The Smothers Brothers are a famous American comedy duo who rose to fame in the 1960s with their musical satire and political humor. They are also known for their controversial television show, The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour, which challenged the censorship and conservatism of the era. But what happened to them after their show was canceled in 1969? Are they still alive and performing today? Here is a brief overview of their lives and careers.
Early Years and Breakthrough
The Smothers brothers were born just before the outbreak of World War II (1939–45). Thomas B. Smothers III was born February 2, 1937, and his brother, Richard, was born November 20, 1939, both in New York City. The brothers were the sons of army officer Thomas B. Smothers Jr. and homemaker Ruth Smothers. Their father died as a prisoner of war in Japan in 1945, and their mother moved them to California, where they grew up.
The brothers developed an interest in music and comedy at an early age. They learned to play the guitar and the bass, and started performing folk songs together. They also developed a trademark routine of bickering and arguing on stage, with Tom playing the naive and rebellious one, and Dick playing the smart and superior one. Their catchphrase was “Mom always liked you best!”
The brothers made their first professional appearance as a duo in 1959 at The Purple Onion in San Francisco. They soon became a popular act in clubs and on television, appearing on shows like The Jack Paar Show, The Judy Garland Show, and The Ed Sullivan Show. They also released several successful albums of their live performances, such as Curb Your Tongue, Knave! in 1964.
The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour and Controversy
In 1967, the brothers got their own variety show on CBS, called The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour. The show featured musical guests, sketches, monologues, and comedy segments that often tackled social and political issues of the time, such as civil rights, the Vietnam War, drug use, censorship, and religion. The show also introduced new talents like Steve Martin, Rob Reiner, Bob Einstein, Pat Paulsen, and David Steinberg.
However, the show also faced constant conflicts with the network executives and sponsors, who objected to the brothers’ edgy and provocative humor. The brothers frequently had to fight for their creative control and freedom of expression, sometimes resorting to lawsuits and public protests. Some of the controversial moments on the show included:
– A sketch that mocked President Lyndon B. Johnson’s habit of showing his abdominal scar
– A song by Pete Seeger that criticized the Vietnam War and mentioned napalm
– A joke by David Steinberg that implied that Moses was high on Mount Sinai
– A segment that featured a blacklisted comedian who had been accused of being a communist
– A speech by Martin Luther King Jr. that aired three days before his assassination
– A performance by The Who that ended with them smashing their instruments
The show was immensely popular with the young and progressive audience, but also attracted criticism from conservative groups and politicians. In 1969, CBS abruptly canceled the show after three seasons, citing breach of contract and declining ratings. The brothers sued CBS for $10 million for wrongful termination, but settled for $776,300 in 1973.
Later Years and Reunion
After their show was canceled, the brothers continued to work together and separately on stage, television, and film. They starred in several movies like Get to Know Your Rabbit (1972), The Cheap Detective (1978), and Serial (1980). They also hosted several short-lived shows like The Smothers Brothers Show (1975), The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour (1988–1989), and The Smothers Brothers Show (1995). They also made guest appearances on shows like Laugh-In , Saturday Night Live , The Simpsons , and Family Guy .
The brothers also pursued their individual interests and hobbies. Tom became an avid wine maker and founded Remick Ridge Vineyards in Sonoma County , California . Dick became a golf enthusiast and hosted several golf tournaments for charity. He also wrote a memoir called Dangerously Funny: The Uncensored Story of ‘The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour’ in 2009.
The brothers officially retired from performing in 2010, after a farewell tour that marked their 50th anniversary as a duo. They received several honors and awards for their contribution to comedy and culture, such as a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame , an Emmy Award , a Grammy Award , and a George Foster Peabody Award .
As of 2021, the brothers are still alive and well. Tom is 84 years old and Dick is 82 years old. They live in California and occasionally make public appearances. They are also involved in various philanthropic and environmental causes.
Conclusion
The Smothers Brothers are one of the most influential and iconic comedy teams in American history. They used their musical talent and witty humor to entertain and enlighten millions of people, while also challenging the status quo and defending their artistic vision. They are still alive and respected as pioneers of political satire and social commentary. They are the Smothers Brothers, and they always liked each other best.