recursal/Fanatic-Fandom huggingface dataset:
Bugging the Governor

**"Bugging the Governor"** is the sixteenth episode of the first season, and sixteenth episode overall, of the sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by Asaad Kelada, the episode originally aired January 28, 1980.

## Synopsis

After finding out that the Governor's Mansion is bugged, Benson formulates a plan to potentially expose the wiretapper's blackmailing scheme.

## Goofs

* The boom mic can be seen at the top of the screen when Katie takes her note back from Benson in her room.
* Robert Guillaume can be seen smirking, slightly breaking character, during the bathroom skit.

## Cultural References

* Taylor asks Benson if he's *Columbo*, a detective from the long running series of the same name. The series had temporarily ended two years prior to this episode's airing.
* Katie has a Winnie the Pooh plush doll.
* Benson mentions the 13th President of the U.S, Millard Fillmore, when Katie compares her father to the 16th President of the U.S, Abraham Lincoln.
* Katie says that the father of her friend her friend, Howard Grambley, knows two of the Bee Gees. The group is one of the highest selling music acts of all time, but had reached a peak in popularity during the late 70's.
* Benson sings the Frank Sinatra popularized track, My Way.

## Quotes

* **Benson:** Governor, these guys aren't writing Bibles on the head of a pen, they're trying to find something to use against you!
* **Taylor:** Benson, who are you, Columbo? How do you know why these people are recording us?
* **Lieutenant Gordon**: Gentleman, I think you are getting into my area, I think I can clear this up. Now we don't know who did it, we don't know how they did it, and we don't know why they did it.
* **Benson:** Well that certainly clears that up.

* **Katie:** Hi, Benson! Feel like running?
* **Benson:** More and more everyday.
Once In a Blue Moon

**"Once In a Blue Moon"** is the eighth episode of the third season, and fifty-forth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson.*

The episode originally aired on January 8th, 1982 and was directed by John Rich.

## Synopsis

Captain McDermott wants to tighten the security at the Governor's Mansion, but Benson disagrees and cuts the budget. When an old lady, Nelly, finds her way into the household however, and Clayton gets assaulted after a talk show, The Governor begins to reconsider his position on the idea.

Meanwhile, Katie wants to catch a thief at her school stealing lunches.

## Cultural References

* Nelly says that she is the daughter of Osiris, who is the god of fertility, agriculture, the afterlife, the dead, resurrection, life, and vegetation in ancient Egyptian religion.
* When McDermott is discussing how a woman got into the Mansion, Benson sarcastically suggests that "Mr. Spock beamed her down", in reference to the *Star Trek* character; a connection in a long list of relations between *Benson* and *Star Trek.*
* Benson mentions the preppy look as being a sickness spreading to society; the look began to reach mainstream popularity in the early 80's when this episode aired.
* Benson mentions the 1970, black comedy film, *Where's Poppa?.*
* Clayton mentions talk show host, Dick Cavett.

## Trivia

* This episode marks the last appearance of Ed Peck as Captain McDermott. Ed would retire from acting the following year.

## Quotes

* **Captain McDermott:** If some crazy comes in here and splatters your brain all over the wall, don't say I didn't warn you.
* **Benson:** Thank you Mr. Sunshine.

* **Captain McDermott:** Don't get mad at me fella, you're the guy who parked at that dark corner in the parking lot.
* **Clayton:** I always park away from everyone else, I don't like to get my fenders dented.
* **Captain McDermott:** So, you got your head dented instead, huh? Ought to have it examined.
* **Governor:** Captain McDermott, can we just stick to the subject, please?
* **Captain McDermott:** This guy's a mugger's dream, governor.

* **Governor**: You mean someone attacked Clayton because they're angry at the Government?
* **Captain McDermott**: It's apart of the sickness that's spreading through our society, Governor.
* **Benson:** Along with the preppy look.

* **Captain McDermott**: Benson, security is no joking matter. Now if Julius Caeser had listened to his security people, he'd be alive today.
* **Benson**: But he'd be very old.
Quest for Retire

**"Quest for Retire"** is the fifth episode of the fourth season, and seventy-third episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by Bill Foster, the episode originally aired on November 12th, 1982.

## Synopsis

Charlie, The Mansion's gardener (played by Danny Thomas), turns 73 and seeks Benson's help to avoid the state's mandatory age retirement.

## Trivia

* The episode's title is a play on the title of the 1981 film, *Quest For Fire.*
* This episode marks the first of two guest appearances of Danny Thomas, father of executive producer, Tony Thomas.
* The scene with Clayton and Pete in Benson's office is taken out of syndication edits.

## Cultural References

* Benson mentions actress and singer, Lola Falana.

## Quotes

* **Charlie:** Just for that, I'm gonna make you a nice, special, zucchini!
* **Benson:** Charlie, I don't really like zucchini.
* **Charlie:** Zucchini's good for your brain.
* **Benson:** That's fish.
* **Charlie:** Good for your eyes.
* **Benson:** That's carrots.
* **Charlie:** How about your sex life?
* **Benson:** I'll have it for lunch.
Street Gangs

**"Street Gangs"** is the thirteenth episode of the third season, and fifty-ninth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson.*

Directed by John Rich, the episode originally aired on February 19th, 1982.

## Synopsis

Benson makes an attempt to help a local self-employment organization, the Hornets, move out of the bad side of town by suggesting they bid for a government job. Clayton and the Governor, however, are skeptical of the idea.

Meanwhile, Kraus is attempting to write a novel of her life at a shot to become famous.

## Trivia

* This episode marks the first time Kraus attempts to write a book.
* This is the first episode to be written by David Langston Smyrl, who would later take on the role of Mr. Handford on Sesame Street throughout the 90's.
* Robert Guillaume's son, Kevin Guillaume, plays as Mr. Klean of The Hornets.

