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The Sitcom Studies Podcast

The ultimate TV sitcom analysis podcast with Marlessa Stivala and Katie DeFonzo

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  1. 73

    THE BIG BANG THEORY Deep Dive 4: The Guitarist Amplification & The Adhesive Duck Deficiency

    Some serious (and surprisingly deep) relationship discussions this week! Marlessa and Katie are both on Leonard’s side as we spend time on the question of whether it can ever be healthy to maintain close relationships with exes, and we see Shenny at their most hilarious when Sheldon has to take Penny to the hospital. And it’s almost like we’re forgetting something else important…of course! We get to see Leonard, Howard and Raj go through the stages of being high…  History Highlights: https://science.nasa.gov/solar-system/meteors-meteorites/leonids/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leonids

  2. 72

    THE BIG BANG THEORY Deep Dive 3: The Creepy Candy Coating Corollary & The Cornhusker Vortex

    We again have Marlessa’s partner Jes joining us, and this time we have an episode that is absolutely pivotal for the series: Bernadette (and Wil Wheaton!) have entered the chat! We discuss Bernadette’s hilarious first conversation with Howard; Sheldon’s vendetta against Wil; and Penny’s role as a matchmaker. Plus, Leonard’s efforts to fit in with Penny’s football-loving friends lead to a deeper discussion about the importance of taking an interest in your significant other’s passions. Who knows - we might even have some couple’s trivia planned… History Highlights: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antonie_van_Leeuwenhoek

  3. 71

    THE BIG BANG THEORY Deep Dive 2: The Gothowitz Deviation & The Pirate Solution

    The dynamic has definitely shifted this week. With Penny and Leonard now a couple, Howard struggles to accept that they often prefer to spend time alone rather than with the group, and Sheldon believes he has the perfect opportunity to “train” Penny to be the ideal apartment guest. We also discuss how these storylines sometimes rely on unfortunate stereotypes, particularly with Raj in danger of being deported - and going to a goth bar? History Highlights: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operant_conditioning

  4. 70

    THE BIG BANG THEORY Deep Dive 1: The Electric Can Opener Fluctuation & The Jiminy Conjecture

    We kick off our Big Bang Theory Journey with two episodes that make us really feel for Sheldon: not only do his best friends sabotage the work they did during a three-month long trip to the Arctic, but he also has to give up a classic comic book after losing a bet to Howard! We also discuss the changing dynamic between Leonard and Penny as they first begin a romantic relationship. Let us know whether you're Team Lenny during these early days! History Highlights: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arctic_exploration  

  5. 69

    THE BIG BANG THEORY: Season 5 Introduction

    We're unraveling some mysteries as we begin our fifth season and Katie's next pick: Season 3 of The Big Bang Theory! We discuss why Katie picked this particular season, and Marlessa explains how she's felt about this show as a lifelong comic book fan. Which classic characters and guest stars will we get to meet this season? As usual, deep dives begin next week. Thank you for being along for this journey with us!

  6. 68

    THE SIMPSONS Wrap Up

    We are saying goodbye to our beloved Simpsons family today, but not before we wrap this season up with some final discussions. Which episode did we each think was funniest? The most interesting to analyze? These and other categories will be explored, and we'll of course discuss these characters' enneagram types.  We've had the best time laughing this season and learning from all of these Springfield residents, and we hope you have, too. And even though we're starting season 5 next week, we'll take that last exit to Springfield any old time. 

