The iconic sitcom ‘The Golden Girls’ has been a beloved favorite among audiences for decades. With its witty dialogue, lovable characters, and relatable storylines, it’s no wonder the show remains a timeless classic. Recently, Newsner had the opportunity to sit down with Stan Zimmerman, a staff writer for Season 1 of ‘The Golden Girls,’ to uncover some fascinating behind-the-scenes stories.
One of the most memorable characters on the show was undoubtedly Sophia Petrillo, played by the incomparable Estelle Getty. While audiences adored Sophia’s sharp wit and sassy one-liners, Zimmerman remembers Getty for her kindness and warmth. He recalls the first time they met, when Getty took him and his writing partner under her wing, offering words of encouragement and support.
Getty’s character may have been known for her biting humor, but in reality, she had a motherly quality that endeared her to the entire cast and crew. Zimmerman shares that even years after working on the show, Getty would call him to ask about his life, offering advice and guidance whenever needed.
Despite her tough exterior, Getty faced her own struggles, particularly with dementia. Zimmerman reveals that during the show’s run, Getty’s memory began to decline, making it increasingly difficult for her to remember her lines. The cast and crew rallied around her, using creative solutions like writing lines on her hands or hiding cue cards around the set.
Betty White, another beloved cast member, had a different reputation on set. Zimmerman initially found her to be somewhat cruel, often making jokes at Getty’s expense when she forgot her lines. However, as he grew older, Zimmerman came to realize that White’s actions may have been motivated by a desire to help Getty collect herself and remember her lines.
The cast of ‘The Golden Girls’ was known for their camaraderie and respect for one another. Zimmerman shares that the actresses would often credit the writers in interviews, a rare gesture in Hollywood. He also reveals that, contrary to popular belief, the actresses never ad-libbed their lines, instead sticking to the script.
Zimmerman’s experiences working on ‘The Golden Girls’ are just a few of the many stories he shares in his book ‘The Girls: From Golden to Gilmore.’ With its wealth of behind-the-scenes information and anecdotes, the book is a must-read for any fan of the show.
As Zimmerman continues to tour with his play ‘Right Before I Go,’ a poignant story inspired by a close friend’s suicide, it’s clear that his experiences working on ‘The Golden Girls’ have had a lasting impact on his life and career.
