History of Family Affair in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: June 29, 2024

Family Affair is an American sitcom that aired on CBS from 1966 to 1971. The show follows Bill Davis, a wealthy engineer living in New York City, who suddenly becomes the guardian of his brother's three orphaned children: 15-year-old Cissy and 6-year-old twins Jody and Buffy. The series focuses on the adjustments Davis and his traditional English butler, Mr. Giles French, have to make as they adapt to their new family dynamic.

September 12, 1966: Family Affair Premieres

On September 12, 1966, the beloved sitcom "Family Affair" premiered on CBS, introducing the world to the unconventional family of Bill Davis, his brother's orphaned children, and their steadfast butler, Mr. French.

1967: Introduction of Niles French

In 1967, due to Sebastian Cabot's illness, the character of Giles' brother, Nigel "Niles" French, played by John Williams, was introduced to the show for nine episodes.

October 1970: Final Issue of Family Affair Comic Book Released

October 1970 marked the release of the fourth and final issue of the "Family Affair" comic book series published by Gold Key Comics.

1970: Family Affair Merchandising and Buffy-Centric Products

In 1970, "Family Affair" saw a surge in merchandising, particularly focused on Anissa Jones' character, Buffy, including books, dolls, and toys.

March 4, 1971: Family Affair Airs Final Episode

After five seasons, "Family Affair" aired its final episode on March 4, 1971, marking the end of an era for the Davis family and their heartwarming adventures.

1976: Anissa Jones' Passing

Tragically, Anissa Jones, known for her role as Buffy, passed away from a drug overdose in 1976 at the age of 18.

1977: Sebastian Cabot's Passing

In 1977, Sebastian Cabot, who played the beloved Mr. French, died of a stroke at the age of 59.

1982: "Buffy Come Back" Song Released

The L.A. musical group Angel and the Reruns released a song titled "Buffy Come Back" in 1982, addressing the tragic passing of Anissa Jones.

1997: Brian Keith's Passing

Brian Keith, who played the role of Uncle Bill, died by suicide in 1997 at the age of 75, two months after the suicide of his daughter, and sometime after being diagnosed with cancer.

September 12, 2002: Family Affair Remake Premieres

A remake of "Family Affair" premiered on The WB on September 12, 2002, featuring Gary Cole as Uncle Bill and Tim Curry as Mr. Giles French.

March 13, 2003: Family Affair Remake Airs Final Episode

The remake of "Family Affair" aired its final episode on March 13, 2003, concluding its one-season run.

2019: Aunt Cissy Announced

In 2019, a new show titled "Aunt Cissy," starring Kathy Garver, was announced, drawing inspiration from the premise of "Family Affair" but not intended as a direct sequel.