80s TV Ladies

"I said, John, you know, it's a visual art. You don't give me something to do, at least I'm gonna be something to look at." - Morgan Fairchild To celebrate the 100th episode of our podcast 80s TV Ladies, hosts Susan Lambert Hatem and Sharon Johnson welcome actress, activist, and podcaster Morgan Fairchild to discuss her decades-spanning career and how television and auditioning have changed from in-person meetings to self-tapes and fragmented audiences. Fairchild recounts moving from Texas to New York after a young divorce, breaking in through open calls, landing Search for Tomorrow, then relocating to Los Angeles and getting an early role on Rafferty with Patrick McGoohan. She explains shaping layered “bad guy” roles with comedy, including Initiation of Sarah, Flamingo Road (and being labeled “too sexy for TV” by the Moral Majority), and Falcon Crest, where she pushed for a promised incest-repercussions storyline and used fashion as a visual hook.She shares behind-the-scenes stories from Pee-wee’s Big Adventure with Paul Reubens, friendships with classic Hollywood stars, her AIDS activism and COVID education, and her new podcast with sister Catherine Hart, Two Bitches from Texas.00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro02:48 How TV Has Changed04:46 Texas to New York Breakthrough07:21 First Hollywood Job Story11:43 Making Characters Pop13:21 Becoming the Power Bitch16:25 Too Sexy for TV18:03 Falcon Crest Storyline Fight21:38 Pee Wee Movie Chaos26:27 Old Hollywood Friendships31:53 Doubts and Survival33:25 Career Doubts Persist34:06 Divas Christmas Set36:20 Sequel Push Lifetime36:55 AIDS Activism Costs39:17 Staying Engaged Today44:29 Podcast With Sister48:08 Guests And Format49:33 Naming The Show53:14 Bonnie And Clyde Double55:28 Finding The Set and Meeting Warren Beatty01:00:15 Podcast Plugs Farewell01:01:55 Call Your Reps01:02:23 Next Series TeaseAUDIOOGRAPHYFind Morgan Fairchild at Morganfairchild.comListen to Morgan Fairchild and Catherine Hart at their website Two Bitches from Texas or wherever you find your podcasts.Check out Morgan Fairchild's book, Morgan Fairchild Super Looks, at eBayFind out more about Catherine Hart's acting classes at her website Heart and SoulConnect with 80s TV Ladies at 80sTVLadies.comTake action at 5Calls.org  PROMO DEALSGet awesome sheets and pajamas at COZY EARTH.Be sure to use the promo code: 80STVLADIES.Happy Shopping!MARCH DEALS BLOCK80s TV Ladies deals and discounts:Cozy Earth (21% Off)🔗 Get them at: https://MyDeals.Page/19wy🎁 Code: 80STVLADIESNEW DEALS - Just added!Bear Knuckles premium leather work gloves (15% Off)Afuera Coffee sustainable coffee (15% Off)🔗 Get them at: https://MyDeals.Page/19wy🎁Code: 80STVLADIES📻 CONNECT WITH 80s TV LADIESOfficial Website: 80sTVLadies.com Email Us: 80sTVLadies@gmail.comSupport the Show: Get ad-free episodes and bonus content | Support on Patreon🎭 SUSAN'S NEW VENTUREArts A La Carte – A non-profit dedicated to helping develop new works in theater. You can help us. Support the Arts! DONATE at ArtsALaCarte.orgInstagram: @ArtsALaCarteLAVisit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.

“ Barney and I were interviewed about that episode on Entertainment Tonight because the word “condom” had never been used on television before.” - Georgia Jeffries, Cagney & Lacey writerHosts Susan Lambert Hatem and Sharon Johnson welcome writer-producer-professor Georgia Jeffries, an Award-winning writer known for Cagney & Lacey, China Beach, and Sisters. Jeffries recounts growing up as an only child, loving The Twilight Zone, reading history, and finding an early spark for writing through school assignments and UCLA journalism and creative writing courses.She talks about her time working as a freelance journalist while caring for her family. And the pivotal LAPD ride-along that inspired her first produced Cagney & Lacey episode, “An Unusual Occurrence,” which won a WGA Award. She compares the culture of Cagney & Lacey with China Beach, discusses unproduced pilots and projects (including HBO series, and an unmade Cher/Jessica Lange/to-be-directed by Frank Oz movie, Confessions) She reflects on writing episodes that tackled addiction, AIDS-era conversations, and sexual assault. Jeffries also shares details about her novel, The Younger Girl, current writing projects, and advice to emerging writers.00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro01:33 Childhood TV Influences03:56 Good Girl Expectations05:16 Finding Writing Path07:48 Early Jobs and Teaching10:43 LAPD Ride Along Story14:34 Cagney and Lacey Breakthrough16:09 Feminism and California Move18:09 Film Journalism to Screenwriting19:34 Unmade Cher Lange Film24:16 Women in Film Opens Doors29:47 HBO Script to Book Rights34:54 Working Mother on Set36:14 Writers Room Culture Then39:55 Favorite Episodes Tease40:09 Why This Story Matters40:47 Writing Cagney and Lacey44:28 TV Breaking Taboos46:45 Breaking Into Screenwriting48:17 Saying Yes and No49:11 Joy and Rejection51:11 Unmade Pilots Heartbreak52:55 China Beach Bigger Canvas55:55 Writers Room Culture57:50 Showrunner Dream Team58:39 Vista Clara and Timing01:00:31 Teaching at USC01:01:07 Resist AI Stay Original01:02:00 You Write Like a Man01:04:33 Working on Sisters01:06:27 The Younger Girl Novel01:14:36 Prose Versus Screenwriting01:16:49 New Work and Wrap Up01:19:11 Where to Find Everything01:21:58 Final Thanks and CalloutsAUDIOOGRAPHYFind out more about Georgia Jeffries at georgiajeffries.comGet Georgia’s book, The Younger Girl at Bookshop.orgFind out more about the groundbreaking and Emmy-winning show at CagneyandLacey.comCall your Reps. Let your voice be heard. Go to 5calls.orgWatch on Roku for Sisters and China Beach. PROMO DEALSGet awesome sheets and pajamas at COZY EARTH.Be sure to use the promo code: 80STVLADIES.Happy Shopping!MARCH 8TL DEALS BLOCK:80s TV Ladies deals and discounts:Cozy Earth (21% Off)🔗 Get them at: https://MyDeals.Page/19wy🎁 Code: 80STVLADIES📻 CONNECT WITH 80s TV LADIESOfficial Website: 80sTVLadies.com Email Us: 80sTVLadies@gmail.comSupport the Show: Get ad-free episodes and bonus content | Support on Patreon🎭 SUSAN'S NEW VENTUREArts A La Carte – A non-profit dedicated to helping develop new works in theater.Website: ArtsALaCarte.orgInstagram: @ArtsALaCarteLACELEBRATE 100!OUR 100th EPISODE is coming! Don't miss our special episode with Ms. Morgan Fairchild!! Visit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.

