Watch Thirtysomething

Thirtysomething was a popular American television drama series that premiered on ABC in 1987 and ran for four seasons until 1991. The show was created by Edward Zwick and Marshall Herskovitz, and it followed the lives of a group of baby boomer friends living in Philadelphia who were navigating through the complexities of life in their thirties.

The show was a groundbreaking portrayal of modern adult life in the late 80s, depicting the struggles and triumphs of a group of close-knit friends as they faced various personal and professional issues. The series tackled topics such as work, relationships, marriage, parenthood, and the ever-present quest for meaning and happiness in a world that can be both confusing and harsh.

The show featured a talented ensemble cast led by Ken Olin, Mel Harris, Melanie Mayron, Timothy Busfield, Patricia Wettig, Peter Horton, Patricia Kalember, Polly Draper, David Clennon, and Noelle Parker. Each cast member brought something unique to the series, providing an insightful and realistic look into the challenges of adulthood.

Ken Olin played Michael Steadman - a sensitive and introspective advertising executive who was married to an artist named Hope, played by Mel Harris. Together they had a daughter named Janie, played by Noelle Parker. Michael's best friend was a writer named Elliot Weston, played by Timothy Busfield. Elliot was married to Nancy, played by Patricia Wettig, and they had two children together.

Peter Horton played Gary Shepherd, a single, struggling filmmaker who was romantically involved with Melissa, played by Melanie Mayron. Melissa was a photographer who had an on-again, off-again relationship with Gary throughout the show. The final member of their tight-knit group was Ellyn Warren, played by Polly Draper. Ellyn was Michael's sister and a public television producer.

Thirtysomething was a character-driven drama that explored the complexities of adulthood in a realistic and nuanced way. The show focused on the daily struggles and triumphs of the characters, highlighting their individual-world views and personal experiences. The series tackled many social issues including infidelity, job insecurity, infertility, illness, and addiction. It was the first television show to deal with the issue of AIDS, which was a significant cultural topic in the late 80s.

One of the show's most significant strengths was its portrayal of relationships. The series showcased the ups and downs of marriage, the trials and tribulations of raising children, and the highs and lows of romantic relationships. It was well-known for its raw and realistic depiction of relationships, and for its nuanced exploration of both the joys and the struggles that come with them.

Thirtysomething was also known for its distinctive visual style. The show used creative techniques, such as slow-motion photography, ambient sound, and jump cuts to provide a unique perspective on events. The series was visually impressive and helped to enhance the overall emotional impact of the show.

Throughout its run, Thirtysomething was praised for its writing, performances, and its realistic portrayal of the challenges of modern adulthood. The show won numerous awards, including thirteen Emmy Awards, three Golden Globe Awards, and two Peabody Awards, among others.

In conclusion, Thirtysomething was a groundbreaking television series that explored the complexities of adulthood in a realistic and nuanced way. It tackled social issues with sensitivity and understanding, and provided a unique perspective on the joys and struggles of relationships. The series was a critical and commercial success, and continues to be remembered as an influential work of television drama.