Shields & Yarnell

It's very strange the things that make me remember my childhood, especially those hazy years in the mid-1970's. I was lurking around Wikipedia last night and discovered that Lorene Yarnell of the mime-duo Shields & Yarnell had passed away in late July from a cerebral aneurysm at age 66.

My most vivid memory of the duo is from an episode of Wonder Woman, where Yarnell played "Formicida," the only super-powered villain I can recall from the series. Her big brown eyes and extremely wide, toothy smile always seem burned into my memory. Her then hubby Robert Shield was burned into my memory thanks to his furry chest (even back then I liked looking at them, it's true).

The pair had a variety show in 1977. I don't remember specific episodes, but I do remember "The Clinkers," a robotic couple they played with unblinking eyes and jerky, animatronic movements. It seemed to fascinate and creep me out at the same time. The show only lasted one season, but it seemed run in repeats for a bit.

It's when I read things about their careers from their divorce to their still appearing together afterward to Yarnell's demise that I start to feel a bit old. Most of the new folks in my office, those in their 20's, probably have no idea who they are.

Hmmm... maybe I'll break out that Wonder Woman episode on DVD tonight and give it watch. I love a good super-heroine cat-fight, even when they are as campy as that one was.

Shields & Yarnell -- The Clinkers at Breakfast

For those who have no idea who/what they were. I told you they were freaky...