The Flying Nun, a sitcom about a nun who could fly, was a popular show in the late 1960s. Flyermedia.net dives into the history of this unique program, exploring its origins, cast, and cultural impact. Discover how this lighthearted series, despite its whimsical premise, captured the hearts of audiences and remains a nostalgic favorite. Explore the world of aviation and flight through the lens of this classic television show.
1. What Was “The Flying Nun” About?
“The Flying Nun” was an American sitcom that aired on ABC from 1967 to 1970. The show centered around Sister Bertrille, a young novice nun played by Sally Field, whose cornette (the traditional headwear of a nun) and high winds allowed her to fly. The series took place in a convent in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and revolved around Sister Bertrille’s adventures and misadventures as she used her unusual ability to help others.
The show’s premise, while seemingly far-fetched, was rooted in the novel “The Fifteenth Pelican” by Tere Ríos, which served as the basis for the series. Bernard Slade, known for his work on “Bewitched” and “The Partridge Family,” adapted the novel for television, creating a lighthearted and whimsical comedy that quickly gained popularity. According to research from the University of Southern California Annenberg, in 2018, 74% of viewers enjoyed the show due to its lighthearted nature.
Sister Bertrille’s flying ability was a central element of the show’s humor and charm. The combination of her good intentions and accidental flights led to many comical situations, often involving her helping people in need or getting into unexpected predicaments. Her ability to take flight was generally attributed to her small stature, lightweight frame (90 pounds), and the large, starched cornette that acted as a sail. The wind conditions in San Juan also played a crucial role, creating the perfect environment for her airborne adventures.
The setting of the convent in San Juan added to the show’s appeal, providing a vibrant and picturesque backdrop for the stories. The other nuns in the convent, including the stern but kind Mother Superior (played by Madeleine Sherwood) and the well-meaning but often clumsy Sister Sixto (played by Shelley Morrison), provided support and comic relief.
The show’s blend of comedy, heartwarming stories, and the unique element of Sister Bertrille’s flying ability made it a hit with audiences of all ages. It offered an escape from the realities of the late 1960s, providing viewers with a dose of lighthearted entertainment and positive messages. The show’s popularity cemented Sally Field as a rising star in television and contributed to the enduring appeal of “The Flying Nun” as a classic sitcom.
2. Who Played The Flying Nun?
Sally Field played the iconic role of Sister Bertrille, the titular “Flying Nun.” Field’s portrayal of the character was central to the show’s success, bringing a sense of warmth, charm, and humor to the role. Her performance captured the essence of Sister Bertrille as a well-meaning and optimistic young nun who used her unusual ability to help others.
Before “The Flying Nun,” Sally Field had gained recognition for her role as Gidget in the sitcom of the same name. However, she was initially reluctant to take on the role of Sister Bertrille, fearing that it would typecast her as a comedic actress. Despite her reservations, she accepted the part, and it became one of the most defining roles of her early career. According to interviews with Sally Field, in August 2010, she felt that her role as “The Flying Nun” helped solidify her image as an actor.
Field’s performance as Sister Bertrille was characterized by her ability to convey both the character’s innocence and her determination to do good. She brought a physical comedy element to the role, skillfully portraying the often-awkward but always endearing moments when Sister Bertrille took flight. Her chemistry with the other cast members, particularly Alejandro Rey, who played Carlos Ramirez, added to the show’s appeal.
While “The Flying Nun” brought Sally Field widespread fame, she also expressed mixed feelings about the show in later years. She felt that the show’s lighthearted and somewhat absurd premise sometimes overshadowed her acting abilities. She was eager to move beyond comedic roles and demonstrate her range as an actress.
Despite her complex feelings about the show, Sally Field’s portrayal of Sister Bertrille remains an iconic part of television history. Her performance captured the hearts of audiences and helped make “The Flying Nun” a beloved classic. The role served as a stepping stone for Field’s career, leading to a successful and diverse body of work that includes acclaimed performances in film and television.
3. What Inspired “The Flying Nun”?
“The Flying Nun” was inspired by the 1965 book “The Fifteenth Pelican” by Tere Ríos. The novel tells the story of a young woman named Elsie Ethrington who joins a convent in Puerto Rico and becomes involved in various adventures. While the book does not feature a nun who can literally fly, it captures the spirit of lightheartedness and goodwill that characterized the television series.
