What is Get Smart about?
Get Smart is a comedy that parodies the spy genre, centering on Maxwell Smart, an inept agent, and his competent partner Agent 99. They work for the CONTROL agency to thwart the evil KAOS organization while delivering quick‑witted humor.
Who created the show?
The series was created by Mel Brooks and Buck Henry, who aimed to blend James Bond parody with Mel Brooks’ comedic style. Their vision set the tone for a light‑hearted spy spoof.
Who are the main characters?
Main characters include Maxwell Smart (Agent 86), Agent 99, and the Chief (Thaddeus Harold Harmon Hargrade). Supporting roles feature KAOS villains and recurring allies.
When did the series first air?
The pilot premiered on September 18, 1965. It ran through May 15, 1970, spanning five seasons.
How many seasons and episodes?
Get Smart produced five seasons with a total of 138 episodes. Each season contained 26–30 episodes, depending on the year.
Who directed episodes?
Episodes were directed by a mix of talent, including Don Adams, Richard Donner, and Howard Morris. Directors varied each season, bringing different comedic touches.
Is there a laugh track?
Yes, the show features a laugh track, marking the first time a Mel Brooks production incorporated one. It helps punctuate jokes and set the sitcom feel.
Was it a Mel Brooks production?
Mel Brooks co‑created the series and had significant influence over its comedic style. While he stepped back after the first season, his imprint remains evident.
How many episodes were released each season?
Season 1 had 30 episodes, Season 2 30, Season 3 26, Season 4 26, and Season 5 26. Episode counts varied as production adjusted.
What is the catchphrase “Would you believe…?”?
It is Maxwell Smart’s signature line used when something improbable occurs. The phrase became a popular cultural reference from the series.
Why is Maxwell Smart called Agent 86?
Agent 86 was chosen to reference a slang term for removing someone from a situation. It also keeps the numbering consistent with spy tropes.
What network did it air on?
Initially aired on NBC from 1965 to 1969. The final season moved to CBS for its last year.
Were there movies based on the series?
Yes, the 1980 film The Nude Bomb, the 1989 TV movie Get Smart, Again!, and the 2008 feature film starring Steve Carell were all derived from the series.
Did the show have a reboot?
A short‑lived 1995 revival aired on Fox, and a 2008 film updated the characters for modern audiences. Neither matched the original’s tone.
Who voiced Agent 99?
Agent 99 was portrayed by Barbara Feldon, delivering sharp wit and a dry professionalism that balanced Maxwell’s antics.
What is the tone of the series?
The tone is light and playful, with quick dialogue and slapstick situations. It relies on clever wordplay rather than serious drama.
Was the show family‑friendly?
Yes, the series was designed for family audiences, with mild humor and no graphic violence or strong language.
How to watch the show now?
The complete series is available on DVD, and episodes can be streamed on platforms like Hulu and Amazon Prime. Classic TV services also carry the show.
Is the show available on streaming?
Yes, Get Smart can be streamed on Hulu and Amazon Prime Video. Availability may vary by region.
Was the show nominated for awards?
The series earned multiple Emmy nominations, winning awards for writing, directing, and acting. Its humor and production were widely recognized.
Did the show have recurring villains?
Recurring villains included Ludwig Von Siegfried and other KAOS agents. They provided ongoing comedic threats without long‑term arcs.
How were gadgets used?
Gadgets, such as the shoe‑phone and the Cone of Silence, served as punchlines and plot devices. Their absurdity added to the parody.
What was the opening title sequence?
The sequence featured cartoonish spy imagery, a stylized logo, and a jaunty theme tune. It set the comedic espionage mood.
Who produced the series?
Talent Associates produced the show, with Mel Brooks and Buck Henry as co‑executive producers. The production company handled all aspects of the series.
Is there a fan community?
Fans gather on forums, fan sites, and social media groups to discuss episodes, share trivia, and celebrate the show’s legacy.