The Enigma of Cousin Itt: Unveiling the Secrets Behind the Iconic Costume

In the annals of television history, few characters have captured the imagination and inspired as much intrigue as Cousin Itt. This enigmatic figure, with his flowing, enigmatic hair concealing his entire body, has become a beloved icon of pop culture.

Behind the Mask of Hair

Beneath Cousin Itt's seemingly impenetrable veil of hair lies a fascinating backstory. The character was created by Charles Addams, the legendary cartoonist whose macabre creations graced the pages of The New Yorker magazine. Addams' inspiration for Cousin Itt came from a photograph of his hairy cousin, Earl Heberlein.

When the Addams Family television show debuted in 1964, Felix Silla, a diminutive Italian actor, was cast as Cousin Itt. Silla brought his own unique physicality and comedic timing to the role, further immortalizing the character.

Exploring the Hair Phenomenon

The most striking feature of Cousin Itt is, of course, his hair. This iconic mane is composed of horsehair and yak hair, giving it its voluminous and untamed appearance. According to a 1977 Time magazine article, the hair used to create Cousin Itt's costume weighed approximately 15 pounds.

The costume was meticulously crafted by Don Post Studios, a legendary Hollywood makeup and costume design company. Each hair was individually sewn onto a special net cap, creating a flowing, ethereal effect.

Behind-the-Scenes Challenges

While Cousin Itt's hair may appear comical, it posed significant challenges for the actor behind the costume. Silla had to wear the costume for hours, enduring the weight and heat generated by the synthetic hair.

To maintain his balance, Silla wore a custom-designed harness that was attached to the roof of the sound stage. This allowed him to walk and move freely without losing his composure.

The Symbolism of Hair

Beyond its visual appeal, Cousin Itt's hair carries a deeper symbolic meaning. It represents the mysteries and secrets that lie hidden beneath the surface. Just as the audience could never see Cousin Itt's true face, so too are we often unaware of the true nature of people around us.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

The Cousin Itt costume has had a profound impact on popular culture. It has been parodied, imitated, and referenced in countless works of art, literature, and music. The character has become a symbol of the grotesque, the mysterious, and the untamed.

Cousin Itt's legacy continues to inspire artists and entertainers to this day. His iconic costume remains a testament to the power of creativity and the enduring appeal of the unknown.

Transition Words for Smooth Flow

Firstly, Cousin Itt's hair was composed of horsehair and yak hair.

Secondly, the costume weighed approximately 15 pounds.

Thirdly, Silla wore a custom-designed harness to maintain his balance.

Moreover, Cousin Itt's hair symbolizes the mysteries that lie hidden beneath the surface.

Finally, his costume has had a profound impact on popular culture.

Table 1: Dimensions of Cousin Itt's Hair

Table 2: Behind-the-Scenes Stats

Table 3: Cousin Itt's Cultural Impact

Stories and Lessons Learned

Story 1: The Hairy Situation

Once, while filming an episode of "The Addams Family", Silla's hair caught on a prop. The crew had to carefully cut him free, highlighting the importance of safety precautions when working with unusual costumes.

Lesson: Always prioritize safety, no matter how intricate or elaborate the costume.

Story 2: The Mystery Revealed

In a 1977 episode, Cousin Itt's face was finally revealed. It turned out that he was an ordinary-looking man with a shaved head. The unmasking served as a humorous reminder that even the most enigmatic characters may have secrets.

Lesson: Don't be afraid to embrace the unexpected and challenge preconceived notions.

Story 3: The Hairy Hero

During a fire at the "Addams Family" filming location, Silla donned his Cousin Itt costume and helped carry equipment to safety. His heroism demonstrated that even the most iconic characters can serve as role models.

Lesson: Courage and selflessness can be found in the most unlikely of places.

Effective Strategies for Creating a Cousin Itt Costume

1. Choose the right materials: Use horsehair or yak hair for an authentic look.
2. Sew the hair meticulously: Secure each hair individually to a net cap for durability.
3. Balance the weight: Wear a supportive harness to prevent fatigue and improve mobility.
4. Ventilate the costume: Install air conditioning vents to combat heat buildup.
5. Collaborate with the cameraman: Use floor guides and clear communication to navigate seamlessly.

Tips and Tricks

• Use a vacuum cleaner to remove hair: After each use, vacuum the costume thoroughly to prevent tangles and maintain its shape.
• Store the costume properly: Hang the costume on a sturdy hanger in a cool, dry place to prevent damage.
• Practice walking in the costume: Familiarize yourself with the harness and movements before filming or performing.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to compensate for the heat generated by the hair.
• Have fun: Remember that the Cousin Itt costume is synonymous with joy and laughter. Let your enthusiasm shine through.

FAQs

Q: What is the origin of Cousin Itt's name?
A: The name is a play on the phrase "Cousin Ethel", which was a common name in the early 20th century.

Q: Why is Cousin Itt so secretive about his face?
A: The character's mystique and allure stems from the fact that his true identity remains a secret.

Q: How many Cousin Itts were there in "The Addams Family" show?
A: There were two actors who played Cousin Itt: Felix Silla in the original 1960s series and Paul Reubens in the 1990s movie.

Q: Is the Cousin Itt costume fireproof?
A: No, the costume is not fireproof. It is made of synthetic materials that could melt or ignite in a fire.

Q: What is the hair on Cousin Itt's costume made of?
A: The hair is composed of horsehair and yak hair.

Q: How long did it take to put on the Cousin Itt costume?
A: It could take up to an hour to put on the full costume, including the hair, harness, and makeup.