5 iconic 'Seinfeld' props that made the show even funnier
What's the story
Seinfeld, the show about nothing, took the world by storm with its mind-bending humor and unforgettable characters. But apart from the smart dialogues and eccentric storylines, the props used in the series added to its iconic stature. From Jerry's apartment to Monk's Cafe, every single item was picked meticulously to add to the show's authenticity and humor. Here are five interesting behind-the-scenes facts about some of Seinfeld's most iconic props.
Superman
The Superman figurine
Jerry Seinfeld's love for Superman is no surprise, and it was subtly reflected throughout the series. A Superman figurine can be spotted in Jerry's apartment in many episodes. The prop was not just a random choice; it symbolized Jerry's admiration for the superhero and added a personal touch to his character's living space.
Puffy shirt
The puffy shirt
The infamous puffy shirt from Seinfeld's "The Puffy Shirt" episode went on to become one of the show's most memorable props. Designed by costume designer Charmaine Simmons, this shirt was supposed to be an exaggerated take on pirate fashion. Its absurdity perfectly encapsulated Kramer's eccentric ideas and contributed to the episode's comedic brilliance.
Festivus pole
The Festivus Pole
Festivus, introduced by Frank Costanza as a holiday alternative, came with nothing but a plain aluminum pole as opposed to traditional decorations. This simple prop was a nod to Frank's loathing of commercialism and became a lasting emblem of Seinfeld's knack for extracting humor from unexpected places.
Junior Mint
The Junior Mint candy box
In the memorable The Junior Mint episode, Kramer has the brilliant idea of dropping a candy into an open surgical cavity during an operation. The use of Junior Mints as a prop was both hilarious and unexpected, demonstrating how everyday items could be subtly woven into plotlines for the sake of comedy.
Urban sombrero
Elaine's urban sombrero
In the iconic The Muffin Tops episode, Elaine Benes temporarily takes over as editor-in-chief of the J. Peterman catalog. While Peterman is on sabbatical due to stress from his global adventures, Elaine launches her quirky creation—the Urban Sombrero—on the catalog's cover.