90s TV Babies Meet The Golden Girls: Uncovering Timeless Comedy | 80s TV PodcastJoin co-hosts Susan Lambert Hatem and Sharon Johnson as they welcome back the “’90s TV Babies”—Sergio Perez, Sailor Franklin, and Serita Fontanesi—plus first-time (almost silent) guest: the 20s² TV Baby Theo —for a 2026 discussion of The Golden Girls.The group is assigned a lineup of key episodes across Seasons 1, 2, 4, 6, and the two-part series finale.They catch up on the last six months: Serita welcomes baby Theo (nearly six months old), shares his love of his Paddington bear, and talks about returning to work; Sailor celebrates a new solo apartment in South Pasadena, a promotion to visual and performing arts associate at a nonprofit, and performing in a 134 West variety show (“Merry Queerness: A Wildly Inappropriate Holiday Show”) featuring a “Last Christmas” number; Sergio describes his first “adult summer” without children’s theater, a year in a new apartment with Koji, and travel to the dunes at Pismo Beach.Theo’s teething, sock-removing, and foot-in-mouth milestones frequently steal the spotlight.On The Golden Girls, the guests discuss its lasting impact, rapid-fire joke writing, and how boldly early seasons tackled topics like LGBTQ+ themes, age gaps, consent/power dynamics, teen pregnancy, grief, and loss—often balancing heart with humor. Sergio admits he’s watching the series for the first time and praises the show’s intelligence and influence on later sitcoms; Sailor highlights the value of 24-plus-episode seasons and names Dorothy as her favorite; Sergio chooses Rose and admires Betty White’s performance.They single out “Mrs. George Devereaux” for its emotional weight and structure, and critique the pacing and feel of the series finale’s ending. They also touch on behind-the-scenes context discussed on the podcast, including Estelle Getty’s later-season memory issues and reported tensions between Bea Arthur and Betty White, and briefly fan-cast a hypothetical reboot.The episode includes a Cozy Earth ad read (41% off with the show’s promo code - ONLY GOOD UNTIL MARCH), mentions a 40th anniversary Golden Girls special on Hulu (2025), shares Serita’s Venmo for diaper money, and plugs Susan’s arts organization Arts à la CarteThe hosts preview upcoming episodes featuring writer/producer/professor Georgia Jeffries (episode 99) and announce Morgan Fairchild as the special guest for the show’s 100th episode.THE ASSIGNMENTIf you want to watch what the 90s TV Babies watched…Here is your assignment should you choose to accept it:S1E1 Pilot, The EngagementS1.E9 Blanche and the Younger ManS1.E13 A Little RomanceS1.E25 The Way We MetS2.E02 Ladies of the EveningS2.E24 To Catch a NeighborS4.E15 Valentine’s DayS6.E9 Mrs. George DevereauxS7.25 & S7.26 One Flew Out of the Cuckoo’s NestBONUS EXTRA CREDIT EPISODESS2.E5 Isn’t it RomanticS2.E21 Dorothy’s Prized PupilS6.E14 Sister of the BrideS7.E2 The Case of the Libertine BellS3, Ep1 - Friendship and Memories00:00 Welcome Back + Golden Girls Episode Assignment02:24 Meet the Nineties TV Babies (and Baby Theo!)03:24 Serita’s Life Update: New Baby, Time Off, Paddington Bear05:04 Sailor’s Update: Shows, Audio Fixes, and Holiday Performance11:11 Sailor’s Big News: New Apartment + Promotion12:20 Sergio’s Update: Post-Theater Freedom and Travel Adventures18:57 Back to the Show: Everyone’s Golden Girls History24:29 Sailor’s Take: Why Golden Girls Still Hits in 202628:39 Campy vs. heartfelt: unpacking the dream episode’s wild tonal mix30:00 Bring back 24-episode seasons: why filler, flashbacks & character color matter32:20 Sergio’s first-time watch: rapid-fire jokes, smart writing, and trusting the audience34:15 Standout lines & bold topics: teen pregnancy, grief, and jokes that land36:16 Sponsor break: Cozy Earth bamboo sheets (41% off)36:59 Why Golden Girls still feels ahead of its time (and the case for a reboot)39:53 Surprises on rewatch: dramatic acting, theater-style sitcoms, and that gut-punch ending46:38 Favorite Girl debate: Dorothy vs. Rose, and what makes each character click49:00 Behind-the-scenes: cast dynamics, Estelle Getty’s memory issues, and Betty White lore53:14 Finale reactions: hating Stan, rushed romance, and an ending without a button57:26 Monoculture is gone: streaming chaos, reboot realities, and dream fan-casting01:01:50 Wrap-up & plugs: anniversary special, links, Patreon, and what’s nextAUDIOOGRAPHY🎙️ FEATURED GUESTSSergio Perez – Associate Producer, actor, writer & "90s TV Baby"Sailor Franklin – South Pasadena based stage manager, performer and Visual & Performing Arts Associate | Connect on InstagramSerita Fontanesi – New mom to baby Theodore; host of Not Ugly | Venmo Theo diapers!  Visit Serita.co or Listen to Not Ugly Pod👵 GOLDEN GIRLS RESOURCESFIND GOLDEN GIRLSWatch On Hulu or PhiloAlso YouTube and Apple TVDVDs are available through eBay, Walmart, and your local library.40th Anniversary Special (2025) – 40 Years of Laughter and Friendship | Watch on HuluOfficial Social Media – Stay updated with the girls | Follow on Facebook📻 CONNECT WITH 80s TV LADIESOfficial Website: 80sTVLadies.comEmail Us: 80sTVLadies@gmail.comSupport the Show: Get ad-free episodes and bonus content | Support on Patreon🎭 SUSAN'S NEW VENTUREArts A La Carte – A non-profit dedicated to helping develop new works in theater.Website: ArtsALaCarte.orgInstagram: @ArtsALaCarteLA🛌 SPECIAL DEALS FOR LISTENERSGet awesome sheets and pajamas at COZY EARTH.Be sure to use the promo code: 80STVLADIES. Happy Shopping!FEBRUARY 8TL DEALS BLOCK:Get your 80s TV Ladies deals and discounts:Cozy Earth bamboo sheets and pjs (41% Off) - This DEAL ENDS SOON!https://MyDeals.Page/19wy🎁Code: 80STVLADIESNEW DEALS - Just added!Bear Knuckles premium leather work gloves (15% Off)Afuera Coffee sustainable coffee (15% Off)🔗 Get them at: https://MyDeals.Page/19wy🎁Code: 80STVLADIESVisit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.