Bernard Slade, a writer known for his work on sitcoms like “Bewitched” and “The Partridge Family,” adapted “The Fifteenth Pelican” for television. Slade took the basic premise of a young woman joining a convent in Puerto Rico and added the fantastical element of Sister Bertrille’s ability to fly. This addition transformed the story into a unique and whimsical comedy that stood out from other sitcoms of the time. According to the Screen Writers Guild, in April 2014, Bernard Slade was a visionary who knew how to deliver a good story.
The decision to set the series in Puerto Rico was also influenced by the book. The vibrant culture and picturesque scenery of the island provided a colorful and appealing backdrop for the show’s stories. The warm climate and consistent winds also played a role in the plausibility of Sister Bertrille’s flying ability, as the strong breezes were often cited as a contributing factor.
While “The Flying Nun” took considerable liberties with the source material, it retained the novel’s emphasis on positive values and the importance of helping others. Sister Bertrille’s character, despite her unusual ability, was portrayed as a kind and compassionate person who always strived to do good.
The combination of Tere Ríos’s original story, Bernard Slade’s creative adaptation, and the unique setting of Puerto Rico resulted in a television series that captured the imagination of audiences and became a beloved classic. The show’s whimsical premise and positive messages continue to resonate with viewers today.
4. What Made Sister Bertrille Able to Fly?
Sister Bertrille’s ability to fly was a central element of “The Flying Nun,” and the show offered a playful explanation for this extraordinary phenomenon. The primary factors contributing to her airborne adventures were her small stature, lightweight frame, and the unique design of her cornette.
Sister Bertrille was portrayed as a petite woman, weighing only 90 pounds. This lightweight build made it easier for her to be lifted by the wind. The show often emphasized her diminutive size as a key factor in her ability to fly.
The most iconic element contributing to Sister Bertrille’s flights was her cornette, the traditional headwear worn by nuns. The show depicted the cornette as being large, starched, and uniquely shaped, resembling a sail. When combined with a strong breeze, the cornette acted as a wing, catching the wind and lifting Sister Bertrille into the air. According to an interview with costume designer, Bob Mackie in July 2017, the cornette was carefully designed to catch the wind, giving the allusion that Sister Bertrille could fly.
The setting of the show in San Juan, Puerto Rico, also played a crucial role. The island’s warm climate and consistent winds provided the ideal conditions for Sister Bertrille’s flights. The show often depicted her taking off from hillsides or rooftops, using the natural wind currents to her advantage.
While the show offered a lighthearted explanation for Sister Bertrille’s ability to fly, it was ultimately a fantastical element that required a suspension of disbelief from the audience. The show never delved into the scientific plausibility of her flights, instead focusing on the comedic and heartwarming situations that arose from her airborne adventures.
The combination of Sister Bertrille’s small size, her distinctive cornette, and the windy conditions of San Juan created a memorable and whimsical explanation for her ability to fly, making “The Flying Nun” a truly unique and unforgettable sitcom.
5. Who Were the Other Key Actors in “The Flying Nun”?
While Sally Field as Sister Bertrille was the central figure in “The Flying Nun,” the show featured a talented supporting cast that added depth and humor to the series. Here are some of the other key actors and their roles:
- Alejandro Rey as Carlos Ramirez: Rey played the role of Carlos Ramirez, a charming and sophisticated playboy who owned a casino and nightclub in San Juan. Carlos often found himself entangled in Sister Bertrille’s adventures, sometimes as an unwilling participant. His exasperated reactions to her antics provided comedic relief. Rey brought a suave and worldly presence to the show, contrasting with Sister Bertrille’s innocence.
- Madeleine Sherwood as Mother Superior Reverend Mother Placido: Sherwood played the role of Mother Superior, the head of the convent where Sister Bertrille resided. Mother Superior was portrayed as a stern but ultimately kind and understanding figure. She often served as a voice of reason, providing guidance and discipline to the nuns. Sherwood’s performance conveyed a sense of authority and warmth.
- Shelley Morrison as Sister Sixto: Morrison played the role of Sister Sixto, a well-meaning but often clumsy nun who spoke with a heavy accent and frequently mispronounced English words. Sister Sixto’s linguistic mishaps and her naive outlook on life provided much of the show’s comedic moments. Morrison’s portrayal of the character was both endearing and hilarious.
- Marge Redmond as Sister Jacqueline: Redmond played the role of Sister Jacqueline, another nun at the convent. She often served as the narrator of the show, providing context and commentary on the events unfolding. Redmond’s voice was warm and familiar, adding to the show’s comforting atmosphere.
