Harriet Nelson

(1909-1994)

Ozzie Nelson

(1906-1975)

Circa 1952

This American television sitcom aired on ABC from October 3, 1952 to April 23, 1966 and starred the real-life Nelson family.  After a long run on radio, the show was brought to television, where it continued its success, initially running simultaneously on radio and TV.  In terms of seasons, it was the longest-running live-action sitcom in American television history.  The series starred the entertainment duo of Ozzie Nelson and his wife, singer Harriet Nelson and their sons, David and Ricky.  Don DeFore had a recurring role as the Nelsons' neighbor, "Thorny" from 1952 to 1957. DeFore also portrayed George Baxter (Mr. B") in the television sitcom titled Hazel from 1961 to 1965. 

The show aired for 14 seasons with 435 episodes. Each show ran for 25 minutes and was filmed with a single-camera.  It became the first prime-time scripted series on american television to reach the 10-year milestone.  The series aimed for realism and featured exterior shots of the Nelsons' actual southern California home. Interior shots were filmed on General Service Studios' Stage 3.  Ozzie had the interior of the family's real-life home duplicated down to the pictures on the wall, furniture, rugs, drapes and even Harriet's knick-knacks.  

The first episode was titled "The Rivals" (Season 1, Episode 1).  Air date was October 3, 1952.  The plot summary was about David and his next-door neighbor, Will Thornberry compete for the attention of Nancy Baker regarding an upcoming dance. 

The last episode was titled "The Game Room" (Season 14, Episode 26) .. the final of 435 total episodes.  Air date was  March 26, 1966. The plot summary was about Ozzie and Harriet wanting to convert the boys' old bedroom into something new:  Harriest suggests a guest room, while Ozzie secretly tries to install a pool table and turn it into a game room.

Circa 1960

Ricky and David 

The Nelson Boys 

..every girl had a crush on them..