The Statler Brothers (consisting of just two brothers and no one named Statler) and The Mandrell Sisters were ready-made for television, if only because of one sibling per group’s comedic chops.
Statler Brothers bass singer Harold Reid was always a well-rounded entertainer, from his hilarious recordings as Lester “Roadhog” Moran to the levity he brought to TNN’s hit TV show from the ’90s, The Statler Brothers Show. Likewise, Irlene Mandrell offered June Carter-style comic relief while performing with her sisters, most notably on their early ’80s series Barbara Mandrell & The Mandrell Sisters Show.
The groups and their jokesters crossed paths on TV during at least two classic skits from the Mandrell Sisters’ series.
One of those times, Harold played an over-the-top parody of Richard Dawson, whose run as the original Family Feud host still gets criticized for his eagerness to kiss the women in competing families.
The Statlers’ Don Reid, Phil Balsley and Lew DeWitt stood no chance at winning once Harold’s character laid eyes on the Mandrell sisters.
“During the Barbara Mandrell & The Mandrell Sisters TV show, my sisters and I always looked forward to the Statlers coming for a visit,” wrote Louise Mandrell on Facebook in response to Harold’s April 24, 2020 passing. “The most memorable moment was during [the ‘Feuding Families’ skit] on our television series where Harold played Richie Kissey.”
In a separate skit, Harold and Don dress as Irlene and Louise to become Barbara’s fill-in singing partners. Harold’s reason for feeling embarrassed (and the discomfort caused by his fake boobs) is delightful, as is Barbara’s seemingly genuine surprise over the Reid brothers’ visual gag.
The Mandrell Sisters’ show ran on NBC from 1980-’82 and featured appearances by Johnny Cash, Glen Campbell, Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, Alabama, Marty Robbins and The Oak Ridge Boys.
Barbara Mandrell’s now a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, as are The Statler Brothers.
