Meaning: The quote "But once we got on the air, everybody except Morey Amsterdam pretty much stuck to the script" by Dick Van Dyke sheds light on the dynamics of working on a television show, particularly during the era of scripted, live audience sitcoms. This quote is a reflection on the collaborative nature of television production and the adherence to scripts, with Morey Amsterdam being an exception.

During the time when Dick Van Dyke made this statement, he was a prominent actor in the television industry, known for his role as Rob Petrie in "The Dick Van Dyke Show," a popular sitcom that aired from 1961 to 1966. The show was created by Carl Reiner and focused on the personal and professional life of Rob Petrie, a comedy writer for a fictional television show.

In the context of the quote, Dick Van Dyke is referring to the experience of working on "The Dick Van Dyke Show" and the dynamics of the cast and crew when they were on the air, performing the scripted episodes in front of a live audience. Morey Amsterdam, who played Buddy Sorrell, was known for his improvisational skills and was often the exception to sticking strictly to the script.

The quote implies that while Morey Amsterdam had a tendency to deviate from the script and insert his own comedic flair into the show, the rest of the cast, including Dick Van Dyke himself, generally adhered to the scripted material. This reflects the disciplined and professional approach to television production during that era, where adherence to the written material was typically expected.

Moreover, the quote provides insight into the working dynamics and creative processes involved in putting together a successful television show. It highlights the balance between staying faithful to the script and allowing room for improvisation and individual creativity, as demonstrated by Morey Amsterdam's approach to his role.

From a broader perspective, this quote also speaks to the unique talents and contributions of each cast member and the collaborative nature of creating a successful television program. While some actors may excel at improvisation and adding their own spin to the material, others may prefer to stick closely to the script, ensuring consistency and coherence in the storytelling.

In conclusion, Dick Van Dyke's quote offers a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes dynamics of television production during the era of scripted sitcoms. It underscores the balance between staying true to the written material and allowing for individual creativity, as exemplified by Morey Amsterdam's departure from the script. This quote serves as a reminder of the unique talents and dynamics that contribute to the success of a television show, while also highlighting the professionalism and dedication of the cast and crew in bringing scripted material to life on screen.