Ted Danson stars as Dr. Becker in one of the most unusual medical shows ever seen on television. He is now shown on reruns most Wednesday nights on WGN. Two programs are broadcast together. According to people I talk to, it’s more popular now than when it was first produced between 1998 and 2004.
The caustic doctor spreads contempt, mostly in his office and the nearby restaurant. However, he exudes it wherever he wants him to go. In the first episode, he decides not to open the New York office after all. He is recently divorced, has little money and self-esteem. Margaret (Hattie Winston) interviews to be his office manager. She convinces, or takes over as is her strong suit, that John Becker stay and open the practice. Margaret continues to function after many disasters. A continuing disaster is Linda, played by Shawnee Smith. Basically, she’s there because they can’t find anyone else, but she brings great comedy to the office and to the show.
At the restaurant we’ve seen the owners come and go, but Jake (Alex Desert) stays. His blindness is an interesting aspect of the show, offering insight and laughter. Reggie (Terry Farrell) first runs the restaurant and is a part of Becker’s life, followed by Chris (Nancy Travis). Dr. Becker and Chris’ relationship almost rivals that of Sam and Diane from CHEERS. Then there is Bob (Saverio Guerra) who is the thorn in the side of everyone, but very funny.
For all of Dr. John Becker’s faults, repeatedly pointed out by others, his redeeming virtue is that he cares. Sometimes the characters have to dig really deep to find it. He becomes obsessed if he can’t find the problem or the cure with his patients. Bedside manners aside, he’s the kind of doctor he’d like to have. I know a lot of people are waiting for a comeback.