There's Always Money In The Banana Stand
When it comes to the hit TV show Arrested Development, there's one recurring joke that fans can't seem to get enough of: "There's always money in the banana stand." But what exactly does that phrase mean, and why is it so endlessly entertaining? In this article, we'll take a deep dive into the world of the banana stand, exploring its significance to the show and its fans, as well as the real-life inspiration behind this quirky and beloved fixture of the Arrested Development universe.
The Legend of the Banana Stand
For those who haven't seen Arrested Development (and if you haven't, what are you waiting for?), the banana stand is a small snack shop situated on the boardwalk of Balboa Island, California. The stand is owned and operated by the Bluth family, who are the central characters of the show. The Bluths are a dysfunctional and wealthy clan, whose patriarch George Sr. is sent to prison in the first episode of the series for a variety of white-collar crimes.
The banana stand, meanwhile, serves as one of the family's few remaining sources of income, and becomes a recurring plot device throughout the show's five-season run. The phrase "There's always money in the banana stand" is first uttered in the second episode of season one, by the Bluths' eldest son Michael, who is trying to teach his son George Michael a lesson in fiscal responsibility. But as the show progresses, the phrase takes on new layers of meaning, becoming a symbol of both the family's business acumen and their complicated history.
The Significance of the Banana Stand
So why is the banana stand such an enduringly popular part of Arrested Development lore? For one thing, it represents a kind of comedic genius that is rare in television. The show's writers were able to take a simple concept (a banana stand on a boardwalk) and turn it into a running joke that spans multiple seasons and takes on a life of its own. The fact that the banana stand is a seemingly inconsequential detail only makes it more hilarious, as fans delight in the absurdity of a family whose entire fortune rests on a handful of frozen banana sales.
But beyond its comedic value, the banana stand is also a powerful symbol of the Bluth family's legacy. Throughout the show, it becomes clear that the family's wealth and influence are built on a foundation of lies, deceit, and shady business practices. And yet, despite all the turmoil and dysfunction, the banana stand remains a constant. It's a reminder that no matter how far the Bluths fall, there will always be something left standing (even if that something is just a rickety old snack shack).
The Real-Life Inspiration Behind the Banana Stand
While the banana stand is undoubtedly a fictional creation, it turns out that Arrested Development's writers drew inspiration from a real-life snack shop located in Newport Beach, California. The original banana stand (which is now long gone) was operated by the Hurwitz family, who were friends of Arrested Development creator Mitchell Hurwitz. According to Hurwitz, he had always been intrigued by the idea of a frozen banana stand, and eventually decided to incorporate it into the show as a way to pay homage to his childhood memories.
Of course, the banana stand on Arrested Development isn't an exact replica of its real-life counterpart. For one thing, the show's version is staffed by a series of inept and dysfunctional employees (including Michael's brother Gob, who is notorious for performing poorly in his role as a banana stand vendor). But even with all the zaniness and chaos, it's clear that the banana stand is more than just a snack shack. It's a symbol of the Bluth family's resilience, and a testament to the enduring power of frozen bananas.
In Conclusion
There's no denying that the banana stand is one of the most beloved and iconic parts of Arrested Development. From its humble beginnings as a throwaway joke to its status as a cultural touchstone, the banana stand has captured the hearts and imaginations of fans around the world. Whether you're a die-hard Arrested Development enthusiast or just someone who appreciates a good running gag, there's always money in the banana stand.
