The Monkees (1966-1968)

The Monkees premiered September 12, 1966 on NBC and quickly became a hit, especially with young girls. Created by Bob Rafelson and Bert Schneider, this show was an American tribute to the Beatles which won two Emmys and became a pop culture phenomenon. In addition to the show, the Monkees released six albums between 1966 and 1968 and even outsold the Beatles and Rolling Stones combined in 1967. That's all very interesting, but this page is dedicated to the TV show. I love their music, I just want to concentrate on TV here. Thank you. The show was about a struggling band and their many adventures up the never ending ladder of success. It was filmed in a style reminenscent of Richard Lester's style in the Beatles' movies A Hard Day's Night and Help!, with lots of fast action, different angles, and of course, lots of music. Every episode included at least one song, usually during a romp. Romps are hard to explain, but essentially, they're like music videos today. They usually involved lots of running around and stuff that sometimes actually related to the plot. They were used to sell the music. There were only four main characters, but occasionally, a guest star would appear that would make such an impact that the show would have been different without them. Rarely, but it did happen. Curious as to who these people are? Too bad, I'm telling you anyway. Let's start with the regular cast...

Micky Dolenz - Drummer, lead singer, the joker of the group, very rarely serious. Also does werewolf impression that the neighbor thinks is a dog. Also known to occasionally dress in drag. From California.

Davy Jones - Short, British, usually gets the girl, considered attractive by most females, although I don't see what the fuss is about. Plays the marracas, but occasionally seen playing guitar or drums. Unable to concentrate on music when girls nearby.

Peter Tork - the dummy of the group. Plays bass, very shy around girls, wears very cute orange pajamas with a blue bunny on them. Gets kidnapped or disappears a lot.

Mike Nesmith - the father/big brother figure of the group, he is the one they turn to when they have problems. Plays guitar, is from Texas, and rarely seen without his green wool hat. Usually the one to try to get the others out of trouble and get gigs and encourage the others. (For die-hard fans of Mike see my section: Mike Nesmith Propaganda Ministry for more!)

Others who were important.

Mr. Babbit - the landlord, appeared in about six episodes. Always trying to get the boys to pay their rent, but not very successful. He was only in the first season, nobody seems to know what happened to him, although there is evidence that he changed his name and moved away and now owns a hotel. Of course, this is just a rumor. Played by Henry Corden.

Mr. Schnieder - a real doll who gives great advice, mostly from long dead philosophers. Very opinionated, he serves as the boys' advisor. Was once mistaken for Peter and kidnapped by Chinese spies.