If my sources are correct, Jerry Van Dyke (Banjo Playin' Deputy) was offered the part. He nosed out Don Rickles (The Luck of Newton Monroe) for Barney's replacement. Now, as I understand, and please correct me if I'm wrong, the producers were scouting for a suitable replacement. After searching and auditioning, they came up with these two episodes and stars as final tests for the replacement. The ratings would be the deciding factor. FWIW, my Sunday School class will be using "The Luck . . " as one of our lessons in the next few weeks.
Look closely if you will at the episodes in season 5. The producers were wise to Don Knotts' impending departure. They respectfully worked with that and wound it down tastefully. The part was eventually offered to Jerry Van Dyke, who in my opinion would have taken that part and run like the wind, keeping us in stitches. But, would it have been the same when season 6 rolled around in color? Who knows? Anyway, he bowed out for "My Mother The Car". We (most of us) know how that played out. Enter now Warren Ferguson. A great comedian, but not a stand-alone guy. His delivery was too "slapstick" for the show, IMHO. There, I've said it and I ain't takin' it back! Just my two cents' worth. I would have made it three cents, but I'm savin' my money for a present for my girlfriend. **Barn _______________________________________________ WBMUTBB mailing list [email protected] http://www.mayberry.com/tagsrwc/wbmutbb/
