Full video here:
The Beverly Hillbillies remains a treasured sitcom, loved for its timeless humor, quirky characters, and often surprisingly insightful commentary on life. One standout episode that highlights these elements perfectly is Season 1, Episode 21: “Jed Plays Solomon.” In this article, we’ll explore why this episode has stood the test of time, focusing on the hilarious way that Jed’s backwoods wisdom shines through in a “Solomon-like” dilemma.
The Plot of ‘Jed Plays Solomon’
In this episode, Jed Clampett finds himself caught in a difficult situation where he must mediate between two feuding parties. The plot mirrors the biblical story of King Solomon, who was famed for his wisdom in resolving disputes. However, in true Beverly Hillbillies fashion, Jed’s interpretation of “Solomon-like” wisdom is far from traditional, and the result is nothing short of comedic brilliance.
Jed as the Reluctant Mediator
When the feud between two Beverly Hills socialites escalates, Jed, despite his reluctance, is called upon to mediate. His simple, down-to-earth logic, while seemingly naive, ends up being incredibly effective in resolving the matter—though not in the way the high-society folks expected.
Granny’s Take on the Feud
No episode of The Beverly Hillbillies would be complete without Granny’s larger-than-life personality, and “Jed Plays Solomon” is no exception. From the moment she gets wind of the feud, Granny’s old-school mountain justice comes into play. She’s more than ready to jump in and settle things the “Clampett way,” which usually involves some colorful threats and maybe even a shotgun!
Granny’s “Frontier Justice”
Granny’s solution to the feud is far from diplomatic. She believes in settling disputes with direct action—like a quick wrestling match or a fight behind the barn. Her approach adds an extra layer of humor, especially when compared to Jed’s calm and reasoned handling of the situation.
Elly May and Her Unlikely Influence
As always, Elly May and her love for animals add an unexpected twist to the episode. In the middle of the heated argument between the two Beverly Hills elites, Elly May’s animals end up being both a distraction and, ultimately, a solution to the problem. Her innocent, carefree approach helps diffuse the tension in a way that no one anticipated.
Critters as Mediators
While Jed tries to channel Solomon’s wisdom, Elly May’s animals manage to charm the disputing parties. The critters, with their innocent nature, inadvertently shift the focus from the feud to laughter, proving that sometimes, the simplest things can bring people together.
Jethro’s Failed Attempt at “Legal” Wisdom
Let’s not forget Jethro, the self-proclaimed “genius” who loves to show off his knowledge—whether he has any or not. In “Jed Plays Solomon,” Jethro tries to insert himself into the situation, offering his “legal” advice. Unsurprisingly, his attempts are not helpful, but they certainly add to the episode’s humor.
Jethro’s Misguided Solutions
Jethro’s over-the-top ideas about resolving the feud highlight just how out of touch he is with reality. From suggesting unnecessary lawsuits to proposing wild, impractical solutions, his role in the episode provides comic relief as he continuously bungles the situation.
A Lesson in Common Sense
While the episode is packed with laughs, at its core, “Jed Plays Solomon” is a lesson in the power of common sense. Jed’s approach to problem-solving may seem simplistic, but it’s grounded in practicality and fairness. His ability to cut through the noise and find a reasonable solution underscores the timeless appeal of the show’s central character.
Simple Solutions to Complex Problems
Jed’s method of dealing with the feud shows that sometimes, the simplest solutions are the most effective. Instead of getting caught up in the drama, he remains calm and objective, which ultimately leads to the resolution of the conflict.
Why ‘Jed Plays Solomon’ Is a Fan Favorite
There’s no shortage of memorable episodes from The Beverly Hillbillies, but “Jed Plays Solomon” stands out for its clever use of humor and its subtle message about the value of simple wisdom. The way Jed approaches the conflict showcases the clash between rural common sense and urban elitism, which is a recurring theme throughout the series.
Comedy Meets Heart
At the heart of the episode is Jed’s desire to help, which is one of the reasons why audiences connect so deeply with him as a character. His wisdom may not be flashy, but it’s effective, and it always comes from a place of kindness and fairness.
Behind-the-Scenes of ‘Jed Plays Solomon’
Challenges in Filming
Like many episodes of The Beverly Hillbillies, “Jed Plays Solomon” had its share of production challenges. Filming comedic scenes that involve multiple actors and the unpredictability of live animals meant that the crew had to be on their toes.
The Cast’s Favorite Moments
Cast members have often spoken fondly of this episode, particularly because of the interplay between Jed’s calm demeanor and the chaos caused by the feud. The dynamic between the characters brought out some of the best comedic moments of the season.
The Lasting Impact of ‘Jed Plays Solomon’
Over the years, “Jed Plays Solomon” has continued to be a fan favorite because it highlights the essence of The Beverly Hillbillies: a family with old-fashioned values navigating a world they don’t fully understand. The humor in this episode transcends time, proving that wit and wisdom don’t need to be complicated to be effective.
A Timeless Lesson in Wisdom
The beauty of the episode is that its central message—using simple wisdom to solve complex problems—still resonates today. In a world that often overcomplicates issues, Jed’s approach is a refreshing reminder that sometimes, the best solution is the simplest one.
The Influence of ‘Jed Plays Solomon’ on Modern Sitcoms
Sitcoms that followed The Beverly Hillbillies have borrowed elements from this episode. Shows like King of the Hill and Parks and Recreation feature similar characters who use common sense to solve problems in increasingly ridiculous situations, proving that this type of humor has a lasting appeal.
Conclusion
“Jed Plays Solomon” is a standout episode of The Beverly Hillbillies that expertly blends humor with heart. By putting Jed in the role of a reluctant mediator, the episode highlights the enduring appeal of simple, old-fashioned wisdom. The clash between rural common sense and high-society drama creates a hilarious and memorable experience for viewers. Whether you’re revisiting the show or watching for the first time, this episode is sure to leave you with a smile.
