister Ed" episode. * **John Roseboro (catcher):** The Dodgers' star catcher made an appearance, adding to the show's authenticity. * **Willie Davis (3):** The speedy outfielder also graced the screen, further solidifying the team's presence. * **Bill 'Moose' Skowron (14):** Known for his powerful bat, Skowron's appearance was another treat for fans. * **Sandy Koufax:** The legendary pitcher, arguably one of the greatest of all time, also featured in the show. His presence alone lent immense credibility to the Dodgers' involvement. These appearances were not just fleeting cameos; several Dodgers appeared as themselves on the "Mr. Ed" show, engaging with Wilbur and Ed in various scenarios. This integration of real-life sports figures into a fictional comedy series was groundbreaking and contributed significantly to the show's appeal and its lasting legacy.Vin Scully's Fictitious Play-by-Play
Adding another layer of authenticity and star power to the *Mr. Ed and the Dodgers* narrative was the voice of legendary Dodgers announcer Vin Scully. Scully’s voice is also heard describing a fictitious Dodger game in the show. His iconic voice, synonymous with Dodgers baseball for generations, provided the perfect backdrop for Ed's baseball-related antics. Hearing Scully's familiar cadence describing a game, even a fictional one, transported viewers directly into the world of Dodger Stadium, making Ed's passion for the team feel even more real. This subtle yet powerful inclusion further cemented the bond between the show and the team, creating an immersive experience for fans.The Enduring Legacy of Alan Young
At the heart of *Mister Ed* was the remarkable performance of Alan Young, the actor who brought Wilbur Post to life. Young's comedic timing and his ability to carry entire scenes conversing with an unseen (to other characters) talking horse were instrumental to the show's success. Today, we remember Alan Young, the "Mr. Ed" actor who passed away Thursday at age 96, leaving behind a legacy that extended beyond his most famous role. Young and his horse companion made a memorable visit to Dodger Stadium for the 1963 season premiere, highlighted above. This real-life appearance further blurred the lines between the show's fiction and the Dodgers' reality, delighting fans who saw their favorite talking horse and his owner interacting with their beloved team. Alan Young's dedication to his character and his genuine warmth shone through, making Wilbur Post a truly endearing figure. His passing marked the end of an era, but his contributions to television and his indelible connection to the world of *Mr. Ed and the Dodgers* remain cherished.Alan Young: A Brief Biography
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