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Picture this: Miami, 1987. Shoulder pads are in, big hair is bigger, and a young, not-yet-famous George Clooney is rocking a police uniform on The Golden Girls. As the iconic sitcom celebrates its 40th anniversary, fans are rediscovering this surprising cameo.
Clooney, just 26 at the time, played Detective Bobby Hopkins in the season two episode “To Catch a Neighbor.” He joined the already star-studded lineup of guest stars, which included the likes of Burt Reynolds, Mickey Rooney, and Dick Van Dyke. In the episode, the ladies suspect their new neighbor might be a jewel thief, leading to a hilarious stakeout involving the undercover Clooney and his partner.
Years later, Clooney fondly recalled his time on set, praising Bea Arthur’s comedic genius and calling Betty White “a godsend.” He described the experience as “so much fun,” a sentiment shared by countless fans who still enjoy the show’s witty writing and the undeniable chemistry between its four stars.
The Golden Girls originally aired from 1985 to 1992, earning 68 Emmy nominations and a win for each of its leading ladies: Bea Arthur, Betty White, Rue McClanahan, and Estelle Getty. The show’s groundbreaking portrayal of older women and their friendships resonated with audiences then and continues to charm viewers today. While all four stars have sadly passed away, their legacy lives on through the enduring popularity of this beloved sitcom.
So, as you revisit your favorite Golden Girls moments, keep an eye out for that fresh-faced detective – it’s none other than Mr. Clooney, pre-ER and pre-Hollywood heartthrob.