Shocking Things You Never Knew About The Golden Girls

Inspiration From The Show Came From Real Life

NBC executive Brandon Tartikoff was visiting his elderly aunt and witnessed how she and her next-door neighbor, who was also her best friend, interacted with each other. The two elderly women would constantly bicker with each other but they also shared a lot of love in their relationship. The Golden Girls was born out of that interaction.

Life often imitates art…

The observations Tartikoff made changed television history forever.

Brandon Tartikoff, who served as president of NBC from 1980 to 1991, was inspired by a visit to his aunt. Watching her interactions with her friends and neighbors made a deep impression on him. The friendship and bonds seemed to keep his aunt and her buddies going strong even as they aged. Ever concerned with viewer demographics, Tartikoff also knew that a large (and growing) percentage of the population was over 45 years old. He conveyed his knowledge to the show’s creator, Susan Harris, and history was made. The four leading ladies were cast and The Golden Girls pilot episode, “The Engagement,” was filmed.

Friendships are vital at any stage of life