19 Things Producers of ‘The Beverly Hillbillies’ Hid from Fans

10. There Was Almost a Beverly Hillbillies Casino

Max Baer Jr. who played Jethro on the show had ambitions to build some Beverly Hillbillies themed hotels, restaurants and casinos in Nevada. He succeeded in getting some sub-licensing rights for products like food and slot machines, and he had dreams of a 200-foot replica of an oil derrick. The project has hit many roadblocks through the years, though, so time will tell if Jethro’s Beverly Hillbillies Casino ever becomes a reality. Don’t underestimate Jethro, though. Max Baer Jr. is actually a very successful businessman who’s made millions producing films like Macon County Line (which he made for just $100K) and Ode to Billy Joe, another low-budget production that hit the box-office jackpot.

11. Elly May Sued Mattel Over a Barbie Doll

The Classic TV Collection from Mattel featured three Barbies, including one of “Elly May Clampett,” the character played by Donna Douglas. As Jed’s critter-loving daughter on the show, she was hardly the posh princess type. Fans loved her homespun down-to-earth charm. However, in 2011 she decided to sue Mattel for using her likeness without permission on the doll. She objected to the packaging which featured a black and white head shot of Donna Douglas as Elly May Clampett on the box plus a drawing of Elly May on the back. She later settled the suit, but then passed away in 2015 at the age of 82.

12. Want to Cook Up Some of Granny’s Roadkill?

The character of Granny was played by Irene Ryan. She was Jed’s mother-in-law, famous for cooking up “vittles.” Perhaps frying up possum isn’t on your dinner radar tonight, but there are quite a few cookbooks out there that were inspired by Granny and the Beverly Hillbillies’ recipes.