Grace Under Fire

Grace Under Fire was a great show that was very funny. The series was clever and witty and very humorous. But Butler's apparent (and might I add obvious) problems hurt the show. At the start, the show's quality didn't suffer, but the final season took a massive blow. Bretler's problems had finally really hurt the show in the ratings and caused it's cancellation. A shame.

"Grace Under Fire" was a show that I could understand and identify with, it was very realistic, it was entertaining, and at the same time, it touched on a lot of subjects in a short period of time. I am very sure that she touched a lot of other lives as she has touched mine. I continue to watch, and tape her reruns, and when I need a laugh or a pick-me-up, I put one of my many tapes in and watch them. (they are 8 hr tapes so I get a lot of joy from them) I have just discovered that her shows are out on DVD, That is good news to me, I am checking into that. I wish that there was a way that someday she would make a comeback or something similar, I miss her wit and brass charm. A True Fan Forever. Cyndy

"Grace Under Fire" was a great sitcom. It had unique characters and a wonderful story line. Brett Butler was able to use some of her own life experiences to make the show realistic, yet funny. She did an excellent job of portraying Grace Kelly. Brett is the only comedian that I think fitted the role of Grace perfectly. The other cast members of the show were just as perfect for their roles. This show had a lot of talented people on it, and I wish the show was still on. This is, and always will be my favorite sitcom.

I'd just like to combat the last viewer comment I saw up here, which was slightly sexist and rather negative about the show. 'Grace Under Fire' did slip in its later seasons, but originally it was a clever, well-written show with a tight, vibrant cast and some great lines. I'm glad to see it airing in syndication now.

One thing I liked so much about this show, was that the "human" side was equally (if not more) important as the comedy. It really made this show what it is, at least for the first 3 seasons. I also loved how the cast can't keep a straight face around Dave Thomas.

Season 4 reeked of network meddling. Let me be the first to say, New Quentin sucks (technically Brett Butler's fault for flashing Original Quentin). This season's changes are too numerous to go into, but they seemingly wrote out all the funny characters (how do you get rid of Dave Thomas and Tom Poston?!), plus 2/3 of her kids, and it seemed like every episode revolved around New Quentin. Honestly, was there a clamoring for New Quentin? Moving her abusive ex-husband in seemed like a desperation move.

Season 5 rights a lot of wrongs, at least in terms of focus, and incorporating the entire cast (though Nadine is absent). Grace has a steady job, and they bring back the pharmacy with Russell and Floyd! Although if you liked the human drama element, it's gone here, in favor of a more traditional sitcom. Still, a funny season.

Butler seems particularly messed up in the season finales for both seasons 4 and 5. I would actually consider this to be one of (baby crazy) Chuck Lorre's weaker shows, but there is still plenty to enjoy here. Well worth the low asking price for 5 full seasons on DVD.