  7. 67

    THE SIMPSONS Deep Dive 21: A Final Homage to Homer

    Who has a final deep dive for you? We do! We do!  We're coming full circle by covering two more fantastic Homer-centric episodes: “Homer The Great” (Season 6, Episode 12) and "The Itchy & Scratchy & Poochie Show" (Season 8, Episode 14). Homer is discovered to be the "Chosen One" of the secret Stonecutters organization and also lands the part of a new character on Itchy & Scratchy. In both cases, finding the deep acceptance that has always felt so allusive seems to be what matters most to him. You might need to look no further than your own family, Mr. Homer Jay Simpson.  Tune in next week for our Simpsons wrap-up and then - on to Season 5! History Highlights: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Signing_of_the_United_States_Declaration_of_Independence https://www.historynewsnetwork.org/article/who-are-the-masons    

  8. 66

    THE SIMPSONS Deep Dive 20: Where Everybody Knows Moe's Name

    This week it's all about Springfield's resident bartender, Moe Szyslak! We see him at his best and worst in "Flaming Moe's" (Season 3, Episode 10) and "Moe Baby Blues" (Season 14, Episode 22). From stealing Homer's signature drink to forming a heartwarming bond with Maggie, we find that there's a lot more complexity to this character than there might seem on the surface. Also, Aerosmith makes an appearance?! Historical Highlights: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Godfather_(novel) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Godfather

  9. 65

    THE SIMPSONS Deep Dive 19: Treehouse of Horrors

    We're celebrating Christmas - ahem, Halloween - in July this week by covering two of the Simpsons Treehouse of Horror Halloween classics, "Treehouse of Horror V" (Season 6, Episode 6) and "Treehouse of Horror VII" (season 8, episode 1). We see Simpsons parody at its best; discuss how the Shinning reflects the classic movie The Shining more than the book; and meet aliens Kang and Kodos as they cause havoc, including with the 1996 presidential election.  Historical Highlights: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1996_United_States_presidential_election https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ninety-five_Theses

  10. 64

    THE SIMPSONS Deep Dive 18: Everything’s Coming Up Millhouse!

    This week, we cover two Millhouse-centric episodes in order to get to know Bart's best friend a bit better - except, do we really? "Bart Sells His Soul" (Season 7, Episode 4) is a further exploration of Bart and Lisa's sweet sibling dynamic, and “A Millhouse Divided” (season 8, episode 6) is another celebration of Homer and Marge's relationship. We had the best time discussing how a side character like Millhouse can teach us so much more about our beloved Simpsons characters. And of course we can't forget Moe trying to make his bar a "family friendly" restaurant... We also want to acknowledge the passing of sitcom legend and director of many classic pilots, James "Jimmy" Burrows. Read Marlessa's lovely tribute to some of his best episodes here: https://thefordhamram.com/culture/the-one-with-the-maestro-of-sitcoms/ Historical Highlights:  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lincoln%27s_House_Divided_Speech https://www.battlefields.org/learn/primary-sources/house-divided  

  11. 63

    THE SIMPSONS MOVIE, with SPECIAL Guest Mandy Jimenez

    We have a very special guest with us this week as we tackle our first movie! Dear friend and film enthusiast Mandy Jimenez joins us to discuss the one and only Simpsons Movie (2007). What to do when Springfield has been placed in environmental quarantine, under a dome? We touch on favorite cameos and jokes; reflect on the deeply troubled relationship between Homer and Bart; and gush (just slightly) over Lisa's little romance - we miss you already, Collin! Ultimately, though, we think the movie can be summed up with our new favorite motto: Marge. In. Charge. Thank you so much for being part of this conversation, Mandy! 

  12. 62

    THE SIMPSONS Deep Dive 17: Simpsons' Social Issues Spotlight

    We've got two heavy hitters this week that leave us with a lot to think about but also laughing as always: "Last Exit to Springfield" (Season 4, Episode 17) and “Lisa vs. Malibu Stacy” (season 5 , episode 14). A sexist doll leads a passionate Lisa to try to create her own preferable version. Homer temporarily becomes head of his union. And of course Lisa needs braces...Lisa needs braces...Lisa needs... Historical Highlights: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gertrude_Stein

  13. 61

    THE SIMPSONS Deep Dive 16: Simpsons’ Crises of Faith

    Have you every questioned your faith? That's exactly what the Simpsons are doing this week, with Homer deciding to stop going to church in “Homer the Heretic” (season 4, episode 3) and Lisa converting to Buddhism in “She Of Little Faith” (Season 13, Episode 6). We discuss some classic gifs that have come from these episodes; Marge's concern for her husband and daughter as they each embark on personal faith journeys; and the importance of finding value in what different faiths have to offer. Also, hello, Richard Gere!  Historical Highlights: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Buddha

