McMillan & Wife
McMillan & Wife is a lighthearted American police procedural that aired on NBC from September 17, 1971 to April 24, 1977. Starring Rock Hudson and Susan Saint James in the title roles, the series premiered in 90-minute episodes as part of the wheel series NBC Mystery Movie, in rotation with Columbo and McCloud. Initially airing on Wednesday night, the original line-up was shifted to Sundays in the second season, where it aired for the rest of its run. This was the first element to be created specially for the Mystery Movie strand.
Insights
Plot Summary
Mild-mannered Commissioner Stewart McMillan and his vivacious wife, Sally, navigate the complexities of crime-solving and domestic life in San Francisco. While McMillan tackles various mysteries with the help of his loyal assistant, Sergeant Enright, and the ever-present housekeeper, Mildred, Sally often finds herself entangled in the cases, providing her own unique, and sometimes chaotic, brand of assistance. The series blends lighthearted comedy with engaging detective work, offering a charming glimpse into their upper-middle-class world.
Critical Reception
McMillan & Wife was a popular and critically acclaimed television series during its initial run, lauded for its witty writing, strong performances, and the appealing chemistry between its lead actors. It successfully combined elements of mystery, comedy, and domestic drama, resonating with a broad audience and earning a reputation as a quality NBC Thursday-night staple.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its sophisticated humor and engaging mystery plots.
- The chemistry between Rock Hudson and Susan Saint James was a major draw for audiences.
- Appreciated for its stylish depiction of San Francisco and upper-class life.
Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the show's charm, the engaging dynamic between the lead couple, and its lighthearted approach to crime-solving, making it a nostalgic favorite for many.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for multiple Emmy Awards and Golden Globe Awards during its run, with Rock Hudson receiving a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor – Television Series Musical or Comedy in 1972.
Fun Fact
The series was originally conceived as a vehicle for Rock Hudson and Susan Saint James to portray a sophisticated, modern-day couple, with the mystery element added to provide structure and plot for each episode.
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