Here Come the Brides: A Tale of Love, Adventure, and Pioneer Dreams
1. Introduction:
Here Come the Brides was a beloved television show that first graced the screens of American households in 1968. This heartwarming series, classified as a drama and comedy, captured the imaginations of viewers with its unique blend of romance, adventure, and pioneer spirit.
2. Background:
The show was created by Christopher Knopf and Robert Stambler, with Aaron Spelling and Douglas S. Cramer serving as executive producers. It was produced by Screen Gems Television, a division of Columbia Pictures. Notably, Here Come the Brides was based on the 1965 novel “Brides for Brothers” written by the acclaimed novelist Boris Sagal.
3. Plot and Format:
Set in the late 19th century, Here Come the Brides centered around the lives of the Bolt brothers, Jason (played by Robert Brown), Joshua (played by David Soul), and Jeremy (played by Bobby Sherman). They decide to bring marriageable women from the East to Seattle, to help populate the wilderness and provide potential brides to the loggers working in their company.
The show highlighted the brothers’ efforts to fulfil their bold plan, overcoming various challenges and opposition along the way. The themes of perseverance, community, and love were at the core of the series. Each episode followed their journey of finding eligible women, navigating relationships, and celebrating the triumphs and trials of building a new life in the untamed West.
4. Cast and Characters:
The main cast consisted of Robert Brown as Jason Bolt, the charismatic leader of the Bolt brothers. David Soul portrayed Joshua Bolt, the sensitive and artistic brother, while Bobby Sherman brought youthful charm to the role of Jeremy Bolt, the youngest and most impulsive of the trio.
The beloved supporting cast included Bridget Hanley as Candy Pruitt, a beautiful and spirited woman who captured the hearts of both Joshua and Jeremy. Mark Lenard portrayed Aaron Stempel, a gruff but lovable character who served as the brothers’ mentor and father figure. Notable guest stars included Agnes Moorehead, Vincent Price, and Eve Plumb, who made memorable contributions to the show.
5. Reception:
Here Come the Brides received critical acclaim for its unique blend of comedy, drama, and romance. Its portrayal of life in the rugged frontier resonated with audiences, capturing their hearts. The series garnered two Golden Globe nominations during its three-season run.
Additionally, the show’s theme song, “Seattle,” performed by Perry Como, became a chart-topping hit and a beloved tune associated with the series. It further deepened the show’s impact on popular culture.
6. Legacy:
Here Come the Brides left an indelible mark on television history. Its portrayal of strong, independent women and its focus on community-building challenged traditional gender roles and depicted progressive values for its time.
While the series did not spawn any spin-offs or sequels, it carved a place in the hearts of its fans, proving that love, adventure, and a pioneering spirit could captivate audiences and create a lasting impact.
7. Conclusion:
Here Come the Brides holds a cherished place in television history, offering audiences a unique blend of love, adventure, and pioneer dreams. Its endearing characters, engaging storyline, and overarching themes of perseverance and community-building captured the hearts of viewers, ensuring its memory lives on. This beloved series serves as a testament to the enduring power of quality storytelling and will forever be remembered as a touching portrayal of love amidst the challenges of a vibrant and evolving American frontier.
