The Flintstones

File:Music Helped 'Flintstones' on Way to Fame: In 1960, Hoyt Curtin created the lively theme for the Stone Age family. The show's producers say it may be the most frequently broadcast song on TV

File:Fred and Wilma Flintstone advertising cigarettes.jpg

The Flintstones is an American animated sitcom produced by Hanna-Barbera Productions. The series takes place in a romanticized Stone Age setting and follows the lives of the titular family, the Flintstones, and their next-door neighbors, the Rubbles. The show originally aired on ABC from September 30, 1960, to April 1, 1966.

Overview

The Flintstones is set in the prehistoric town of Bedrock, where dinosaurs and humans coexist. The series is a satirical take on suburban life in the mid-20th century, featuring modern conveniences such as cars, telephones, and household appliances, all powered by animals or primitive technology.

Main Characters

• Fred Flintstone: The main character, Fred is a brash, loud, and lovable caveman who works at the Slate Rock and Gravel Company. He is married to Wilma Flintstone.
• Wilma Flintstone: Fred's patient and level-headed wife, Wilma is often the voice of reason in the Flintstone household.
• Pebbles Flintstone: The Flintstones' daughter, Pebbles is a cute and energetic toddler.
• Barney Rubble: Fred's best friend and neighbor, Barney is good-natured and easygoing. He works at the same company as Fred.
• Betty Rubble: Barney's wife, Betty is Wilma's best friend and often joins her in various adventures.
• Bamm-Bamm Rubble: The Rubbles' adopted son, Bamm-Bamm is known for his incredible strength.
• Dino: The Flintstones' pet dinosaur, Dino acts like a dog and is very affectionate.

Setting

The show is set in the fictional prehistoric city of Bedrock, where the Flintstones and Rubbles live. The city is depicted with a mix of Stone Age and modern elements, such as stone houses, foot-powered cars, and dinosaur-operated appliances.

Cultural Impact

The Flintstones was the first prime-time animated television series and became a cultural icon. It paved the way for future animated series aimed at adult audiences, such as The Simpsons. The show has been referenced in numerous other media and has spawned various spin-offs, merchandise, and adaptations.

Episodes

The series consists of 166 episodes over six seasons. Each episode typically features a self-contained story, often revolving around Fred's schemes or the family's interactions with their neighbors.

Legacy

The Flintstones has left a lasting legacy in popular culture. It was the first animated series to be nominated for the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Comedy Series. The show's theme song, "Meet the Flintstones," is widely recognized and has become synonymous with the series.

Also see

• Hanna-Barbera Productions
• The Jetsons
• The Simpsons
• List of The Flintstones episodes