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Little-known mistakes and bloopers in Gilligan’s Island

Gilligan’s Island is one of those timeless shows that captures the hearts of every generation! With its blend of great comedy, unforgettable characters, and outrageous scenarios, it has become a beloved classic.

From 1964 to 1967, this iconic series transported us to a tropical paradise where castaways faced all sorts of wild adventures. But you know what? Even in that idyllic setting, there were some little mistakes you might have missed!

Gilligan’s Island: the more you know, the better it gets! I can’t believe there were only three seasons, especially considering how incredibly popular the show was and the cult status it still holds today, even into the 2020s.

I know that fans of the series truly love to uncover the bloopers, so here’s a bunch of them for everyone to enjoy. These bloopers you can’t even notice unless you’re looking for them!

Two mysterious people

To begin with, there’s a big blooper that many people have missed during all these years. In season two’s opening credits, we start at the marina, where we’re greeted by the Skipper and, of course, Gilligan. The scene then takes us to the boat setting sail into the vast ocean, ready for their infamous ”three-hour tour.”

Now, here’s where things get interesting. We all know there should be seven castaways, right? But if you take a closer look at two separate shots in the opening credits, there are actually eight people on the boat!

So, who are these mysterious extras? Turns out, they’re stand-ins, used just to get those wide shots from a distance. The real actors weren’t actually on the boat for these particular scenes, and those extras helped make the magic happen, according to some reports.

This sneaky blooper has been missed by many fans, but now you’re in on the secret!

The friendly physician

How many of you remember the episode The Friendly Physician from season two of Gilligan’s Island?

In this quirky storyline, the castaways are lured to another island by a mad scientist, played by Vito Scotty, who portrays the eccentric Dr. Boris Balancoff. Promising to rescue the stranded group, he secretly plans bizarre experiments, including one where he swaps Gilligan’s brain with Mrs. Howell’s!

The Friendly Physician is the only episode where the castaways actually leave the island — and the only one where they switch bodies.

But here’s a little blooper from the episode you may have missed. During the scene when the castaways are sailing away from the scientist’s eerie castle, take a closer look at the background. You’ll spot buildings from the CBS studio lot!

The lagoon set was carefully designed to hide any traces of the surrounding studios, warehouses, and equipment, with plenty of plants and trees placed to create an isolated island feel. However, in this particular shot, the camera was positioned just wrong enough to expose a peek behind the Hollywood magic, showing parts of the studio lot that weren’t meant to be seen.

It’s a fun reminder that even on a “deserted” island, showbiz can sneak into the picture.

The Kennedy assassination

A rather dark bit of trivia given how silly the show was, but filming the original pilot of Gilligan’s Island, titled “Marooned,” coincided with the assassination of John F. Kennedy in November 1963.

The cast and crew got news of the assassination while wrapping up filming in Honolulu Harbor. The tragedy also delayed filming, as U.S. naval and military bases closed for a period of mourning.

The flag in the opening credits of Gilligan’s Island is at half-mast because of the Kennedy assassination. pic.twitter.com/JDxowvdsUt

— DrPopCulture (@DrPopCultureUSA) April 16, 2023

If you look closely at the season 1 intro sequence, you can see US flags in the background at half-mast: they were lowered in honor of the slain president.

Alan Hale rushed to his audition on horseback

It’s hard to imagine anyone else but the great Alan Hale Jr. playing The Skipper — and the actor truly went the extra mile when it came to auditioning.

Hale was in Utah filming the western Bullet for a Bad Man when he received the casting call for Gilligan. According to the book Surviving Gilligan’s Island, Hale snuck off set on horseback. He then hitchhiked his way to Las Vegas, got on a flight to Los Angeles, and made his audition.

Thankfully, the extra effort paid off and Hale landed the role, beating out some tough competition: future All in the Family star Carroll O’Connor also auditioned.

Natalie Schafer opens her eyes

In one memorable Gilligan’s Island episode, Gilligan becomes a butterfly collector when an expert visits the island, more interested in butterflies than rescuing the stranded seven. Naturally, the castaways hatch a plan to trick the expert into helping them get back home.

They even try to get him to drink alcohol, hoping it will work in their favor. But things take a hilarious turn when they all get so drunk on fermented berry juice that they pass out.

