Where Was F Troop Filmed: A Glimpse into the Iconic Western Sitcom
F Troop, a beloved American sitcom that aired from 1965 to 1967, captured the hearts of millions with its hilariously satirical take on the Wild West. Set in the fictional Fort Courage, Kansas, the show followed the misadventures of the inept soldiers of F Troop and their interactions with the Hekawi Native American tribe. But where was this iconic sitcom actually filmed? Let’s delve into the locations and answer some common questions about the filming of F Troop.
1. Where was F Troop primarily filmed?
F Troop was primarily filmed on the Warner Bros. Ranch, located in Burbank, California. This expansive studio lot provided the perfect backdrop for the show’s Western setting.
2. Did the show ever venture outside of the Warner Bros. Ranch?
Yes, while the majority of the show was filmed on the Warner Bros. Ranch, occasional scenes were shot on location. The production team often utilized nearby natural landscapes, such as Vasquez Rocks in Agua Dulce, California, which provided a stunning backdrop for some episodes.
3. Did F Troop use any other soundstages for interior scenes?
Yes, in addition to the outdoor sets on the Warner Bros. Ranch, F Troop also utilized soundstages within the studio lot for interior scenes. These soundstages provided controlled environments for filming and allowed for the creation of detailed sets.
4. What other shows were filmed on the Warner Bros. Ranch?
The Warner Bros. Ranch has been the filming location for numerous well-known television shows and movies. Some notable examples include The Waltons, The Dukes of Hazzard, and Little House on the Prairie.
5. How accurate was the depiction of the Wild West in F Troop?
F Troop was intended as a comedic satire and did not strive for historical accuracy. The show often exaggerated and parodied Wild West tropes for comedic effect, creating a lighthearted and entertaining experience for viewers.
6. Were any Native American actors involved in the show?
Yes, F Troop featured Native American actors portraying members of the Hekawi tribe. Notably, Frank DeKova played Chief Wild Eagle, and Edward Everett Horton played Roaring Chicken, the tribe’s medicine man.
7. Did F Troop receive any critical acclaim during its run?
While F Troop was not a critical darling, it garnered a loyal fan base and achieved moderate success throughout its two-season run. The show’s unique blend of Western and comedy elements resonated with audiences, ensuring its enduring popularity.
8. Did any cast members from F Troop go on to have successful careers?
Several cast members of F Troop continued to make their mark in the entertainment industry. Larry Storch, who portrayed Corporal Randolph Agarn, went on to have a successful voice acting career, lending his talents to animated shows like Batman: The Animated Series. Forrest Tucker, who played Sergeant O’Rourke, enjoyed a lengthy career in film and television, with notable appearances in The Quiet Man and The Crawling Eye.
9. How many episodes of F Troop were produced?
A total of 65 episodes of F Troop were produced during its two-season run. The show’s popularity led to syndication, ensuring its continued exposure to audiences for years to come.
10. Were any notable guest stars featured on F Troop?
F Troop welcomed numerous guest stars throughout its run, including Vincent Price, Milton Berle, and Richard Dawson. These appearances added an extra layer of star power to the show’s comedic ensemble.
11. Is F Troop available for streaming or purchase today?
Yes, F Troop is available for streaming on various platforms, including Amazon Prime Video and Hulu. Additionally, DVD sets of the complete series can be purchased.
12. Did F Troop leave a lasting impact on television?
While F Troop may not be as widely remembered as some other sitcoms of the era, it left an indelible mark on television history. Its unique blend of Western and comedy genres and its satirical take on the Wild West paved the way for future shows that would explore similar themes, leaving a lasting legacy in the sitcom landscape.
In conclusion, F Troop, the beloved Western sitcom, was primarily filmed on the Warner Bros. Ranch in Burbank, California. While the show occasionally ventured outside the studio for scenes, the ranch provided the main backdrop for the misadventures of F Troop. With its satirical take on the Wild West, memorable cast, and enduring popularity, F Troop remains a cherished part of television history.