The Return of Marcus Welby, M.D.

A decade after it left the air, Robert Young returned to the role of Marcus Welby in this reunion film of sorts. Elena Verdugo was back (but without much to do) but James Brolin's commitment to "Hotel" kept him from appearing (though Dr. Kiley is referenced in a key scene at the climax). The real purpose of this reunion though was to act as a backdoor pilot for a proposed new series with Darren McGavin and Morgan Stevens as a father-son doctor team in which Welby would act as the occasional guide in a supporting role. The proposed pilot didn't sell and just as well since while McGavin still shows he can be a commanding presence in his own right, Morgan Stevens as his son comes off as very annoying. The telemovie is devoted to their estranged relationship and how the events bring them together, and along the way we get Welby having to fight from being put out to pasture (Jessica Walter is totally wasted in a brief and thankless role as the head of the heartless conglomerate that wants Welby and other old doctors fired to save costs). In the end it's only a so-so follow-up to the series. Not bad but not memorable either and just as well the proposed follow-up series didn't happen.

This gets a 10 - it is graded within the context of TV in the 70 & 80s and the original show. With the exception of the missing Dr. Kiley - the tone and pace of "The Return of Dr. Welby," is much like the original series - with Robert Young and Elena Verdugo in top form. The script is actually much better than many of the original shows as it features more character development. Furthermore, the dialogue is clever and engrossing and the production quality more detailed and updated. Actors Jessica Walter and Darren McGavin are particularly excellent as is Morgan Stevens. This show is deeper and has more drama, more tragedy than the series - but also the heart, tough love and well informed intelligence - all hallmarks of the original show. Sets, lighting and locations are bit more elaborate and so more believable. It's a shame this pilot didn't sell - it would've been terrific. This made for TV movie featuring a revisiting of Marcus Welby is excellent and if you are a fan of the original show you'll enjoy this immensely.