Introduction: Feuding Behind the Laughter
When you think of I Love Lucy, you probably picture the comedic brilliance of Lucy, Ricky, Fred, and Ethel. But behind the scenes, not everything was sunshine and laughter. Vivian Vance (Ethel Mertz) and William Frawley (Fred Mertz), who played the lovable landlords, shared a contentious relationship that was anything but friendly. What caused this legendary feud? Let’s dive into the shocking details of their on-set rivalry.
Who Were Vivian Vance and William Frawley?
Before understanding their feud, it’s essential to know a bit about these two stars.
Vivian Vance: A Talented Comedienne
Vivian Vance was an accomplished stage actress before joining I Love Lucy. Known for her impeccable timing and charm, she brought life to the role of Ethel Mertz, Lucy’s best friend.
William Frawley: The Seasoned Veteran
William Frawley, a seasoned film and vaudeville actor, was cast as Fred Mertz, Ethel’s penny-pinching husband. His gruff demeanor and sharp wit made him perfect for the role.
How Did They End Up Working Together?
The pairing of Vance and Frawley was a decision made by Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, the show’s creators. While the chemistry between Fred and Ethel Mertz worked on screen, their off-screen dynamic was far from harmonious.
The Age Gap That Sparked Tensions
One of the primary reasons for their animosity was their age difference.
Vivian Vance’s Frustration
Vivian, who was 22 years younger than Frawley, reportedly hated the idea of being cast as his wife. She believed the pairing made her appear older than she was and felt it was an insult to her appearance.
William Frawley’s Retaliation
Frawley didn’t take kindly to Vance’s complaints. He saw her disdain as unprofessional and retaliated with biting remarks. The two actors quickly developed a mutual dislike that only escalated over time.
Clashing Personalities
Their personalities couldn’t have been more different, which added fuel to the fire.
Vivian Vance: Outgoing and Progressive
Vance was known for her vibrant personality and progressive views. She was outspoken and unapologetically herself.
William Frawley: Gruff and Old-School
Frawley, on the other hand, was old-fashioned and gruff. He had a no-nonsense attitude and was known for his prickly demeanor.
On-Set Insults and Jabs
The feud was far from subtle. Their arguments often spilled onto the set, creating tension for the cast and crew.
Vance’s Nicknames for Frawley
Vivian reportedly referred to Frawley as a “cantankerous old goat” behind his back. Her disdain for him was no secret.
Frawley’s Sharp Tongue
Frawley wasn’t one to hold back either. He frequently made cutting remarks about Vance’s weight and appearance, which only deepened the rift between them.
Professionalism vs. Personal Grudges
Despite their hatred for each other, both actors maintained a level of professionalism that allowed them to deliver stellar performances.
The Power of Acting
Their ability to portray a believable married couple on screen is a testament to their acting skills. The audience never suspected the depth of their off-screen animosity.
What Did Lucille Ball Think?
Lucille Ball, the star and producer of I Love Lucy, was well aware of the tension between Vance and Frawley.
Lucille’s Mediation
Ball often played the role of mediator, ensuring that their personal issues didn’t affect the show. She valued both actors’ contributions and worked hard to keep the peace.
The Legacy of Fred and Ethel Mertz
Despite their feud, Fred and Ethel remain one of television’s most iconic duos.
Timeless Comedy
Their comedic timing and banter brought laughter to millions, proving that even the biggest rivalries can create magic on screen.
Did They Ever Reconcile?
Unfortunately, the two never buried the hatchet.
Frawley’s Passing
When William Frawley passed away in 1966, Vivian Vance reportedly expressed relief rather than sorrow. Her animosity towards him remained until the end.
Vance’s Reflections
Vance rarely spoke about Frawley publicly but made it clear in private that their relationship was far from amicable.
The Impact of Their Feud on Television History
Their feud is a fascinating footnote in television history. It’s a reminder that even in the world of comedy, real-life drama can lurk behind the scenes.
Why Fans Still Love Fred and Ethel
Despite their personal issues, fans continue to adore Fred and Ethel Mertz. Their dynamic represents the quirks and complexities of marriage, making them relatable and endearing.
Conclusion: A Feud for the Ages
The feud between Vivian Vance and William Frawley is a classic example of how off-screen drama can contrast sharply with on-screen chemistry. While they may have loathed each other in real life, their performances as Fred and Ethel Mertz remain a testament to their talent and professionalism.
FAQs
1. Did Vivian Vance and William Frawley ever become friends?
No, they maintained their dislike for each other until Frawley’s death.
2. Why did Vivian Vance dislike being cast with William Frawley?
She felt the age difference between them was too large and made her appear older than she was.
3. How did their feud affect I Love Lucy?
Despite their animosity, both actors remained professional, ensuring their feud didn’t impact the show’s success.
4. What did Lucille Ball think of their feud?
Lucille Ball valued both actors and worked hard to mediate their disputes to keep the show running smoothly.
5. Are there other examples of on-set feuds in Hollywood?
Yes, Hollywood has seen many famous feuds, such as Bette Davis and Joan Crawford, and more recently, tensions between some modern co-stars.
