Watch The Guardian

The Guardian is a legal drama series that aired on CBS from 2001 to 2004. The show stars Simon Baker as Nick Fallin, a hotshot lawyer who is forced to do community service after getting caught with drugs. The show explores the struggles and challenges faced by Nick as he tries to balance his career and personal life.

Dabney Coleman plays Burton Fallin, Nick's father and the head of the law firm where Nick works. Despite their strained relationship, Burton sees potential in his son and pushes him to become a better lawyer. Raphael Sbarge plays Jake Straka, Nick's best friend and colleague at the law firm. Jake is the voice of reason in Nick's life and tries to keep him grounded.

AJ Michalka plays Shannon Gressler, a troubled teenager who Nick is assigned to help as part of his community service. Shannon is a talented musician who is struggling in school and dealing with personal issues. Nick takes Shannon under his wing and becomes a mentor figure in her life.

Alan Rosenberg plays Alvin Masterson, the social worker who oversees Nick's community service. Alvin is a tough but fair character who helps Nick navigate the challenges of his service. Erica Leerhsen plays Amanda Bowles, a fellow lawyer at the law firm where Nick works. Amanda is ambitious and competitive, and often clashes with Nick over their different approaches to the law.

Wendy Moniz plays Louisa "Lulu" Archer, a judge who presides over some of Nick's cases. Kathleen Chalfant plays Judge Margaret Barth, another judge who appears in the show. Denise Dowse plays Carla Walicki, a social worker who becomes Nick's supervisor during his community service. Angela Featherstone plays Amanda's sister, who has a romantic history with Nick.

The show also features a number of guest appearances from well-known actors. Farrah Fawcett plays Mary Gressler, Shannon's mother who is struggling with addiction. Tom Amandes plays Jimmy, a man who hires Nick to help him regain custody of his son. Erik Knudsen plays Charlie, a teenager who is falsely accused of murder. Katherine LaNasa plays Rebecca, a woman who hires Nick to handle her divorce.

The Guardian tackles a range of issues, including child abuse, drug addiction, domestic violence, and mental illness. The show is known for its powerful performances and its ability to tackle difficult topics with sensitivity and nuance. The Guardian was critically acclaimed during its run and remains a beloved show among fans of legal dramas.

The Guardian is a series that ran for 3 seasons (67 episodes) between September 25, 2001 and on CBS