13 fun behind-the-scenes photos from 'Hogan's Heroes'
There was never a show like Hogan's Heroes, and there likely will never again be a show quite like Hogan's Heroes. It seems like a recipe for disaster on paper: a sitcom set in a Nazi prison camp. Yet despite its unlikely premise, the show was a brilliant piece of 1960s comedy.
Much of the sitcom's success was due to the stellar cast, who know how to strike the perfect tone, and perfectly time the punchlines. Peeking behind the scenes, it appears to have been a blast to film, as well. There was both horseplay and matrimony. Let's roll back the clock half a century and take a look at Bob Crane, Werner Klemperer, Richard Dawson and company working and playing on Hogan's Heroes.
Bob Crane, John Banner, Werner Klemperer and Cynthia Lynn strike a pose.
Image: The Everett CollectionCrane keeps it casual outside the barracks.
Image: The Everett CollectionCrane has a snack and shows off some of the merchandise with his official Hogan's Heroes lunch box and comic book.
Image: The Everett CollectionCrane and Dawson play a prank on Leon Askin.
Image: The Everett CollectionActually, Askin seems to be subject of a few pranks.
Image: The Everett CollectionNita Talbot and Arlene Martel share a hug with Crane on set.
Image: The Everett CollectionDawson is perhaps showing off his secret handshake?
Image: The Everett CollectionMonkeying around on the drums.
Image: The Everett CollectionA professional drummer before he became an actor, Crane showed off his drum skills at his home in Tarzana, California, May 12, 1967.
Image: AP PhotoCrane poses with fellow cast member Sigrid Valdis after they were married on the studio set in Hollywood, October 16, 1970.
Image: AP Photo/Ed WiddisCrane peeks through the evergreens in the garden of his home in Tarzana, California, May 12, 1967.
Image: AP PhotoCrane promotes the series — and his drumming skills — on The John Gary Show in 1966.
Image: The Everett CollectionWerner Klemperer relaxes with his children, Erika and Mark, at home.
Image: The Everett Collection