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The Legacy of The Brady Bunch Variety Hour

The Brady Bunch Variety Hour, a spin-off of the original series, has earned a rather infamous reputation in television history. In fact, TV Guide Magazine designated it as the fourth worst show ever aired. This dubious honor, however, is something that Susan Olsen, who portrayed the endearing Cindy Brady, wears with pride. “It’s something I’m very proud of,” Olsen reflects. “Being labeled as such has surprisingly given it a sort of notoriety. It’s become a point of fascination, inspiring even a book to celebrate the absurdity of it all.”

Reflections from the Set

Despite the show’s later notoriety, the experience of filming was quite different for Olsen and her co-stars. When asked whether she felt the show was subpar during production, she chuckles, “Oh God, yes.” As a high school student navigating the complexities of adolescence, Olsen often found herself torn between her on-screen role and her real-life experiences. “I remember having breaks during filming and going back to my ordinary public school. I would beg my friends not to watch the show because I felt mortified by it,” she shares. “Naturally, they didn’t keep that promise and instead all gathered to watch and make fun of it.”

Embracing the Critique

Olsen’s candid attitude about her experience serves to underline a broader cultural phenomenon where certain shows, despite— or perhaps because of—their flaws, have carved out a unique place in entertainment history. The Brady Bunch Variety Hour, with its variety format and campy vibes, invites a certain nostalgia, even from those who might not have appreciated it at the time. This duality reflects the show’s capacity to connect, entertain, and provoke laughter, forming a curious legacy that continues to captivate audiences.

The Impact on Cultural Discourse

In many ways, Olsen’s reflections open the door to discussions about how television shapes personal and collective experiences. As much as a show can be deemed ‘bad,’ it also impacts viewers and performers, sparking conversations that transcend its original plot. Such dichotomies are part of what makes television history so rich and intriguing, illustrating how even the most criticized productions can foster connections and shared memories among audiences and participants alike.

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