Disneyland Opening Day: Eve Arden

A vintage shot showing actress Eve Arden (TV star best known for "Our Miss Brooks" and "The Mothers-In-Law") on Disneyland's Opening Day. I am sure a number Disney collectors would love to have some of those toys! Eve's kids just look a little spooked.

From the vintage publicity blurb:

EVE ARDEN, her actor-husband, Brooks West, and their two daughters Liza, left, and Connie, examine souvenir dolls at Disneyland which opened recently at Anaheim, Calif.

Arden was married to West from 1952 until his death in 1984 from a heart ailment at 67.

Fans of "I Love Lucy" might remember Arden's cameo in the famous "Hollywood at Last" episode, where the veteran actress is seated at a table next to Ethel, Fred, and Lucy.



See more Disneyland Opening Day photos at my main website.

Behind the scenes Lucy

One of my very favorite "I Love Lucy" episodes is "Hollywood At Last," first shown on February 7, 1955. The Ricardos and Mertz's arrive in Hollywood, and Lucy can't wait to see some celebrities. Lunch at the famed Brown Derby seems like the perfect place until the eager Lucy causes a ruckus with William Holden.



Here's a shot from between takes of the Brown Derby scene, showing Holden, Lucille Ball, and Eve Arden, who has a very funny cameo as herself. Based on the background, I would have to say that my question of whether this scene was actually shot at the Derby itself or on a soundstage is finally settled.

Love more Lucy at my main website.