  14. 60

    THE SIMPSONS Deep Dive 15: Visions of the Future

    We're taking a look into the future this week - Lisa and Bart's futures, to be specific - with “Lisa’s Wedding” (season 6, episode 19) and “Barthood” (season 27, episode 9). We talk all things sibling dynamics; the important commentary Lisa's story makes on classism; and...a talkative teenage Maggie? Historical Highlights: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/the-surprisingly-radical-roots-of-the-renaissance-fair-180982918/

  15. 59

    The Simpsons Deep Dive 14: Heartbreak and Healing

    Get your tissues and maybe a glass of wine ready: we're discussing two episodes all about heartbreak and healing this week, “I Love Lisa” (season 4, episode 15) and  “Alone Again, Natura-diddly" (season 11, episode 14). We see Lisa learn how to respond when she does not reciprocate a crush, and we see Springfield try to help Ned Flanders when Maude passes away unexpectedly. We love that The Simpsons still sprinkles these episodes with some more lighthearted and funny moments. And Bart, don't make rejecting Ralph harder for your sister than it needs to be!  Historical Highlights: Facts About Martha Washington

  16. 58

    The Simpsons Deep Dive 13: Characters Seen Once, But Never Forgotten with SPECIAL GUEST Dave Lee

    We are thrilled to be joined this week by animation and pop culture enthusiast and Rotten Tomatoes film critic Dave Lee, known on YouTube as Dave Lee Down Under! He joins us to share his love for The Simpsons (and other classic 90s sitcoms) as we discuss two fantastic episodes featuring one-time characters who have left a definitive mark on this series: “You Only Move Twice” (season 8, episode 2) and “Homer’s Enemy” (season 8, episode 23). Hank Scorpio and Frank Grimes cause quite a bit of upheaval for the Simpsons clan, but as always, Homer somehow manages to come out on the other side. Dave, thank you so much for your time and for sharing your love of sitcoms with us.  Check out Dave's YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@DaveLeeDownUnder Historical Highlights:  https://www.npr.org/2010/09/30/130192940/nixons-failed-attempts-at-poisoning-the-press https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2010/12/23/132287697/nixon-era-probe-of-dan-schorr-uncovered-a-great-reporter-fbi-files-show  

  17. 57

    The Simpsons Deep Dive 12: Homer and Marge Forever

    This week it's all about the couple of the hour, Homer and Marge! In the two flashback episodes “The Way We Was” (season 2, episode 12) and “I Married Marge” (Season 3, Episode 12), we learn about how these two first met and what happened when Marge first learned she was pregnant with Bart. We simply can't get enough of these two! History Highlights: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3987368/  

  18. 56

    THE SIMPSONS Deep Dive 11: We’re Not Crying, You’re Crying!

    Get your tissues ready for this week's episodes: “Lisa’s Substitute” (season 2, episode 19) and "Mother Simpson" (season 7, episode 8). We discuss these two very important episodes for Lisa and Homer and the insight they offer into issues of mentorship and abandonment during childhood. Not to mention, each episode has a truly ICONIC guest star.  Historical Highlights: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Texas#Texas_Revolution https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walt_Whitman#Life_and_work  

  19. 55

    THE SIMPSONS Deep Dive 10: Simpsons Sibling Shenanigans

    We're talking all things Simpsons siblings this week, in particular “Separate Vocations” (season 3, episode 18) and “Lisa's First Word" (Season 4, Episode 10). We get quite a bit of backstory here and even a glimpse into what the future might look like for our favorite brother and sister. Oh, and we finally hear from Maggie... History Highlights: https://www.nea.org/professional-excellence/student-engagement/tools-tips/history-standardized-testing-united-states https://daily.jstor.org/short-history-standardized-tests/  

