Webster
Webster is an American situation comedy that aired on ABC from September 16, 1983 until May 8, 1987, and in first-run syndication from September 21, 1987 until March 10, 1989. The series was created by Stu Silver. The show stars Emmanuel Lewis in the title role as a young boy who, after losing his parents, is adopted by his NFL-pro godfather, portrayed by Alex Karras, and his new socialite wife, played by Susan Clark. The focus was largely on how this impulsively married couple had to adjust to their new lives and sudden parenthood, but it was the congenial Webster himself who drove much of the plot. The series was produced by Georgian Bay Ltd., Emmanuel Lewis Entertainment Enterprises, Inc. and Paramount Television. Like NBC's earlier hit Diff'rent Strokes, Webster featured a young African-American boy adopted by a white family.
Insights
Plot Summary
Webster tells the story of Webster Long, a diminutive, orphaned African-American boy adopted by the wealthy white Geroge and Katherine Papadakis. The series chronicles the humorous situations that arise from Webster's adjustment to his new life and the challenges his adoptive parents face in integrating him into their affluent world.
Critical Reception
Webster was a popular family sitcom during its initial run, known for its heartwarming premise and the charismatic performance of its young star, Emmanuel Lewis. While it garnered a significant audience, critical reception was generally mixed, with some critics praising its positive messages and humor, while others found it formulaic and occasionally preachy.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its family-friendly humor and positive themes.
- Sometimes criticized for predictable storylines and a saccharine tone.
- Emmanuel Lewis's performance was often highlighted as a strong point.
Google audience: Audience reviews often recall the show fondly for its lighthearted entertainment and the endearing presence of Emmanuel Lewis, with many remembering it as a staple of 1980s television.
Fun Fact
The show was created by Stu Silver, who also worked on 'The Tracey Ullman Show' and 'It's Garry Shandling's Show'.
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