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Newsradio is an critically acclaimed series of an ensemble
cast that includes future television stars such as Maura
Tierney (ER), Khandi Alexander (CSI: Miami), Joe Rogan (Fear
Factor), Andy Dick (Less Than Perfect), Dave Foley, and
Saturday Night Live alumnis Phil Hartman and Jon Lovitz.
***
The series, which aired on NBC from 1995-99, follows
the misadventures around the staff of WNYX Radio both on
and off the air in New York. During the five seasons on
the air, Newsradio was moved eleven times -- making it harder
for the series to find an wider audience. NBC wanted the
show to have more romance and story arcs on the air; in
other words, a Cheers for the 90s. Like Homicide: Life on
the Street, Newsradio was never a hit show yet developed
a loyal following. ***
Much of the show not only relied on the talented actors
and comedians, but it was mostly Phil Hartman, who was the
anchor of Newsradio. Originally, NBC cancelled the series
at the end of season four in 1998 but changed their mind
several days later and gave it a fifth season renewal of
22 episodes. Sadly, Hartman was murdered at the hands of
his wife in May 1998; he was only 49. Replacing him was
SNL co-star and friend Jon Lovitz -- yet his presence wasn't
enough to keep Newsradio on the air, as NBC pulled the plug
for good in 1999. ***
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