20 On-Set Secrets from The Golden Girls

The Golden Girls is one of the most beloved sitcoms of all time, featuring a cast of talented actresses who brought their characters to life in a way that still resonates with fans today. However, behind the scenes, there were many secrets that the public was not privy to. In this article, we will explore 20 on-set secrets from The Golden Girls that you may not have known.

1. The show was originally supposed to be about four women in their 60s, but the ages were changed to accommodate the actresses who were cast.
2. Betty White, who played Rose, was actually the oldest member of the cast, even though her character was supposed to be the youngest.
3. The kitchen set was the most expensive part of the show, costing over $250,000 to construct.
4. The iconic theme song, “Thank You for Being a Friend,” was not the original choice. The producers initially wanted to use a song by Bette Midler.
5. Estelle Getty, who played Sophia, had a fear of flying and would often drive from her home in California to the set in Florida.
6. The cast was known for their close relationships off-screen, with Betty White, Rue McClanahan, and Bea Arthur often socializing together.
7. During breaks in filming, the actresses would often play cards together in Betty White’s dressing room.
8. The actresses were known for their love of pranks on set, with Bea Arthur being the biggest prankster of the group.
9. The cast would often rehearse their scenes during lunch breaks to save time.
10. The show was filmed in front of a live audience, and many of the cast’s reactions were genuine.
11. The actresses would often improvise their lines, with the writers incorporating their ad-libs into the show.
12. The show was so successful that it spawned several spin-offs, including Golden Palace and Empty Nest.
13. Rue McClanahan’s character, Blanche, was originally supposed to have a different last name, but the actress suggested changing it to Devereaux after a former lover.
14. The show was groundbreaking for its portrayal of senior women as vibrant, active, and sexual.
15. The actresses were not allowed to wear perfume on set, as it could interfere with the sound quality of the microphones.
16. The show’s popularity led to many guest stars appearing on the show, including George Clooney, Mario Lopez, and Don Cheadle.
17. The cast was initially concerned about the show’s success due to the age of the characters and the lack of a traditional male lead.
18. The show’s creators were inspired by the classic film, The Women, and wanted to create a modern version featuring senior women.
19. The actresses often struggled to keep a straight face during filming, with the hilarious scripts frequently causing them to break character.
20. The show’s success continued long after it went off the air, with reruns and merchandise sales generating millions of dollars in revenue.

In conclusion, The Golden Girls remains a beloved sitcom that has stood the test of time. Despite being off the air for over 30 years, the show continues to be popular among fans old and new. These on-set secrets offer a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of the show, providing a deeper understanding and appreciation for the hard work and dedication that went into making it a success. Finally, from the close bonds between the cast members to the clever ways they overcame obstacles, these 20 on-set secrets are a fascinating look at the making of a TV classic.