The show was in trouble from the get go. Arnaz asked everyone not to ask for raises or take a cut to keep the show going. Carmel said no per his contract. He was let go. Desi himself was receiving multiple salaries as producer and later as an actor when he wrote himself into the show as recurring performer ! The show was terrible anyway and a comedown for Ballard and especially Eve Arden.
Today you could be standing next to someone who is trying their best not to fall apart. So whatever you do today, do it with kindness.