Irritating and/or Obnoxious

 I don’t watch many half-hour comedy, western, detective, or sci-fi television series these days, so I can’t really compare contemporary ones with those of the ‘60s, ‘70s and early ‘80s.

Why that early time period? Because I see them on MeTV, a habit I picked up during my stay at Kalakaua Gardens Rehab Center. They’re pretty much formulaic, with many recurring characterizations. 

The characterizations that stand out to me are the irritating and obnoxious ones. There are two types.

The first ones are usually minor side characters. They get on my nerves, and I think that if their personalities changed, it definitely would be for the better. In fact, if they disappeared completely, the series would be more enjoyable.

• Eddie Haskell (“Leave It to Beaver”): Theodore “Beaver” Cleaver’s brother Wally’s best friend.
• Eustace Haney (“Green Acres”): Dishonest Hooterville salesman.
• Charles O’Casey (“My Three Sons”): Live-in housekeeper “Uncle Charley.”

(Shudder … you know what I mean?)

The other group consists of major co-stars. These are a lot more tolerable as they are sidekicks and add a lot to the cast, and in fact, they’re often the focus of the episode.

• Festus Haggen (“Gunsmoke”): Marshall Matt Dillon’s deputy.
• Barney Fife (‘The Andy Griffith Show”): Sheriff Andy’s deputy. 
• Gunnery Sgt. Vince Carter (“Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C.”): Pfc. Gomer Pyle’s drill instructor. 

Any thoughts are welcome.