Sunday, December 22, 2013

Give the Gift of Classic TV Comedy for Christmas


Christmas is upon us again.  If you’re having trouble deciding what to buy that TV fan on your list, then maybe some Classic TV Comedies will do the trick.  Here is a little guide as to what’s available this holiday season.  All of these sets are available in stores and through Amazon.com.

M*A*S*H  - The Complete Series
This sitcom, set during The Korean War, successfully balanced between comedy and drama, hilarity and tragedy, filled with one liners and gags and also intense set pieces which set the program apart as one of TV’s all time greats.   The series premiered in 1972 and ran for 11 seasons and 256 episodes.  The series finale, which aired February 28, 1983, was watched by more than 125 Million viewers and still remains the most watched episode of a TV series ever.  It was nominated for a staggering 109 Emmy Awards of its run.  Starring Alan Alda, Wayne Rogers, Harry Morgan, and Loretta Swit.  The set also includes the 1970 film that the series was based on.

Barney Miller – The Complete Series
Set in a New York City police station, this comedy series ran from 1975 to 1982 for 168 episodes, and featured the stories of the detectives of the 12th Precinct and the day to day life in the squad room.  Over its 8 seasons, it was nominated for an Emmy award for Outstanding Comedy Series 7 times, finally winning in its final season.   Widely cited by police officers as the most realistic police series ever.  Starring Hal Linden, Max Gail, Jack Soo, Ron Glass, Abe Vigoda, and Steve Landesberg. 

Seinfeld – The Complete Series
Named by TV Guide as the greatest television series of all time. Created by Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld, this series about nothing, followed the exploits of Jerry Seinfeld (as a fictional version of himself) and his 3 friends, Kramer, George, and Elaine.   It ran from 1989 to 1998, for 180 episodes.  Through the years of its original run and now in syndication, the show has become a cultural phenomenon.  Spawning catch phrases, merchandise, and many references to the series in popular culture.  Starring Jerry Seinfeld, Michael Richards, Jason Alexander, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus.

Everybody Loves Raymond – The Complete Series
Based on the stand up comedy of Ray Romano, this series ran from 1996 to 2005 for 210 episodes.  The show followed the life of sportswriter Ray Barone, and his family life with his wife and 3 kids, while living across the street from his parents.   It was nominated for Outstanding Comedy Series for 7 times over its run.  Starring Ray Romano, Patricia Heaton, Brad Garrett, Peter Boyle, and Doris Roberts.

Cheers – The Complete Series
This classic sitcom followed the goings on at a popular Boston bar named Cheers.  It ran from 1982-1993 for 270 episodes.  It garnered a record 111 Emmy nominations during it’s time on the air, and won the Outstanding Comedy Series 4 times.  The show struggled in the ratings at first, but by the 3rd season, it found its footing and remained in the top 10 from season 4, until it went off the air.  Starring Ted Danson, Shelly Long, Rhea Perlman, Woody Harrelson,  John Ratzenberger, George Wendt, Kelsey Grammer, and Kirstie Alley.

Friends – The Complete Series
This series revolved around a circle of friends living in New York City, and ran from 1994 to 2004 for 236 episodes.  It quickly became a critical favorite and commercial success, remaining in the Top 10 of the Nielsen ratings for its entire run.  Starring Jennifer Aniston, Matthew Perry, Matt LeBlanc, Courtney Cox, and David Schwimmer. 

Hope I gave you some good ideas for that TV lover on your Christmas list. 

Merry Christmas Everyone!

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