The Partridge Family
Overview
The Partridge Family is an American musical sitcom that aired on the ABC network from September 25, 1970, to March 23, 1974. The series was created by Bernard Slade and produced by Screen Gems. It revolves around a widowed mother and her five children who embark on a music career, forming a family band. The show was inspired by the real-life musical family group, The Cowsills, and became a cultural phenomenon during its run.
Plot and Themes
The series follows Shirley Partridge, a widow and mother of five, who forms a band with her children. The family travels in a colorful school bus, performing concerts across the country. The show explores themes of family dynamics, the challenges of single parenthood, and the ups and downs of the music industry. Each episode typically features a musical performance by the family band.
Characters
- Shirley Partridge (played by Shirley Jones): The matriarch of the family, Shirley is a loving and supportive mother who also serves as the lead vocalist of the band.
- Keith Partridge (played by David Cassidy): The eldest son, Keith is the band's lead guitarist and heartthrob, often dealing with teenage issues.
- Laurie Partridge (played by Susan Dey): The eldest daughter, Laurie plays the keyboard and is known for her intelligence and wit.
- Danny Partridge (played by Danny Bonaduce): The middle child, Danny is the bass guitarist and often provides comic relief with his mischievous antics.
- Christopher Partridge (played by Jeremy Gelbwaks and later Brian Forster): The younger son, Chris is the band's drummer.
- Tracy Partridge (played by Suzanne Crough): The youngest daughter, Tracy plays the tambourine and percussion.
Music and Cultural Impact
The music of The Partridge Family was a significant aspect of the show. The family band released several albums and singles, many of which became hits. The most notable song, "I Think I Love You," reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1970. The show's success led to a range of merchandise, including lunchboxes, comic books, and board games.
Production and Reception
The Partridge Family was produced by Screen Gems and filmed at the Columbia/Warner Bros. Ranch in Burbank, California. The show was well-received by audiences and critics alike, praised for its wholesome family values and catchy music. It garnered several award nominations, including a Golden Globe for Best TV Show – Musical/Comedy.
Legacy and Influence
The show's influence extended beyond its original run, inspiring various spin-offs, including an animated series called Partridge Family 2200 A.D. and a reunion special titled The Partridge Family: My Favorite Episodes. The series also paved the way for other musical sitcoms and contributed to the popularity of family-oriented television programming in the 1970s.