Introduction
Vivian Vance, the beloved actress who played Ethel Mertz on I Love Lucy, left an unforgettable legacy in the world of television. With her dynamic performance and palpable chemistry with Lucille Ball, she became an icon for generations of fans. However, as with any Hollywood legend, myths and misconceptions surround her life and career. Let’s dive deep and debunk some of the most enduring myths about Vivian Vance.
Myth #1: Vivian Vance and Lucille Ball Were Constant Rivals
It’s often believed that Vance and Ball, who lit up the screen as a hilarious duo, were bitter rivals off-camera. However, their relationship was far more complex and supportive. While they had moments of tension, particularly when they disagreed about the direction of the show, their friendship grew stronger over time. Lucille Ball personally vouched for Vance’s casting and became one of her most loyal friends until Vance’s death in 1979.
Did They Ever Compete?
Yes, competition did arise, especially as both were dedicated perfectionists. But rather than fueling animosity, this dynamic often enhanced their on-screen chemistry.
Myth #2: Vance Hated Playing Ethel Mertz Due to Her “Frumpy” Look
Many believe Vance resented Ethel’s homely wardrobe and the dowdy image that came with the role. While it’s true she sometimes felt self-conscious about her character’s appearance, Vance understood the importance of Ethel as a relatable character. Ethel’s looks were carefully crafted to contrast with Lucy’s, creating a comic effect that worked wonders for the show. Vivian often expressed pride in how Ethel resonated with everyday women.
Myth #3: Vivian Vance and William Frawley Couldn’t Stand Each Other
One of the most widely accepted myths is that Vance and her on-screen husband, William Frawley, had a contentious relationship. While it’s true they weren’t particularly close, their dynamic was not as toxic as some stories suggest. They maintained a professional working relationship, even if they didn’t hang out after hours. The occasional bickering added an edge to their scenes, giving the Mertz marriage a sense of authenticity and humor that made their performances legendary.
The Real Source of the Rumor
Vance and Frawley had a significant age difference, which contributed to their off-screen friction. Frawley was known for his gruff personality, and Vance was outgoing and youthful, leading to a natural clash in personalities. But any antagonism was kept in check by their shared dedication to the show.
Myth #4: Vance Was the First Choice for Ethel
Despite her incredible portrayal of Ethel Mertz, Vance was not originally considered for the role. Producers initially sought out several other actresses before Ball insisted on auditioning Vance. Lucille Ball had an eye for talent and saw the potential in Vance’s comedic timing and charm. This casting decision was ultimately what made I Love Lucy the iconic show we remember today.
Myth #5: She Was Envious of Lucille Ball’s Fame
Contrary to popular belief, Vance was not envious of Ball’s fame. In fact, Vance knew her role was primarily to support the star of the show and bring humor and depth to her character. She and Ball had different strengths—Ball’s slapstick style complemented Vance’s more grounded humor perfectly. The mutual respect they developed over years helped cement a close bond rather than fostering jealousy.
Myth #6: Vivian Vance Left I Love Lucy Due to Personal Issues
When Vance left the show, rumors flew that she departed due to personal problems. In reality, Vance had professional reasons for leaving. She had grown weary of playing the same role and wanted to explore different types of characters. Moreover, the strain of maintaining a rigorous filming schedule took a toll on her health. Leaving the show allowed her to focus on new opportunities and regain her sense of artistic fulfillment.
Her Later Projects
After I Love Lucy, Vance appeared in a variety of roles that allowed her to showcase her versatility, proving her talent extended well beyond Ethel Mertz.
Myth #7: Vance Was Wealthy Due to Her Role on I Love Lucy
Although she became famous as Ethel Mertz, Vance did not receive the kind of financial rewards one might expect. During her era, actors weren’t given residuals for syndicated shows. She earned a steady paycheck but didn’t accumulate wealth from her I Love Lucy success. Later, she was able to secure more favorable contracts, but she wasn’t as wealthy as some might assume.
Myth #8: Vivian Vance’s Career Declined After I Love Lucy
Another misconception is that Vance’s career went downhill after I Love Lucy. While she didn’t find a role as iconic as Ethel, she continued to work steadily in television and theater. She appeared on The Lucy Show, reuniting with Ball for another successful stint. Additionally, she performed in numerous stage productions, which allowed her to express her artistic range.
Conclusion
Vivian Vance’s legacy on I Love Lucy has been immortalized, but it’s crucial to separate fact from fiction when discussing her life and career. By debunking these myths, we can better appreciate her contributions as a talented actress who brought laughter to millions. She was not only Lucille Ball’s perfect comedic foil but also a star in her own right with an enduring legacy.
FAQs
- Did Vivian Vance and Lucille Ball have a real-life friendship?
Yes, despite initial tensions, Vance and Ball became close friends, supporting each other both on and off-screen. - Why did Vivian Vance leave I Love Lucy?
She left to pursue new roles and alleviate the pressures of the show’s demanding schedule. - Was Vivian Vance wealthy from her work on I Love Lucy?
No, she wasn’t wealthy; actors of that era didn’t receive residuals for syndicated shows. - Did Vance and Frawley hate each other?
They had a professional relationship but were not close due to personality clashes and a significant age difference. -
What happened to Vance’s career after I Love Lucy?
Vance continued to act in television, stage productions, and later reunited with Ball on The Lucy Show, furthering her career.