  20. 54

    THE SIMPSONS Deep Dive 9: The Eeeeeexcellent Mr. Burns

    We've got a two-parter AND a whodunit this week, as the town of Springfield tries to discover who's guilty in "Who Shot Mr. Burns?” - Parts 1 & 2 (season 6, episode 25 and season 7, episode 1). And when it's a villain like Mr. Burns, everyone has motive and everyone...and we do mean EVERYONE...is a suspect... Oh, and would Mr. Burns get along with Yzma? Snuff Out the Light Song  History Highlights: https://countway.harvard.edu/news/origins-polygraph https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polygraph#  

  21. 53

    THE SIMPSONS Deep Dive 8: Hi-Diddly-Ho, Neighborino Flanders

    Every sitcom needs "that" neighbor - this week we're covering a character who has a special place in Marlessa's heart, Ned Flanders, focusing on the episodes "Homer Loves Flanders" (Season 5, Episode 16) and “Hurricane Neddy” (season 8, episode 8)! We discuss how spending more time with Ned affects Homer's relationship with his family, as well as the age-old philosophical question of why bad things happen to good people. And no, that's definitely not us getting a little choked up hearing Homer speak so fondly of someone he often wants nothing to do with... Historical Highlights: https://www2.archivists.org/initiatives/mayday-saving-our-archives/annotated-resources https://www.nedcc.org/free-resources/preserving-private-and-family-collections/caring-for-private-and-family-collections https://www.archives.gov/preservation/family-archives https://www.nedcc.org/free-resources/preservation-leaflets/overview https://cthumanities.org/prepare-your-cultural-organization-for-hurricane-season-resources-for-the-public-and-historic-property-owners/

  22. 52

    THE SIMPSONS Deep Dive 7: Ahhhh! Sideshow Bob! with SPECIAL GUEST, Emmy-winning TV editor Mike Stivala

    This week we are welcoming back Marlessa's Dad to discuss two brilliantly written episodes featuring one of the most notorious Simpsons villains, Sideshow Bob: “Cape Feare” (season 5, episode 2) and “Brother From Another Series” (Season 8, Episode 16). All we can say is, welcome back Kelsey Grammer and David Hyde Pierce - you have been so missed!  History Highlights: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/H.M.S._Pinafore

  23. 51

    THE SIMPSONS Deep Dive 6: The Simpsons Are Going To …

    Whether you're looking for some deeper social commentary or just feel like poking a little fun at New York (the City and Upstate), we're covering an excellent pair of "travel" episodes: “The City of New York vs. Homer Simpson” (season 9, episode 1) and “D'oh Canada!” (season 30, episode 21). Lisa makes her home in Canada for a short time; Marge chooses to window-shop rather than buy expensive souvenirs; and, to Marlessa's delight, Homer changes the lyrics to a certain classic song...  History Highlights:  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_Park https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benedict_Arnold https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IBM_Watson  

  24. 50

    THE SIMPSONS Deep Dive 5: Go Simpsons Sports! with SPECIAL GUEST Jes Sauerhoff

    We are joined by a very special guest to discuss all things Simpsons sports: Marlessa's partner Jes! We're grateful for all of the insights that Jes was able to provide here since our first episode features not one, not two, but nine MLB baseball greats! Then we of course have Bart and Lisa pitted against each other in an episode that doesn't show Homer at his best but DOES end with one of the sweetest moments we've covered so far this season. On tap for this week: Homer at the Bat” (season 3, episode 17) and “Lisa on Ice” (season 6, episode 8). Thank you so much for joining us to discuss these two, Jes!  Historical Highlights:  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Pitt,_1st_Earl_of_Chatham https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henry_John_Temple,_3rd_Viscount_Palmerston   Please support Jes' podcast, Mostly Mets, here:  https://open.spotify.com/show/0cXDP0tgyd9yGL7CsNkQe8 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mostly-mets/id1797188968  

