Though today it is considered a timeless classic, when The Beverly Hillbillies was first broadcast, it seemed like the main cast went from nobodies to television royalty faster than you could say "Well, doggies!"

For Donna Douglas, who had a limited amount of acting experience before she began starring as Elly May in the show, coming to terms with her stardom was more difficult than many might imagine.

"There were many adjustments to make," said Douglas during an interview with The Daily News. "One day, no one recognized me on the street, and the next, people were coming up to me just to say hello and have me touch their children."

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While overwhelmed with the attention, Douglas was able to rationalize it quite well. These fans felt like they knew her as well as their own family, considering they invited the Clampett family into their homes once a week when they watched her on television.

"I had to learn to accept that kind of thing as if it were directed toward Elly May and not toward me personally," said Douglas.

Despite her young age and quick rise to fame, Douglas handled her notoriety fairly well and was able to keep a humble attitude and a level head. Even today, that seems like a rarity in Hollywood.

"I believe the confusion comes from within," said the actor. "If your ego and your emotions mix you up, then your relations with others, your business affairs, your whole life, will become confused and disordered. Show business doesn't have to be the rat race some people make of it...Success isn't worth having if that's the price you pay for it."