I was visiting a friend (my age, early 70's) out-of-town and several of their age 11-13 years old grand-kids were also visiting overnight at the same time from about 100 mile away. Everyone was in the kitchen having something to eat and the TV was on MeTv and Leave It to Beaver was on. The visiting kids were clearly NOT interested in a "ancient, Black-&-White TV show", though the grandparents suggested that the kids "give the show a chance" as it was a highly rated/popular show back in the day..and to overlook all the "ancient" looking stuff" that they'd be seeing. They said to just pay attention to the kids and the relationship they had with their parents (and friends) and what all was happening on the screen. The grand-kids agreed and soon "sorta" got into the show -- especially Wally and "The Beaver." -- As the show progressed, Beaver/Wally came into the kitchen where mom (June Cleaver) was tidying up the kitchen (just after breakfast). Beaver/Wally told their mom that they were going to meet-up with some of their friends and walk/ride bikes to several places and such...(Seemingly to occupy most of the day) -- (also, the grand-kids were realizing that besides Beaver-&-Wally, that the group would be all kids-to-early teens out together for the day with no adults around -which in those days, was the norm). Then after listening to Beaver/Wally share their plans, June Clever (Mom) said "Okay boys, but be home in time for dinner" ...and to have fun. That all being said -- the visiting grand-kids "jaws dropped" in total disbelief that these two "TV kids" and their friends could be out on their own -- all day without any parents /grown-ups around. The funniest part of this story was after my friends (the grandparents) had explained that the show was set in a different time and that "things were much more relaxed and easy-going back then". The visiting grand-kids, still in disbelief -- that all of these TV Kids could have unsupervised freedom and be out on their own" -- they looked at each other and exclaimed -- [paraphrased] "Yeah right...no way this would happen...this (TV) show is so fake !!! " -- Lesson learned, these grand-kids could neither imagine such freedom and if they were allowed to go outside alone, they'd not know how to act or proceed -- much-less be gone for the day without their parents around. (And as a result, they won't be prepared for life in the real-world, when age 16, or even age 18 rolls around).

The show's success was likely due to the exceptional talent and natural charisma of the young cast, including Jerry, who captivated audiences with their performances. The show's creators were able to harness the actors' abilities to create a compelling and engaging narrative that resonated with viewers.

So glad the show got picked up and it worked out for Jerry to play Beaver. One of the best shows ever made. ❤️

MeTV and MeTV+ are the best!!

Possibly the best show ever made.

I love that show, although June drives me nuts when she volunteers the boys to go to dance, babysit, etc.

LITB was a wonderfully written & performed TV show. Much more realistic than many others.