  25. 49

    THE SIMPSONS Deep Dive 4: Don’t Have a Cow, Man! We Love Bart, Too

    Today we are covering our final member of the Simpsons family (sorry, Maggie), the one and only Bart Simpson! We're discussing two episodes that have Bart learn some hard lessons: “Bart Gets an ‘F” (season 2, episode 1) and “Bart Gets Famous” (season 5, episode 12). While we definitely see some of the pressures Bart faces, whether that's to do better in school or to "just say the line", we're glad to see how fortunate he is to have family who is there for him when he needs them most.  History Highlights: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Fort_Necessity

  26. 48

    THE SIMPSONS Deep Dive 3: Lisa is Our Hero

    Today is all about the girl, the myth, the legend, Lisa Simpson! Whether you're struggling with those mid-week blues or feel energized enough to write an essay about the biggest issues facing our world, we hope you enjoy our discussion about these two fantastic Lisa-focused episodes, “Moaning Lisa" (Season 1, Episode 6) and “Mr. Lisa Goes To Washington” (season 3, episode 2). We discuss the pressures women and girls feel to take Aaron Burr's advice and "smile more," as well as the important differences between Marge's parenting and her mother's approach. Also...Homer is a fan of "Reading Digest"? History Highlights: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julia_Ward_Howe https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harriet_Beecher_Stowe

  27. 47

    THE SIMPSONS Deep Dive 2: Marge Takes a Stand with SPECIAL GUEST Adam Hardenbrook

    We are joined by Marlessa's friend Adam to discuss the one and only Simpsons matriarch, Marge! This week's selection, “Itchy & Scratchy & Marge (Season 2, Episode 9) and “Marge vs. the Monorail” (season 4, episode 12), showcases Marge's deep desire to do right by her family and the Springfield community. Once again we have episodes filled with excellent parody (Psycho and Silence of the Lambs); top-tier guest stars (hello Leonard Nimoy!); and sharp social commentary, this time about censorship and mob mentality. Thank you so much for taking the time to talk all things Simpsons with us, Adam!  Historical Highlights:  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_(Michelangelo) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Music_Man https://www.imdb.com/list/ls085694280/  

  28. 46

    THE SIMPSONS Deep Dive 1: D’oh! Homer’s Best Temporary Jobs

    We're starting off our Simpsons season with two Homer-centric episodes that focus on his best temporary jobs: “Mr. Plow” (season 4, episode 9) and “Deep Space Homer” (season 5, episode 15). We discuss Homer's rivalry with Barney; his iconic jacket and song; and his deep desire to earn the respect of his family. Oh, and none other than Adam West and Buzz Aldrin make appearances. History Highlights: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buzz_Aldrin

  29. 45

    THE SIMPSONS: Season 4 Introduction

    Season 4 of Sitcom Studies begins, but with a slightly different format, because we're discussing the longest-running American sitcom of all time: The Simpsons! In this intro episode, you'll find out why this one is so special to Marlessa and how we'll be tackling an incredibly nuanced show that has stood the test of time. Deep dives begin next week! https://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/simpson-family-television-debut-30-years-ago-180962482/

  30. 44

    BEWITCHED Wrap Up

    The time has come to say goodbye to our beloved Darrin and Sam and the rest of the Bewitched crew. We rank our favorite and least favorite episodes of this season; discuss the enneagram types of these characters; and offer our final thoughts on viewing Samantha and Darrin's love and marriage from a feminist perspective. It has been nothing short of magical getting to discuss this charming and groundbreaking sitcom. And if you've disagreed with us at all this season, well..."try to understand...we're only mortal." Season 4 begins next week! 

