Topper

That phrase was how the introduction described Marion Kirby, wife of George Kirby. The Kirbys', along with the ever faithful alcoholic St. Bernard dog Neil, were killed in an avalanche but returned to their home to playfully haunt the current occupants, Cosmo and Henrietta Topper.

However only Cosmo Topper could see and hear them. The ever formal Cosmo and Henrietta ( Leo G. Carroll and Lee Patrick ). Talk about contrasts.

Born in 1947, I am giving away my age of course; but I never missed an episode. In fact I cherished them. Who could not be drawn to the antics of George and Marion. What 8 year old male couldn't be totally absorbed by Marion Kirby. Knowing they were husband and wife in real life made the attraction to their characters even more pronounced.

Where are these episodes ? Probably the powers that be have long concluded that the show would be boring by today's standards. Not so says I !!

I fondly recall watching this show on our first Raytheon TV. I also recall laughing at the crazy antics of George and Marion. The special effects were what I remember, quite good for that early time. Would love to see an episode once again and hear that catchy theme music. Neil, the St Bernard was a classic, drinking gin and I recall Cosmo's always battling with his boss, the stuffy Mr Schuyler (spelling may be wrong). I was hoping that the last show would result in the ghosts becoming visible to Mrs. Topper also. Oh well, I guess that was the five year old that i was at that time always believing that everything would always have a happy ending.

I came across a DVD of four episodes from this fifties show for $7.95. I had almost forgotten this show and how I enjoyed it as a kid when it was in syndication for a brief time back in the mid to late sixties. Leo G. Carroll in the title roll is a perfect foil for the fun-loving spirits of George and Marion Kirby. And speaking of spirits, I think Neal was the only alcoholic dog in history. He sure did love his booze. I've heard of dogs liking beer, but I've never known them to put away a whole case after drinking half a canteen full of gin. That was a hoot! (Love 'ya, Neal, you big dumb mutt!!!). It was his fondness of the drink that got George and Marion killed in the first place. I guess some dogs just never learn.

This show is a forgotten classic, and well worth its weight in gold. You hardly ever see or hear of it any more, and that's too bad. Wish they would put it on Nick at Night or TVLand. Wouldn't mind a few more DVD's either. Great show.

One of my best childhood memories, a worthy TV incarnation of the movie classic. It's also where I first learned of Leo G. Carroll, Mr. Waverly in "The Man from Uncle"

This show remains as one of my fond childhood memories...don't know how it would translate to the 90s but I've always wondered why it's not among the "oldies but goodies" being recycled on TV these days. Anybody got any suggestions?