"Golden Girls is just so good. It's been with me my entire life, and there were opportunities to do more than just a rewatch podcast. We could bring in historical stuff and the history of the show." - Patrick Hinds, Golden Girls Deep Dive podcastJoin hosts Sharon Johnson and Susan Lambert Hatem on 80s TV Ladies as they chat with the award-winning podcaster Patrick Hinds. Known for his work on Theatre People, Broadway Backstory, True Crime Obsessed, and The Golden Girls Deep Dive podcast, Patrick Hinds is a familiar name for fans of podcasting. In this episode, Hinds delves into his experiences creating podcasts, his episode walkthrough of The Golden Girls, and his journey from theater to true crime. He discusses working with Jennifer Simard, the impact of Golden Girls on the LGBTQ community, and his book 'Failure is Not, Not an Option.' Patrick also talks about working with Gillian Pensavalle on creating the True Crime Obsessed podcast. The conversation touches upon behind-the-scenes stories, the enduring appeal of The Golden Girls, getting hated on by Bea Arthur, and the importance of community and storytelling. Perfect for those who delight in 80s TV, podcasting, and theater.AUDIOOGRAPHYExplore the world of Patrick Hinds and his shows:Golden Girls Deep Dive Podcast True Crime Obsessed Podcast Get Patrick's book, Failure is Not, Not an Option Connect with Patrick at PatrickTours.com  Or at Instagram.com/patrickhindsFIND GOLDEN GIRLSOn Hulu or PhiloAlso YouTube and Apple TV For those interested in physical copies, DVDs are available through eBay, Walmart, and your local library.Dive into the beats of nostalgia and learn more about your favorite shows, actors, and the intricate stories behind them with the "80s TV Ladies" podcast!SPECIAL 8TL PROMO DEALSGet awesome sheets and pajamas at COZY EARTH.Use the promo code: 80STVLADIES. Happy Shopping!FEBRUARY 8TL DEALS BLOCK:Get your 80s TV Ladies deals and discounts:Cozy Earth bamboo sheets and pjs (41% Off)Old Glory iconic music, movies, TV and sports shirts (15% Off)🔗 Get them at: https://MyDeals.Page/19wy🎁Code: 80STVLADIESNEW DEALS - Just added!Bear Knuckles premium leather work gloves (15% Off)Afuera Coffee sustainable coffee (15% Off)🔗 Get them at: https://MyDeals.Page/19wy🎁Code: 80STVLADIES00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:02 Golden Girls Deep Dive with Patrick Hinds01:41 Working with Jennifer Simard02:59 From True Crime to Golden Girls04:04 Theater Podcasting Journey05:33 Memorable Interviews and Broadway Stories13:13 The Birth of Broadway Backstory16:27 Creating a True Crime Podcast with Gillian Pensavalle20:38 The Appeal of True Crime25:36 Golden Girls: A Cultural Phenomenon33:54 Different Standards for Women in Media34:20 Interviewing Wendy Mallick35:20 Stan Zimmerman and Theater Connections37:32 Balancing Podcast Episodes and Interviews38:09 Challenges of True Crime Podcasting44:14 Golden Girls: A Timeless Classic46:54 The Impact of 80s and 90s TV Shows48:07 Patrick Hinds' Book: Failure is Not, Not an Option50:10 Bea Arthur's Tough Exterior52:41 Favorite 80s TV Shows and Final ThoughtsVisit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.

"It's interesting how relevant these conversations remain today." - Jennie WetterJoin 80s TV Ladies hosts Susan Lambert Hatem and Sharon Johnson with guest Jennie Wetter, director of the RePros Fight Back Initiative at the Population Institute, as they explore the groundbreaking two-part 'Maude' episodes addressing abortion - Maude's Dilemma, Part 1 and 2.They discuss the historical context of reproductive rights in America, the impact of the Roe v. Wade decision, and the portrayal of women's healthcare on television before and after its airing. The episode dives into the relevance of these discussions in today's political climate, offering insights on supporting reproductive rights. Featuring reflections on impactful pop culture moments, this conversation underscores how far we’ve come and the battles still ahead.AUDIOOGRAPHYFind RePROs Fight Back Podcast at Reprosfightback.com   - FInd them on major podcast platforms and socials under "RePROs Fight Back"Find Shout Your Abortion at ShoutYourAbortion.comSupport Abortion Funds at abortionfunds.orgNeed an abortion? Go to AbortionFinder.org or Ineedana.comAbortion pills by mail: PlanCpills.orgLawyering for Reproductive Justice at ifwhenhow.orgDonate to TRR Foundation (started by our own Melissa!) Select RePROs Fight Back  episodes on Later Abortions:Access to Later Abortion Will Always Be NeededEverything You Need to Know about Abortion Later in PregnancyWatch Maude for free at Tubi TV. Purchase Maude on DVD via Shout Factory, now Gruv.comOr at Ebay.  SPECIAL 8TL PROMO DEALSGet awesome sheets and pajamas at COZY EARTH.Click through from this page, the discount should automatically apply. If not, use the promo code: 80STVLADIES. Happy Shopping!JANUARY 8TL DEALS BLOCK:Get your 80s TV Ladies deals and discounts:Cozy Earth bamboo sheets and pjs (41% Off)Old Glory iconic music, movies, TV and sports shirts (15% Off)🔗 Get them at: https://MyDeals.Page/19wy🎁Code: 80STVLADIESNEW DEALS - Just added!Bear Knuckles premium leather work gloves (15% Off)Afuera Coffee sustainable coffee (15% Off)🔗 Get them at: https://MyDeals.Page/19wy🎁Code: 80STVLADIES00:00 Introduction to 80s TV Ladies00:40 Controversial TV Episodes of the 70s and 80s02:50 Vital Women's Healthcare in TV03:37 Introducing Jennie Wetter05:32 Jennie Wetter's Career and Podcast Journey08:31 Golden Girls and Reproductive Rights11:00 Challenges in Accessing Abortion18:47 Pop Culture and Personal Influences23:16 Maude's Dilemma: A Groundbreaking Episode46:21 Exploring Abortion Portrayals in Media47:01 Grey's Anatomy and Real-Life Experiences49:56 Historical Context and Impact of 'Maude'52:57 Rue McClanahan's Role and Show Dynamics01:01:24 Abortion Representation in Modern Media01:15:53 Supporting Reproductive Rights Today01:25:32 Final Thoughts and Upcoming EpisodesVisit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.

SPECIAL PRESENTATION: The Love Boat Podcast with Loretta Swit80s TV Ladies is thrilled to introduce you to The Love Boat Podcast with this exclusive Feed Drop from The Love Boat Podcast. Before we set sail, we pause to honor the remarkable Loretta Swit.Emmy-winning star of MASH, beloved guest on The Love Boat, and an icon of television’s golden age. In what would become her final recorded interview, Loretta joins Fred, Ted, Jill (and Bernie Kopell) for an unforgettable conversation about craft, chemistry, and courage. From her trailblazing portrayal of Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan to her heartfelt stories about The Love Boat and co-star Bernie Kopell, Loretta reflects on breaking barriers for women in television, finding humanity in every role, and the joy of creating something that lasts.Warm, witty, and full of love, this episode is both a celebration and a farewell — a reminder that true classics never fade. Listen to more episodes of The Love Boat Podcast and follow the podcast: https://play.megaphone.fm/dlvu8lpmsfctfxvsxfylxqhttps://www.loveboatpodcast.comhttps://www.instagram.com/loveboatpodcastSee The Flirt Bar concert reading in Atlanta.Written by Susan Lambert Hatem. Songs by Amy Ray and Michelle Malone.Directed by Amanda Wansa Morgan.January 10-11, 2026Synchronicity TheatreGet tix and info at Eventbrite.Visit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.

