The Addams Family Television Show: 10 Spooky Facts You Never Knew

The Addams Family, a darkly comedic television show inspired by Charles Addams’ New Yorker cartoons, has captivated audiences since its 1964 debut. From its catchy theme song to its unique characters, the show’s enduring popularity has led to animated adaptations, movies, and even a recent Netflix spin-off, Wednesday. But how well do you really know the original Addams Family Television Show? Let’s unearth 10 intriguing facts about this iconic series.

1. The Addams Family Characters Were Nameless Until the Show

Believe it or not, the characters in Charles Addams’ original cartoons didn’t have names. It was only when the 1964 Addams Family television show was greenlit that Addams and the producers collaborated to christen the quirky clan. And here’s a bonus fact: Wednesday’s middle name is Friday!

2. The Iconic Theme Song Was a One-Man Show

The unforgettable “Da-da-da-dum, snap snap!” theme song was composed by Vic Mizzy. Legend has it that the studio was reluctant to pay for three singers, so Mizzy cleverly used multi-tracking to record all three vocal parts himself for the opening credits.

Vic Mizzy, composer of the iconic Addams Family theme song. (Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.)

3. John Astin Almost Played Lurch

John Astin, who became synonymous with Gomez Addams, initially auditioned for the role of Lurch. He couldn’t quite see himself as the towering butler, but thankfully, the producers recognized his comedic genius and cast him as the patriarch of the Addams Family.

4. The Addams Family vs. The Munsters

The Addams Family premiered the same week as The Munsters, another macabre sitcom. To avoid confusion, both shows steered clear of guest stars who appeared on the other. Astin highlighted the key difference: The Munsters were monstrous in appearance but ordinary in behavior, while the Addamses looked normal but were exceptionally eccentric.

The cast of The Addams Family: (back from left) John Astin as Gomez, Ted Cassidy as Lurch; (front) Lisa Loring as Wednesday, Ken Weatherwax as Pugsley; (seated) Carolyn Jones as Morticia. (Photo courtesy of ABC Television via Wikimedia Commons).

5. Ted Cassidy Was Both Lurch and Thing

Ted Cassidy, famous for portraying Lurch, also played Thing, the disembodied hand. Cassidy’s hand would emerge from boxes within the Addams mansion and even from the mailbox.

6. The Addams Family Mansion Was Actually Pink

Despite being filmed in black and white, the Addams Family set had pink walls! The show’s creators opted for grayscale to maintain the gothic aesthetic of the original cartoons.

7. Recycled Set Pieces from “The Unsinkable Molly Brown”

Some of the Addams Family set’s interior was repurposed from the movie The Unsinkable Molly Brown, both productions being under the MGM banner.

8. The Addams Family Had the First Home Computer on TV

Years before Batman’s Batcomputer, the Addams Family showcased a UNIVAC (Universal Automatic Computer) in their home, making them pioneers of on-screen technology.

9. Gomez’s Cigar Habit Was Sponsored

Gomez’s frequent cigar smoking was supported by Dutch Masters Cigars. Astin would extinguish his cigars in his coat pocket, which was lined with asbestos for safety.

10. Scooby-Doo Meets The Addams Family

In 1972, several Addams Family cast members guest-starred in a Scooby-Doo episode, “Wednesday is Missing.” Jodie Foster even voiced Pugsley! This episode served as the pilot for the 1973 animated Addams Family series. The Addams Family television show remains a beloved classic. Its quirky characters, macabre humor, and iconic theme song continue to resonate with audiences today. These 10 facts offer just a glimpse into the fascinating history of this spooky and kooky family.