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Subject: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: whistledog on 07/25/07 at 12:26 am

Whether they ran for only a few episodes, or got cancelled after after maybe 1 or 2 seasons or had a short series run before getting the boot, the 80s was full of short-lived TV shows.  I devote this thread to remembering some of them.  Feel free to contribute to what will be an ever growing list that will bring back great (and some not so great) memories of classic TV shows that never got the chance to become a long lasting series

---------------------------------------------------------


The Charmings

http://www.charmings.org/imgsite/logo.jpg

♦ Season 1
♦ Season 2

It was a sitcom about the story of Snow White and Prince Charming who get transported to modern day 20th century suburbia.  Christopher Rich (whom you know from 'Murphy Brown' and 'Reba'), Brandon Call (who played JT on the 90s sitcom 'Step by Step') and the late Paul Winfield are recognizable cast members. 

I remember this show, but only in vague recollections.  If it ever came to DVD (which is probably unlikely), I would totally get it!

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: Davester on 07/25/07 at 12:46 am

   Tenspeed and Brownshoe
   

   http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2006-6/1193336/tenspeed.jpeg

   Intro: Intro

   My dad and I watched the pilot.  He was pretty stoked.  I pigged-out on Honey-Nut Cheerios that night.  Don't know why it tanked, I mean, come on, it's Jeff freakin' Goldblum, man..!

   I don't remember the Charmings, at all...

  Not in French...

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: whistledog on 07/25/07 at 12:51 am

^ That show looks cool.  Shame it never went beyond 1 season.  Stephen J. Cannell always makes quality TV 8)

-------------------------------------------------


Here's a blast from the past ...

Matt Houston

http://img65.imageshack.us/img65/2813/castxe6.jpg

♦ Season 3

Lee Horsley starred as Matt Houston, a private detective.  I remember this show big time!  Of the Private Eye shows in the 80s, it couldn't beat giants like Remington Steele or Magnum P.I. but it held it's own!  Action, Drama, it's all there!

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: whistledog on 07/25/07 at 1:11 am

Wizards and Warriors

http://www.wizardsandwarriors.org/images/thumbnails/1_140_small.jpg

♦ Only Season

Medieval adventure series starring Jeff Conaway (Taxi), Julia Duffy (Newhart) and Walter Olkewicz (Grace Under Fire).  I seem to remember this airing on Saturdays ?  I always thought this was a cool idea for a show.  It's a shame it didn't catch on with viewers :(

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: gumbypiz on 07/25/07 at 1:25 am


  Tenspeed and Brownshoe
 

  http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2006-6/1193336/tenspeed.jpeg

  Intro: Intro

  My dad and I watched the pilot.  He was pretty stoked.  I pigged-out on Honey-Nut Cheerios that night.  Don't know why it tanked, I mean, come on, it's Jeff freakin' Goldblum, man..!

  I don't remember the Charmings, at all...

  Not in French...

Totally remember this show, was only on just under a year, great chemistry between Goldblum and Vereen. Should've gone the distance.

How about the "The Slap Maxwell Story" (1987-1988)

http://www.tv-intros.com/s/slap%20maxwell%20story.jpg

http://www.tv-intros.com/s/slap%20maxwell%20story%20-%20intro%20-%20vcd1.wmv

Very well written, funny, witty Dabney Coleman sitcom about a grumpy sportswriter, who always got slapped around by people in the opening. Usually his slanderous, embellished writing got him fired from the local paper, only to get re-hired before the shows end.

Funny laugh out loud humor, then later giggles from the dialog that I wouldn't "get" until days later.
Strange, irrelevant, off-beat comedy that was doomed to fail in the mainstream market.
Too smart and unusual for its own good. :(

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: whistledog on 07/25/07 at 3:21 am

^ I remember the title of that one, but can't say as I ever saw it.  From that clip, it looked like an interesting show :)



Here's one I used to watch every Sunday ...

Our House

http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/1752/ourhousetvshowyb1.png

NBC Promo:

It starred Wilford Brimley as a retired widower.  His son had just died, so his daughter-in-law Jessica (Deirdre Hall) and her 3 kids (Shannen Doherty, Chad Allen and Keri Houlihan) move in with him.  NBC pulled the plug after Season 2 due to slipping ratings.  It was a great family show, that really should've been given another chance

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: robby76 on 07/25/07 at 3:34 am

Seven Brothers for Seven Brides (1 season / 1982)

http://www.rdanderson.com/film/images/brides1.jpg

Great theme tune!!! I have 3 episodes on dvd. It stars Richard Dean Anderson and a young River Phoenix.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oB3Z_7ITUEE


Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: robby76 on 07/25/07 at 3:35 am

Misfits of Science (1 season / 1985-86)

We should all know this one. Stars Courtney Cox. It's about kids who develop super powers.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gkpN9Z96oIw

http://raphael.longbournprods.com/images/misfits.jpg

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: robby76 on 07/25/07 at 3:39 am

Just Our Luck (1 season / 1983-84)

About a genie from ancient Egypt who comes to life in the 80s and helps out a bumbling weatherman. Shabu the genie was played by TK Carter.

Also had a great theme tune! We had one taped on VHS from back in the day but the mould got to it.  >:(

http://www.tvacres.com/images/genie_shabu.jpg

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: robby76 on 07/25/07 at 3:44 am

Mr Smith (1 season / 1983)

A weird one about a talking orangutan with an IQ of 256 that became a political advisor in Washington DC! Again we had one episode taped - one where he went on a crash diet... crazy crazy!

http://www.jmcostumers.com/assets/images/Copy_of_Mr_Smith.jpg

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: robby76 on 07/25/07 at 3:51 am

Automan (1 season / 1983-84)

Another one that needs no introduction. I tracked down a bootleg copy out of necessity. Starred Desi Arnaz Jnr and Chuck Wagner. Crime fighting with computers! Ingenius!  ;D

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQb1ZD9W8_c

http://www.indignato.it/archive/Automan2.JPG

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: robby76 on 07/25/07 at 3:54 am

Whiz Kids (1 season / 1983-84)

Kids series that again centred around computers. Starred Matthew Laborteaux. Loved this!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vRyKslGrGk

http://epguides.com/WhizKids/cast.jpg

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: bookmistress4ever on 07/25/07 at 5:46 am


Misfits of Science (1 season / 1985-86)

We should all know this one. Stars Courtney Cox. It's about kids who develop super powers.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gkpN9Z96oIw

http://raphael.longbournprods.com/images/misfits.jpg


I LOVED that one.