Now, here’s where the bloopers comes in: The Professor, who famously claimed to be allergic to alcohol in the episode ”Nyet, Nyet, Not Yet,” drinks the fermented juice along with the others.

And if you look closely during this scene, you’ll catch another little goof — Mrs. Howell, played by the charming Natalie Schafer, briefly opens her eyes while pretending to be passed out. It’s a small slip, but a fun one to spot!

Woodpeckers on oceanic islands

In the very first episode of Gilligan’s Island, Gilligan and the Skipper build a raft and set out to sea in hopes of finding help. But did you know this scene was actually filmed in a movie tank—essentially a giant swimming pool?

If you pay close attention during the shark attack scene, you can spot the rim of the tank peeking into some shots. And when Gilligan gets his oar bitten by the shark, and the Skipper tells him to keep paddling, you might notice the shadow of the boom mic on the raft in the lower left corner of the screen.

Alan Hale Jr sitting on a rock while holding up a fish in a publicity portrait for the television series ‘Gilligan’s Island’, in which Hale Jr played ‘The Skipper’, USA, circa 1967. (Photo by Silver Screen Collection/Getty Images)

But that’s not all! This episode is packed with little quirks. For example, when Gilligan disguises himself inside a tree trunk, a woodpecker starts pecking at his head. Fun detail, right? Except, woodpeckers don’t actually live on oceanic islands.

The original theme song left out The Professor and Mary Ann

It’s safe to say that the castaways wouldn’t have lasted long without The Professor (Russell Johnson) and Mary Ann (Dawn Wells), who were often the brains and voices of reason on the show.

But when the show first premiered, the two were uncredited in the opening and left out of the theme song, referred to simply as “the rest.”

However, thanks to their growing popularity with fans, and at the behest of series star Bob Denver, “the Professor and Mary Ann” were added to the opening starting in season 2.

The boat was named after an FCC chairman

Fans remember that their wrecked tour boat was called the S.S. Minnow, but it wasn’t named after the fish — it was reportedly named after FCC chairman Newton Minow.

Minow is most famous for describing American television as a “vast wasteland” due to what he saw as poor quality programming. Series creator Sherwood Schwartz decided to name the shipwreck after him as a tongue-in-cheek dig.

So Sorry, My Island

In the memorable episode So Sorry, My Island, we see the first appearance of Vito Scotty as a World War II Japanese sailor — only he doesn’t know the war has long been over. Arriving in a one-man submarine, he comes ashore and takes the castaways captive.

Naturally, Gilligan and the Skipper hatch a plan to steal the submarine, but there’s a little snag: the Skipper can’t fit inside. So, Gilligan takes over, zooming around the lagoon in what we’re supposed to believe is a submarine.

But here’s the funny part: there’s no real submarine. First, if you look closely, you can actually spot someone’s flippers popping out of the water. Then, when the periscope is supposedly being piloted by Gilligan, it’s actually attached to a diver swimming below. You can’t see the diver, but for a split second, you can see their air tank rising above the water.

And one more fun fact — Japan never developed one-man submarines during World War II.

The truth behind Mary Ann and Ginger

When Gilligan’s Island graced our screens in the 1960s, it wasn’t just the comedy and misadventures of castaways that captured audiences — it was the magnetic charm of its leading ladies, Ginger Grant and Mary Ann Summers. Tina Louise portrayed the glamorous movie star Ginger, embodying the quintessential “stone cold fox,” while Dawn Wells brought to life the innocent, wholesome allure of Mary Ann, the girl next door from Kansas. Were you Team Ginger or Team Mary Ann?

Ginger, with her sultry confidence and stunning looks, was undeniably the show’s sex symbol. Tina Louise’s portrayal of Ginger offered viewers a taste of Hollywood allure, making her the fantasy of many young men and the envy of women. Yet, beneath that glitzy exterior lay a character with depth and ambition, capturing the imagination of an audience captivated by her charisma.

An Air Force robot is Bob Denver’s rival for the attentions of Dawn Wells and Tina Louise on “Gilligan’s Island” (Getty Images)

On the other hand, Mary Ann was the embodiment of charm and sincerity. Her wholesome demeanor, coupled with her classic prairie dresses, made her the epitome of the all-American girl.

