The crossword clue Susan of The Partridge Family typically refers to the character Susan Evers, played by actress Shirley Jones in the 1970–1974 television series The Partridge Family. In standard crossword syntax, the answer is often SHIRLEY (6 letters), following common pattern conventions for naming a female character from a known television family. This clue appears in many publications and puzzle archives because it ties a recognizable pop‑culture reference to a short, fillable word.
Key details at a glance
Below is a quick reference for the core facts around this clue.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Character name | Susan Evers | Series credits and episode guide |
| Actress | Shirley Jones | Production records |
| Typical crossword answer | SHIRLEY | Common crossword convention |
| Network | ABC | Network archives |
| Original run | 1970–1974 | Broadcast history |
About The Partridge Family
The Partridge Family was a sitcom that aired on ABC from 1970 to 1974, centered on a widowed mother and her children who form a traveling singing group. The show blended family comedy with musical performances and was produced by Screen Gems. Shirley Jones, a seasoned singer and actress before the show, portrayed the mother, Shirley Partridge, while the character Susan was one of the children in the blended family dynamic. The series remains a notable example of early‑1970s family television.
Susan Evers in the series
Susan Evers is the daughter of Shirley Partridge and the stepsister of the Partridge children. On the show, she is portrayed as a thoughtful, academically inclined teenager who occasionally participates in the family’s musical endeavors. The character appears throughout the original run and is part of the core family unit that defines the series.
Why this clue appears in crosswords
Crossword constructors favor well‑known names and relationships. The phrase Susan of The Partridge Family serves as a clear, recognizable descriptor for a single answer word. Because the show is historic but still culturally familiar, solvers who have encountered the series can connect the reference to the short answer. The convention of using a first name (often SHIRLEY) aligns with standard crossword expectations for character-from-series clues.
Common answers and length considerations
In most published puzzles, the answer to Susan of The Partridge Family is SHIRLEY. However, depending on grid design and letter count, constructors may choose alternate formats or require a longer answer such as a full name if the crossing letters support it. Solvers should consider the intersecting clues and the required letter count to confirm the intended solution.
- Most common answer: SHIRLEY (6 letters)
- Alternate possibility: SUSAN (5 letters) if the clue expects the character’s first name directly
- Context cue: The phrase of The Partridge Family typically indicates a surname belongs to the family, pointing to the mother’s name (SHIRLEY) rather than Susan’s own name
How to confirm the correct answer
When solving, check the number of blank squares and intersecting letters. If the clue reads Susan of The Partridge Family and the grid allows six letters, SHIRLEY is very likely correct. Cross-reference with other entries in the puzzle and consult an official episode guide or cast list if you need additional verification. Multiple reputable sources confirm Susan Evers is the daughter of Shirley Partridge within the series.
Cultural and historical context
The Partridge Family reflected 1970s family dynamics and the rise of musical television. Its blend of scripted comedy and musical performances made it popular across demographics. Shirley Jones brought credibility as an established performer, and the roles of the children, including Susan, helped humanize the idea of a modern blended family. The show’s format influenced later family-oriented series that integrated music.
Summary
The crossword clue Susan of The Partridge Family points to the character Susan Evers, daughter in the television family headed by Shirley Partridge. In most puzzles, the expected answer is SHIRLEY, the mother’s first name, which fits standard naming conventions for this type of reference. Understanding the show’s premise and character relationships helps solvers confirm the correct entry and appreciate why this clue has remained a staple in crossword archives.