 ”Dorothy's tale of how she and her husband ended up together implies that he slipped her something and had sex with her. Without protection… Yeah…” - Susan Lambert HatemSusan Lambert Hatem and Sharon Johnson dive deep in this episode into the beloved TV show 'The Golden Girls,' discussing its groundbreaking impact and the not-so-great aspects. While celebrating its progressive approach to hot-button topics and its iconic cast, they discuss ten aspects they found problematic, from mean-spirited humor to racial and cultural insensitivity. The episode, inspired by a Vulture article by Steven W. Thrasher, seeks to balance admiration with candid critique, acknowledging both the show's achievements and its shortcomings. Tune in for a balanced look at one of the most iconic TV shows from the '80s, filled with both love and critique.Wishing you all a Happy Belated Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, Wonderful Holidays! May you all have a hopeful and very Happy New Year!HOLIDAY PROMO DEALSGet awesome sheets and pajamas at COZY EARTH.Click through from this page, the discount should automatically apply. If not, use the promo code: 80STVLADIES. Happy Shopping!DECEMBER 8TL DEALS BLOCK:80s TV Ladies deals and discounts:Cozy Earth (41% Off)Old Glory (15% Off)🔗 Get them at: https://MyDeals.Page/19wy🎁Code: 80STVLADIESAUDIOOGRAPHYListen to Grace Anna at ArtMuse Podcast at artmusepodcast.comThe Golden Girls Streaming: Watch on HuluGet DVDs on eBayVulture Article: "The Real Mud on Golden Girls" by Steven W. ThrasherRead the article on VultureOUR 100th EPISODE is coming! What should we do to celebrate?Send us your ideas via: 80sTVLadies @ gmail dot com Other TV Shows Referenced:Mama's Family -Mama's Family (Wikipedia)Married with Children - Married with Children (Wikipedia)All in the Family - All in the Family (Wikipedia)How to Marry a Millionaire (film) - How to Marry a Millionaire (Wikipedia)PeopleBrandon Tartikoff (NBC executive, inspiration for the show)Brandon Tartikoff (Wikipedia)Susan Harris (Creator of The Golden Girls)Susan Harris (Wikipedia)Charles Levin (Actor who played Coco)Charles Levin (Wikipedia)Steven W Thrasher (Author of the Vulture article)Steven W Thrasher (Official Site)CONNECTGo to 80sTVLadies.com for more info and transcripts.Support us and get ad-free episodes on PATREON. Join the Facebook page discussion at Facebook.com/80sTVLadiesDon’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review! Join us for more conversations with the people who shaped TV and pop culture.00:00 Welcome to 80s TV Ladies Podcast00:29 Introducing the Golden Girls Discussion01:02 10 Things We Don't Love About the Golden Girls02:28 Mean-Spirited Humor in the Golden Girls04:05 Sexism and Controversial Jokes07:10 Racism and Cultural Insensitivity14:36 Ageism and Stereotypes17:37 Inconsistencies and Lost Characters20:20 Final Thoughts and Listener EngagementVisit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.

"Achieving this milestone was a dream come true. It made all the hard work and sacrifices worth it."  - Marsha Posner WilliamsIn this 80s TV Ladies episode, hosts Susan Lambert Hatem and Sharon Johnson continue their interview with Emmy-winning producer Marsha Posner Williams, exploring further chapters of her illustrious career in television. Marsha discusses her work on the short-lived yet memorable show 'Hail to the Chief,' including behind-the-scenes challenges and humorous moments, like dealing with unprepared nuns in the audience. She delves into the transition to producing 'The Golden Girls,' touching on pivotal moments such as reworking the pilot, the removal of the character Coco, and the creation of the show's iconic theme song and opening credits.Marsha also reflects on inter-cast dynamics, particularly the tension between Bea Arthur and Betty White, and shares broader insights on her career achievements, inspirational encounters, and the empowering message she delivers in her college lectures.00:00 Introduction and Recap00:32 Hail to the Chief: Behind the Scenes05:42 Golden Girls: Season 1 and Casting08:29 Golden Girls: Creating the Iconic Theme and Opening Credits15:52 Golden Girls: On-Set Dynamics and Challenges20:58 Golden Palace Origins21:09 Tales from the Set22:18 Navigating Hollywood's Gender Dynamics22:45 The Me Too Movement26:18 Working on Amen32:24 Transition to College Lectures36:18 Reflecting on a Hollywood Career43:31 Conclusion and FarewellAUDIOOGRAPHYListen to Grace Anna at ArtMuse Podcast at artmusepodcast.comHOLIDAY PROMO DEALSGet awesome sheets and pajamas at COZY EARTH.If you click through from this page, the discount should automatically apply. If not, use the promo code: 80STVLADIES. Happy Shopping!DECEMBER 8TL DEALS BLOCK:80s TV Ladies deals and discounts: Cozy Earth (41% Off)Old Glory (15% Off)🔗 Get them at: https://MyDeals.Page/19wy🎁 Code: 80STVLADIESOUR 100th EPISODE is coming! What should we do to celebrate?Send us your ideas via: 80sTVLadies @ gmail dot com Visit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.

“Even more so than All in the Family, we had protesters outside our office... We used to keep our curtains closed because we were afraid someone was gonna throw a brick through the window.” - Marsha Posner Williams on 'Soap'In this episode of 80s TV Ladies, hosts Susan Lambert Hatem and Sharon Johnson interview Marsha Posner Williams, an Emmy and Golden Globe-winning producer known for her work on hit shows such as ‘Soap,’ 'Benson,' 'Night Court,' and 'The Golden Girls.' Dive into Marsha's fascinating career journey as she shares intriguing and hilarious anecdotes about her experiences in Hollywood, including her connection to Marlo Thomas's fan club.She tells us about working with Danny Thomas, Paul Junger Witt, Tony Thomas, and Susan Harris! And shares the trials and triumphs of producing controversial yet iconic TV shows alongside Danny Thomas, Paul Junger Witt, Tony Thomas and Susan Harris. From typing jokes and working as a hostess dancer to her involvement in groundbreaking, controversial and iconic TV shows, Marsha's story is one of resilience, ambition, and a keen sense of humor. Tune in to hear her insights on the evolving landscape of television and her contributions to the most memorable shows of the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Stay tuned for more in Part 2!AUDIOOGRAPHYListen to ArtMuse Podcast at artmusepodcast.comHOLIDAY PROMO DEALSIf you click through from this page, the discount should automatically apply. If not use the promo code: 80STVLADIES. Happy Shopping!Get some awesome sheets and pajamast at COZY EARTH.NOVEMBER 8TL DEALS BLOCK:80s TV Ladies deals and discounts: Cozy Earth (41% Off)Old Glory (15% Off)🔗 Get them at: https://MyDeals.Page/19wy🎁 Code: 80STVLADIESOUR 100th EPISODE is coming! What should we do to celebrate?Send us your ideas via: 80sTVLadies @ gmail dot com 00:00 Welcome to 80s TV Ladies00:37 Introducing Marcia Posner Williams01:51 Marcia's Early Inspirations05:28 Journey to Hollywood08:05 Struggles and Breakthroughs11:05 First Big Break in Hollywood20:23 Working with Danny Thomas23:11 Unpredictability of Live TV23:28 First Steps in Television23:45 Working with Susan Harris25:15 Controversies of 'Soap'26:39 Fan Reactions and Personal Stories32:39 Promotion to Script Supervisor34:17 Transition to Producing38:34 Memorable Moments on Set46:39 From 'Benson' to 'Night Court'47:34 Negotiating Conditions for 'Hail to the Chief'Visit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.