“Don’t get me wrong — Tina was so beautiful and sexy and I learned so much from her,” Wells explained. “But Mary Ann was wholesome, approachable and attainable. She’s the girl you’d have a crush on and want to bring home to Mom.”

The iconic images from the set of Gilligan’s Island tell the story of a friendship that transcended their on-screen rivalry.

Tina and Dawn’s chemistry off-camera was palpable, reflecting the mutual respect and admiration they had for each other. They shared laughs, offered support, and celebrated their differences, embodying the spirit of camaraderie that the show ultimately represented.

In a striking screenshot below, you can see them side by side, a perfect juxtaposition of their characters: Ginger, with her dramatic flair, while Mary Ann stands sweetly beside her, embodying innocence and warmth.

This dynamic duo captured the hearts of a generation!

Bob Denver’s wedding ring

In the episode They’re Off and Running, Gilligan becomes the Howells’ house-boy after the Skipper loses a bet in a turtle (well, technically tortoise) race to Mr. Howell.

But here’s a little blooper you might not have noticed — Bob Denver’s wedding ring is clearly visible, even though Gilligan wasn’t married. Interestingly, Denver himself was married four times, but his character stayed single on the island.

Romance on Gilligan’s Island?

Gilligan’s Island became an instant smash-hit when it aired in 1964.

Dawn Wells was the biggest star on the show, an instant fan favorite – she put a lot of truth and feeling into her role as Mary Ann. Some people might think that there were off-screen romantic relations between her and some actors on Gilligan’s Island. In 2016, Dawn shared the details.

“Gilligan you don’t think of as a romantic partner. Alan [Hale, the Skipper] was more like a father,” she explained. “But the professor had everything: good looks, a sense of humor, was very intelligent. Bob [Denver] and I were really close friends. So was Alan [Hale]. He could pick up Tina [Louise] in one arm, me in the other at the same time, he was so strong. Ms. Howell and I also became really good friends.”

Only one cast member is still alive

Of the seven stranded castaways, only one is still alive to tell the tale: 90-year-old Tina Louise, who played Ginger.

Jim Backus died in 1989, Alan Hale Jr. died in 1990, Natalie Schafer died in 1991, Bob Denver died in 2005, Russell Johnson died in 2014, and most recently Dawn Wells passed away in 2020.

From left to right, sex-kitten Ginger (Tina Louise), girl-next-door Mary Ann (Dawn Wells), and millionairess Mrs. Howell (Natalie Schaefer) in a scene from the 1960s television comedy Gilligan’s Island. 1964-1967

Louise has long held complicated feelings about the sitcom that made her famous: she struggled with being typecast and said Gilligan kept her from landing serious movie roles. However, she continues to receive fan mail and appreciates what the show has meant to people over the decades.

I hope you’ve enjoyed these behind-the-scenes facts and hidden bloopers from this legendary series! Gilligan’s Island is full of delightful surprises that remind us why we fell in love with the castaways all those years ago.

If you found these tidbits as entertaining as I do, I would love if you could share this article on Facebook. Let’s spread the nostalgia and laughter so more fans can join in on the fun and reminisce about the unforgettable moments from the island!

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Woman dyes her Great Pyreneese dog bright red so he won’t get stolen

Many dog owners worry about their beloved pets getting stolen. Certain rare and expensive dog breeds can be a serious target for dognapping.

But one woman’s strategy for keeping her dog safe from thieves has generated a lot of buzz and controversy online, with some praising the idea and others questioning the owner’s motives.

Chloe is the owner of a 2-year-old Great Pyreneese dog named Dandy, who has a very unique appearance: he has bright red fur, thanks to pet dye applied by his owner:

@danthebigreddog Damn, Dandy. You’re red!❤️ #clifford #cliffordthebigreddog #bigred #dogsofttiktok #dogmom #dandelion #nostalgia #childrensbooks #funnydog #pawsome ♬ Tasty Carrots by Shou – goalsounds

Her decision to dye Dandy red immediately generated mixed responses on TikTok. Many comments read “poor dog,” wondering if the coloring is healthy, while others have been won over by the dog’s unique looks, comparing him to the character Clifford the Big Red Dog.

