In the late 1980s and through most of the 90s, Murphy Brown was the gold standard of scripted sitcoms. And, it was one of the most successful sitcoms of all time. The show ran for 10 seasons (247 episodes) and received 15 Golden Globe nominations (including 3 wins), 62 Emmy nominations (including 2 wins for Outstanding Comedy Series and 5 wins for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series).
The original series is still funny. Diane English’s concept and writing are perfect.
And in my eyes, Candice Bergen can do no wrong. This month, Bergen returns to series acting to inject her show into the current political landscape. The revived version of the series premieres Thursday, September 27th, at 9:30/8:30c.
Here’s a preview.
CBS says, “Multiple Emmy Award winners Candice Bergen and series creator Diane English reunite for Murphy Brown, the revival of the ground-breaking comedy about the eponymous broadcast news legend and her biting take on current events, now in a world of 24-hour cable, social media, “fake news” and a vastly different political climate.
“Amid a divided nation, chaotic national discourse and rampant attacks on the press, Murphy decides to return to the airwaves and recruits her FYI team: lifestyle reporter Corky Sherwood, investigative journalist Frank Fontana, and her former wunderkind news producer Miles Silverberg.
“Joining them is social media director Pat Patel, who is tasked with bringing Murphy and the team into the 21st century. Murphy’s millennial son, Avery, shares his mother’s competitive spirit and quick wit, and is following in her journalistic footsteps—perhaps too closely.
“The team still lets off steam at Phil’s Bar, now run by his sister, Phyllis. Now back in the game, Murphy is determined to draw the line between good television and honest reporting, proving that the world needs Murphy Brown now more than ever.”
Here’s a peek behind the scenes. The first table reading of Diane English’s script took place on the recreated set of Murphy’s townhouse.
The show’s official website is on CBS.com. Enjoy. I’m 110% certain that I will.