Don't you think Fred was way too old for Ethel?

Question

I was watching I Love Lucy the other day and remembered something that always bothered me. Ethel seemed too young for Fred. Fred seemed like a really OLD man on the show. But then again, Lucy and Ricky were playing the part of a young newly married couple. How old do you think they all were really suppose to be on the show? Seems like Ethel could have found a better man than old cantankerous Fred. What do you think?

Answer 1

The character of Ethel was supposed to be somebody older and frumpy, but Desi hired Vivian Vance when he saw her singing in a nightclub. Lucy hit the roof when he saw Vivian, who looked beautiful and glamorous. Vivian had to sign a contract stating that she would have to constantly remain 15 pounds heavier than Lucy (the exception was made when Lucy was pregnant).

I always liked it, in the later episodes, when Ethel was able to dress up nicely, like when she was the Fairy Princess in Little Ricky's school play.

Lucille originally wanted an actress named Bea Benaderet to play Ethel. Bea was a good friend of Lucille's. However, at the time, Bea was playing George Burns neighbor on TV. She eventually went on to play Cousin Pearl on "The Beverly Hillbillies" and Kate on "Petticoat Junction." She was also the original voice of Betty Rubble.

Answer 2

I read somewhere once that Ethel was actually the same age as Lucy, but was made to look frumpier and older. I can't stand watching old tv shows anymore....they make women look really stupid and frivolous, and all our problems can be solved by going out and buying a new hat....HAH!

Answer 3

when they were first casting the show Lucille ball wanted gale Gordon (Mr. Mooney) to play the part of Fred. I heard that right before they were introduce William frawley was overheard saying about Vivian Vance "who's that old lady" there is alot more on fred at the website below

Answer 4

Ethel was waaaaaay too young for Fred! I remember hearing that Vivian Vance was FURIOUS that her onscreen husband was so old! And William Frawley was not too fond of Vance, either! lol!

Answer 5

He was way too old- and from what I have read in books about the show, quite the mean man! Due to their age difference, they actually could've played father and daughter on television, but they wanted to those specific actors, so they were cast, despite the age difference.

Answer 6

Have you noticed they made Ethel dress frumpy? That was Lucy's decision. She didn't want competition.That is more than likely why they cast an unattractive husband for her as well.

Answer 7

Ethel has that kinda timeless face that keeps you guessing about her age for 50 years....i did think they were a mismatch though, not 'cause of their ages, they just were somehow....

Answer 8

I have wondered that myself, interesting question!

Answer 9

AGE SHOULD BE NO BARRIER TO REAL LOVE.