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Bea Benaderet had to adjust to being the leading lady of a television series when she was cast in Petticoat Junction
Benaderet went to the studio on her days off to respond to fan mail.
Despite the fact that Bea Benaderet was a seasoned actress, having gained success in both radio and television, she was still floored when Petticoat Junction creator Paul Henning offered her the part of Kate Bradley.
"It was the surprise of my life when Paul Henning asked me to play the lead in his new series," said Benaderet during an interview with The Van Nuys News and Valley Green Sheet.
It wasn't a spur-of-the-moment decision on Henning's part. "I couldn't get rid of the idea of someday building a series around her," said the creator of Benaderet.
As she was more familiar with playing a side character or a member of an ensemble group, Benaderet found herself in new territory when she began Petticoat Junction. The series gave her a new perspective on fame. "There are many things that change," Benaderet said of being the lead in her own series. "There's infinitely more public recognition. I'm very big at the local supermarket now."
Benaderet also found her schedule completely overtaken by the series. "The marked difference is the limited time you have for yourself," said the actor. "My dressing room is comfortable, with a refrigerator and a stove, and I spend more time there than I do at home!"
Even on days when the cast was given time off, Benaderet still found herself busy with activities.
"I've been going to the studio almost every day anyway," said Benaderet. "There's mail to answer, for example, I get more mail now, of course, and they're real letters that often require a thoughtful answer."
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Moreover, Benaderet found herself eager to take a more hands-on approach to the series. As the lead character, she had more of an investment in its success.
"Another major difference in having your own series is the interest you take in all the roles, in all aspects of the production," said Benaderet. "It used to be you did your part and forgot about the overall picture because it didn't concern you and you couldn't do anything about it anyway. But as the lead, you suddenly become interested and involved in everything that goes on."
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