The Kids of Desilu Reunion: A Retro “Nite of Dreams” to Remember

Herbie J Pilato September 13, 8:00 am

The Kids of Desilu Studios — Nite of Dreams Productions

What would we be without classic TV, and what would classic TV be without Desilu Studios? The famed facility takes its title from the combined name of its founders Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz.

Desilu introduced the world to countless hours of quality programming and an amazing array of stars, each with a boatload of talent and charisma, representing a relatable voice of their and our generation.

On Sunday, September 8, 2024, The Kids of Desilu live event celebrated all of that and more, with a remarkable array of iconic former child stars in particular.

Orchestrated and produced with precision by Carolyn Peterson and Nite of Dreams Productions and live event assistant Jenni Switz, and hosted by yours truly, Herbie J Pilato, The Kids of Desilu was nothing less than a spectacular affair.

A Nostalgic Night of Stars Like No Other

The Kids of Desilu celebrated a legendary studio and key iconic personalities of classic television; individuals who have delivered decades of joy, laughter, inspiration, sentiment, poignancy, and so much more on TV shows that have touched the hearts and minds of millions.

The former child star special guests included:

The one and only Keith Thibodeaux, a.k.a. Little Ricky from I Love Lucy.

Jon Provost who, as Timmy Martin, delivered one of the most earnest performances of a child actor in the history of classic television.

Larry Mathews, who brought Richie Petrie to spirited life on The Dick Van Dyke Show, playing son to Van Dyke’s Rob and Mary Tyler Moore’s Laura Petrie.

Stanley Livingston, a.k.a. Chip Douglas, on My Three Sons, who today is considered one of the nicest and most talented actors in and outside of Hollywood.

Tina Cole, who played Katie Douglas, also on My Three Sons, and who was also an elegant and prominent presence on the grand King Family TV shows and specials.

Photography by Lydia Camargo

Herbie J Pilato and “The Kids of Desilu” stars (from left): Keith Thibodeaux (Little Ricky from I Love Lucy), Stanley Livingston (Chip Douglas of My Three Sons), Tina Cole (Katie Douglas on My Three Sons and a member of the singing King Family), Larry Mathews (Richie Petrie from The Dick Van Dyke Show), and Jon Provost (Timmy Martin on Lassie).

Location, Location, Location

The Kids of Desilu was presented at the legendary Indian Wells Hotel Resort in Indian Wells, CA. The ideal venue and location, the Indian Wells Hotel Resort was constructed by Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, the founders of the famed Desliu Studios.

In addition to a delicious meal, those who attended the event were treated to entertainment by the remarkable Marky Lennon (cousin to the famed Lennon Sisters), a special musical performance by Tina Cole, and musical accompaniment by the versatile talents of Bill Peterson.

The evening’s entertainment culminated with a show-stopping, once-in-a-lifetime musical performance by Keith Thibodeaux. The dynamic personality recreated his famous solo drum performance from “Little Ricky Gets Stage Fright,” his most popular I Love Lucy episode.

There were also raffles, video presentations, a Q&A, and an extra-special guest appearance by Johnny Whitaker (from TV’s Family Affair and Sigmund and the Sea Monsters).

Audience members were in awe as they mingled with the select group of former child stars who shared memories and insight into their remarkable careers.

A portion of the proceeds were donated to Caterina’s Club, a nonprofit organization that serves over 25,000 warm nutritional meals to underprivileged children each week in Orange County, CA, and around the world.

Photography by Lydia Camargo

Producer and live event coordinator Carolyn Peterson (in blue) is surrounded by her “Nite of Dreams” team (from left): event assistant Jenni Switz, musician Bill Peterson, Herbie J Pilato, and vocalist Marky Lennon (seated center).

Lasting Impression

The Kids of Desilu indeed was an eclectic nostalgic evening of beloved stars that will long be remembered as a cherished moment in classic TV history.

Herbie J Pilato is an actor, writer, producer, and the author of several pop-culture media tie-in books including his new books, One Tough Dame: The Life and Career of Diana Rigg and Christmas TV Memories: Nostalgic Holiday Favorites of the Small Screen.