  31. 43

    BEWITCHED Deep Dive 20: The Girl with the Golden Nose & Prodigy

    It's our final two episodes of Bewitched! Darrin is once again really struggling with his insecurities, even to the point of believing that all of his success is due to Samantha's help - trust your wife, Darrin! Louis Kravitz is struggling with his own kind of trust issues as he looks to rediscover his love of performing. And of course, Alice Pearce maker her final appearance as Gladys. Historical Highlights:  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jascha_Heifetz https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isaac_Stern https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sol_Hurok https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stradivarius https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carnegie_Hall

  32. 42

    BEWITCHED Deep Dive 19: The Catnapper & What Every Young Man Should Know

    It's just a bit busy this week: Charlie Leach is back; Darrin's client Toni is turned into a cat; and Endora is, as usual, planting some unfortunate seeds of doubt in her daughter's mind. And of course there's some time travel thrown in as well. Would you go back in time to find out what might have been? Historical Highlights: https://www.townandcountrymag.com/society/money-and-power/g60027790/celebrity-weddings-1960s/

  33. 41

    BEWITCHED Deep Dive 18: Divided He Falls & Man's Best Friend

    This week, we discuss what some have considered THE episode of Bewitched! We discuss which episodes we think are most representative of this sitcom and the important commentary this episode makes about unconditional acceptance. And bravo as always, Dick York - you shine in this one!  As for the second episode that we have on tap for this week...let's just say we had "No" by Meghan Trainor on repeat... Historical Highlights: http://exhibits.library.miami.edu/miamidigital/1960s.html

  34. 40

    BEWITCHED Deep Dive 17: Follow That Witch (Parts 1 and 2)

    We have an exciting two-parter this week - Samantha's very identity as a witch is at risk of being exposed! We're not entirely sure she handles the situation well, but at least there's so much to talk about here as we consider Sam's willingness to use her own magical abilities.  We hope your 2026 is off to a great start! History Highlights: https://asginvestigations.com/private-investigator/history-of-private-investigations/ 

  35. 39

    BEWITCHED Deep Dive 16: Disappearing Samantha & A Bum Wraps

    What happens when there are magical forces at work that even Sam and Endora might not know how to handle? That and other questions will be answered this week...except we don't think we'll ever be able to answer why Samantha lets "Uncle Albert" into her home without picking up on any of the red flags. Wishing you and yours all the very best in 2026! History Highlights: https://www.history.com/articles/history-of-witches

  36. 38

    BEWITCHED Deep Dive 15: The Leprechaun & Double Split

    Merry Christmas Eve! While we wish we could sprinkle some seasonal magic to...spruce up?...these two episodes, we had a great time thinking a bit more deeply about the different dynamic that we see here between Sam and Darrin. And for the very first time, we just might have a grievance with out dear Samantha!  We hope that you and yours enjoy a blessed and beautiful holiday.    History Highlights:  https://womenshistory.si.edu/blog/voices-independence-four-oral-histories-about-building-womens-economic-power https://www.oneadvisorypartners.com/blog/the-history-of-women-and-money-in-the-united-states-in-honor-of-womens-history-month https://www.chase.com/personal/investments/learning-and-insights/article/women-in-wealth-throughout-history-a-united-states-timeline  

  37. 37

    BEWITCHED Deep Dive 14: The Horse's Mouth & Baby's First Paragraph

    We certainly see the more competitive side of our beloved characters this week! Samantha turns a race horse into a human; a friend of Darrin's turns to sports betting to earn some extra money; and Endora lets her annoyance with Gladys get the better of her when she makes it seem like little Tabitha has already started to talk... History Highlights: https://guides.library.harvard.edu/c.php?g=1108872&p=8085578 https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/seabiscuit-horseracing-us/  

  38. 36

    BEWITCHED Deep Dive 13: Double Tate & Samantha the Dressmaker

    What would you do if you were granted three wishes for your birthday? We don't recommend wishing to be your boss for the day - of course, if you're like Darrin in these episodes, you wouldn't even know you had three wishes to begin with. We are also all for the body positivity that shines through here - but Samantha, did you really need to steal a famous fashion designer's work to finish your own?   History Highlights: https://daily.jstor.org/dressmaking-liberated-american-women-then-came-the-men/  

  39. 35

    BEWITCHED Deep Dive 12: Fastest Gun on Madison Avenue & The Dancing Bear

    This week on Sitcom Studies, Darrin's parents meet Endora for the first time (yikes!) and Darrin becomes a new heavyweight champion? While these two episodes were not our favorites so far, we do think these episodes offer plenty of food for thought surrounding some interesting gender role discussions. We just wish Tabatha were able to enjoy her little teddy bear in peace!  Historical Highlights: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_Edison