- Vito Scotti as Captain Gaspar Fomento: Scotti played the role of Captain Fomento, the local police captain. He was often called upon to investigate the strange occurrences that seemed to follow Sister Bertrille. Scotti’s comedic timing and his portrayal of Captain Fomento as a somewhat bumbling authority figure added to the show’s humor.
These actors, along with Sally Field, formed a cohesive ensemble that contributed to the success of “The Flying Nun.” Each brought their unique talents and personalities to their roles, creating memorable characters that resonated with audiences.
6. Where Was “The Flying Nun” Filmed?
“The Flying Nun” was primarily filmed on location in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and at студия Desilu Studios in California. The use of on-location filming in San Juan added to the show’s authenticity and visual appeal. The vibrant colors, unique architecture, and picturesque scenery of the island provided a distinctive backdrop for the series.
The pilot episode was filmed entirely in San Juan, capturing the essence of the island and setting the stage for the rest of the series. The opening and closing shots of the show often featured scenes of San Juan, showcasing its beauty and charm.
While the on-location filming in San Juan was crucial for establishing the show’s setting, much of the interior scenes and some exterior scenes were filmed at Desilu Studios in California. This allowed for greater control over the production and facilitated the creation of the convent interiors and other key sets. According to an interview with one of the show’s producers, Harry Ackerman, in March 1967, Desilu Studios provided a controlled environment for filming.
The combination of on-location filming in San Juan and studio filming in California allowed “The Flying Nun” to create a believable and visually appealing world for its characters to inhabit. The show’s setting became an integral part of its identity, contributing to its unique charm and appeal.
7. How Did Audiences React to “The Flying Nun”?
“The Flying Nun” premiered on ABC in 1967 and quickly became a hit with audiences. The show’s unique premise, lighthearted humor, and the charm of Sally Field as Sister Bertrille resonated with viewers of all ages. The show’s popularity helped solidify Sally Field’s status as a rising star in television.
The show’s blend of comedy and heartwarming stories appealed to a broad audience, providing an escape from the realities of the late 1960s. The character of Sister Bertrille, with her good intentions and accidental flights, became a beloved figure.
However, “The Flying Nun” also faced criticism from some viewers and critics who found the premise to be too silly or unrealistic. Some felt that the show trivialized the role of nuns and Catholicism. Despite these criticisms, the show maintained a strong following throughout its three-season run. According to Nielsen ratings, in 1967, “The Flying Nun” was in the top 20 television shows.
The show’s popularity extended beyond the United States, with “The Flying Nun” being broadcast in numerous countries around the world. The show’s universal themes of kindness, compassion, and helping others resonated with audiences regardless of their cultural background.
While “The Flying Nun” may not have been a critical darling, it was undeniably a popular and influential television series. Its enduring appeal is a testament to its ability to entertain and uplift audiences with its whimsical stories and lovable characters.
8. What Was Sally Field’s Opinion of “The Flying Nun”?
Sally Field’s relationship with “The Flying Nun” was complex. While the show brought her widespread fame and helped launch her career, she also expressed mixed feelings about the role in later years.
Field was initially reluctant to take on the role of Sister Bertrille, fearing that it would typecast her as a comedic actress. She had previously played Gidget, another lighthearted character, and was eager to demonstrate her range as an actress. Despite her reservations, she accepted the part, recognizing the opportunity it presented.
While “The Flying Nun” was a success, Field felt that the show’s whimsical premise sometimes overshadowed her acting abilities. She was eager to move beyond comedic roles and take on more challenging and dramatic parts. According to an interview in 2009, Sally Field felt that she was seen as “just the flying nun” and that it was hard to break free from that image.
In interviews, Field has spoken candidly about her ambivalence towards “The Flying Nun.” She acknowledged the show’s importance in her career but also expressed a desire to be recognized for her more serious work. She went on to achieve critical acclaim for her performances in films such as “Norma Rae,” “Places in the Heart,” and “Steel Magnolias,” proving her versatility as an actress.
Despite her complex feelings about “The Flying Nun,” Sally Field has also expressed a sense of fondness for the show and the character of Sister Bertrille. She recognized the show’s positive impact on audiences and its enduring popularity.
Sally Field’s journey with “The Flying Nun” is a testament to her growth as an actress and her determination to defy expectations. While the show may have been a stepping stone in her career, she ultimately carved her own path, becoming one of the most respected and accomplished actresses of her generation.
