

Roll Out
Roll Out is an American sitcom that aired Friday evenings on CBS during the 1973-1974 television season. Starring nightclub comedian Stu Gilliam and Hilly Hicks, and featuring Ed Begley, Jr. and Garrett Morris, the series was set in France during World War II and was loosely based on the 1952 film Red Ball Express. Actor Jimmy Lydon, familiar as a juvenile lead in the 1940s, was cast as an Army captain. His character's name was Henry Aldrich: the same name he used in Paramount's comedy features of the forties.
Insights
Plot Summary
Set during World War II, 'Roll Out' follows the misadventures of a U.S. Army Ordnance Company tasked with maintaining and repairing vehicles. The series humorously depicts the daily struggles and camaraderie of soldiers dealing with faulty equipment, incompetent superiors, and the general chaos of war, all while trying to keep the army moving.
Critical Reception
As a short-lived sitcom from the 1970s, 'Roll Out' received minimal critical attention and is largely forgotten. Its humor and premise were typical of its era but did not resonate strongly with audiences or critics, leading to its quick cancellation. It is not remembered for any particular critical acclaim or widespread popularity.
What Reviewers Say
- Relied on predictable, dated humor.
- Lacked memorable characters or compelling storylines.
- Failed to find an audience amidst stronger competition.
Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for 'Roll Out' is not readily available due to its obscurity and lack of widespread availability.
Fun Fact
Despite its short run, 'Roll Out' was one of several attempts in the 1970s to create military-based comedies, often drawing parallels to the successful M*A*S*H franchise.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources