The Cosby Show remains one of the most beloved sitcoms in television history, but behind its iconic moments and memorable characters lies a wealth of behind-the-scenes stories that few fans know about. From casting surprises to hilarious mishaps, here are 10 secrets about the making of the show that will change the way you think about the Huxtables.
1. Bill Cosby Was the Show’s Creative Visionary
While Bill Cosby was the star of The Cosby Show, he also played a huge role behind the scenes as the creator and executive producer. Cosby had a very clear vision for the show—he wanted to create a sitcom that depicted an African American family as successful, loving, and relatable, a stark contrast to the stereotypical portrayals often seen in the media. Cosby’s hands-on approach ensured that the show reflected his personal values of family, education, and social responsibility.
2. Phylicia Rashad Almost Didn’t Get the Role of Clair
Phylicia Rashad, who played the sophisticated and loving Clair Huxtable, wasn’t the first choice for the role. In fact, some networks initially had reservations about casting a Black woman as a successful attorney. However, after seeing Rashad’s audition, Bill Cosby was adamant about casting her. Her portrayal of Clair became one of the most beloved television matriarchs of all time, a testament to Cosby’s trust in her talent.
3. The Show Was Nearly Cancelled After the First Season
Despite becoming one of the most successful shows of the decade, The Cosby Show faced early struggles. In its first season, the show did not have the instant success that it would later enjoy. In fact, NBC executives considered canceling it after the first season due to disappointing ratings. But the show’s performance quickly picked up after it found its rhythm, and it became a cultural phenomenon.
4. The Huxtables Weren’t Originally Going to Have Five Kids
Initially, The Cosby Show planned for the Huxtable family to have fewer children. However, as the series evolved, the writers decided to expand the family to include five children, each with their own unique personalities and storylines. The addition of the children helped create more diverse plotlines and allowed the show to delve deeper into family dynamics.
5. The Set Was Designed to Feel Like a Real Home
One of the key elements that made The Cosby Show so relatable was the set design. Unlike many sitcoms, which used generic sets, the Huxtable home was designed to feel like a real family home. Cosby was personally involved in the set design process, ensuring that the house reflected the warmth, comfort, and professionalism of the Huxtables. It was meant to be a space where viewers could imagine themselves, creating an intimate connection to the show.
6. The Show Tackled Social Issues Long Before It Was Common
While sitcoms today often address social issues, The Cosby Show was one of the first to integrate serious topics such as race, class, and education in a way that was both entertaining and thought-provoking. Episodes like “The Card Game,” where Cliff Huxtable faces a difficult financial decision, explored issues of class and economic hardship. Meanwhile, discussions around race were woven into storylines that made these complex subjects accessible to all viewers.
7. The Huxtable Children Were Inspired by Real Families
The Huxtables weren’t just fictional characters. Many of the character traits of the children were inspired by real-life experiences. For instance, the character of Denise Huxtable, played by Lisa Bonet, was partially based on Cosby’s own daughter, Ennis Cosby. Similarly, the storylines about Theo, played by Malcolm-Jamal Warner, often reflected real-life challenges that Cosby’s own children faced, making the show feel more authentic and grounded.
8. The Cast Had Incredible Chemistry
From the first episode to the last, the cast of The Cosby Show had undeniable chemistry. This was due in part to the close-knit relationship the actors developed off-screen. Bill Cosby often referred to his co-stars as his extended family, and this genuine affection for one another translated to their performances. Their bond helped make the show feel like a real family, rather than a scripted production.
9. The Show’s Music Was a Huge Part of Its Appeal
Another key element that set The Cosby Show apart was its memorable soundtrack. The show’s theme song, “Kiss Me,” performed by jazz musician Quincy Jones, became iconic in its own right. In fact, the music on the show was so impactful that it often set the tone for episodes, using upbeat tunes to complement the humor and more soulful music during emotional scenes.
10. The Show Almost Had a Different Title
Before The Cosby Show was finalized as the show’s title, the series was considered to be called The Huxtables. However, Bill Cosby felt that his personal brand was so closely tied to the show’s identity that the decision was made to name the show after him. The title change helped solidify his role as both the star and the creative force behind the show, and it contributed to the show’s personal and unique appeal.
Conclusion
Behind the scenes, The Cosby Show was as groundbreaking and innovative as it was on screen. From casting surprises to creative decisions, these secrets shed light on what made the show so special. Today, The Cosby Show remains an unforgettable part of TV history, thanks in no small part to the talent, vision, and heart that went into creating it.
