Eight Is Enough: The Complete First Season

Based on the memoir by newspaper editor and columnist Thomas W. Braden, Eight Is Enough was in some ways the contemporary suburban answer to The Waltons—a family dramedy with serious issues interspersed among humorous subplots. Modeled on Braden, Tom Bradford (Dick Van Patten) is a loving, protective parent trying to counsel kids who are growing up faster than he'd like—including five teenage daughters. The pilot in this 1977 debut season sets the show's tone and style—from the “topical” issues raised (such as sex and drugs) to the laugh track dropped over the periodic comic sequences, often featuring youngest son Nicholas (Adam Rich). The opener also sets up the personality clash between dad and eldest son David, initially played by Mark Hamill. Hamill's not the only actor to be replaced (by episode two, Grant Goodeve steps into the role of David), as other newcomers include Willie Aames as middle son Tommy and Dianne Kay as daughter Nancy, and Diana Hyland—who played wife and mother Joan—died early in the shooting of the first season and was written out for the remainder. While the series flirts with being progressive, in retrospect it comes across as quite conventional: father may not always know best, but he sets an example and keeps learning along the way. While older viewers might find this a nostalgic watch, it's unlikely to interest younger patrons. Compiling all nine debut season episodes, extras include a cast-reunion featurette. Optional. (S. Axmaker)