Few sitcom characters had bigger ambitions—or less understanding of reality—than Jethro Bodine.
Throughout the run of The Beverly Hillbillies, Jethro constantly reinvented himself with new career goals. Unfortunately, his enthusiasm was usually matched by complete confusion about what those careers actually required.
One week he wanted to become a Hollywood movie star. Another week he decided he was destined to be a secret agent. At various times he also dreamed of becoming a brain surgeon, an astronaut, and a famous inventor.
Each dream followed the same hilarious pattern.
Jethro would discover a profession, misunderstand it completely, and then announce to the family that he was about to become the greatest practitioner of that job in history.
His preparation was usually minimal. Sometimes it meant reading half of a book. Sometimes it meant buying a costume. Occasionally it meant simply declaring himself qualified.
Despite the inevitable failures, Jethro never lost confidence.
And that endless optimism made him one of the show’s most beloved characters.
Fans didn’t laugh at Jethro because he failed. They laughed because he never stopped believing he would succeed.