Dean Martin's son was also lead in it, but he got killed in a jet plane crash only a couple years later.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: bookmistress4ever on 07/25/07 at 5:47 am


Whiz Kids (1 season / 1983-84)

Kids series that again centred around computers. Starred Matthew Laborteaux. Loved this!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vRyKslGrGk

http://epguides.com/WhizKids/cast.jpg


I loved this one too!

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: bookmistress4ever on 07/25/07 at 6:04 am

There was a pilot episode for a series called "The Bakery" about a building that started out as a huge bakery/factory then 50 years later it was turned into a police station and then like 50 years after that it was all "futuristic" police station.  I can't find anything about this series because well...it never progressed past being a pilot, but I did see it on t.v. and I thought it was really good.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: danootaandme on 07/25/07 at 6:38 am

"What's Allen Watching"  I remember seeing it and it was a howl, it was with Corin Nemec.  Brilliant, but I don't know what happened.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: joedeertae on 07/25/07 at 6:50 am

Automan was GREAT!  8)


Once A Hero (4-5 episodes/1987)
The creator of comic superhero Captain Justice, Abner Bevis, is in a rut, repeating old story lines. The comic's owners want to kill the strip off due to falling sales, and children are losing interest in it. This transfers itself to the world of the comic strip, Pleasantville, where Justice realizes his adventures are repeats, and the characters of the world are starting to fade. So Justice crosses into the real world. He finds he has lost his superpowers, but the comic's Gumshoe has followed him and is looking out for him. His antics create renewed interest in the strip. Bevis is inspired to make Justice more contemporary, and the owners agree not to cancel it. (IMBD)

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: midnite1 on 07/25/07 at 9:21 am

I loved the Charmings (the mirror was so funny).  And i watched Matt Houston too.

Streethawk.  It only aired 13 episodes in 1985. It was about a cop who was a bond-like spy at night.  He had a motorcycle that could do special things.  It was a motorcycle version of Knight Rider.

Third Eye - It aired on Nickelodeon in 1982 and 1983 about kids with special powers.  It took place in the UK and New Zealand.  My generation's Harry Potter.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: robby76 on 07/25/07 at 10:13 am

Of the earlier postings, I loved Our House and used to watch it religiously with my sister. The Charmings was good if short-lived.

Wizards & Warriors I remember very well too - if only for the opening titles. I totally forgot about this one... but with only 8 episodes I don't blame me.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: robby76 on 07/25/07 at 10:22 am

Rags To Riches (2 seasons / 1987-88)

A millionaire adopts 6 orphan girls to improve his public image. Starred Tisha Campbell and many others. I loved this!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4D4UShuRUaw

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y-17gnwoWG8

http://www.ragstorichesonline.net/pics/Cast4.jpg

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: robby76 on 07/25/07 at 10:28 am

The Wizard (1 season / 1986)

Simon McKay is a genius toy developer who helps people with his inventions. He's a midget too and played by David Rapaport. Yet again I used to watch this.  ;D

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CvyzTMovFKY

There are some full episodes on You Tube too.

http://content.answers.com/main/content/wp/en/thumb/5/55/180px-David_rappaport_publicity.jpg

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: robby76 on 07/25/07 at 10:42 am

Code Red (1 season / 1981-82)

Series about a family of firefighters. Big cast includes Adam Rich (Eight is Enough), Sam Jones (Flash Gordon), Lorne Greene (Battlestar Gallactica), Andrew Stevens etc.

I have one episode still on VHS which I watch from time to time.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nS5d8jAxxK8

http://epguides.com/CodeRed/cast.jpg

http://www.iann.net/movies/codered/images/codered.jpg

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: Timm on 07/25/07 at 10:55 am

I Loved Code Red....

How About "The Fall Guy"

http://timstvshowcase.com/fallguy1.jpg




The Fall Guy was a series about bounty hunter Colt Seavers. Every week Colt and his gang was assigned to apprehend a fugitive from justice.

Colt and his cousin Howie were also working as stuntmen in Hollywood. The tricks of that trade often helped them to capture their guy.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: spaceace on 07/25/07 at 11:22 am

Shell Games.  It starred James Read (North and South miniseries fame) and Margot Kider (Lois Lane in Superman movies)  It was a cop show.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: midnite1 on 07/25/07 at 12:09 pm

These were not as obscure as some of the aforementioned shows.

Riptide - ran from 1984 to 1986 about two detectives and their nerdy scientist friend who would use computers and robots to track people.  Their boat was called Riptide.

Buck Rogers - sci-fi show that ran from 1980 - 1981 about a man who was frozen for 500 years.  He awakes to find the earth occupied by aliens.  Buck Rogers fight bad guys and tries to save the lost colonies of humans.

Max Headroom - i cant remember if i liked this show or not. I just remember it briefly.  It ran from 1987 to 1988 about a futuristic society.  I remember that Max Headroom was annoying in the Coke commercials, but i liked the show for some reason.

Alien Nation - ran from 1988 to 1989 about a futuristic society where aliens and humans live side by side.  It follows a human detective and his alien partner. 

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: whistledog on 07/25/07 at 12:15 pm

Excellent additions everyone! 8)


How About "The Fall Guy"

http://timstvshowcase.com/fallguy1.jpg




The Fall Guy was a series about bounty hunter Colt Seavers. Every week Colt and his gang was assigned to apprehend a fugitive from justice.

Colt and his cousin Howie were also working as stuntmen in Hollywood. The tricks of that trade often helped them to capture their guy.


The Fall guy wasn't short-lived.  It ran 5 seasons for 113 episodes

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: star500 on 07/25/07 at 1:17 pm

What about The Edison Twins?

The Edison kids are a pair of sibling prodigies who have many adventures where their vast knowledge of science comes in very handy.

Intro: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CMAK0N3U8k

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: whistledog on 07/25/07 at 1:22 pm


What about The Edison Twins?

The Edison kids are a pair of sibling prodigies who have many adventures where their vast knowledge of science comes in very handy.

