One of the very few episodes in which Richie gets more than one or two lines. This was a great episode from many standpoints. Rob and Laura taught Richie a valuable lesson which many parents have faced over the years. Richie acted like every kid ever. This sort of episode is why sitcoms in the early '60s were so good. They didn't have to be weird or stupid. They just took everyday situations and made them enjoyable.
3 Reviews
Impressive acting by Larry Mathews
CatTales13 March 2022
It's easy to overlook a kid acting like a kid, but Larry does a convincing job of being ecstatic over his new pets, and heartbroken yet still articulate as his dad explains the facts of life (of pets) to him. Fortunately it's a happy ending, with a hilarious finale with Buddy and Sally, but you'll still cry along with Larry.
Among the best shows in the series...and it's not even a comedy!
planktonrules27 November 2023
Normally, "The Dick Van Dyke Show" is about comedy...making folks laugh. However, in a real change of pace, "Never Name a Duck" isn't meant to be funny yet it manages to be one of the best shows in the series. Much of it is due to the very sensitively written script and much is because Larry Mathews really did a great job in the show.
Following one installment of the "Alan Brady Show", Mel announces that they have some props which he wants the writers to get rid of...and most are toys. But among these toys is a box with two baby ducks and Rob knows Laura will be mad at him, but he wants to bring them home. She is mad...but Ritchie sees the ducks and insists they keep them...and the Petries reluctantly agree.
Soon the ducks are a bit of a nuisance and one of the ducks soon dies. When the final duck, Stanley, starts to look under the weather, Rob takes him to the vet...which leads to a sad farewell and Ritchie wanting to run away from home.
While none of my description is funny, the show is really off the charts when it comes to sweetness. How Rob deals with the loss of the duck and Larry Mathews' amazing acting really made the ending to this one a real sweet blessing to watch. A must-see episode.
Following one installment of the "Alan Brady Show", Mel announces that they have some props which he wants the writers to get rid of...and most are toys. But among these toys is a box with two baby ducks and Rob knows Laura will be mad at him, but he wants to bring them home. She is mad...but Ritchie sees the ducks and insists they keep them...and the Petries reluctantly agree.
Soon the ducks are a bit of a nuisance and one of the ducks soon dies. When the final duck, Stanley, starts to look under the weather, Rob takes him to the vet...which leads to a sad farewell and Ritchie wanting to run away from home.
While none of my description is funny, the show is really off the charts when it comes to sweetness. How Rob deals with the loss of the duck and Larry Mathews' amazing acting really made the ending to this one a real sweet blessing to watch. A must-see episode.
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