Movies in the Movies: 'The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis' (1962)

A recurring gag on the iconic "The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis" television series (1959-63) involves lovable beatnik Maynard G. Krebs (Bob Denver) referencing the flick "The Monster Who Devoured Cleveland." In a third season episode, "The Truth Session," he attends a must-see triple feature Maynard-thon devoted to his idol and hungry kin.

Among the stars of this horrible fun fest are, coincidentally(?), "Dobie Gillis" Production Executive Norman Henry as The Monster Who Devoured Cleveland, Lottie Cagle, Secretary to "Dobie Gillis" Producer-Director-Writer Rod Amateau, as Bride of the Monster Who Devoured Cleveland, and "Dobie Gillis" Assistant Director Ad Shaumer, Jr. as Son of the Monster Who Devoured Cleveland.

I must admit Maynard, shown here with his teacher, Mr. Pomfritt (William Schallert), is one of my heroes. He's seen Cleveland devoured three times!

A boy can dream, can't he?