The Enduring Legacy of Television Show Hee Haw
Hee Haw, a country-themed variety show filmed in Nashville, Tennessee, entertained audiences for over two decades. This article delves into the history, impact, and lasting legacy of this iconic television show, exploring its cultural significance and contribution to American entertainment.
From Humble Beginnings to National Phenomenon
Hee Haw emerged from the cancellation of The Jonathan Winters Show. Writers John Aylsworth and Frank Peppiatt envisioned a Southern-themed variety show, leading to a one-hour CBS special that quickly evolved into a full series. Premiering on December 29, 1969, Hee Haw rapidly gained popularity, becoming a top-rated program by 1971.
Despite its success, CBS canceled Hee Haw in 1971, along with other rural-themed shows, in an attempt to attract more urban viewers. However, the show found new life in syndication, thriving for another 20 years and filling a programming gap created by FCC regulations. At its peak, Hee Haw generated $8 million in annual advertising revenue.
A Kornfield Kounty Celebration
Hosted by country music legends Roy Clark and Buck Owens, Hee Haw featured a mix of musical performances and comedic sketches set in the fictional Kornfield Kounty. Clark typically led the comedy segments, while Owens oversaw the musical performances.
The show’s cast included Country Music Hall of Fame members Minnie Pearl and Roy Acuff, along with the popular “Hee Haw Honeys.” A diverse range of guest stars, from country icons like Dolly Parton and Johnny Cash to celebrities like Jerry Lee Lewis and even Big Bird, graced the Hee Haw stage.
Behind the Scenes and Beyond
Initially filmed at Nashville’s WLAC studios, Hee Haw relocated to the larger, state-of-the-art Opryland complex in 1980. Shortly after, Gaylord Entertainment Company acquired the show, further solidifying its connection to Nashville’s entertainment industry. The cast and crew actively participated in the local community, engaging in charity events and forming a softball league.
Two spin-off programs emerged from Hee Haw: Hee Haw Honeys, a short-lived series showcasing the female cast members, and Silver Hee Haw, a compilation show that aired after the original series ended. The success of Silver Hee Haw prompted The Nashville Network (TNN) to re-air classic Hee Haw episodes, which quickly became a viewer favorite.
A Lasting Legacy of Laughter and Music
Hee Haw’s cancellation in 1992, following an unsuccessful attempt to revamp the show with a more urban setting, marked the end of an era. However, its influence on American culture endures. The show received an Emmy Award for best editing in 1971 and served as inspiration for later sketch comedy programs like Saturday Night Live and Mad TV.
Hee Haw remains synonymous with country humor and sketch comedy, its legacy cemented in the memories of its fans and its enduring presence in popular culture. The show’s celebration of rural life, its memorable characters, and its blend of music and comedy continue to resonate with audiences today. Hee Haw’s simple, wholesome humor and its showcasing of country music talent established it as a true television classic.