Chloe has assured followers that she only uses vegan, pet-safe dye (reportedly Opawz products), and in follow-up videos explained her reasonings for the dog’s dramatic makeover.

@danthebigreddog Reply to @cschubach979 this is for you and anyone else asking why? Because we can! That’s why. 🙂 #cliffordthebigreddog #LevisMusicProject #fyp #cute ♬ Island In The Sun – Weezer

She said part of the reason was to “keep him from getting stolen,” as the Great Pyreneese pup is a “rare breed in [her] area.”

Chloe also wrote that Dan seems to enjoy his new shade, as he “loves people and kids” and the red dye apparently makes the dog “more approachable.”

She also said she wanted to “educate others on safe pet dye practices,” and in other videos instructs followers how to dye their own dogs.

Dandy’s TikTok videos — which have amassed 10 million likes and over 318,000 followers on TikTok — have continued to generate debate.

Detractors have questioned Chloe’s intentions, pointing out that the dye would be unlikely to detract would-be dognappers and was just to get attention online.

But supporters have pointed out that Dandy seems to be a happy and well-cared for dog, doesn’t understand what color he is, and that the owner has a right to dye her dog for whatever reason as long as it’s safe and humane.

Dandy’s TikTok, despite its popularity, has been inactive since February. On his Instagram, the most recent post is from July — and it shows Dandy back to his natural fur color, with the dye faded:

Chloe wrote that he “needs a touch up,” and said that he would be “red soon,” and it’s unclear what color Dandy is currently.

But a notable number of the comments urged her not to re-dye the dog, preferring Dandy in his “true colors.”

What do you think of this decision to dye Dandy bright red? Is it a fun way to keep the dog safe from kidnappers, or unnecessary and poor treatment?

Please share this story, and be sure to comment with your thoughts.

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Donald Trump’s ‘unfireable’ aide earns new, cruel nickname

Have you ever heard of Natalie Harp?

She may not be the most well-known figure in Donald Trump’s inner circle, but her influence is undeniable.

In fact, she’s considered so indispensable that she’s been dubbed “unfireable”.

Who is Natalie Harp?

According to some, there are several successful strategies for getting close to Donald Trump and landing a job with him, writes The Guardian. One of them? Be young, blonde, and so obsessed with the president that even the Secret Service finds it a little weird.

That strategy certainly seems to have paid off for Natalie Harp, a former far-right cable host who is now an official aide to Trump.

So, who exactly is Natalie Harp, the woman who appears to be getting closer and closer to the POTUS?

What we do know is that she was born in 1991, which means she is 33-34 years old. Harp comes from a conservative Christian family in California.

Her father is an estate agent who founded a marketing and branding consultancy for travel companies and was the head of an ”office of innovation” at a private Christian university.

From 2009 to 2012, Natalie studied at Point Loma Nazarene University, a Christian liberal arts college in San Diego. In 2015, she graduated with an MBA from Liberty University, an evangelical college in Virginia.

With Trump on his daily golf outings

In 2019 Harp, a bone cancer survivor, stated in an interview with Fox News that Trump’s ”Right to Try” law had saved her from dying from the disease.

She later joined his presidential campaign and spoke at the Republican National Convention, comparing Trump to George Bailey from It’s a Wonderful Life, saying, “Without you, I’d have died waiting for [experimental drugs] to be approved.”

Her claims were questioned by experts, including former FDA official Peter Lurie and health sciences professor Jeremy Snyder, who noted that she had received an FDA-approved immunotherapy drug for an unapproved use — something that was already allowed before Right to Try.

After the election, Harp became an anchor for One America News Network, a far-right, pro-Trump cable channel known for spreading conspiracy theories. She repeatedly promoted Trump’s false claim that the election had been stolen.

In 2022, she left the network to join his communications team. The Washington Post reported that she often accompanied Trump on his daily golf outings, riding in a golf cart equipped with a laptop and printer to show him favorable news articles and online posts.

Harp later joined Trump’s 2024 campaign. The Bulwark reported that she was responsible for posting a controversial video referencing a “unified Reich” on his Truth Social account, which was deleted hours later. She also posted messages on his behalf and sent heated texts in his name to a major campaign donor, complaining about those running her super PAC. At the time, the group was spending millions on Trump’s campaign ads across key states.