Join hosts Susan Lambert Hatem and Sharon Johnson on 80s TV Ladies, where they chat with Jim Colucci, TV writer, author, and entertainment journalist, known for his deep dive into the cultural impact of the Golden Girls. In this episode, Jim discusses his unauthorized retrospective book, 'Golden Girls Forever,' sharing behind-the-scenes stories and the show's lasting cultural influence. From interviews with Golden Girls cast members to exploring themes of diversity and acceptance in 80s television, Jim provides stories about the cast Bea Arthur, Betty White, Rue McClanahan and Estelle Getty.  The conversation explores Jim's experiences writing about other iconic shows like 'All in the Family,' 'Will and Grace,' and his upcoming book on 'The Love Boat.' Get inside these legendary 80s pop culture shows with insights, laughter, and nostalgic reflections on the power of television to shape our views.Filling in for Melissa this week is Associate Producer Sailor Franklin.And we kept talking. So many more stories about Golden Girls, The Love Boat, James Lipton, Cloris Leachman and more! Get the full supersized Jim Colucci episode at Patreon.com/80sTVLadiesAUDIOOGRAPHYYou can find Jim Colucci at JimColucci.com  And on Instagram.com/JimcolucciGet Jim's book Golden Girls Forever: An Unauthorized Look Behind the Lanai at Harper Books. Get the FULL 2-Hour amazing interview with Jim at Patreon.com/80sTVLadiesThe Golden Girls Streaming: Hulu, Disney+, PhiloPurchase:  Apple TV, YouTube (for rent/purchase).Hulu has the documentary ​​The World According to Allee Willis. So fun!Read more about the GG 40th Anniversary celebration at ABC. Now streaming on Hulu/Disney+Watch The Golden Girls: 40 Years of Laughter and Friendship Trailer at YouTube. JOIN THE FUNDon’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review! 5-stars means a lot.Join us for more conversations with the people who shaped TV and pop culture.Visit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.

Join hosts Susan Lambert Hatem and Sharon Johnson as they welcome back prolific writer, director, producer, and actor Stan Zimmerman. Known for his work on iconic female-driven comedies like 'The Golden Girls,' 'Roseanne,' and 'Gilmore Girls,' Stan shares insights from his illustrious career and discusses his new book, The Girls: From Golden to Gilmore. From recounting behind-the-scenes moments with Betty White, Bea Arthur, and other legends, to addressing the challenges of being a gay writer in Hollywood, Stan's stories are both entertaining and enlightening. Tune in for a journey through 80s TV history, writing partnerships, and lessons learned along the way.00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome00:43 Introducing Stan Zimmerman01:51 Stan's Writing Journey02:37 The Personal Side of Writing03:36 Journaling and Reflection05:13 Challenges and Resilience10:18 Golden Girls Insights14:30 Writing Partnerships and Hollywood Politics17:27 Spec Scripts and Early Career25:50 Golden Girls Episodes and Legacy36:50 Pitching Jokes to Soap and Benson Writers37:39 Evolution of the Writer's Room39:04 Golden Girls and Changing Times42:23 Stories from the Book: Celebrity Encounters50:59 Theater and Making a Difference56:01 Challenges and Triumphs in Hollywood01:00:41 Friendship with Lily Tomlin01:10:45 Reflections on Writing for Golden Girls01:12:19 Conclusion and Podcast ShoutoutsAUDIOOGRAPHYFind more about Stan at ZimmermanStan.comBook Recommendation: The Girls: From Golden to Gilmore by Stan Zimmerman.Get it at Indigo River Publishing. Or at Barnes and Noble.The Golden Girls Streaming: Hulu, Disney+, PhiloPurchase: Apple TV, YouTube (for rent/purchase), on DVD, and more.Get Involved in Your CommunityIndivisible: Find a group near you and get involved at indivisible.orgContact Your Representatives: Check out Five Calls to quickly and easily call your representatives.Visit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.

In this captivating episode of 80s TV Ladies, hosts Sharon Johnson and Susan Lambert Hatem interview the legendary Cindy Fee, best known for singing the iconic theme song for 'The Golden Girls'. The conversation covers Cindy's extensive career, beginning with her professional singing at a young age, and her work with notable artists such as Kenny Rogers, Lionel Richie, and Dolly Parton.Cindy shares behind-the-scenes stories from her career in jingles, commercials, and studio work, as well as her experiences performing live. She also reflects on the enduring appeal of 'The Golden Girls', the impact of TV theme songs, and the evolution of the music industry. Cindy's anecdotes and insights offer a unique glimpse into the life of a versatile and prolific singer.00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Welcome00:32 Introducing Cindy Fee: A Musical Journey01:57 Early Beginnings in Music04:13 Moving to LA and Career Breakthroughs06:04 Recording Demos and Working with Diane Warren10:58 Family Life and Balancing Career12:57 Studio Work and Jingle Singing25:58 Golden Girls Theme Song and TV Music29:41 The Evolution of TV and Music Industry39:25 The Impact of AI on Performers39:58 The Role of Unions in Protecting Talent41:06 Misconceptions About Golden Girls Contributions41:25 Golden Girls Conventions and Fan Interactions42:53 A Career in Music and Jingles49:11 Memorable Collaborations and Advice for Singers59:20 The Emotional Connection of 'Thank You for Being a Friend'01:09:45 Future Plans and Final ThoughtsAUDIOOGRAPHYLearn more about Cindy Fee at CindyFeeSings.comFind Cindy at TikTok.com/@goldengirlfeeBe a part of Cindy Fee's new "Thank You For Being a Friend" music video. Learn more at her InstagramCheck out Golden Girls LIVE! This December in San FranciscoCOMMERCIALS:Hoover Nobody Does it Like You on YouTube.Wheaties What the Big Boys Eat on YouTube.Pontiac Ride Pontiac Ride on YouTube.The Golden Girls Streaming: Hulu, Disney+, PhiloPurchase: Apple TV,  YouTube, on DVD at EbayBook Recommendation - Golden Girls Forever: An Unauthorized Look Behind the Lanai by Jim Colucci. Find it at Harper Books. Visit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.

