Why we still love the famous I Love Lucy & the chocolate factory scene
Even after decades, Lucy and Ethel’s chaotic attempt at working in a chocolate factory still has audiences cracking up. The humor of this 1952 episode captures everything fans loved about I Love Lucy — quick wit, slapstick comedy, and, of course, Lucy’s knack for turning a simple job into pure mayhem.
In this unforgettable episode, Lucy and Ethel land jobs wrapping chocolates at a factory. Their plan is to prove they can keep up with the fast-paced conveyor belt. But what starts as a smooth operation quickly spirals into comedy gold.
As the belt speeds up, the chocolates pile up faster than they can handle, leading to the famous moment when the two start stuffing candy into their hats and mouths. It’s a masterclass in physical comedy, and it’s no wonder this scene has remained so memorable.
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz, Vivian Vance (Actors)
- William Asher (Director) - Bob Carroll Jr. (Writer) - Jess Oppenheimer (Producer)
What made the chocolate factory scene so special was how it highlighted the hilarious dynamic between Lucy and Ethel. Their shared panic and determination to “succeed” in the factory, despite the absurd circumstances, perfectly showcased their friendship. This was the charm of I Love Lucy — the humor wasn’t just about the situation but about the characters and their relationship.
The episode has stood the test of time because it’s still relatable. While most of us have never worked in a candy factory, we’ve all experienced that feeling of being overwhelmed by an impossible task. Lucy and Ethel’s antics remind us that laughter is often the best way to deal with life’s crazier moments.
Lucille to return with comedy pals to Columbia spot (1952)
Columbia Broadcasting Co. publicity men are calling September 15 “L Day,” because that’s when “I Love Lucy,” the nation’s favorite television show according to many a poll, will return to its regular Monday night time slot.
Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz, Vivian Vance and William Frawley will be in their accustomed parts as the Ricardos and their landlords, the Mertzes.
The premier picture, called “Job Switching,” will find the familiar foursome doing exactly that after quarreling over the handling of the household budgets.
Lucille and Miss Vance will get jobs as chocolate dippers, while Arnaz and Frawley take over their domestic chores.
No further information about the show is available, but it’s a fairly safe bet, judging from past performances, that Lucille will get dipped in the chocolate in addition to doing the dipping.
MORE: See what Lucille Ball had to say about her marriage to Desi Arnaz back in 1950
I Love Lucy & the chocolate factory: The ladies vs the chocolates in “Job Switching” – video
MORE: We loved Lucy: ’50s magazines featuring the lovely Lucille Ball on the cover
3 Responses
This show was before my time, but this is one of the only scenes I remember from this show.
Loved Lucy ball and her shows.They don’t make them funny like this anymore.
Still hilarious!