Susan Olsen Reveals Hair Loss Struggles After Frequent Bleaching for ‘The Brady Bunch’

Susan Olsen Reveals Hair Loss Struggles After Frequent Bleaching for ‘The Brady Bunch’

Susan Olsen, famed for her role as Cindy Brady on the beloved television series ‘The Brady Bunch,’ has opened up about the sacrifices she made in pursuit of the show’s iconic look. Participating in a panel discussion at The Chocolate Expo alongside co-stars Christopher Knight, Mike Lookinland, and Barry Williams, Olsen discussed the rigorous hair maintenance required to portray her character during the series’ production.

In response to a fan’s inquiry regarding the upkeep of her blonde locks while playing Cindy Brady, Olsen shared that she underwent a significant transformation every three weeks. This rigorous schedule aimed to maintain the consistent appearance of her character’s hairstyle throughout the show’s five-year run.

Frequent Hair Dyeing Took Its Toll

Olsen, who began her journey with ‘The Brady Bunch’ at the young age of seven, revealed, “You bet. Every three weeks they had to dye my hair. If you look at the third season, my hair is kind of a different shade of blonde every episode.” The constant chemical treatments ultimately led to unfortunate consequences for Olsen’s hair health.

She recounted, “They were trying out different things, but then my hair had started to fall out. With that, I went back to letting my mom do my hair, every Friday night.” This return to a simpler routine provided Olsen with some respite from the damaging effects of regular bleaching.

Maintaining Cindy Brady’s Curls

Cindy Brady’s signature curls did not come naturally to Olsen. The young actress explained, “I had to keep it in rollers because my hair was straight. It couldn’t hold a curl unless I slept in them. But my mother was responsible for those ringlets.” The challenges of achieving the desired curls spoke to the lengths Olsen went to ensure her character was a true representation of the original vision.

A Walk Down Memory Lane with Co-Stars

During the panel, the cast members shared humorous anecdotes about their experiences on set. Lookinland contributed his own recollections, mentioning the simplicity of hair dye options available during the 1970s. He shared, “All I had was Miss Clairol, Jet Black number 23. I remember the little bottle and it said ‘jet black.’” Meanwhile, Olsen humorously dubbed her character’s hair color as “classic blonde.”

As the discussion progressed, Olsen and her co-stars reflected on the strong bonds formed during the show. Olsen expressed that the affection shared among the cast was genuine, stating, “the love was genuine” between all the co-stars. Knight echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the respect they held for their on-screen parents, played by Robert Reed and Florence Henderson. He remarked, “We didn’t want to disappoint them. And that’s at the center of a good parent relationship: a child that doesn’t want to disappoint their parents because of respect. And it was reciprocated because of the respect we had for them.”

‘The Brady Bunch’ Legacy

The series, which aired from 1969 to 1974, featured the dynamics of a blended family, showcasing the lives of Carol and Mike Brady as they navigated parenthood with three boys and three girls from previous marriages. The enchanting blend of humor, relatable family scenarios, and wholesome messages has left an indelible mark on American television history.

As Olsen and her co-stars continue to celebrate their time on ‘The Brady Bunch,’ their stories remind fans that behind the scenes, the journey was as challenging as it was rewarding. The panel at The Chocolate Expo provided a platform for these talented individuals to reconnect with their past and share insights into the rigorous demands of their roles.

Reflections on a Timeless Show

Much of what made ‘The Brady Bunch’ resonate with audiences was its authentic portrayal of family life. It addressed the intricacies of sibling relationships, the dynamics of parenting, and the essence of love and support. The foundation laid by Reed and Henderson’s performances served to inspire teamwork and dedication among the cast members.

The friendship formed during the series has endured through the years, with cast reunions and collaborations being a testament to the lasting impact of their time together. As the television landscape continues to evolve, the legacy of ‘The Brady Bunch’ remains alive, enchanting new generations of fans.

In summary, Olsen’s candidness about her hair struggles serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of entertainment. Her journey, alongside the camaraderie shared with her co-stars, shapes the enduring narrative of ‘The Brady Bunch’ and illustrates the profound connections that can emerge through shared experiences in the world of television.