Natalie Harp nickname

Natalie Harp has earned the nickname “Human Printer” due to her role in printing out news clips for the president, often following Trump around with a portable printer and battery pack — even sometimes running after him on the golf course — to hand him hard copies of flattering coverage.

According to The Times, which interviewed several anonymous sources, Harp’s primary role was to deliver unchallenged, highly favorable news about Trump, much of which comes from Gateway Pundit, a far-right site known for spreading conspiracy theories and false information.

In his upcoming book, Revenge: The Inside Story of Trump’s Return to Power, Axios reporter Alex Isenstadt details how Harp managed to insert herself into Trump’s inner circle. At times, she crossed boundaries she shouldn’t have, as revealed in excerpts shared by Daily Mail.

“Harp didn’t do well with boundaries,” Isenstadt wrote.

“There was the time when a surprised Melania Trump stumbled upon Harp late at night in Trump’s private quarters at Mar-a-Lago, an area that was typically off-limits to those outside Trump’s family.”

“Harp was there to deliver Trump some documents and didn’t want to wait until the morning to give them to him,” Isenstadt explained.

And in excerpts from Michael Wolff’s new book on Trump, the ”Natalie situation” once escalated to the point where Secret Service agents considered her ”a potential danger to herself as well as to the president.”

In another eyebrow-raising display, Isenstadt wrote that Harp wandered into Trump’s unoccupied bedroom when on board “Trump Force One” when the plane was being used as a decoy.

New nickname

One can have different opinions about calling Natalie a ”walking printer” – some think it’s a bit harsh, while others see it as an innocent remark relating to her dedication.

However, it seems that Natalie has now earned a new, somewhat harsher label: Harp’s devotion during the campaign led to her being called ”Fatal Attraction,” with rivals comparing her to Glenn Close’s psychotic character, Alex Forrest.

”Before long, Trump advisers jokingly began to compare Harp to Alex Forrest, the character played by Glenn Close in the 1987 movie Fatal Attraction,” Isenstadt writes in his book.

”Forrest had become obsessed with a married man and, in the film’s most memorable scene, broke into his house and boiled the family’s pet rabbit,” he added.

While sources characterized Harp as the campaign’s biggest ”migraine,” her behavior didn’t spook Trump, who brought her from Florida to the White House.

”Harp was his Girl Friday,” Isenstadt wrote.

”If Trump wanted to publish a flame-throwing post on Truth Social? Natalie was there to send it through. If he wanted to read a fawning but factually dicey story in a Trump-aligned media outlet? Natalie was there to print it out. If Trump wanted to send some random news article to a Republican member of Congress? Natalie was there to text it to them,” the author continued.

”As much as those in the senior ranks wanted Natalie gone, they knew she was unfireable,” he said.

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Why you should be eating chicken gizzards

Chicken gizzards might just be the best-kept secret in the food world.

They’re packed with nutrients, insanely affordable, and ridiculously delicious when prepared right. Yet, so many people ignore them just because they fall under the category of “offal”—a term that unfairly makes them sound unappetizing.

If you’ve never given chicken gizzards a shot, you’re missing out on a powerhouse of protein, vitamins, and minerals that can fuel your body without draining your wallet. Let’s dive into why these underrated gems deserve a permanent spot on your plate.

What Even Is a Chicken Gizzard?

Think of the gizzard as the bird’s natural food processor. Birds don’t have teeth, so instead of chewing, their food moves through the crop (a storage pouch) and then into the gizzard, which acts as a super-strong grinder. Thanks to its thick, muscular walls, it pulverizes seeds and grains, making digestion possible.

The result? A lean, flavorful cut of meat with a dense, chewy texture that becomes incredibly tender when cooked the right way.

Why You Should Eat Chicken Gizzards

1. They’re a Protein Powerhouse

Gizzards are loaded with protein—around 20 grams per 3-ounce serving. Whether you’re a gym rat, an athlete, or just trying to build muscle, they’re a fantastic (and cheap!) protein source.

2. Low in Fat, High in Gains

Unlike some other meats, chicken gizzards are super lean, containing less than 3 grams of fat per serving. This makes them a great choice for anyone watching their calorie intake or aiming for a heart-healthy diet.