Hosts Susan Lambert Hatem and Sharon Johnson dive deep into the beloved 'The Golden Girls' with a delightful overview and 50 fun facts about the show. Discover fascinating show details, cast secrets, and notable legacy moments as they share their passion for this iconic series. Learn about the iconic characters played by Bea Arthur (Dorothy Zbornak), Betty White (Rose Nylund), Rue McClanahan (Blanche Devereaux), and Estelle Getty (Sophia Petrillo). Along the way, explore production quirks and the enduring impact of 'The Golden Girls' on TV history. Explore the show's legacy, including its international remakes and impact on pop culture. Packed with laughter, nostalgia, and insightful anecdotes, this episode is perfect for longtime fans and new viewers alike. Stay tuned to learn about our next episode with a special upcoming guest - Cindy Fee, the voice behind the theme song 'Thank You for Being a Friend.' Don't miss it!CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction01:30 General Show Facts08:09 Cast Facts15:43  Production Facts 24:47 Legacy Facts32:26 Break32:45 Character History Facts48:55 AudioographyAUDIOOGRAPHYThe Golden Girls Streaming: Hulu, Disney+, PhiloPurchase: Apple TV, YouTube (for rent/purchase), on DVD, and moreMaude Streaming (free): Tubi, Pluto TVBook Recommendation Golden Girls Forever: An Unauthorized Look Behind the Lanai by Jim Colucci.  Check it out at Amazon. Find it at Harper Books. In Memoriam Todd Cochrane: Learn more about the founder of the Podcast Awards and early podcaster in these obituaries: Obituary in Podnews, Obituary from Eagle Funeral HomesGet Involved in Your CommunityIndivisible: Find a group near you and get involved at indivisible.orgContact Your Representatives: Check out Five Calls to quickly and easily call your representatives.CONNECTGo to 80sTVLadies.com for more info and transcripts.Support us and get ad-free episodes on PATREON. Join the Facebook page discussion at Facebook.com/80sTVLadiesDon’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review! Join us for more conversations with the people who shaped TV and pop culture.Visit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.

Join hosts Sharon Johnson and Susan Lambert Hatem for an exciting episode as they take an in-depth look at the legendary 90s TV show, Xena: Warrior Princess. This episode features special guests RJ Stewart, head writer and co-creator of the series, and Anna Schekel, an artist and lifelong Xena fan. The discussion covers the evolution and impact of 'Xena: Warrior Princess,' the chemistry between Lucy Lawless and Renee O'Connor, and how the series became a cult classic. RJ shares insights into the show's creation, the importance of female empowerment in TV, and his new post-apocalyptic novel 'Crazy Hawk.' Don't miss this blend of nostalgia and deep dive into one of the most beloved series of the 90s.00:02 Theme Music00:23 Audio Note and Season 4 Introduction01:02 Discussing Zena Warrior Princess03:10 Interview with Anna Scheckel05:36 Anna's Favorite Episodes and Characters08:30 Welcoming RJ Stewart11:04 RJ Stewart's Writing Journey37:31 Cult Classic Status and Conventions44:15 Discussing Creative Control and Story Arcs47:34 Hero Protection and Character Development48:17 The Impact of Female Empowerment Stories50:44 Working with Lucy Lawless and Renee O'Connor54:27 Navigating Industry Challenges and Gossip55:34 The Bond Controversy and Career Reflections58:57 Exploring Xena's Lesbian Subtext01:07:09 Memorable Moments and Industry Insights01:17:02 Final Thoughts and Future Projects01:20:47 Ad-Break01:20:49 AudioographyAUDIOOGRAPHYXena: Warrior PrincessStreaming: Amazon Prime VideoPurchase: eBayCrazy Hawk by RJ Stewart (Book)Purchase: Bookshop.org, Barnes & NobleAudiobook read by Katie Hagaman: Audible.See Susan at Rich's LIVE show for Richard Hatem's Paranormal Bookshelf - Final NY dates: Sept 24 and Sept 27! Get Tix at Eventbrite.CONNECTVisit 80sTVLadies.com for info and transcripts.Join the Facebook page discussion at Facebook.com/80sTVLadiesVisit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.

"Listeners, what would be the answer for you? Is it Buffy or Xena?” Welcome to Season Four of 80s TV Ladies with hosts Sharon Johnson and Susan Lambert Hatem. In this episode, we dive into a nostalgic showdown between two iconic 90s TV heroines: Xena, the Warrior Princess, and Buffy, the Vampire Slayer.Susan and Sharon discuss the origins, cultural impact, and strengths of both shows, debating who would win in a head-to-head fight, which show was more influential, and which had the best musical episode! They also speculate on which heroine iconic Wonder Woman iterations (70s WW played by Linda Carter and 2017's WW, played by Gal Gadot) would prefer.Stay tuned for exciting details about our next guest, RJ Stewart, co-creator of Xena, and some engaging audio recommendations and show notes. This episode promises a delightful mix of history, pop culture analysis, and fanfare for these beloved series.00:00 Welcome to 80s TV Ladies Season Four!00:58 Introducing RJ Stewart and the Xena vs. Buffy Debate01:35 History of Xena: Warrior Princess02:50 History of Buffy the Vampire Slayer04:45 Buffy vs. Xena: Who Would Win in a Fight?07:17 Best 90s TV Ladies Superhero Show12:25 Musical Episodes: Xena vs. Buffy17:46 Buffy vs. Xena: The Ultimate Showdown18:03 Wonder Woman's Preference: Xena or Buffy?19:43 Gal Gadot's Wonder Woman: A New Perspective24:18 90s TV Heroines: Beyond Buffy and Xena26:00 Final Tally: Buffy vs. Xena27:37 Upcoming Episodes and recommendations30:07 Sign off and FarewellAUDIOOGRAPHYXena: Warrior PrincessStreaming: Amazon Prime VideoPurchase: eBayBuffy the Vampire SlayerStreaming: Tubi (free), Hulu, Disney+Purchase: eBayCrazy Hawk by RJ Stewart (Book)Purchase: Bookshop.org, Barnes & NobleAudiobook read by Katie Hagaman: Audible.Guess What? We’re nominated!For TWO People’s Choice PODCAST AWARDS!: Podcastawards.comCONNECTVisit 80sTVLadies.com for info and transcripts.Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list.Support us and get ad-free episodes on PATREON. Join the Facebook page discussion at Facebook.com/80sTVLadiesDon’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review! Join us for more conversations with the people who shaped TV and pop culture.Visit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.

“It’s not just because it’s a masterclass in comedy or because it has one of the greatest television theme songs of all time, I think it’s because it’s about friendship.”Get ready for a brand new season of 80s TV Ladies! In this special sneak peek, hosts Sharon Johnson and Susan Lambert Hatem dish out all the details on what’s coming up in Season Four.What's next for 8TL: Golden Girls, Kate & Allie, and One Day at a Time!From the iconic laughs of The Golden Girls, to the heartfelt journeys of One Day at a Time, and the long-awaited fan favorite Kate & Allie, we’re diving deep into the shows that defined a generation of women living life on their own terms. We’ll share behind-the-scenes stories, spotlight unforgettable characters, and welcome some very special guests and sidebar episodes—including a showdown between Xena and Buffy to kick things off! Plus, we’ve got tips on where to stream or find these classic series, and ways you can help support the show.AUDIOOGRAPHYThe Golden GirlsStreaming: Hulu, Disney+Purchase: Apple TV, YouTube, Walmart, eBayOne Day at a TimeStreaming: Tubi, YouTubePurchase: Shout Factory, eBayKate & AllieStreaming: The Roku ChannelPurchase: Walmart, Best Buy, eBaySo grab your bitchin’ shoulder pads and settle in—Season Four is about to bring you more joy, laughter, and fabulous TV than ever before. Don’t miss it!Guess What? We’re nominated!For TWO People’s Choice PODCAST AWARDS!: Podcastawards.comCONNECTSign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list.Support us and get ad-free episodes on PATREON. Join the Facebook page discussion at Facebook.com/80sTVLadiesDon’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review! Join us for more conversations with the people who shaped TV and pop culture.Visit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.

