The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, a hit show on Prime Video, has become a prominent figure at the Emmys since its debut. The series follows the journey of Midge Maisel, an aspiring comedian, as she strives for success in the world of stand-up comedy. Interestingly, back in the 1950s, another comedy revolving around a stand-up comic was also recognized by the Television Academy. Make Room for Daddy, a popular ABC series, won the award for best new program in 1954 and best comedy series in 1955.
Make Room for Daddy centered around the life of an entertainer who struggled to balance his hectic professional life with his family responsibilities. Starring real-life comedian Danny Thomas, Jean Hagen as his wife, and Sherry Jackson and Rusty Hamer as their children, the show presented scenarios that Midge Maisel could likely relate to. For example, Danny faced the challenge of his dog not recognizing him after returning from a three-month gig. Additionally, he sought the help of a journalist friend to write a favorable article about him in order to generate positive publicity. The show also tackled the issue of Danny losing a studio contract because he refused to undergo a nose job.
The series received high praise, with The Hollywood Reporter describing it in 1953 as a show that “built on the trials of an entertainer whose hectic professional life leaves him but scant time for his family.” The warmth and gentle humor of the family series resonated with viewers, leading to its success. In 1954, The Hollywood Reporter declared that very few shows could match the consistent warmth and humor exhibited by Make Room for Daddy.
When Jean Hagen left the show after season three, the writers made a significant change to the storyline. Danny became a widower, and the show was subsequently renamed The Danny Thomas Show. Despite this alteration, the series continued to captivate audiences and enjoyed a successful run for a total of 11 seasons. It garnered a remarkable 17 Emmy nominations and secured five wins throughout its time on the air.
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In comparison, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel has achieved tremendous success in terms of Emmy recognition. Over the course of its five seasons, the show has received a staggering 80 nominations, including 14 nominations in the most recent year. Additionally, it has triumphed with 20 wins, solidifying its position as one of the most celebrated series in recent memory.
It is evident that both Make Room for Daddy and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel have left a lasting impact on audiences and the Television Academy. These two shows, separated by decades, share a common thread of showcasing the trials and tribulations of stand-up comedians. While Make Room for Daddy entertained viewers in the 1950s, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel has captivated audiences in the present day with its witty writing, standout performances, and compelling storyline.
As the legacy of Make Room for Daddy lives on, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel continues to make its mark in the television landscape. Both shows have cemented their status as beloved comedies deserving of recognition and praise. Their impact on the entertainment industry is undeniable, and their contributions to the world of comedy will be remembered for years to come.
This article originally appeared in the August issue of The Hollywood Reporter magazine. To receive additional issues of the magazine, you can subscribe by clicking the provided link.
