The 1970s brought us a wave of television shows that have become iconic in the annals of TV history, and among them, McMillan & Wife stands out as a beloved classic. This show combined the charm of light-hearted comedy with the intrigue of mystery-solving, making it a staple for fans of the genre. For those who were glued to their screens during its original run, McMillan & Wife remains a nostalgic journey into a simpler time when crime-solving duos were all the rage.
The Premise of McMillan & Wife
McMillan & Wife premiered on NBC in 1971 as part of the “NBC Mystery Movie” lineup, which also included other hits like Columbo and McCloud. The show starred Rock Hudson as Police Commissioner Stewart “Mac” McMillan and Susan Saint James as his charming wife, Sally. Together, they formed a crime-solving duo that kept audiences entertained for six seasons until 1977.
The show’s unique appeal lay in the dynamic between the two leads. Unlike other detective shows of the time, McMillan & Wife infused the procedural format with a dose of domestic life. Mac, the tough and savvy commissioner, often found himself relying on the insights and observations of his more free-spirited wife, Sally. Their relationship added a refreshing layer of humor and warmth, which set the show apart from more serious crime dramas.
Why McMillan & Wife Resonated with Audiences
So, what was it about McMillan & Wife that captivated viewers for six seasons? Let’s delve into a few key factors:
- Chemistry Between the Leads: The on-screen chemistry between Rock Hudson and Susan Saint James was palpable. Hudson’s portrayal of the suave yet dedicated Mac was perfectly complemented by Saint James’ portrayal of Sally, whose wit and intelligence brought a lightheartedness to the series.
- Blend of Comedy and Mystery: McMillan & Wife struck the perfect balance between mystery and comedy. While the crimes were serious, the show didn’t take itself too seriously. The witty banter between Mac and Sally, along with the often humorous situations they found themselves in, provided much-needed levity.
- Evolving Relationship: The show depicted a strong, loving marriage, which was relatively rare for TV shows of the time. Watching Mac and Sally work together not only to solve crimes but also to navigate their relationship was a key part of the show’s charm.
- Fashion and Setting: The show’s 1970s setting, complete with Sally’s stylish outfits and the luxurious San Francisco backdrop, added to its visual appeal. The fashion, in particular, became an iconic part of the show, influencing trends of the time.
Memorable Episodes and Moments
Throughout its six-season run, McMillan & Wife delivered numerous memorable episodes that left a lasting impression. Here are a few standout moments:
- “Murder by the Barrel” (Season 1, Episode 3): One of the show’s early episodes, this one perfectly encapsulates the blend of humor and mystery that defined McMillan & Wife. When a body is found in a barrel, Mac and Sally must navigate a web of clues that lead them to a surprising culprit.
- “Terror Times Two” (Season 3, Episode 1): This episode showcased the show’s ability to blend suspense with light-hearted moments. When Mac is kidnapped, it’s up to Sally to step into his shoes and outwit the criminals, proving that she’s more than just the commissioner’s wife.
- “The Devil You Say” (Season 5, Episode 5): Venturing into the realm of the supernatural, this episode sees Mac and Sally investigating a series of mysterious deaths connected to a local cult. The eerie atmosphere combined with the couple’s signature humor made this a fan-favorite.
Impact and Legacy of McMillan & Wife
McMillan & Wife wasn’t just a popular show during its original run; it left a lasting legacy that influenced the television landscape. The show’s unique blend of genres paved the way for future series that combined crime-solving with elements of comedy and domestic life.
- Influence on Future Shows: The success of McMillan & Wife can be seen in later shows that paired a detective with a partner from outside the law enforcement world. Series like Moonlighting and Castle owe a debt to the trail blazed by Mac and Sally.
- Rock Hudson’s Iconic Role: For Rock Hudson, McMillan & Wife was a significant departure from his film career, showcasing his versatility as an actor. His portrayal of Mac remains one of his most beloved roles, demonstrating his ability to transition seamlessly from the silver screen to television.
- Susan Saint James’ Career Boost: The show was also a major career highlight for Susan Saint James. Her role as Sally McMillan endeared her to audiences and opened the door to further television success, including her later role in Kate & Allie.
The Evolution of McMillan & Wife Over Time
As with many long-running shows, McMillan & Wife evolved over its six-season run. The dynamics between the characters shifted, the storylines grew more complex, and the show’s tone underwent subtle changes.
- Character Development: Initially, Sally was portrayed as the archetypal housewife, albeit with a penchant for getting involved in her husband’s cases. However, as the series progressed, she became more involved in the detective work, often taking the lead in investigations. This evolution reflected the changing roles of women in society during the 1970s.
- Darker Themes: While the show always maintained a light-hearted tone, later seasons introduced darker themes and more intense storylines. This shift helped to keep the show fresh and engaging as it entered its later years.
- Changes in Cast: The show also saw changes in its supporting cast, with new characters being introduced to keep the narrative dynamic. Notably, the departure of John Schuck, who played Mac’s loyal but somewhat bumbling assistant Sgt. Charles Enright, marked a turning point in the series.
FAQs About McMillan & Wife
Q: Was McMillan & Wife based on a book?
No, the show was not based on a book. It was an original television series created as part of the NBC Mystery Movie lineup.
Q: How many seasons of McMillan & Wife were produced?
The show ran for six seasons from 1971 to 1977.
Q: What happened to Sally McMillan in the final season?
Susan Saint James, who played Sally, left the show after the fifth season. The final season was rebranded as McMillan, with Mac continuing to solve crimes without his wife.
Q: Is McMillan & Wife available for streaming?
As of now, the show is available on select streaming platforms and can also be purchased through various online retailers.
Conclusion
McMillan & Wife remains a cherished part of television history, remembered for its perfect blend of humor, mystery, and heart. The show’s unique approach to the crime-solving genre, coupled with the undeniable chemistry between Rock Hudson and Susan Saint James, ensures that it continues to be enjoyed by new generations of viewers. Whether you’re revisiting the show for a dose of nostalgia or discovering it for the first time, McMillan & Wife offers an entertaining escape into a world of stylish fashion, clever mysteries, and an iconic TV couple.