Jack Killian, l'homme au micro

I simply don't understand why this series has never been given a DVD release, unlike some of the contemporary crap that festers on our screens

Midnight Caller was an extraordinary program. Thoughtful, mature and a great showcase for Gary Cole and Mykel T. Williamson. Everyone who appreciates this kind of cynical, mature drama laced with sharp humor, should inquire as to why this is not available on DVD. I would buy it without hesitation. The other supporting players and (frequent) guest stars usually gave excellent performances. The jazzy soundtrack was a great compliment to the program. The timing was impeccable as the show's debut was the same year I moved to the SF Bay area. Bravo to Gary Cole- his performance as Jack Killian was truly outstanding. If you ever have a chance, give this show a look, or better still, buy some DVDs.

I don't remember much about this series I just remember it was on NBC and only lasted from 1988-1991. Like most cop related dramas it was dark, and moody. "Midnight Caller" featured Jack Killian (Gary Cole) as a late night radio talk show host. He was a former San Francisco cop who with his troubled past, went on the air to purge both his own demons and help callers with their own problems. Often Jack had to once again take on the role of a cop as many callers had problems that were crime related and he found himself investigating out into the streets of San Francisco. The best reason I remember to watch the show was the beautiful Wendy Kilbourne she played stylish Devon King who was Jack's boss at the radio station. The only episode I remember was the 2-Hour Movie Premier which was advertised perfect in a issue of TV Guide. I remember the picture in the TV Guide so well it was of Wendy Kilbourne and she had a piece of white tape around her mouth. This episode featured a guest villain who had a grudge against Jack (Gary Cole) so he holds Devon (Wendy) hostage at the radio station she is tied to a chair and has her mouth taped. Though hours later Jack came to Devon's rescue. That's all I remember about the show I don't know why it didn't last longer.

I was a college student when this show first appeared on NBC, and quickly grew to love it. Set in San Francisco, "Midnight Caller" was a well-thought-out and well-scripted drama that wasn't afraid to tackle some of the biggest issues of our time (e.g. the episode where Jack Killian with no notice discusses AIDS live on the air). He and the rest of the characters (played by an able supporting cast) all had depth, all had various warts... just like real people. The show also did a good job of reacting to and chronicling major events, such as the episode where various characters recounted on air their reactions to the 1989 World Series earthquake. As some have previously said, it also had a great soundtrack. (The title song was later re-recorded by jazz trumpeter Rick Braun on his CD, "Intimate Secrets," with song composer Brad Fidel accompanying him on piano.) Unfortunately, "Midnight Caller" was never a ratings darling, and was dropped by NBC after three seasons. A show well worth being on DVD!

Here it is, the first entry that sees me break my rule of 'no commenting on TV shows'. Hereafter, the floodgates will open. This is a downbeat, well acted and entertaining drama with a style all of its own and quite a charismatic star, who as far as I know has done nothing as a main lead either before or since. Occasionally found floating around the schedules in the 'graveyard hours', this is the little show that could.

Good performances, good writing and the cynical, sarcastic and philosophical worldview of the main character are presented here for the viewers delectation. What more could you want? A cool soundtrack? You got that here too! Nobody has a right to expect anything this classy to be aired in the timeslots it often is. It's a godsend for us insomniacs who need to keep ourselves occupied, in the wee hours... !