Intro: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CMAK0N3U8k




That actually ran for 6 seasons (78 episodes).  Each season though was the lenth of half a regular season, so technically in regular season time, it ran 3 seasons (1983-1986).

The Edison Twins is one of the best Canadian shows in TV history.  I grew up on it, and I still love it! 8)

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: star500 on 07/25/07 at 1:26 pm

Oh...okay...I thought it was only two seasons, LOL.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: star500 on 07/25/07 at 1:42 pm

Okay I have another obscure children's TV show: Does anyone remember Size Small? I think it only lasted one season. All I remember about it was that it had a record that bangs wooden spoons together. LOL. I can't find an intro to it on You Tube.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: whistledog on 07/25/07 at 1:48 pm


Okay I have another obscure children's TV show: Does anyone remember Size Small? I think it only lasted one season. All I remember about it was that it had a record that bangs wooden spoons together. LOL. I can't find an intro to it on You Tube.




LOL I remember Size Small.  It was one of the biggest Canadian children's shows of the 80s.  It debuted in 1982, and in several incarnations, ran until the late 80s, though info on the internet is quite sketchy as to what year it actually ended.  Several versions were re-titled "Size Small Island" and "Size Small Country".  I used to have a crush on Miss Helen http://spiffy-entertainment.com/forums2/images/smiles/laugh2.gif

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: AnnieBanannie on 07/25/07 at 3:33 pm

"Spencer," with Chad Lowe.  What a hottie.  I'll find a pic later, photobucket's firewalled here.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: Doc Brown on 07/25/07 at 5:15 pm

I think many of us can agree that the funniest short-lived 80's show had to be SLEDGE HAMMER! (1986-1988)That guy was so nuts that you just had to cheer him on. I mean, what other cop actually slept with, showered with & talked to his gun? Maybe even more so than his partner!

Doreau: You can't solve everything with a gun!
Hammer: Yeah, but my bazooka's in the trunk.


And I still love the pilot episode where the sniper's barricaded on the abaondoned building's roof, Sledge whips out said bazooka, fires one blast that brings the building down, then turns to the uniformed cops and says, "I think I got'em." NTM the captain always railing at Sledge was usually a laugh riot! No show packed more comedy into just two seasons than this Dirty Harry lampoon! I guess You really could trust Sledge, He knew what he was doing.

Your Pal,
Doc

8)

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: whistledog on 07/25/07 at 5:33 pm


I think many of us can agree that the funniest short-lived 80's show had to be SLEDGE HAMMER! (1986-1988)That guy was so nuts that you just had to cheer him on. I mean, what other cop actually slept with, showered with & talked to his gun? Maybe even more so than his partner!

Doreau: You can't solve everything with a gun!
Hammer: Yeah, but my bazooka's in the trunk.


And I still love the pilot episode where the sniper's barricaded on the abaondoned building's roof, Sledge whips out said bazooka, fires one blast that brings the building down, then turns to the uniformed cops and says, "I think I got'em." NTM the captain always railing at Sledge was usually a laugh riot! No show packed more comedy into just two seasons than this Dirty Harry lampoon! I guess You really could trust Sledge, He knew what he was doing.

Your Pal,
Doc

8)



"Trust me, I know what I'm doing!"

I loved Sledge Hammer!  I need to get the DVD seasons

Subject: h

Written By: tetratron on 07/25/07 at 7:23 pm

:-X

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: robby76 on 07/25/07 at 8:36 pm

Love the Edison Twins! They were my Saturday mornings! I've been collecting all the vhs' from ebay / amazon. There's even a myspace dedicated to them... http://www.myspace.com/edisontwins Wish they'd get that released on dvd.

My brother has both seasons of Sledgehammer - another classic! I  love the episode where he got poisoned.

http://timstvshowcase.com/sledgehammer1.jpg

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: coqueta83 on 07/25/07 at 10:53 pm

Don't forget Square Pegs!  :) I wish this show was given a better chance.  :\'(

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: JamieMcBain on 07/25/07 at 10:57 pm

What about The Master?

It was a short lived series, about ninja played by Lee Van Cliff?



or

Manimal?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HQZxRH6uoiY

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: Davester on 07/26/07 at 12:07 am


Totally remember this show, was only on just under a year, great chemistry between Goldblum and Vereen. Should've gone the distance.

How about the "The Slap Maxwell Story" (1987-1988)

http://www.tv-intros.com/s/slap%20maxwell%20story.jpg

http://www.tv-intros.com/s/slap%20maxwell%20story%20-%20intro%20-%20vcd1.wmv

Very well written, funny, witty Dabney Coleman sitcom about a grumpy sportswriter, who always got slapped around by people in the opening. Usually his slanderous, embellished writing got him fired from the local paper, only to get re-hired before the shows end.

Funny laugh out loud humor, then later giggles from the dialog that I wouldn't "get" until days later.
Strange, irrelevant, off-beat comedy that was doomed to fail in the mainstream market.
Too smart and unusual for its own good. :(


  Yeah, Goldblum is a treat to watch.  Very engaging actor...

  No, I sure don't remember Slap Maxwell, gumbypiz.  I looked it up to see when it originally aired - '87-'88...

  I was 'disconnected' (TV, movies, &etc...) during the late 80s as I was at sea much of the time.  Never even heard of Slap Maxwell Story until just this minute...

  Sounds like another winner that saw an early grave.  I guess in order to have mass appeal one must sit on their heads or consort with chimpanzees... ;D

  I was going to add Mike Hammer but I can't recall, right now, how long it lasted.  I must look it up.  I really enjoyed that one groove ;) on...

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: Davester on 07/26/07 at 12:09 am


Don't forget Square Pegs!  :) I wish this show was given a better chance.  :\'(




   Square Pegs must  see DVD...

   It will, and soon.  I can guarantee it.  I've just felt a disturbance in the force...

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: whistledog on 07/26/07 at 12:14 am


   I was going to add Mike Hammer but I can't recall, right now, how long it lasted.  I must look it up.  I really enjoyed that one groove ;) on...


Mike Hammer w/ Stacy Keach?  I used to be glued when that was on.  If memory serves, it ran for only 3 seasons

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: quirky_cat_girl on 07/26/07 at 12:16 am

Of course we can't forget the beloved, "Bosom Buddies"...that show didn't last nearly as long as it should have. :-\\

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: Davester on 07/26/07 at 12:21 am


Mike Hammer w/ Stacy Keach?  I used to be glued when that was on.  If memory serves, it ran for only 3 seasons


   That be the one, sir...

   Used to watch it mid-mornings.  A&E aired it in the mid-nineties and I nevver missed an ep.  With only three seasons I should've recorded it...

   Wait a minute - it's on DVD...

   Groovy..!

 
Of course we can't forget the beloved, "Bosom Buddies"...that show didn't last nearly as long as it should have. :-\\


  I've mentioned this before, but untill watching Hanks as Uncle Ned on the Family Ties  DVD, I'd forgotten how genuinely funny he is.  How can someone be that funny?  The writing?  The delivery?  Both?  His lines in his guest appearance on Family Ties  is money, every time..!

 

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: quirky_cat_girl on 07/26/07 at 12:30 am


   

   
   I've mentioned this before, but untill watching Hanks as Uncle Ned on the Family Ties  DVD, I'd forgotten how genuinely funny he is.  How can someone be that funny?  The writing?  The delivery?  Both?  His lines in his guest appearance on Family Ties  is money, every time..!

 



Yes, he is quite funny! I think that he and Peter Scolari worked very well off of one another in "Bosom Buddies"...they were both very funny.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: whistledog on 07/26/07 at 12:38 am


   I've mentioned this before, but untill watching Hanks as Uncle Ned on the Family Ties  DVD, I'd forgotten how genuinely funny he is.  How can someone be that funny?  The writing?  The delivery?  Both?  His lines in his guest appearance on Family Ties  is money, every time..!


He'll reprise Uncle Ned in a Season 2 episode.  If I remember correctly, he plays an alcoholic cause I used to refer to him as Drunk Uncle Ned LOL
Hanks is such a versatile actor.  There isn't anything he can't do 8)


Of course we can't forget the beloved, "Bosom Buddies"...that show didn't last nearly as long as it should have. :-\\


Bosom Buddies should have lasted longer I agree, but in a way, I am glad it ended when it did because I liked Peter Scolari best on Newhart.  If Newhart ever comes to DVD, I'm going to run outside and scream with excitement, just like I did when S1 of Mama's Family came out.  Well, maybe just a silent scream within my home LOL

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: AnnieBanannie on 07/26/07 at 10:33 am


"Spencer," with Chad Lowe.  What a hottie.  I'll find a pic later, photobucket's firewalled here.


I looked for a long time last night and could NOT find a pic of him in this show.  Shame.  :(

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: bookmistress4ever on 07/26/07 at 11:36 am

E/R starring Robert Gould and a very young (still handsome) George Clooney

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: AmericanGirl on 07/26/07 at 10:38 pm


Riptide - ran from 1984 to 1986 about two detectives and their nerdy scientist friend who would use computers and robots to track people.  Their boat was called Riptide.


I remember watching and liking that one


Don't forget Square Pegs!  :) I wish this show was given a better chance.  :\'(


I remember that one fondly, too!

Here's a forgotten one: Double Trouble  starring the Sagal twins (Liz & Jean)

Check out http://www.ioffer.com/i/10808074 for the video

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: robby76 on 07/27/07 at 12:55 am


Here's a forgotten one: Double Trouble  starring the Sagal twins (Liz & Jean)


Another of my favourites! This needs an official release too!

Here's the opening title...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BuIex0qiu-Y

http://epguides.com/DoubleTrouble/cast.jpg

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: whistledog on 07/27/07 at 1:01 am


Another of my favourites! This needs an official release too!

Here's the opening title...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BuIex0qiu-Y

http://epguides.com/DoubleTrouble/cast.jpg


Donnelly Rhodes is a Canadian legend!  I love him in all he does!  Double Trouble needs to come to DVD definately!

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: snozberries on 07/27/07 at 9:13 am


Powers of the Matthew Star
http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c283/Dahduhndahdah/powersofmatthewstar.jpg


V the TV series
http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k274/ayeshamax/v.jpg

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: robby76 on 07/27/07 at 10:14 am

Was V that short lived? It seemed to have a good run - at least 3 years maybe? Perhaps just 2 actually. Either way I loved it! I have the movies and the mini-series on dvd. A true classic!

Well done on Powers Of Matthew Star! That was supreme!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UwSZeYDRd08

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: spaceace on 07/27/07 at 10:52 am


I remember watching and liking that one

I remember that one fondly, too!

Here's a forgotten one: Double Trouble  starring the Sagal twins (Liz & Jean)

Check out http://www.ioffer.com/i/10808074 for the video


I used to watch Double Trouble.  One of the twins was sophisticated and a bit of a snob and one was a Tomboy.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: CatwomanofV on 07/27/07 at 1:02 pm

Police Squad (pre-Naked Gun movies with Leslie Nielson)
Easy Street (Loni Anderson)
Our World: It's about time (a news show with Linda Elerbee which I thought was GREAT but was opposite Cosby.  :-\\ )


I know there are a lot more but that is all I can think of right now.



Cat

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: snozberries on 07/27/07 at 3:22 pm


Was V that short lived? It seemed to have a good run - at least 3 years maybe? Perhaps just 2 actually. Either way I loved it! I have the movies and the mini-series on dvd. A true classic!

Well done on Powers Of Matthew Star! That was supreme!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UwSZeYDRd08


V started out as a two part mini series in 83.
V the Final Battle was a 3 part mini series in 84.

V the series only lasted one season...

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: CatwomanofV on 07/27/07 at 3:25 pm

Another one I just remembered, Alien Nation. It started as a made-for-tv movie before becoming a series. I liked it.



Cat

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: whistledog on 07/27/07 at 5:59 pm


Police Squad (pre-Naked Gun movies with Leslie Nielson)


Woman - "What is this, some kind of bust?"
Frank Drebbin - "Yes, that's very impressive, but I'm here on official police business"

;D

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: MaxwellSmart on 07/27/07 at 9:17 pm


"Spencer," with Chad Lowe.  What a hottie.  I'll find a pic later, photobucket's firewalled here.

OMG, I loved that show.......which was strange, because it's not typically the kind of show I liked.  The changed the name to "Under One Roof," but I think it still lasted only two seasons.  He could have been a Ferris Bueller-type character, but the writers didn't seem to have that kind of talent.



Don't forget Square Pegs!  :) I wish this show was given a better chance.  :\'



Absolutely.  Devo once did a guest performance playing "That's Pep."  It was also one of the first series to feature an obviously gay teen, Johnny Slash (Merritt Butrick, R.I.P.)  I think its brevity is what makes it a pop culture icon.  It didn't stay around long enough to go stale.  As TV shows go, it's a relatively acurate portrait of its subject: teen angst, 1982. 

To this thread I add "Otherworld" (Spring and Fall seasons, 1985). 
The Sterling family on vacation in Egypt crosses over into another plane of reality and is trying to get home.
A sort of mash-up of "Twilight Zone," "Star Trek," and "Lost in Space."
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zygxePPz4Qw

and....

"Voyagers!" (Fall, 1982, Spring, 1983)

http://imdb.com/title/tt0083500/

Phineas Bogg is a "Voyager."  Voyagers are time travelers who fix errors in history.  Bogg accidentally ends up in 1982 by error.  The time travel device is only supposed to go as late as 1970.   In 1982 he has a chance run in with Jeffrey Jones (no, not that Jeffrey Jones), age 12.  Through a series of blunders Jeffrey and his dog end up on the time machine.  Bogg tries to get Jeffrey back home, but he can't reproduce the error that got him past the 1970 limit, so Jeffrey gets to be a junior partner. 

"Voyagers!' was a noble attempt by NBC to produce what we might now call "edutainment."  The network, in league with scholastic interests, pushed a "Voyagers!" package of books, games, and activities to promote the program to the target audience, ages 8 to 15, via the schools.

It was just so hard to make a decent historical/time travel/adventure show within the allotted budget.  The idea was terrific and would have worked if they could have gotten a year-round Spielberg-level budget.  I further suggest "Voyagers!" had problems with the subject of history itself.

Edison's light bulb and the Wright Brothers' airplane are events in history; they are not the grist of history.  History is fired in a kiln of war, greed, plague, famine, disaster, and pain.  "Voyagers!" was cute.  History is anything but.

There was thus a philosophical conundrum.  If Bogg's job was to "fix" history, doesn't he have to go back to 1910 and stop young Hitler from getting killed by that streetcar?  Well?  Are not World War II and the Holocaust defining historical events of the 20th century?  If Bogg must make to Jeffrey a philosophical argument why they must not stop 66 million deaths, including 6 million Jews in the Holocaust, what you have is a program that:
a. Runs along the lines of Jonathan Swift and Kurt Vonnegut.
b. Falls out of the 8 -15 demographic.
c. Gets protested by the Anti-Defamation League.
Pick any era and similar conundrums arise. 

This is all moot because the writers never had to wrestle with these conundrums.  The network canceled the series after 20 episodes!
;D

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: whistledog on 07/29/07 at 12:46 am

I was just reading up on "The Charmings".  It began as a successful show, but in it's second season, ABC moved it's time slot opposite NBC's 'The Cosby Show'.  Naturally, the ratings fell drastically, so ABC pulled the plug.  Seems suspicious to me.  If you move your show against the most popular show on TV, what else do you expect?

Maybe one day they will bring it to DVD.  What with Christopher Rich's success as Brock Hart on Reba, I'm sure fans of that show would like to see his early work.

And speaking of Christopher Rich, it's a shame there's no plans for further seasons of Murphy Brown.  The seasons where he played Miller Redfield were great.  I loved him in that role.  He played such a dimwit ;D

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: snozberries on 07/29/07 at 10:49 am

I don't remember the Charmings at all.... but if they were moved opposite Cosby then that's probably why...

Mr Merlin (1981)
The Famous Teddy Z (1989)

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: CatwomanofV on 07/29/07 at 12:01 pm

Unfortunately, I do remember the Charmings and thought it was SOOOOOO STUPID!!!



Cat

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: loki 13 on 07/29/07 at 12:13 pm

How about "The Greatest American Hero," it only lasted two years - 1981-83

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: MaxwellSmart on 07/29/07 at 12:14 pm


How about "The Greatest American Hero," it only lasted two years - 1981-83

Yeah, I remember that, pretty dumb.


E/R starring Robert Gould and a very young (still handsome) George Clooney



I remember that one too.  E/R ran from Fall '84 to Spring '85.  I was surprised they couldn't make it work. An emergency room was a great setting for a TV show....and I wasn't alone in that opinion! Clooney, as you know, was was Dr. Doug Ross on "ER," which was one of the most successful TV series ever!
;)
The actor you're thinking of is Elliott Gould, who the previous year had introduced his Dr. Howard Sheinfeld character in the TV movie "Emergency Room."  Gould's initial fame was on M*A*S*H as Capt. McIntyre.

E/R also featured Sherman Hemsley, Karen Black, and Jason Alexander. 

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: CatwomanofV on 07/29/07 at 12:37 pm


Woman - "What is this, some kind of bust?"
Frank Drebbin - "Yes, that's very impressive, but I'm here on official police business"

;D



By the time the movies came along, Leslie Nielson developed "the look". He didn't have it in the original series. "The look" ALWAYS cracks me up. (Jack Benny also had "the look" and maybe a few other people). BTW, I have a few of the Police Squad episodes on VHS. They always had the announcer saying "Tonight's Episode: ____" and the episode title that was written across the screen was always something different. lol



Cat

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: snozberries on 07/29/07 at 3:20 pm


Yeah, I remember that, pretty dumb.
I remember that one too.  E/R ran from Fall '84 to Spring '85.  I was surprised they couldn't make it work. An emergency room was a great setting for a TV show....and I wasn't alone in that opinion! Clooney, as you know, was was Dr. Doug Ross on "ER," which was one of the most successful TV series ever!
;)
The actor you're thinking of is Elliott Gould, who the previous year had introduced his Dr. Howard Sheinfeld character in the TV movie "Emergency Room."  Gould's initial fame was on M*A*S*H as Capt. McIntyre.

E/R also featured Sherman Hemsley, Karen Black, and Jason Alexander. 



Mary McDonnell and Conchetta Farrell were in it too.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: whistledog on 07/29/07 at 7:22 pm


How about "The Greatest American Hero," it only lasted two years - 1981-83


That was a mid-season replacement.  It aired for 3 seasons over those two years.  I think it was the popular theme song that kept it going past 1 season ;D

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: CatwomanofV on 07/29/07 at 7:29 pm


That was a mid-season replacement.  It aired for 3 seasons over those two years.  I think it was the popular theme song that kept it going past 1 season ;D



That was the main reason why I watched it.  ;D ;D ;D



Cat

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: whistledog on 07/29/07 at 7:34 pm



That was the main reason why I watched it.  ;D ;D ;D



Cat


You mean you didn't watch it for it's Emmy worthy acting, it's presence of major actors and actresses (William Katt and Michael Paré, two of today's biggest stars) or it's motion picture worthy plot lines? :D

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: CatwomanofV on 07/29/07 at 7:42 pm


You mean you didn't watch it for it's Emmy worthy acting, it's presence of major actors and actresses (William Katt and Michael Paré, two of today's biggest stars) or it's motion picture worthy plot lines? :D



;D ;D ;D


I didn't know that Michael Paré was in it.


FYI: William Katt is the son of Barbara Hale of Parry Mason fame. And he auditioned for the part of Luke Skywalker in Star Wars. (In case you didn't realize, he didn't get the part.  :D ;D ;D )



Cat

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: whistledog on 07/29/07 at 8:19 pm



;D ;D ;D


I didn't know that Michael Paré was in it.


FYI: William Katt is the son of Barbara Hale of Parry Mason fame. And he auditioned for the part of Luke Skywalker in Star Wars. (In case you didn't realize, he didn't get the part.  :D ;D ;D )



Cat


Yep.  Paré appeared for all 3 seasons (if I remember correctly).  In 1983, 'Eddie and the Cruisers' continued his popularity.  In 1984, both 'The Philadelphia Experiment' and 'Streets of Fire' made him a cult hero, which landed him a starring role on the CBS series 'Houston Knights' in 1987, but it's cancellation after 2 seasons led to his revival of 'Eddie and the Cruisers II: Eddie Lives' in 1989 which killed his big screen career.  Nowadays when he's not flipping burgers at McDonalds, he makes low budget direct to DVD movies which he's done since about 1990 :D

In the late 90s, he did appear in two theatrical films: 'Hope Floats' and 'The Virgin Suicides', but after that, it was back to the wonderful world of low budget ;D

I'm glad William Katt did not get the role of Luke Skywalker.  Maybe George Lucas thought they were all gonna laugh at him! :D

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: loki 13 on 07/29/07 at 8:29 pm

Remember the pilot, The Greatest American Heroine (1986), Ralph Hinkley (William Katt) had to find a successor
because his secret identity was known and he chose a woman.

William Katt played the lead in a forgotten '80s movie, "House" aka "House: Ding Dong You're Dead"

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: whistledog on 07/29/07 at 8:41 pm

^ LOL I'd no idea there was gonna be a spin-off series.  Shame it never happened.  With a female in the lead, it would have been a big success.  After all, 'Wonder Woman' ran for 4 seasons

I remember 'House' (as well as the sequel to which Katt did not appear in).  Both very long forgotten films.. the way it should be lol

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: loki 13 on 07/29/07 at 8:49 pm


^ LOL I'd no idea there was gonna be a spin-off series.  Shame it never happened.  With a female in the lead, it would have been a big success.  After all, 'Wonder Woman' ran for 4 seasons

I remember 'House' (as well as the sequel to which Katt did not appear in).  Both very long forgotten films.. the way it should be lol


I enjoyed House II: The Second Story, I thought Devin DeVasquez was smokin' hot in the movie.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: gmann on 07/29/07 at 10:12 pm

"The People Next Door". What, you don't remember it?  :) I apparently was the only person in all of North America that actually watched the thing,  but it did in fact run for about five minutes on CBS in the fall of 1989.

It starred Jeffrey Jones (a.k.a. Mr. Rooney from "Ferris...") as a widower cartoonist...well, the link has the all the info you'd want, really.

http://www.tv.com/the-people-next-door/show/1587/summary.html

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: coqueta83 on 07/29/07 at 10:48 pm


How about "The Greatest American Hero," it only lasted two years - 1981-83


I actually love the theme song!  ;D

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: MaxwellSmart on 07/29/07 at 11:57 pm

AfterMASH!
:D

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: whistledog on 07/30/07 at 12:04 am


AfterMASH!
:D


I wish networks would show reruns of that.  I've not ever seen it before.  Would be interesting to see the M*A*S*H characters outside of Korea.  Trapper John, M.D. was good, but it didn't quite cut the mustard LOL

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: gumbypiz on 07/30/07 at 11:43 am


Remember the pilot, The Greatest American Heroine (1986), Ralph Hinkley (William Katt) had to find a successor
because his secret identity was known and he chose a woman.

William Katt played the lead in a forgotten '80s movie, "House" aka "House: Ding Dong You're Dead"

I remember the show and the theme song.
It was actually kinda funny at first, some average Joe given superpowers and he didn't know how to control them (the aliens gave him a owners manual on how to use them, but he lost it!) :D

What was weird was after the Reagan assassination attempt, the network and the shows writers got nervous and Ralph character was only called "Mr. H" by his students and not Mr. Hinkley to avoid any association to Reagan's shooter. ::)

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: spaceace on 07/30/07 at 11:52 am

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ykxfwjm8nAE

Get Smart, Again. (1989)

Can't believe Max didn't mention this!!!

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: CatwomanofV on 07/30/07 at 12:08 pm


Remember the pilot, The Greatest American Heroine (1986), Ralph Hinkley (William Katt) had to find a successor
because his secret identity was known and he chose a woman.

William Katt played the lead in a forgotten '80s movie, "House" aka "House: Ding Dong You're Dead"



I remember "House". I also just recently watched "Pippin" on DVD that was originally made for t.v. (1981) with Ben Vereen & William Katt. W.K. didn't do a bad job (if you can imagine him singing & dancing) and was actually quite good, but of course the EXTREMELY talented Ben really stole the show.



Cat



 

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: bookmistress4ever on 07/30/07 at 12:09 pm

I watch a few of my episodes of the Tracy Ullman show (where The Simpsons got their start) last night.  It wasn't terribly short-lived maybe 3 or 4 seasons, but I loved the show so much they could have gone on for alot longer then they did and I wouldn't have minded.


Thanks for the correction about Elliott Gould (I knew Robert Gould didn't sound right , but couldn't remember the actor's name),  It's nice to see someone else remembers the show too.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: Doc Brown on 07/30/07 at 6:44 pm


Thanks for the correction about Elliott Gould (I knew Robert Gould didn't sound right , but couldn't remember the actor's name),  It's nice to see someone else remembers the show too.

I remember it too, mistress! Some of those in the show went on to more successful shows or movies:
Elliot Gould(Dr. Sheinfeld) became Jack Geller on Friends and appeared as Reuben in all three Ocean movies.
Mary McDonnell(Dr. Sheridan) hit the big screen with Dances With Wolves and Sneakers.
Conchata Ferrell(Nurse Thor) was on L.A. Law and now plays Berta the housekeeper on Two And A Half Men.
Jason Alexander(Staff Chief Harold)... yadda yadda yadda...
Corrine Borher(Nurse Cory) is still a staple in commercials(for McDonald's and AT&T, to name a few).

Sadly, I don't know what became of Nurse Julie, Fred The Cop, or Secretary Maria. She might still be telling people to...

STAY BACK OF THE WHITE LINE!

Your Pal,
Doc

8)

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: Gis on 07/31/07 at 2:58 am

We even had some of these shows in the U.K !  ;D

I don't think it's an 80's show but my friend and I loved 'Hardball' it was so cheesy but great fun to watch on a sunday morning after a night out.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: whistledog on 07/31/07 at 3:28 am

Here's a golden oldie ...


HOOPERMAN

... a police dramedy on ABC starring John Ritter and a little dog.  It ran 42 episodes over 2 seasons from 1987-1989.  I actually thought Ritter played a good policeman in this show.  It was a good chance for him to show there was more to him than Jack Tripper, and it worked

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=109FeJwWPVE

http://www.fluffytails.ca/RITTER/hooperm.jpg



We even had some of these shows in the U.K !  ;D

I don't think it's an 80's show but my friend and I loved 'Hardball' it was so cheesy but great fun to watch on a sunday morning after a night out.


Ran from 1989-1990.  I remember when Hardball was on the air.  Can't say as I ever watched it though, but looking back, it did seem very cheesy LOL

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: 80sforever on 07/31/07 at 4:26 pm

How about 2nd Chance http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0092447/

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: loki 13 on 07/31/07 at 4:37 pm

Would "B.J. And The Bear" count here.  It started in 1979 but only lasted until 1981.
3 seasons but I don't think it reached the 50 episode mark.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: spaceace on 08/02/07 at 12:31 pm

There was a short-lived remake of Dark Shadows back in the 80's.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: bastid5150 on 08/02/07 at 12:39 pm

8)Even though I like "The Slap Maxwell Story", how can we forget "Buffalo Bill" starring Dabney Coleman as Bill Bittinger, Joanna Cassidy as Jo Jo White, John Fielder as Woody, Alf's Max Wright as Karl Shub, Geena Davis as Wendy Killian, Night Court's Charles Robinson as Newdell, and Designing Women's Meshach Taylor as Tony.
"Bill Bittinger was arrogant, insensitive, and a thorough cad. As the garrulous host of an inexplicably popular local TV talk show in Buffalo, New York, he regularly played the role of "star," shamelessly used everyone around him, and blamed others for anything that went wrong. He did all this, it must be said, with style." ;D

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: snozberries on 08/03/07 at 11:52 am

MacGruder and Loud (1985).... also another show I want to see on DVD

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: whistledog on 08/03/07 at 11:58 am


Would "B.J. And The Bear" count here.  It started in 1979 but only lasted until 1981.
3 seasons but I don't think it reached the 50 episode mark.


BJ and the Bear definately.  A show about a truck driver and his monkey.  I often wonder if this series was based on 'Every Which Way But Loose'?

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: coqueta83 on 08/03/07 at 10:54 pm

Vega$ (1978-1981), starring the late Robert Urich :\'(. Technically it's more of a 70's show, but it did end in the early 80's. I remember when FX used to air the reruns in the mid to late 90's.

Also, how many seasons was Eight is Enough on? I believe that show ended in the early 80's as well.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: whistledog on 08/03/07 at 10:58 pm


Vega$ (1978-1981), starring the late Robert Urich :\'(. Technically it's more of a 70's show, but it did end in the early 80's. I remember when FX used to air the reruns in the mid to late 90's.

Also, how many seasons was Eight is Enough on? I believe that show ended in the early 80's as well.


I remember Vega$.  I really liked Robert Urich.  I was really sad when he passed on :\'(

As for Eight is Enough, it was a mid-season replacement airing for 5 seasons from 1977-1981.  I always remembered Eight is Enough as lasting longer than that; of course I also remember the reruns airing like crazy in the 80s lol

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: robby76 on 08/04/07 at 5:14 am


As for Eight is Enough, it was a mid-season replacement airing for 5 seasons from 1977-1981.  I always remembered Eight is Enough as lasting longer than that; of course I also remember the reruns airing like crazy in the 80s lol


Eight Is Enough is one of my all-time one-hour tv shows! It's so long overdue a dvd release.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1tincTKPfpw

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: kellygoo72 on 08/10/07 at 2:48 am

Ur so right... I cant believe Eight is enough has not been released on DVD.. That was a great show...

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: Dagwood on 08/11/07 at 6:09 pm


E/R starring Robert Gould and a very young (still handsome) George Clooney




I loved that show. 

