The Smothers Brothers Show (September 17, 1965) 

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There were TWO versions of the pilot episode. The first was an unaired version written by Allan Burns and Chris Hayward, and featured Marilyn Scott in a more prominent role as "Diane Costello". However, most of the episode was refilmed before the series' premiere, with a new script by Alex Gottlieb; only the beginning and end were retained in the final version [the new footage starts at the 9:13 mark].

And they really did have a younger sister - Sherry. She died a few months before Tommy.

​Our Sympathy to Tommy and his family

Even CBS wasn't impressed with the series. Before the premiere, they wanted to scrap it in favor of a half-hour comedy/variety program. But Alberto-Culver [VO5 and other hair care products], the series' primary sponsor, insisted, "THIS is the show we bought", and refused to change formats {their alternate sponsor, American Tobacco [Tareyton], sided with them}. Several affiliates sided with the network, and declined to schedule the show [Fridays, 9:30pm(et), right after "GOMER PYLE- U.S.M.C."]. As a result, while the first few episodes scored impressive ratings, viewers soon bailed out, and the series limped through an entire season until Alberto-Culver and American Tobacco's contracts had ended. Tom fought for better scripts; in a February 1966 TV GUIDE article, he recalled disagreeing with their original producer, Phil Sharp [who left after five episodes, replaced by Fred DeCordova], over his approach to comedy writing {"With Phil, it's 'A + B + C + D = joke'"}. Although Tom won most of his battles, he also gained an ulcer- and his marriage unraveled. After the series ended, he vowed never to appear in another sitcom, insisting the next show he and Dick appeared in feature a comedy/variety format. CBS gave them the chance with "THE SMOTHERS BROTHERS COMEDY HOUR" in February 1967.

@@fromthesidelines And as the saying goes...The rest is history.

I was just seven when this aired. I loved the show! It was my introduction to the Smothers Brothers. It may not have been the best writing, but I thought their personalities shined through. Would have liked to have seen them do some more singing, like the Dick VanDyke Show. But it’s one of my early television good memories. Thank you for posting.

@@melodysledgister2468 Very well said!! Me too. I actually thought the show was good!! 😂Seeing this episode now, I see that it wasn't real good after all, but regardless, I LOVED IT -- and I imagine it's just because of what you said. BTW I didn't even know at the time about their music.