Hidden secrets of The Partridge Family

The Partridge Family: Secrets and Surprises from a 70s TV Classic

The early 70s brought us a unique mix of simplicity, charm, and unforgettable talent, and The Partridge Family captured it all. David Cassidy’s incredible voice and undeniable charisma made him a household name, while Susan Dey’s relatable charm won the hearts of fans everywhere. With its sharp writing, solid acting, and wholesome vibe, the show quickly became a beloved part of television history. But even die-hard fans may have missed some fascinating details hidden in plain sight. Let’s take a nostalgic dive into the secrets and surprises that make The Partridge Family even more unforgettable!

A Wholesome Family with a Rock Star Twist

The Partridge Family was a lighthearted sitcom about a widowed mother, Shirley Partridge, played by the talented Shirley Jones, and her five children who formed a pop band and toured the country in their iconic colorful bus. The show combined catchy tunes, feel-good moments, and the occasional family drama, and it became a cultural phenomenon of the 70s. Despite its fun premise, there were some fascinating behind-the-scenes facts and connections that made The Partridge Family even more intriguing.

For starters, while the show’s musical moments are one of its most memorable features, many fans may not realize that David Cassidy, who played Keith Partridge, was also an accomplished musician in real life. His voice was featured on many of the band’s hit songs, and his popularity skyrocketed. His hit singles, such as “I Think I Love You,” became chart-toppers, and his heartthrob status made him a teen idol of the decade.

But it wasn’t just David Cassidy who captured the spotlight. Susan Dey, who played his sister Laurie Partridge, brought a warmth and relatability to her role. Dey’s performance as the sweet, caring older sister made her a favorite with fans, and she went on to have a successful career after the show, notably starring in L.A. Law. Her dynamic with Cassidy helped to solidify the family aspect of the show, making their bond one of its most heartwarming elements.

The Real-Life Inspiration

While The Partridge Family is often considered a product of the fictional world, it’s actually based on real-life events. Did you know that the show was loosely inspired by a real pop band? The show drew its initial inspiration from The Cowsills, a family music group that made waves in the late 1960s. The Cowsills were known for their catchy, sunshine pop sound, much like the fictional Partridge Family.

The original idea was for the actual Cowsills to star in the show, bringing their real-life family dynamic to the small screen. However, acting wasn’t exactly their forte, so the plan was scrapped in favor of casting professional actors. But the connection between the two families didn’t end there. The Cowsills even made a cameo appearance in an episode of The Partridge Family, solidifying their role as the inspiration for the show.

The Real Music Behind the Show

Many fans of the show may not realize that while the Partridge Family was portrayed as a band on television, their “performances” were often lip-synced. However, this didn’t mean that the music was just filler. In fact, David Cassidy’s voice was featured prominently on the tracks, and he even went on to release music in his own right. Cassidy’s real-life band, The Partridge Family, released several albums, and the show’s music, such as the iconic hit “I Think I Love You,” topped the charts and became a staple of the 70s pop scene.

Interestingly, Shirley Jones, who played the mother, Shirley Partridge, had an extensive background in musical theater before starring on The Partridge Family. She was an Academy Award-winning actress, and her strong singing voice added to the authenticity of the show’s musical moments. Though she didn’t have the same level of chart success as David Cassidy, Jones’ vocal talent brought a level of professionalism to the musical aspect of the show.

Behind the Scenes: The Partridge Family Bus

One of the most iconic images associated with The Partridge Family is the colorful, psychedelic bus that the family used to tour across the country. This unforgettable vehicle became a symbol of the show’s free-spirited, rock ‘n’ roll energy. But did you know that the bus was, in fact, a prop that was often seen in close-up shots? For the majority of the show’s scenes, the family was filmed in a studio with a stationary bus, while shots of them actually driving were often filmed using rear projection.

The Partridge Family’s Enduring Legacy

Even after The Partridge Family ended in 1974, its impact on pop culture was undeniable. From its iconic music to its charming cast, the show remains a nostalgic favorite for many. David Cassidy’s fame as a teen idol and Susan Dey’s career success prove that The Partridge Family helped launch the careers of its cast members in ways that continue to resonate today.

The show’s combination of catchy music, endearing characters, and wholesome family values still holds a special place in the hearts of those who grew up with it. As you look back at the show today, it’s clear that The Partridge Family captured a unique moment in pop culture—a moment that, even decades later, remains unforgettable.