Search

I read a question-and-answer ...

Question: I read a question-and-answer that was originally published in September 2005. The question was about Laura Petrie's maiden name on The Dick Van Dyke Show. The answer was Meehan. I recall one episode in which her maiden name was Meeker, and then in subsequent episodes it was Meehan. I remember reading an explanation, but I don't remember what it was.


Answer: No problem, Laura — luckily, I do. Mary Tyler Moore, who played Laura on the legendary show, divorced husband Richard Meeker and didn't want to keep his name as her character's maiden name. So via the magic of TV, it changed. Want to make a fortune? Invent a machine allowing us to change the past without any other ill effects in real life, too.

Advertisement
TV Guide Exclusive Videos
1108daily-walsh1

Red Carpet Hits and Misses

Do you like Kate Walsh's look? Vote on it and more of the best and worst celebrity fashion statements

Shop

Buy The Mary Tyler Moore Show - The Complete Fifth Season from Amazon.com

From Twentieth Century Fox (DVD)
Average Customer Review: nostarnostarnostarnostarhalfstar
Usually ships in 24 hours
Buy New: $23.49

Buy The Mary Tyler Moore Show - The Complete Seasons 1-4 from Amazon.com

From Fox Home Video (DVD)
Average Customer Review: nostarnostarnostarnostarhalfstar
Usually ships in 24 hours
Buy New: $70.49 (as of 11/13/09 11:02 PM EST - more info)

Buy The Mary Tyler Moore Show - The Complete First Season from Amazon.com

From 20th Century Fox (DVD)
Average Customer Review: nostarnostarnostarnostarnostar
Usually ships in 24 hours
Buy New: $21.99 (as of 11/13/09 11:02 PM EST - more info)