Ruth Brooks Flippen, who wrote two GIDGET movies in the early 60s, put together this sentimental first episode. In this case, we get to see Gidget's first big crush and CRASH!
The surfer dude in question is called Moondoggie (which would become a legendary tv name), well played by popular 60s actor Stephen Mines. He would also make another appearance on the series.
Moondoggie catches Gidget's eye and its love at first sight --but is he the one for her? Gidget's older sister Anne (Betty Conner) and psych student husband John (Peter Duel) begin to analyze her every move, which would become a long running gag in the series. Poor Gidge, and all she wants is a guy pal. She's stuck with her pal, Larue, who has a wild wardrobe collection!
Further complicating matters is her diary, and a lot of creative writing 101! Do the math. Some good acting on the part of Don Porter, as Gidget's understanding father, Professor Lawrence, who has to have a little talk (the first of many) with his free spirit daughter, who isn't what she appears to be in the first place. Get it?
To note, 19 year old Sally Field beat out dozens of other young actresses for the lead, and up until this time in her career was doing uncredited bit parts. She also lied to producers about being an experienced surfer! Her mom was B movie actress Margaret Field. Stephen Mines retired from acting a few years after this episode to operate a sucessful wood business, but would nevertheless go down in tv history as Moondoggie.
Great writing from Ruth Brooks Flippen, who was also lead writer for THAT GIRL at the time, later writing early episodes for the BRADY BUNCH. She was married to the popular character actor Jay C. Flippen.
I agree with the last reviewer, the famous Lawrence kitchen was also used in HAZEL and Gidget's house was used in many Columbia and Warner Brothers movies and tv shows for years, next door to the PARTRIDGE FAMILY house.
Had the series Not been up against the BEVERLY HILLBILLIES, it would have been a hit. It had a lot going for it, and many memorable episodes to come. GIDGET amassed a larger and dedicated audience in reruns! Stay tuned.
SEASON 1 EPISODE No. 1 remastered Columbia dvd box set.