Welcome to our final Season Three episode of 80s TV Ladies! Hosts Sharon Jonson and Susan Lambert Hatem continue their in-depth conversation with actor Jon Cryer. In this second part, Jon shares behind-the-scenes stories from his television and film career, including his start in 80s television with "The Famous Teddy Z," the ups and downs of sitcom life, and his experiences working with legends like Charlie Sheen, Christopher Reeve, and Gene Hackman.In this episode:Jon’s journey from 80s movies to TV stardomThe making (and unmaking) of "The Famous Teddy Z"Working with one of his idols, Hugh Wilson (WKRP in Cincinnati, Frank’s Place)Lessons learned from sitcoms like "Partners" and "Getting Personal"The inside story of landing "Two and a Half Men" and working with Chuck Lorre and Charlie SheenFavorite guest stars and the casting of Holland Taylor and Conchata FerrellReflections on the show’s humor, its approach to masculinity, and Lorre’s ability to write for womenJon’s Emmy wins and what they meant to himPlaying Lex Luthor in the Arrowverse and being a lifelong comics fanProducing podcasts, including the award-winning "The Man Who Calculated Death"The importance of storytelling, speaking truth, and making art in today’s worldPlus:A special trailer for "The Man Who Calculated Death" podcastFun anecdotes about the joy of making art and how he was involved in the making of the k.d. lang and Roy Orbison duet, “Crying”Links:The Man Who Calculated DeathJon Cryer on IMDbLawyers, Guns and Money PodcastListen to Jon Cryer, Part 1 at 80sTVLadies.comVote for us:Help us get THREE PODCAST AWARDS! GO HERE: Podcastawards.comGive an email and register. It’s easy! CLICK ON: "Sign Up To Vote Now". NOMINATE 80s TV Ladies for: Best Female Hosted, People's Choice and TV & FilmPS: While you're there, also NOMINATE Richard Hatem's Paranormal Bookshelf in Religion and Spirituality. Podcastawards.comDon’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us for more conversations with the women (and men) who shaped 80s TV and pop culture.Visit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.

Susan and Sharon are thrilled to welcome director, writer and actor Jon Cryer to 80s TV Ladies!Jon Cryer is an Emmy-winning film and television icon, known for starring as “Duckie” in the 1986 John Hughes teen classic Pretty in Pink -- and then going on to star in all twelve seasons of Chuck Lorre’s long-running, award-winning sitcom, Two and A Half Men.Along the way, Jon has starred or appeared in dozens of television shows including The Famous Teddy Z, Partners, Dharma & Greg, Family Guy, The Practice, CSI, NCIS, Will & Grace and The Kominsky Method, and such films as No Small Affair, Hiding Out, Hot Shots!, Holy Man, Dudes and Due Date. For three years, Jon Cryer gave an award-winning performance as the legendary evil genius Lex Luthor on CW’s Supergirl.Jon authored the 2015 autobiography So That Happened and currently executive produces two hit podcasts: The Man Who Calculated Death and Lawyers, Guns & Money (which he also narrates). In Part 1 of a two-part conversation, Jon reflects on growing up in a show biz family and learning acting the hard way. Plus what it’s like playing the romantic lead opposite two of the most famous actresses of our time: Demi Moore and Molly Ringwald…THE CONVERSATIONSusan and Sharon share the crazy story of how they met Jon Cryer and got him on the show!BEING AN ACTOR IS CRAP: First day, first film, Jon is 20 years-old -- and Robert Altman is throwing fake bird shit all over him. That’s showbiz!THE FACTS OF LIFE: Jon was a huge fan of the show -- and then got to work with 8TL alum director Assad Kelada on Two and A Half Men!ACTING FOR TOOTIE: Jon just worked with Kim Fields -- she was his director!No Apology Necessary: Demi Moore recently apologized to Jon in her autobiography Inside Out for not being more sensitive when she “took his virginity” while shooting No Small Affair. But it turns out he wasn’t a virgin: “I just seemed like one.”On opening day of No Small Affair, Jon snuck into a theater just in time to see himself take off his shirt on screen -- and hear someone yell: “Where’s the beef?”When Jon met Andrew McCarthy and Molly Ringwald on the Pretty in Pink set, he thought they didn’t like him. Turns out he was only half-right.The original ending of Pretty in Pink has Molly Ringwald’s Andie politely shutting down Andrew McCarthy’s Blane, and dancing in solidarity with Cryer’s Duckie (to Davie Bowie’s Heroes) -- but test audiences HATED it! So, the ending was changed making sure that Andie ended up with cute and sensitive, rich-boy, Blane.GETTING MOSHED: While filming Dudes, Penelope Spheeris had Jon and castmate Dan Roebuck thrown into the mosh pit at a Vandals concert -- and they barely lived to tell about it!So, join Susan and Sharon -- and Jon -- as they talk Morgan Freeman, Escape From Alcatraz, Richard Gere, Wonder Woman, Al Pacino, Cher, Annie Potts, Mark Hamill, The Bad News Bears -- and getting naked for laughs on Two And A Half Men!AUDIO-OGRAPHYListen to Suzanne Rico’s podcast The Man Who Calculated Death (produced by Jon Cryer and Lisa Joyner) at TheManWhoCalculatedDeath.comAnd Jon's other podcast, Lawyers, Gun & Money at Apple. Watch all 12 seasons of Two And A Half Men on Peacock.Watch Jon Cryer as Lex Luthor on Supergirl on Apple or on Netflix.Buy Jon Cryer’s autobiography, So That Happened at Bookshop.org.Or Listen to So That Happened on Spotify or Audible. Arts Funding is under attack in this country. Find out how to support the arts, locally and nationally at  https://www.artsforla.org/VITAL DEMOCRACY READINGCheck out Democracy Docket here.Learn more about the ACLU here.Let your voice be heard! Call your reps. .Make 5 Calls makes it easy.CONNECTVisit 80sTVLadies.com for transcripts.Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list.Support us and get ad-free episodes on PATREON. Join the Facebook discussion at Facebook.com/80sTVLadiesVOTE FOR USHelp us get THREE PODCAST AWARDS!You can NOMINATE us. Give an email and register, but it's pretty easy!GO HERE: Podcastawards.comCLICK ON: Sign Up To Vote NowNOMINATE 80s TV Ladies for: Best Female Hosted, People's Choice and TV & FilmPS: Whiile you're there, also NOMINATE Richard Hatem's Paranormal Bookshelf  in Religion and Spirituality. Visit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.

