Ep 16. Back to Californy

The Beverly Hillbillies Season 1 Episode 16 - Back to Californy:

In this episode of The Beverly Hillbillies, titled "Back to Californy," the Clampett family finds themselves missing the simpler life they had back in the hills of Kentucky. Jethro, feeling especially homesick, suggests they all go back to the place they once called home.

The episode begins with Jethro excitedly telling Jed and Granny about how much he misses his old friends and the countryside of Kentucky. He fondly remembers the fishin' holes, the log rolling, and the banjo pickin' that he used to enjoy back there. Granny, feeling a similar sense of nostalgia, agrees that going back for a visit might not be a bad idea.

Jed, initially skeptical, soon warms up to the idea, acknowledging that they have come a long way since striking oil on their land and becoming millionaires overnight. The family decides it's time for a trip down memory lane. They begin making preparations to head back to Kentucky, much to the amusement and confusion of their accustomed Beverly Hills neighbors.

Meanwhile, Mr. Drysdale, the Clampetts' loyal banker and friend, tries to dissuade them from traveling back to their old life. He fears that once they experience the comforts and luxuries of Beverly Hills, they will quickly realize what they've left behind. However, the determined Clampett family is set on revisiting their roots.

As the Clampetts arrive back in Kentucky, they are greeted with joy and excitement. The whole town seems to have heard of their arrival, and the familiar faces of old friends fill them with warm memories. The family revels in the simple joys of their former life, visiting familiar places and participating in activities they used to love.

Back in Beverly Hills, Drysdale becomes increasingly concerned about the Clampetts' absence. He worries that the family might not return and insists on trying to convince them otherwise. He enlists the help of Miss Hathaway, his efficient secretary, to locate their whereabouts and persuade them to come back.

Meanwhile, in Kentucky, the Clampetts find themselves becoming more and more attached to their old lifestyle. Jed and Granny reminisce about their late kinfolk, recalling the good times they had together. Jethro reconnects with his childhood friends and indulges in his favorite Hillbilly pastimes. Elly May, the beautiful and outdoorsy Clampett daughter, explores nature as she did before.

However, as the episode progresses, the Clampetts start to realize that their hearts truly belong in Beverly Hills. They miss the luxuries, conveniences, and new experiences they have become accustomed to. Jed, Granny, Jethro, and Elly May begin to understand that home isn't just a place, but wherever their loved ones and new opportunities await.

In a bittersweet moment, the Clampetts bid farewell to their old life and friends, promising to return for future visits. Drysdale and Miss Hathaway, who have managed to track them down, persuade them to come back to Beverly Hills, where they truly belong. The family sets off on their journey back home, filled with a newfound appreciation for both their roots and the life they've built in California.

"Back to Californy" beautifully explores themes of nostalgia, family bonds, and the age-old question of what truly makes a place home. The episode takes viewers on a journey that showcases the Clampetts' love for their old life while also highlighting the growth and change they've undergone since becoming rich. As the episode concludes, it leaves us pondering the value of origins while appreciating the importance of embracing new opportunities.