The world of television is full of intriguing character choices, and one such decision that has left a lasting impression is the naming of Blossom's best friend, Six LeMeure, on the beloved NBC sitcom. In this article, we'll delve into the story behind Six's unique name and explore the impact it had on the show and its characters.
The Origin Story
When Blossom Russo, played by the talented Mayim Bialik, first meets her ride-or-die gal pal Six, portrayed with infectious energy by Jenna von Oÿ, the latter's name immediately stands out. It's a curious choice, and one that has a fascinating backstory.
The subject of Six's moniker is first broached in the pilot episode of the 1991 TV show. Blossom, in her typical blunt manner, comments on the name's peculiarity, to which Six replies with a witty explanation involving her father and a few too many beers. However, the real reason behind the name is even more intriguing.
Show creator Don Reo revealed during an Entertainment Weekly panel that Six was named after a digit for a very specific reason. It turns out that Reo's son was classmates with a girl named Seven McDonald, whose father happened to be the legendary Woodstock veteran and frontman of the psychedelic rock band Country Joe and the Fish, Country Joe McDonald.
Respecting Boundaries
Reo initially considered naming the character Seven, but out of respect for his son's friend, he sought permission. Speaking at the panel, Reo shared, "I asked my son, 'Do you think this would be cool with your friend?' and he asked her, and she said, 'Well, no, I'd rather you don't do that.'" This shows a level of consideration and respect for personal boundaries that is often overlooked in the entertainment industry.
A Stroke of Genius
With the name Seven off the table, Reo had to choose between Eight and Six. Ultimately, he went with Six, and this decision proved to be a masterstroke. The name not only added a layer of quirkiness to the character but also created a unique dynamic between Blossom and Six.
Reo reflected on the chemistry between Bialik and von Oÿ, noting that their friendship on-screen was one that viewers could relate to and remember. "It was that friendship that you remember the rest of your life. That's what I was after, and that's what happened with the two of them." This just goes to show that sometimes the smallest decisions can have the biggest impact.
Impact and Legacy
"Blossom" ran for five seasons, from 1991 to 1995, and during that time, Blossom and Six became an iconic TV duo of the '90s. Their friendship paved the way for other memorable female besties on TV, such as Amy and Rosa from "Brooklyn Nine-Nine" and Lorelai and Rory from "Gilmore Girls." The show's impact on pop culture is undeniable, and it's fascinating to think that it all started with a simple name choice.
Final Thoughts
The story of Six LeMeure's name is a reminder of the power of small details in storytelling. It adds depth to a character and creates a unique identity. From my perspective, it's these little touches that often make a show stand out and leave a lasting impression on viewers. So, the next time you're watching a TV show, pay attention to the small details - you never know what hidden gems you might uncover.
