The Partridge Family - Season 1, Episode 3

Title: Whatever Happened To The Old Songs?

First aired: October 9, 1970

Synopsis:

The family hears the screeching of tyres outside. Surprisingly, Grandpa and Grandma have arrived without notice. More energetic than usual, Grandpa leaps out of his new convertible like a teenager, while Grandma seems irritated by his childish behaviour.

Later, Keith invites Grandpa to join in on band practice. With Grandma watching on, they sing ‘Baby I Love, Love, I Love You’. The kids are complimentary in saying, “Come on the road with us.” Grandpa imagines the life of a star, his name up in lights and the thrill of applause.

Grandma describes his eccentric behaviour to Shirley and reveals that he keeps acting young.

While on tour, Grandpa appears next to the bus on the back of a pick-up, declaring that he has left Grandma and he’s joining the act.

Reluctant to tell Grandpa he’s not star material, the family hope he tires of life on tour. He doesn’t, yet he admits he needs a professional opinion on his talent. Reuben regretfully gives positive feedback instead of being honest. He uses the word ‘campy’ to describe Grandpa’s performance.

Grandma arrives just prior to opening. Although she says she’s just coming as a spectator, he feels she wants to talk him out of it.

Grandpa asks Chris what ‘campy’ means. When Chris explains it means corny and laughable, Grandpa is hurt.

Just before Grandpa starts to sing his opening song, Grandma requests their courtship song, ‘Bye Bye Blackbird’, which Grandpa reluctantly, yet beautifully sings while playing mandolin on stage. A sense of nostalgia prevails and their love is reignited. Later, they agree to bridge the gap and make amends.

The next day their bags are packed. They’re ready to see the world!

Grandma gets behind the wheel of their yellow convertible and like a teenager, she calls out, “Now let’s burn some rubber!” as they zoom away, happy and in love.
Synopsis written by Erin Sullivan.

Songs:
Baby I Love, Love, I Love You, Together (Havin' a Ball); I'm On the Road; Bye Bye Blackbird

Cast:
Shirley Partridge - Shirley Jones
Keith Partridge - David Cassidy
Laurie Partridge - Susan Dey
Danny Partridge - Danny Bonaduce
Chris Partridge - Jeremy Gelbwaks
Tracy Partridge - Suzanne Crough
Reuben Kincaid - Dave Madden

Directed by: Jerrold Bernstein

Written by: Bernard Slade

Guest Stars: Ray Bolger as Grandpa Fred Renfrew, Rosemary DeCamp as Grandma Amanda Renfrew.

Screen Shots: