WKRP in Cincinnati (1978-1982) (TV Series)

WKRP in Cincinnati

Title : WKRP in Cincinnati

First Air Date : Sep 18, 1978

Last Air Date : Apr 21, 1982

Number of Episodes : 90

Number of Seasons : 4

Genres : Comedy

Networks : CBS

Casts : Howard Hesseman, Tim Reid, Loni Anderson, Frank Bonner, Gary Sandy, Gordon Jump, Jan Smithers, Richard Sanders

Storyline

Arthur "Big Guy" Carlson tries to run a failing Cincinnati radio station owned by his "tough as nails" mother. His own incompetence is overshadowed by the strange employees that work at the station. From wild Disc Jockeys: Dr. Johnny Fever and Venus Flytrap to the geeky news director, Les Nessman and obnoxious advertising sales manager, Herb Tarlek. With the help of saner employees such as Bailey Quarters; the rather shy journalism major; Jennifer Marlowe, the beautiful receptionist who is the very opposite of a stereotypical "Dumb Blonde" and Andy Travis; the studly program director, Carlson tries gimmick after crazy gimmick to bring money into the station and make it a success.

User Reviews

WKRP is a quality sitcom, from top to bottom. It was based on the real WKRP radio station, which existed in Cincinnati. Back in the late 70s when WKRP premiered, there were still a few sitcoms on the tube, that took place in middle America. Other examples of such shows, were Mary Tyler Moore, and Bob Newhart. As a heartland-based show, WKRP certainly conveyed lots of heart.

WKRP revolved around a group of lovable misfits. And they all wound-up, for one reason or another, working together at the marginal WKRP. The station Manager, Mr. Carlson (played with great comedic flair, by Gordon Jump), wants to improve the station's low ratings. So, he brings in a hip new programmer, who switches the format from old-time easy-listing music, to rock and roll. Day-to-day, the station still tries to hold its own, despite it's eccentric, and often incompetent staff.

Best thing about this show, was the great ensemble cast. All of the characters, had distinctly different personalities. And the friction between them all, could be quite hilarious. The characters also displayed very human flaws, which the viewer could identify with. These days, most sitcoms have characters that have more than their share of good things; sexy looks, great careers, plenty of money, etc. By contrast, the characters on WKRP were lacking in many ways. But this managed to make these characters quite endearing to the average viewer, whose life may not be the least bit glamorous.

Hands-down, WKRP is among the best of the classic sitcoms. Watch it on DVD when you can, and you'll definitely see why.