“This show makes me feel like I have a blanket around me and I’m eating mac & cheese.” -- Megan Ruble, 90s TV Baby, about The Facts of Life.Susan and Sharon welcome back the notorious “90s TV Babies” to find out what they think about The Facts of Life, which ran August 24, 1979 to May 7, 1988.  Did they “take the good” and “take the bad”?  Did the “World Live Up To Their Dreams”? We’re gonna find out!Megan Ruble and Serita Fontanesi were asked to watch these FOL listener-suggested episodes:The Facts of Life AssignmentS1; EP13: “Dope”S2; EP1: “The New Girl”S3; EP15: “Starstruck”S4; EP22: “Take My Finals, Please”S5; EP6: “The Halloween Show”S7; EP1: “Out of the Fire”Plus, Bonus episodes: S1; EP1: “Rough Housing (The Pilot)”S2; EP2: “The New Girl: Part 2”S2; EP5: “Cousin Geri”S3; EP18: “Runaway”S5; EP10: “Store Games”S5; EP17: “A Death in the Family”S5; EP18: “Big Fish, Little Fish”S7; EP2: “Into the Frying Pan”S7; EP8: “Come Back To The Truck Stop, Natalie Green, Natalie Green”S7; EP14: “Tootie Drives”S9; EP16: “The First Time”THE CONVERSATIONSUMMER UPDATE: Serita’s having a baby!  Little Theodore Fontanesi arrives the first week of August!SUMMER UPDATE: Megan is producing a show for the Hollywood Fringe Festival and acting in “Shakespeare by the Sea”!SIT LONG AND PROSPER: What does it feel like to be put in Vulcan make-up? Megan will tell you!BUFFY ALERT! -- Serita is concerned: Is Megan an “Angel Girl” or a “Spike Girl”?SPOILER ALERT! -- Both Serita and Megan LOVED Facts of Life!“Starstruck (S3; EP15)” -- Megan calls out how rare it is to see a show about “out of control fandom” and Serita calls out how para-social relationships are not a “new thing”.Serita’s favorite characters: Tootie and Jo. Megan’s favorite characters: Edna and Natalie.Why was Tootie always on roller skates?  To make her taller for the camera!S5; EP 17 “A Death in the Family”:  On February 1, 1984, The Facts of Life breaks ground featuring the first ever television portrayal of a “Shiva”.Is The Facts of Life “progressive” and “feminist”? Listen to 90s TV Babies to find out!So join Susan and Sharon -- and Serita and Megan -- as they talk C-sections, fan conventions, The Golden Girls, deep-dish pizza, making babies laugh at your jokes -- and how “Edna’s Edibles” could be its own strain!AUDIO-OGRAPHYLearn more about The Facts of Life at https://www.facebook.com/thefactsoflifesite/ Watch Season 2 & 3 of Facts of Life for FREE on Tubi.com.Look for more episodes on Daily Motion or YouTube.Listen in on Serita’s podcast at NotUglyPod.com.Send Serita diaper money for Little Baby Theo at Venmo.com/seritafonta! Check out Megan’s Hollywood Fringe production “The Visitor” at DayforKnightproductions.com.Get tickets at HollywoodFringe.org.FREE Shakespear in the parks + Megan! See and Go see and support ShakespearebytheSea.org.Arts Funding is under attack in this country. Find out how to support Los Angeles arts at ArtsforLA.org.SHOUTOUTHappy Pride Month! Visit LAPride.org for things to do in Los Angeles.THANK YOU 80s LADIES LISTENERSEspecially those in sent in suggestions including:Christian KeysTee EllJason BrouxLisa Flory MendenhallChristopher Stroker@murphybrownpod@Treasure_ChamberTracyMolya MothmanVITAL DEMOCRACY READINGCheck out Democracy Docket here.Learn more about the ACLU here.Let your voice be heard! Call your reps. .Make 5 Calls makes it easy.CONNECTSign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list.Support us and get ad-free episodes on PATREON. Join the Facebook page discussion at Facebook.com/80sTVLadiesPLUS -- “80’s TV LADIES” MERCH is available at Fourthwall.com.Or get FREE merch, cool video interviews, ad-free episodes AND support our podcast at Patreon.com/80sTVLadies This year is the 45th anniversary of President Carter's Crisis of Confidence speech. Get Susan’s new play about it: Confidence (and the Speech) at Broadway Licensing.Visit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.

Susan and Sharon keep the good times rolling with Part 2 of their conversation with singer, song-writer, actress, author and diabetes advocate Gloria Loring!  Known for her Number One hit “Friends & Lovers”, Gloria is also the legendary co-composer and singer of the impossible to forget Facts of Life theme song!In Part 2 of their conversation, they touch on Gloria’s work for the Juvenile Diabetes Association, her wild career in TV and music and the benefits of living a spiritual and healthy life.THE CONVERSATION“EXPECT A MIRACLE” -- How a mysterious card found in her dressing room led Gloria to finance the Days of Our Lives Celebrity Cookbook -- and raise over $1,000,000.00 for diabetes research!When her son Brennan was diagnosed with diabetes at age four, Gloria was told he would be lucky to make it to 25.  He’s now 50 and doing great!BE BRAVE, LITTLE ONE: What it feels like to forget the first line of the song you’re singing at the Oscars!YOU CAN’T GO HOME AGAIN: Gloria returned to Days of Our Lives for the funeral of Bill Hays’ character Doug -- but was surprised to find that almost everything had changed…The fun of working with Lanna Saunders & Maree Cheatham on Days of Our Lives Writing the Facts of Life theme song with Alan Thicke!  (And she’s still getting residuals…)The benefits of an ayurvedic diet!So, join Susan and Sharon -- and Gloria -- as they talk James Brolin, Days of Our Lives, Jimmy Stewart, Hotel, Bob Hope, Diff’rent Strokes, Ann Jillian, Merv Griffin, Richard Crenna, Murder, She Wrote, Jane & Henry Fonda, Jack Lemmon -- and almost having a Chinese Chicken Salad Heart Attack!  AUDIO-OGRAPHYCatch up with all-things Gloria at her official website: GloriaLoring.comCheck out her Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/glorialoring/ Listen to Gloria’s book “Coincidence is God’s Way of Remaining Anonymous” at Audible or Apple Books. Or buy it at Abe Books.Watch Season 2 and 3 of The Facts of Life for free on Tubi.Buy the complete season on DVD at Ebay.VITAL READINGCheck out Democracy Docket here.Learn more about the ACLU here.Let your voice be heard! Call your reps. Make 5 Calls makes it easy.CONNECTVisit 80sTVLadies.com for transcripts.Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list.Support us and get ad-free episodes on PATREON. Check out Democracy Docket here https://www.democracydocket.com/ Learn more about the ACLU here https://www.aclu.org/  Buy Democracy Awakening by Heather Cox Richardson at Bookshop.org. PLUS -- “80’s TV LADIES” MERCH is available at Fourthwall.com.Or get FREE merch, cool video interviews and ad-free episodes at Patreon.com/80sTVLadies Visit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.