A: Budget cuts and the B-9 Robot. CBS was facing skyrocketing production costs, and the delicate props (like the Robot) were incredibly expensive to maintain and repair.
Lost in Space is a classic 1960s sci-fi television series that follows the adventures of the Robinson family, their pilot, a reluctant stowaway, and a robot as they attempt to survive after their spacecraft is knocked wildly off course.
- Years Active: 1965–1968 (3 seasons, 84 episodes)
- Creator: Irwin Allen
- Main Cast: Guy Williams (John Robinson), June Lockhart (Maureen Robinson), Mark Goddard (Don West), Marta Kristen (Judy Robinson), Angela Cartwright (Penny Robinson), Bill Mumy (Will Robinson), Jonathan Harris (Dr. Zachary Smith), and Bob May / Dick Tufeld (The Robot).
Major Production Blooper: The “Two-Legged” Alien Monkey
In the first season, Penny Robinson adopts an alien pet named Bloop (or the “Debbie the Bloop”). Because the budget couldn’t afford a complex animatronic, the production crew put a furry alien costume mask and makeup on a live chimpanzee named Judy (who was borrowed from Daktari).
The major, hilarious blooper occurred because chimpanzees frequently despise wearing headpieces. During several takes, the chimp would get annoyed, rip the alien ears right off her head, and break character by dropping to all fours or chewing on the props. Despite editing efforts, sharp-eyed viewers can easily spot moments where the “alien” looks exactly like a frustrated Earth chimpanzee trying to claw out of its costume.