I have to admit, I didn't watch NewsRadio too much when it originally aired. Sure, I'd catch an episode now and again, and always thought the show was very smart and very funny, but it wasn't until recently that I've been able to go back and catch up on the show through repeats. I do recall, however, that after Phil Hartman's death in 1998 I watched the show even less. It was hard to imagine the show without him, and while I like Jon Lovitz just fine, for me the series ended with Hartman's death.
The fifth and final season, which comes out on DVD March 20, begins with the episode "Bill Moves On" in which the team mourns the death of Bill McNeal, the arrogant radio personality portrayed by Hartman. I think many fans consider this the worst season, which is understandable. Still, if you're like me you hate to have any kind of gap in your DVDs, and you'll probably purchase it anyway. The set will retail for $39.95.
Giveaway Monday: That '70s Show The Complete Series Stash box set
Giveaway Monday: Back to You season one DVD
Six shows that I am watching pretty regularly this season
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
1-08-2007 @ 11:16PM
BillS said...
The absence of Bill McNeal and the lame Lisa wedding plotline did make this the worst season, but it still had its moments. The Padded Suit, Noise, and the first Johnny Johnson 3-parter are all solid episodes... but you're right, I'll mostly be buying it for completeness.
Reply
1-09-2007 @ 2:55AM
Mark Kawakami said...
It's definitely "the worst" season, but that being said, there's only a couple flat out bad episodes in it (though I imagine that your opinion in that regard depends on your opinion of Patrick Warburton). But I want to get it if for no other reason than for the commentary on the season premiere which was the show's send-off to Phil Hartman. I've noticed in the previous seasons they've understandably shied away from the topic, but I really want to hear what it was like filming that episode (which is also amongst the show's best as well). Plus they will hopefully have more Phil-related stuff in their special features, and I'd love to see more of him on set.
On that topic: If you check out the blooper reels from previous seasons, watch how Phil Hartman handles his flubs: The man remains solidly in character even when blowing a line or cracking up or whatever. We really lost a pro.
Reply