Judy Garland Show: Bobby Darin & Bob Newhart's Hilarious 1963 Episode!

20 May, 2025

Ever wondered what happens when comedic genius meets unparalleled musical talent? The December 29, 1963, episode of "The Judy Garland Show" provided a definitive answer: pure, unadulterated entertainment.

This particular episode, though technically the thirteenth to air, was a showcase of vibrant energy and collaborative brilliance. It wasn't just Judy Garland dazzling with her vocal prowess; it was the dynamic interplay with guests Bobby Darin and Bob Newhart that made it a standout. The episode, which was taped earlier on November 30th, 1963, at CBS Hollywood, featured a blend of musical performances and comedic sketches that highlighted the strengths of each performer. The fourteenth episode taped on November 30, 1963, was the episode #1.14 in 1964 called the entertainers.

Category	Information
Full Name	George Robert Newhart
Date of Birth	September 5, 1929
Place of Birth	Oak Park, Illinois, USA
Occupation	Comedian, Actor
Known For	Stand-up comedy, "The Bob Newhart Show," "Newhart," "Elf"
Spouse	Ginnie Quinn (married 1963, died 2023)
Children	Four
Awards	Primetime Emmy Award (2013), Peabody Award
Website	bobnewhart.com

One of the memorable segments involved Judy and Bob Newhart engaging in self-deprecating humor, playfully addressing public perceptions and past critiques. This willingness to poke fun at themselves demonstrated a level of comfort and confidence that resonated with the audience. The comedic timing between the two was impeccable, creating a lighthearted and engaging atmosphere. Bob Newhart spoke about Ed Sullivan, Dean Martin, and Judy Garland at the Paley Center for Media. He noted that he was most surprised by a particular encounter, although the details remain elusive, its indicative of the many surprising moments that defined his career.

Musically, the episode was equally diverse. Judy Garland delivered powerful renditions of classic tunes like "Went the Strings of My Heart," showcasing her unparalleled vocal range and emotional depth. The episode also featured a lively medley of train songs, adding a touch of nostalgia and Americana to the program. Bobby Darin, known for his charisma and versatility, joined Garland for several duets, their voices blending seamlessly to create captivating performances. Both performers appeared to genuinely enjoy themselves, their enthusiasm radiating throughout the studio and into the homes of viewers.

Casual viewers, especially those new to "The Judy Garland Show," often cite this episode as particularly entertaining, thanks in large part to the presence of Bobby Darin and Bob Newhart. Their distinct talents complemented Garland's, creating a well-rounded and engaging viewing experience. Newhart's signature comedic stylings were on full display, offering a contrast to the more emotionally charged musical numbers. The episode successfully balanced humor and heart, appealing to a broad audience.

It's worth noting that "The Judy Garland Show" had a sometimes turbulent relationship with CBS. Despite Garland's undeniable star power, the show faced challenges in terms of ratings and production costs. However, CBS recognized the value of Garland's talent and continued to produce television specials featuring her, often to great success. This particular episode stands as a testament to the network's commitment to showcasing Garland's abilities, even amidst the challenges.

The sketch with Bob Newhart about a couple watching "The Judy Garland Show" is a prime example of the show's willingness to experiment with meta-humor and break the fourth wall. The premise was simple yet effective: Judy and Bob portraying a couple commenting on the very show they were participating in. This clever approach allowed for both self-referential jokes and insightful observations about the entertainment industry. The sketch, which was taped on November 30, 1963, and aired on December 29, 1963, remains a favorite among fans of the show.

The episode's musical highlights extend beyond the duets with Darin and Garland's solo performances. The "fabulous railroad medley" duet with Judy was a particular standout, showcasing the energy and showmanship of both performers. The medley likely featured a selection of classic railroad songs, evoking images of trains and travel. Garland also performed "I'm On My Way" and "Michael Row the Boat Ashore," further demonstrating her versatility as a vocalist.

The show was show #14 on the clapboard, and scheduled to air on Nov 30, 1963. But the actual aired date was December 29, 1963.

Bob Newhart, born on September 5, 1929, in Oak Park, Illinois, brought his signature deadpan delivery and observational humor to the episode. His comedic style, characterized by its subtle wit and relatable observations, provided a perfect foil to Garland's more theatrical performances. Newhart's presence added a layer of sophistication to the show, appealing to viewers who appreciated a more cerebral brand of comedy. In addition to his work on "The Judy Garland Show," Newhart hosted "The Tonight Show" and has been a staple of television and film for decades.

Beyond the specific performances, this episode of "The Judy Garland Show" offers a glimpse into the entertainment landscape of the early 1960s. The presence of guest stars like Bobby Darin and Bob Newhart reflects the cross-pollination of talent across different genres. The show's willingness to experiment with different formats, from musical numbers to comedic sketches, demonstrates a desire to appeal to a wide range of viewers.

Moreover, the episode provides a fascinating insight into Judy Garland's personal and professional life. Despite the challenges she faced, both on and off screen, Garland remained a captivating performer. "The Judy Garland Show" offered her a platform to showcase her talents and connect with audiences on a personal level. The show also revealed her wit and sense of humor, qualities that often went overlooked in the midst of her more dramatic roles.

Judy Garland, born Frances Ethel Gumm on June 10 in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, captivated audiences worldwide with her talent and magnetic personality. From her early days as a child performer to her iconic roles in films such as "The Wizard of Oz," Garland left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. "Judy at Carnegie Hall," a live album recorded in 1961 with backing orchestra conducted by Mort Lindsey, further solidified her reputation as a phenomenal performer. It was released on July 10, 1961, by Capitol Records.

Interestingly, there's a tangential connection to Elizabeth Taylor. In real life, Elizabeth Taylor's first marriage to Nicky Hilton took place in a church, with a wedding gown designed by Edith Head. While not directly related to "The Judy Garland Show," this anecdote provides a glimpse into the glamorous world of Hollywood during that era.

In addition to the performances and sketches, the episode also featured the "The Twelve Days of Christmas MonologueNewhart Finale," a comedic take on the classic Christmas carol. This segment likely showcased Newhart's talent for storytelling and his ability to find humor in everyday situations. It added a festive touch to the episode, making it particularly appealing to viewers during the holiday season.

Bob Newhart has shared his favorite memories of Ed Sullivan, Dean Martin, and Judy Garland at the paley center for media, offering valuable insights into the personalities and talents of these iconic figures. These anecdotes provide a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of entertainment and shed light on the relationships between these legendary performers. His stories not only entertain, but also offer historical perspective and give personal views about the time.

The "Bob Newhart Show" was a significant part of the CBS comedy lineup on Saturday nights, and the Judy Garland show was also one of the show in the comedy lineup. He shares his favorite memories of Judy Garland who was born Virginia Lillian Quinn in New York and was the daughter of veteran character actor Bill Quinn.

Overall, the December 29, 1963, episode of "The Judy Garland Show" stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and the enduring appeal of classic entertainment. With its blend of musical performances, comedic sketches, and star power, it remains a highlight in the history of television.

Across a 45-year career spanning 47 years of his life, Garland left her mark as a multi-talented international singer and actress.

Judy Garland and Bob Newhart on "The Judy Garland Show" YouTube

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