Last Living Star of I Love Lucy Shares Fond Memories of Lucille Ball

The last living star from the iconic sitcom I Love Lucy, Keith Thibodeaux, recently reminisced about his experiences on the show during a special segment of the CW program TV We Love. Thibodeaux, who played Ricky Ricardo Jr., affectionately known as Little Ricky, shared heartfelt memories of working alongside television legends Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz.

In the interview, Thibodeaux expressed gratitude for how Ball and Arnaz treated him during the show’s production. He recalled that they embraced him as if he were their own child. “They introduced me to their children, Lucie Jr. and Desi Jr., who I became really good friends with as a kid. We grew up together,” he said.

Thibodeaux joined the cast of I Love Lucy at a young age, only four years old, and still retains vivid memories from that time. He acknowledged the immense pressure he felt while working on the show, particularly from Ball, known for her high standards. “Lucy was very demanding of everybody being right on cue,” he noted. In contrast, Thibodeaux praised Arnaz for his kindness, sharing that he taught him skills like fishing, riding horses, and swimming.

Reflecting on a specific experience, Thibodeaux recounted a memorable scene from Episode 9 of the show’s final season, titled “The Ricardos Visit Cuba.” During this episode, he was required to play the conga drums, a task that proved challenging for a child. “It’s a lot of pressure for a little kid,” he remarked, noting that performing before a live audience added to the intensity. “You did one take, and that was it. It hurt my hand so much to do, because I wasn’t used to doing that, playing the congas.”

Thibodeaux’s memories highlight the unique bond shared between the young actor and the stars of I Love Lucy, a show that has left an indelible mark on television history. As the last surviving member of the cast, Thibodeaux’s reflections serve as a poignant reminder of the show’s legacy and the personal connections forged during its production.

The insights provided by Thibodeaux are featured in the new CW special, which celebrates the enduring popularity of I Love Lucy and its impact on audiences around the world.