Major Dad

Unlike most Sitcoms which usually feature a dumpy idiotic husband and occasionally a wife who was just about as dumb, this show featured 2 intelligent human beings from different sides learning to love each other and get along, while being funny and entertaining. The humor didn't rely on stupid jokes or over the top antics but on real world family dynamics.

This was a series about our finest fighting forces, the United States Marines. However, it showed a funny softer side of those very tough heroes. That made all the more reason to watch as they found themselves in some pretty strange situations. As with all Marine leaders, the Major would resolve each and every problem with leadership, compassion and honesty just as real Marines do all the time. Therefore, this made TV watching enjoyable for the entire family. We need shows like that today that portray those type of ethics and values. I can not wait for this series to come out on DVD. As far as I am concerned, the sooner the better.

The first three seasons are definitely the watch worth. The Costa Negra story-line in the first season is on the same level as the last episode of Blackadder Goes Forth. If you don't get the reference, watch both series. It becomes quite clear early in Season 4 that they started running out of ideas. Most American series run into this at the same time, with many overstaying their welcome for several seasons too long.

This show, in my opinion, is a pure CBS hit! Despite the fact that I've never seen every episode, I still enjoyed it. There are many episodes that I enjoyed. One of them was where the girls (Chelsea Hertford, Nicole Dubuc, Marisa Ryan) perform "Side By Side" in some competition. If you want to know why, you'll have to have seen it for yourself. I will say that I did laugh at the last lines of that episode. Before I wrap this up, I'd like to say that everyone always gave a good performance, the production design was spectacular, the costumes were well-designed, and the writing was always very strong. In conclusion, even though it can be seen on USA now, I strongly recommend you catch it just in case it goes off the air for good.

For an 80s/early 90s show, Major Dad was amusing. It is only a sitcom; it's not supposed to be taken that seriously. If you enjoyed shows like Coach or Cheers, then you'll enjoy Major Dad. People always talk about how hard it is to make a good military show. I think they never watched an episode of M*A*S*H in their sheltered lives. Likewise, this was fairly successful. It was a show that the family and I could sit around and watch, and that's saying something. Family TV has hit rock bottom unfortunately. So if you're looking for a family favorite, tune into Major Dad. It's not the funniest show you'll ever watch, but it's really cute. Enjoy!