

Bridget Loves Bernie
Bridget Loves Bernie is an American television comedy program created by Bernard Slade, the creator of the 1970–74 ABC sitcom The Partridge Family and the 1967-70 sitcom The Flying Nun, based loosely on the premise of the 1920s’ Broadway play and 1940s’ radio show Abie's Irish Rose. It stars Meredith Baxter and David Birney as the title characters, and ran for one season, from 1972 to 1973 on CBS. Baxter and Birney married in real life after the program went off the air.
Insights
Plot Summary
The series follows the unconventional romance between Bridget Fitzgerald, an upper-class Republican kindergarten teacher, and Bernie Steinberg, a liberal, twice-divorced, twice-failed writer and cab driver. Their relationship faces constant hurdles due to their vastly different backgrounds, families, and political views, leading to humorous situations and endearing misunderstandings.
Critical Reception
Bridget Loves Bernie was a surprisingly popular sitcom during its initial run, lauded for its charming premise and the chemistry between its leads. However, it also courted controversy and was canceled prematurely due to its portrayal of an interfaith and inter-class marriage, which was considered ahead of its time by some and offensive by others, leading to a significant backlash.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its lighthearted humor and the lead actors' chemistry.
- Criticized by some for its sensitive subject matter and perceived political leanings.
- Remembered as a show that pushed boundaries for its time.
Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the show's nostalgic appeal and the endearing nature of the central couple's struggles. Many recall it as a sweet and funny show, though some acknowledge the controversy it generated.
Fun Fact
The show was canceled abruptly in its first season, despite high ratings, due to a significant number of complaints from conservative groups who objected to the interfaith and inter-class relationship depicted.
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