  40. 34

    BEWITCHED Deep Dive 11: My Baby, the Tycoon & Samantha Meets the Folks

    We get another flashback episode this week and get to see what happened when Samantha met Darrin's parents for the first time. Is Phyllis overbearing from the very beginning? Should Darrin really feel guilty for the way he treats Aunt Clara? Oh, and then in the present day, there's also the possibility that Tabitha might be trying to influence the U.S. stock market... Happy Thanksgiving, wherever you are! We are eternally grateful to you if you've been along with us for the ride over the past ten months. Let the holidays begin! History Highlights: https://www.nyse.com/history-of-nyse

  41. 33

    BEWITCHED Deep Dive 10: And Then There Were Three

    Welcome to the world, sweet Tabitha. This week we finally get to meet the Stephens' little girl, as well as Sam's cousin Serena - and a nurse who gives Gladys a run for her money?  History Highlights: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tabitha  

  42. 32

    BEWITCHED Deep Dive 9: The Magic Cabin & Maid to Order

    This week, time away at Larry Tate's cabin is supposed to help ease Darrin's burnout and Samantha feels pressured to hire a maid as her due date approaches. While we noticed some significant plot holes this week, the visual gags continue to impress. We hope all of your meal prep during the upcoming holiday season goes much more smoothly than it does for our Bewitched families! History Highlights: https://www.tastingtable.com/1278237/important-differences-between-broth-consomme/

  43. 31

    BEWITCHED Deep Dive 8: Speak the Truth & A Vision of Sugar Plums

    We have two episodes this week that surprisingly see everything turn out for the best. Some of our favorite characters' innermost thoughts are revealed; Samantha shows once again how golden her heart is; and the Stephens are able to bring the joy of Christmas to a young boy in desperate need of some holiday cheer. We wholeheartedly encourage you to listen to this episode while decorating for the holidays. But wait - did Santa just call Darrin the wrong name, like Endorra would?   Stream Marlessa's favorite I Married a Witch (1942) on HBO Max, Hulu, and Amazon Prime!   Historical Highlights: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Christmas_Carol https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Leech_(caricaturist)

  44. 30

    SIDE QUEST 3: Bewitched Behind the Scenes, with SPECIAL GUEST Herbie J Pilato

    Happy Halloween! We are thrilled to be joined this week by Herbie J Pilato for a very special conversation about some important episodes of Bewitched not included in Season 2. Herbie is a renowned actor, writer, producer, and TV scholar who has devoted much of his career to preserving the history of Bewitched and other beloved classic sitcoms. He has written Bewitched Forever: The Immortal Companion to Television's Most Magical Supernatural Situation Comedy (2004) and Twitch Upon A Star: The Bewitched Life And Career Of Elizabeth Montgomery (2012), among many other authoritative books on this period in television history. Herbie graciously discusses the time he spent with the Bewitched cast while researching these books - what we wouldn't give to have watched an episode with Dick York! Herbie, we are so grateful for your time and for all that you do to make sure that future generations are able to discover this bewitching sitcom.    Please find out more about Herbie and all of this work at his website here: https://www.herbiejpilato.com/ and be sure to follow him on social media!    Bewitched Episodes Discussed: 1.17 A is for Aardvark 3.13 My Friend Ben 3.25 Charlie Harper, Winner 4.12 Samantha's Thanksgiving to Remember 6.11 Darrin the Warlock 7.13 Sisters at Heart

  45. 29

    BEWITCHED Deep Dive 7: A Strange Little Visitor & My Boss, the Teddy Bear

    You would think that babysitting a young warlock and confronting a jewel thief would be enough excitement for one week. But since this is Samantha and Darrin we're talking about...well, there's also the possibility that Larry Tate has been turned into a teddy bear.    Historical Highlights: https://www.fastcompany.com/90220227/the-history-of-how-we-got-paid-vacation-in-the-us

