MTM worked well because they found a cast of supporting characters who clicked from the first episode. They were here neighbors and her coworkers, and it was a nice mix of both.
RHODA (and even PHYLLIS) never had such luck on the show. Her sister Brenda was a staple there for five seasons (and they had great chemistry) but all the others came and went - none were truly missed. Susie, Myrna, Sally, Gary, Johnny Venture, Nick, Joe, Ma, Pop...they came and went in the first four seasons. By the time they tried build a cast for season 4/5 (Jack,Benny,Tina and Ramon), viewers were tired.
In one of the first episodes, they introduced the character of 'Linda' played by Linda Lavin on "The Shower" episode. Lavin stole the show for the ten minutes she was on - viewers loved her, producers loved her, the cast loved her. They realized they had gold, and was getting ready to write her in as a permanent cast member to the series. Apparently, on reflection, Harper realized she was a 'threat' - stealing the laughs from Harper herself on her own show. She then vetoed the idea, and would not let Lavin become part of the cast (what a mistake). They made 'Myrna' the recurring cast member instead - who was so-so. Lavin would get her own show on CBS a year later.
I prefer fantasy over reality TV - like Fox News. - B.Streisand
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jayhn1111
9 years ago
Yeah I like it so far. I'm up to the point where her and Joe are on the rocks. I just felt the cast was a little thin. I may be in the minority but I'm enjoying Phyllis more. I think it's a funnier show.
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