She Didn’t Tell A Soul
Here’s one of the best kept secrets in the show that fans enjoyed. Natalie Shafer who played the character of Mrs. Lovey Howell hid her true age to everyone – cast, crew and production team. She never told anyone her real age but it was eventually discovered that she was 13 years Jim Backus’ senior. She was 13 years older than the actor who played her husband on the show!
She Didn’t Tell A Soul
Special Mention In Her Contract
There’s more! It was stated in Shafer’s contract that she should not have any close-up shots. That’s because she never wanted any wrinkles in her face to be seen by the audience. It was also a special clause in the contract so that everyone would believe that there was no age gap between the husband and wife character. No one ever knew!
Special Mention In Her Contract