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.
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.