  46. 28

    BEWITCHED Deep Dive 6: Junior Executive & Aunt Clara's Old Flame

    This week Bewitched dives into questions of nostalgia, with Darrin...revisiting?...his childhood while working on a toy advertisement campaign and sweet Aunt Clara reuniting with her "one that got away"! We really enjoyed how much heart there was in these two episodes, but we also have a few notes on the writing - couldn't Samantha have turned herself into young Darrin so that all could be present at this important meeting? These episodes are all about looking back, but they make us all the more excited for what's to come this season.    History Highlights: https://www.museumofplay.org/blog/toys-and-u-s-history-in-playthings-magazine/ https://www.nps.gov/articles/playthings-of-the-past.htm    

  47. 27

    BEWITCHED Deep Dive 5: The Very Informal Dress & And Then I Wrote

    This week's two episodes are all about the costumes and physical comedy, with Sam imagining characters from the Civil War era and Darrin ending up in jail after attending a work event with Aunt Clara. But some much deeper themes are explored here: Where do writers find their inspiration? How do we come to a more nuanced understanding of certain overlooked aspects of our history? And of course, the gaslighting of Gladys Kravitz continues...   History Highlights: https://americanindian.si.edu/why-we-serve/topics/civil-war/ https://www.civilwarmed.org/civil-warriors-native-american-soldiers-1861-1865/ https://www.nps.gov/articles/the-civil-war-in-american-memory.htm

  48. 26

    BEWITCHED Deep Dive 4: Take Two Aspirins... & Trick or Treat

    Happy October! This week Darrin tries desperately to get the ingredients for a medicine that Samantha needs, and our favorite couple hosts the Tates for a Halloween party. Oh, and Endora turns Darrin into a werewolf? Let spooky season begin... History Highlights: https://www.history.com/articles/history-of-halloween

  49. 25

    BEWITCHED Deep Dive 3: The Joker is a Card, with SPECIAL GUEST Kevin T. Porter

    Please welcome a very special guest, podcast pioneer Kevin T. Porter, as he discusses with us this special episode of Bewitched, the first to feature Paul Lynde as Samantha's Uncle Arthur. Kevin is a comedian and renowned co-host of the Gilmore Guys podcast, included on Time's List of the 100 Greatest Podcasts of All Time, and he currently hosts the Good Christian Fun podcast. We had the best time discussing the life and influence of Paul Lynde; his role as a practical joker on Bewitched; and...Joker Faux a Deux? We are so grateful that you were able to join us for this conversation, Kevin!    Find information about all of Kevin's podcasts and links to his social media here: https://www.kevintporter.com/   Historical Highlights: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Beatles

  50. 24

    BEWITCHED Deep Dive 2: We're in for a Bad Spell & My Grandson, the Warlock

    Sam and Darrin have a lot on their plates this week, between trying to save their friend Adam from a centuries-old curse to watching the Tates' son while they’re away. We meet Sam's father; Dick York once again proves he is a MASTER of physical comedy - but is Gladys Kravitz once again the true star here?   Historical Highlights:  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1969_Texas_vs._Arkansas_football_game https://blog.nixonfoundation.org/2022/04/beyond-the-first-pitch/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Nixon

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

The ultimate TV sitcom analysis podcast with Marlessa Stivala and Katie DeFonzo

HOSTED BY

Marlessa Stivala and Katie DeFonzo

CATEGORIES

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does The Sitcom Studies Podcast have?

The Sitcom Studies Podcast currently has 50 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is The Sitcom Studies Podcast about?

The ultimate TV sitcom analysis podcast with Marlessa Stivala and Katie DeFonzo

How often does The Sitcom Studies Podcast release new episodes?

The Sitcom Studies Podcast has 50 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

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Who hosts The Sitcom Studies Podcast?

The Sitcom Studies Podcast is created and hosted by Marlessa Stivala and Katie DeFonzo.
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