3. Packed With Essential Vitamins

Vitamin B12: Essential for nerve function, red blood cell production, and energy levels.
Niacin: Boosts metabolism, improves skin health, and supports heart health.
Choline: Crucial for brain health, liver function, and fetal development during pregnancy.

4. Rich in Iron and Minerals

Iron helps prevent anemia and keeps your energy levels up, while selenium and zinc support your immune system and promote healing. If you’re prone to iron deficiency, gizzards can be a game-changer. Gizzards are also a good source of vitamin C, riboflavin, magnesium, copper and manganese.

5. They’re Crazy Cheap

In a world where meat prices are skyrocketing, chicken gizzards remain one of the most budget-friendly protein sources out there. You can often grab a pound for just a few bucks—making them perfect for families, meal preppers, or anyone looking to save money without sacrificing nutrition.

How to Cook Chicken Gizzards (Without Screwing Them Up)

If you’ve never cooked gizzards before, don’t worry. They’re incredibly versatile, and with the right technique, they turn out chef’s kiss delicious.

1. Boil & Stew for Ultimate Tenderness

Gizzards can be tough, but a slow simmer makes them melt-in-your-mouth tender. Boil them for 30-45 minutes with salt, garlic, and spices, then toss them into soups or stews.

2. Deep-Fry for Crispy Goodness

Want something crunchy? Coat gizzards in seasoned flour, fry until golden brown, and dip them in your favorite sauce. They’re basically the ultimate bar snack.

3. Sauté or Stir-Fry for Quick & Easy Flavor

Slice boiled gizzards and toss them in a hot pan with onions, bell peppers, and spices. The result? A high-protein stir-fry that pairs perfectly with rice or noodles.

4. Grill for Smoky Perfection

Marinate gizzards in soy sauce, garlic, and vinegar, then grill them to smoky, charred perfection. Serve with grilled veggies or a dipping sauce.

5. Slow-Cook for Fall-Apart Tenderness

Throw gizzards in a slow cooker with broth, herbs, and veggies, and let them do their thing for a few hours. The longer they cook, the softer they get.

Must-Try Gizzard Recipes

Gizzard Adobo: A Filipino favorite—simmered in soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic for a tangy, savory dish.
Spicy Stir-Fried Gizzards: Tossed in chili sauce with veggies for a kick of heat.
Gizzard Soup: A hearty, comforting broth loaded with tender gizzards and root vegetables.
Gizzard Tacos: Crispy, spicy gizzards stuffed in warm tortillas with salsa and lime.
Gizzard Salad: A protein-packed salad with greens, tomatoes, and a zesty dressing.

The Only Drawback? The Texture (But You Can Fix That!)

Not gonna lie—if you’re new to gizzards, the chewy texture might take some getting used to. But if you cook them properly (boil first, then crisp up or stew), they become tender and juicy.

Also, like with anything, moderation is key. Gizzards contain cholesterol, so if you’re on a strict low-cholesterol diet, you might want to enjoy them in moderation.

Are There Any Risks?

Few studies have been conducted on gizzards in particular. As Medical News Today notes, some organ meats are high in saturated fat. If your cholesterol levels are above normal, enjoy these foods in moderation. Gizzards, though, have ‌less than one gram of saturated fat per serving‌, so they’re unlikely to affect blood cholesterol levels or cardiovascular health.

Researchers also point out that ‌organ meats contain purines‌ and should be avoided by people with gout. These organic compounds raise uric acid levels and may trigger gout attacks.

If you think you’re eating too much chicken, including gizzards, consider switching to ‌organic brands.‌ Farmers often use antibiotics to prevent disease in chickens. A diet rich in poultry may promote the development of drug-resistant bacteria, which claim more than 23,000 lives in the United States each year, according to The Guardian. The only way to mitigate these risks is to go organic.

Bottom Line: Give Gizzards a Chance!

If you’re looking for a high-protein, nutrient-dense, and super affordable meat option, organic chicken gizzards are the way to go. They’re easy to cook, incredibly versatile, and way too underrated.

Next time you’re at the grocery store, pick up a pack and try one of these cooking methods. You might just discover your new favorite budget-friendly protein!

Would you try chicken gizzards? Let us know in the comments!