Today, we delve into a fascinating piece of television history that still leaves viewers scratching their heads four decades later. It's a story of a beloved sitcom, a cliffhanger ending, and the unanswered questions that linger.
A Sitcom's Unexpected Twist
Forty years ago, on April 19, 1986, the sitcom 'Benson' concluded its seventh season with a cliffhanger that left fans in suspense. This was an unusual move for a sitcom, as these shows often have a clear trajectory and can wrap up their stories neatly. But 'Benson' took a different path, leaving us with a tantalizing mystery.
The Story of Benson DuBois
'Benson' starred Robert Guillaume as the titular character, Benson DuBois, who served as the head of the household for the state Governor. The series navigated through various storylines, from political dramas to classic sitcom moments and even some otherworldly encounters. As the series progressed, Benson's character evolved, rising through the political ranks and becoming Lieutenant Governor.
The Final Season's Plot Twist
In the final season, Benson ran for the top job, with his former boss, Governor Gatling, also in the race. A surprising revelation emerged: Gatling could run as a third-party candidate, setting up a tense competition between the two friends. The series finale, titled 'And the Winner Is...', left us on the edge of our seats, as the election results were about to be revealed, but the show was canceled before we could find out who won.
What Could Have Been
Showrunner Bob Fraser revealed in a 2007 interview that the plan was for Governor Gatling to win by a slim margin, and a series of events would lead to Benson becoming the President of the United States. However, this vision was never realized due to the show's cancellation. Gary Brown, the director of the series finale, offered a different perspective, suggesting that three endings were filmed, each with a different outcome for the election. Brown believed that Benson's journey would have continued, and the cliffhanger might have given the show a new lease of life.
The Impact of Production Costs
Unfortunately, as is often the case, 'Benson' fell victim to rising production costs, leading to its cancellation. This left us with a lasting mystery, one that still intrigues fans today.
A Lasting Legacy
What makes this particularly fascinating is the impact that unresolved storylines can have on a show's legacy. In my opinion, the unanswered questions surrounding 'Benson' have kept the show relevant and discussed all these years later. It's a reminder of the power of storytelling and the impact it can have, even when the story remains unfinished.
As we reflect on this 40-year-old cliffhanger, it's a testament to the show's enduring appeal and the curiosity it continues to spark. Perhaps one day, we'll get the answers we crave, but until then, the mystery of 'Benson' remains a captivating part of television history.