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: IWannaBeAGoonie on 08/12/07 at 1:45 am

Well, my first thought was The Powers of Matthew Starr..I loved that show.
Around here, it was on at 8:00 on Fridays, followed by Knight Rider at 9:00 and Remington Steele at 10:00. I loved Friday night television at that time! :D

Also a little later into the 80's I remember a show called "Roomies" that I really  liked and I believe one that was called "Heart of the City"..?  :-\\

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: chiefyamick on 08/16/07 at 12:02 am

I've got two that come to mind...One was "Small Wonder" about this little girl who was actually a robot, can't remember it lasting that long but it was definitely on in the 80's. The other one might be an early 90's thing- please correct/forgive me if I'm wrong- "Out of This World" about a girl who had an earthling mother and an alien father.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: whistledog on 08/16/07 at 12:09 am


I've got two that come to mind...One was "Small Wonder" about this little girl who was actually a robot, can't remember it lasting that long but it was definitely on in the 80's. The other one might be an early 90's thing- please correct/forgive me if I'm wrong- "Out of This World" about a girl who had an earthling mother and an alien father.


Small Wonder was a success.  Check this .. It ran 4 seasons with 96 episodes :o

Out of This World ran 4 seasons with 95 episodes.  I haven't thought of Out of This World in a long time, though I don't really recall watching it regularly

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: Lindee on 08/17/07 at 10:24 am


Okay I have another obscure children's TV show: Does anyone remember Size Small? I think it only lasted one season. All I remember about it was that it had a record that bangs wooden spoons together. LOL. I can't find an intro to it on You Tube.




My daughter watched Size Small back in the early 90s; it probably was repeats.

I loved Square Pegs.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: grownup80sstyle on 08/21/07 at 9:08 pm


Small Wonder was a success.  Check this .. It ran 4 seasons with 96 episodes :o

Out of This World ran 4 seasons with 95 episodes.  I haven't thought of Out of This World in a long time, though I don't really recall watching it regularly


ow=red,2,300] :)I remember watching Out of This World with "Evie"--I loved that show. By the way......can anyone tell me who played Evie? Who remembers watching Down to Earth or Rocky Road? I just adored Fantasy Island..........although I know it lasted alot longer. Somone give me some information to my questions, please.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: robby76 on 08/22/07 at 1:52 am

The other one might be an early 90's thing- please correct/forgive me if I'm wrong- "Out of This World" about a girl who had an earthling mother and an alien father.


Out Of This World was a great sitcom. It started in 1987, so yes it's very much 80s. It was repeated a lot in the 90s too though - even in the UK. Unfortunately it's not really classed as "short lived" but we'll stick a picture in for prosperity! I have a few episodes taped including one where Tiffany guest-starred.

http://hometown.aol.com/carlbrad1/images/out%20of%20this%20world3.jpg

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: Snoopygirl on 08/22/07 at 7:07 pm

Jennifer Slept Here 1983-1984
Raising Miranda 1988
Baby Boom 1988-1989
Beverly Hills Buntz 1987-1988
I Married Dora 1987-1988
No Soap, Radio 1982

I could name more, but I can't think of any others right now

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: snozberries on 08/24/07 at 3:17 pm




ow=red,2,300] :)I remember watching Out of This World with "Evie"--I loved that show. By the way......can anyone tell me who played Evie? Who remembers watching Down to Earth or Rocky Road? I just adored Fantasy Island..........although I know it lasted alot longer. Somone give me some information to my questions, please.



According to imdb.com and tv.com  Evie was played by Maureen Flannigan

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: grownup80sstyle on 08/26/07 at 9:51 pm

I would really like to know if anyone remembered "down to earth", or "rocky road"? I just absolutely loved those shows. I don't think they were on for long, but I still remember them. Does anyone have any type of info on these two shows?

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: whistledog on 08/26/07 at 9:54 pm


Jennifer Slept Here 1983-1984
Raising Miranda 1988
Baby Boom 1988-1989
Beverly Hills Buntz 1987-1988
I Married Dora 1987-1988
No Soap, Radio 1982

I could name more, but I can't think of any others right now



LOL Beverly Hills Buntz, the ill-fated spin-off from Hill Street Blues
Why Steven Bochco why? :D

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: Kenosha on 08/29/07 at 2:40 pm


Another one I just remembered, Alien Nation. It started as a made-for-tv movie before becoming a series. I liked it.



Cat

Alien Nation was a theatrical release. Released in 1988. It starred James Caan and Mandy Patinkin.

Does anyone remember the show "Open All Night"? It aired in 1981. It was about this family running a convenience store.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: Nesman on 09/04/07 at 10:52 am

One of my favourites was The Master.  It was a show about an old ninja guy who fought off criminals.  I can't remember the whole story line but I used to love that show.  Also, there was another short lived action series (1-2 years) that I liked.  It involved an army, air force, or navy seal type guy. The series was cancelled because the main actor was killed in filming by a rubber bullet or real bullet. Does anyone remember that show?  It was in around 1984 or so. 
I lived out in the sticks (in Canada) on a farm back in the 80's and we had three TV stations.  One of the stations had an action series every night at 10:00 and was subsequently called The 10 O'Clock Action slot.  Had everything from Fall Guy, Matt Houston, Spencer For Hire, Hardcastle & McCormick and the above aforementioned shows.  There were some great shows on back in the early to mid 80's.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: Kenosha on 09/04/07 at 11:26 am


One of my favourites was The Master.  It was a show about an old ninja guy who fought off criminals.  I can't remember the whole story line but I used to love that show.  Also, there was another short lived action series (1-2 years) that I liked.  It involved an army, air force, or navy seal type guy. The series was cancelled because the main actor was killed in filming by a rubber bullet or real bullet. Does anyone remember that show?  It was in around 1984 or so. 
I lived out in the sticks (in Canada) on a farm back in the 80's and we had three TV stations.  One of the stations had an action series every night at 10:00 and was subsequently called The 10 O'Clock Action slot.  Had everything from Fall Guy, Matt Houston, Spencer For Hire, Hardcastle & McCormick and the above aforementioned shows.  There were some great shows on back in the early to mid 80's.


The show you are thinking of was called "Cover UP". It starred Jon Eric Hexum. He accidently shot himself with a prop gun. The show was on from 1984-1985.

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: Nesman on 09/04/07 at 3:00 pm

Yes, that was it!!!! Thanks!  I loved that show. 

Subject: Re: Short-Lived TV Shows of the 80s

Written By: Wayne on 09/06/07 at 7:13 pm

Down To Earth!
I loved that show also.
For years I thought I was insane because no one else remembered it
http://www.sitcomsonline.com/photopost/data/656/2490DowntoEarth02.jpg

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