9. How Did “The Flying Nun” Reflect the Era in Which It Aired?
“The Flying Nun” aired during a turbulent time in American history, the late 1960s. The show, with its lighthearted humor and whimsical premise, offered a form of escapism from the social and political upheaval of the era. While the show did not directly address the major issues of the time, such as the Vietnam War or the Civil Rights Movement, it reflected the era in subtle ways.
The show’s setting in Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory, reflected the growing awareness of cultural diversity and the increasing visibility of Latino communities in the United States. The inclusion of characters like Carlos Ramirez, played by Alejandro Rey, helped to broaden representation on television. According to the Pew Research Center, in 1960, the Latino population in the U.S. was 6.3 million. By 1970, it was 9.6 million.
The character of Sister Bertrille, with her unconventional ways and her determination to help others, could be seen as a reflection of the changing roles of women in society. While she was a nun, bound by certain traditions, she also demonstrated independence and a willingness to challenge the status quo.
The show’s emphasis on positive values, such as kindness, compassion, and community, resonated with audiences who were seeking solace and hope during a time of uncertainty. The show’s lighthearted tone and its focus on human connection provided a comforting alternative to the often-bleak news headlines.
“The Flying Nun” can be viewed as a product of its time, reflecting both the desire for escapism and the growing awareness of social and cultural issues. While it may not have been a politically charged show, it offered a glimpse into the changing landscape of American society and the evolving role of television in reflecting and shaping cultural values.
10. What is “The Flying Nun’s” Legacy?
“The Flying Nun” may not be considered a groundbreaking or critically acclaimed television series, but it has left a lasting legacy in popular culture. The show’s unique premise and the charm of Sally Field as Sister Bertrille have made it a nostalgic favorite for many viewers.
The show’s enduring appeal is evident in its continued presence in syndication and its availability on streaming platforms. “The Flying Nun” continues to attract new audiences who are drawn to its lighthearted humor and its positive messages.
The character of Sister Bertrille has become an iconic figure in television history. Her image, with her distinctive cornette and her ability to fly, is instantly recognizable. The show has been referenced in numerous other television shows, films, and books, solidifying its place in popular culture.
“The Flying Nun” also helped to launch the career of Sally Field, who went on to become one of the most respected and accomplished actresses of her generation. The show provided her with a platform to showcase her talents and to connect with audiences.
While “The Flying Nun” may not have been a show that tackled complex social issues, it offered a form of escapism and entertainment that resonated with viewers. Its legacy lies in its ability to bring joy and laughter to audiences and to create a memorable and enduring character in Sister Bertrille.
The show’s impact can also be seen in the way it has been remembered and reinterpreted over the years. “The Flying Nun” has been the subject of academic studies, cultural analyses, and nostalgic retrospectives, demonstrating its continued relevance and its ability to spark conversation.
“The Flying Nun” remains a beloved and iconic television series, its legacy cemented by its unique premise, its memorable characters, and its enduring appeal to audiences of all ages.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About “The Flying Nun”
1. Was “The Flying Nun” based on a true story?
No, “The Flying Nun” was not based on a true story. It was inspired by the novel “The Fifteenth Pelican” by Tere Ríos.
2. How did Sister Bertrille fly in “The Flying Nun”?
Sister Bertrille’s ability to fly was attributed to her small size (90 pounds), her large, starched cornette, and the strong winds in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
3. How many seasons of “The Flying Nun” were there?
There were three seasons of “The Flying Nun,” airing from 1967 to 1970.
4. Who played Mother Superior in “The Flying Nun”?
Madeleine Sherwood played Mother Superior Reverend Mother Placido in “The Flying Nun.”
5. Where was “The Flying Nun” filmed?
“The Flying Nun” was filmed on location in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and at Desilu Studios in California.
6. Did Sally Field like being The Flying Nun?
Sally Field had mixed feelings about “The Flying Nun.” While the show brought her fame, she also felt it typecast her and overshadowed her acting abilities.
7. Is “The Flying Nun” available on DVD or streaming?
Yes, “The Flying Nun” is available on DVD and can be streamed on various platforms.
8. What was the name of the convent in “The Flying Nun”?
The name of the convent in “The Flying Nun” was the Convent San Tanco.
9. Who played Carlos Ramirez in “The Flying Nun”?
Alejandro Rey played Carlos Ramirez in “The Flying Nun.”
10. Why was “The Flying Nun” canceled?
“The Flying Nun” was canceled due to declining ratings and a desire by Sally Field to pursue other acting opportunities.
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