Becker – The Other Ted Danson TV Show

Ted Danson stars as Dr. Becker in one of the most unusual medical shows ever seen on television. He now shows himself in reruns most Wednesday nights on WGN. Two programs are broadcast together. According to the people I talk to, it’s more popular now than it was when it was first produced between 1998 and 2004.

The caustic doctor spreads contempt, mostly in his office and at the nearby restaurant. However, he exudes it wherever he goes. 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 it’s her strong suit, that John Becker stay and open the practice. Margaret is still running after many disasters. An ongoing 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 understanding and laughs. Reggie (Terry Farrell) first runs the restaurant and becomes 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 a pain in the ass for 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.