## Cultural References

* Kraus mentions authors, Barbara Cartland and Helen Van Slyke.
* Katie mentions the book, *Little Women*.
* Benson sarcastically states that Katie has been watching the African American music program, *Soul Train*, after she speaks in slang.
* Kraus asks Benson "How do you spell relief?" with Benson replying "This another one of your trick questions?". This is a reference to the famous slogan "*How Do You Spell Relief?"* used by Rolaids in the 70's.
* Benson mentions the play, "West Side Story".
* The Hornets, Benson, and the Governor all rap in the tag scene of the episode. Rap was still fairly new to the mainstream at the time of the episode's airing.

## Quotes

* **Pete:** Wouldn't it be neat if I won that house on Maui?
* **Benson:** You don't really think anybody every wins those games do you?
* **Pete:** Come on, Benson, you seen the games on TV; some guy wins $300,000, a couple wins matching K cars, an old lady wins a snow mobile.
* **Benson:** And you think those are real people?
* **Pete:** Of course they're real people, you can tell from the dumb way they dress and the stupid things they say.

* **Clayton:** This is the dumbest thing ever committed to paper.
* **Benson:** What's that your birth certificate?

* **Benson:** They can do the job, sir!
* **Clayton:** Any idiot can paint lines in a parking lot.
* **Benson:** So now you're bidding for the job!?

* **Benson:** You've got to approach the Governor the same way the big corporations do.
* **Little John:** Oh, you mean bribe him?
Mr. Troll

**Mr. Troll** is the secondary antagonist (sometimes an anti-hero) of Dora the Explorer, a troll who lives under the Troll Bridge that Dora and Boots sometimes come across. Whenever they try to cross his bridge, he will jump out and sing a song telling them that they need to answer a riddle (or other challenge) or else they will not be allowed across. But never cause trouble together.
Katherine Helmond

Galveston, Texas, U.S.

David Christian​​(m. 1962)

**Katherine Marie Helmond** (July 5, 1929 – February 23, 2019) was an American actress. She portrayed the character, Jessica Tate on the ABC sitcom, *Benson,* and more prominently on the parent series *Soap.* She also directed episodes of the series from Seasons 5-6.

## Career

Helmond gained prominence as Jessica Tate, the ditzy matriarch of the Tate family in *Soap* (1977–1981) on ABC. In 1983, she studied at the American Film Institute's Directing Workshop. From 1984 to 1992, she played the role of Mona Robinson on the ABC sitcom *Who's the Boss?*.

From 1995 to 1997, she starred in the ABC sitcom *Coach* as Doris Sherman, eccentric owner of the fictional Orlando Breakers professional football team. From 1996 to 2004, she had a recurring role on *Everybody Loves Raymond* as Lois Whelan (Ray Barone's mother-in-law). On July 25, 2010, she guest-starred on A&E Network's *The Glades* and as Caroline Bellefleur on HBO's *True Blood*.

## Death

Helmond died on February 23, 2019, from complications of Alzheimer's disease at her home in Los Angeles, aged 89. Her death was announced a week later.

## Legacy

Over her five decades of television acting, she was known for her starring role as ditzy matriarch Jessica Tate on the sitcom *Soap* (1977–1981) and her co-starring role as feisty mother Mona Robinson on *Who's the Boss?* (1984–1992). Helmond also appeared in a 1993 episode of *The Upper Hand*, the British version of *Who's the Boss?*. She also played Doris Sherman on *Coach* and Lois Whelan (the mother of Debra Barone) on *Everybody Loves Raymond*. She also appeared as a guest on several talk and variety shows.

Helmond had supporting roles in films such as Alfred Hitchcock's *Family Plot* (1976), Terry Gilliam's *Brazil* (1985) and Garry Marshall's *Overboard* (1987). She also voiced Lizzie in the *Cars* film franchise by Disney/Pixar between 2006 and 2017.

Helmond was nominated for Broadway's 1973 Tony Award as Best Supporting or Featured Actress (Dramatic) for Eugene O'Neill's *The Great God Brown*. She was nominated for an Emmy for her role on *Soap* four times in a row (1978–1981) as Best Actress in a Comedy Series. In 1988 and 1989, she was nominated as Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for her role on *Who's the Boss?*. In 2002, she was nominated as Guest Actress in a Comedy Series for her role in *Everybody Loves Raymond.* She won two Golden Globe awards for *Who's the Boss?* and *Soap*.
Friends and Enemies

**"Friends and Enemies"** is the twenty-first episode of the seventh season, and one hundred fifty-seventh episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson.* The episode serves as the first half of the Season finale, and ultimately series finale, of the sitcom.

Directed by Hilton L. Smack, the episode originally aired on April 12th, 1986.

## Synopsis

With the Gatling administration coming to an end, Benson decides to fill the spot by running for Governor. When Governor Gatling is presented with a loophole however, he struggles with the decision to campaign against Benson.

## Trivia

* This episode marks the final appearance of Billie Bird as Mrs. Cassidy and Missy Gold as Katie Gatling. Their final words were; **Katie:** I'll pay for that. **Rose Cassidy:** Well, I guess they're just not a tea crowd.

## Quotes

* **Kraus**: I don't know why they had to saddle you with that sleaze ball Tyler, he's such a little reptile.
* **Benson**: Oh Kraus, you're too kind.
* **Senator Hartford**: Reptile or not, now, you can't blame the party. He's very aggressive.
* **Benson**: So is Daffy Duck, but you wouldn't want him as Lieutenant Governor.
* **Senator Hartford:** Well maybe aggressive is not the right word. He's politically astute.
* **Kraus**: Daffy Duck?

* **Benson:** He weaseled his way into the nomination.
* **Hartford:** I believe that's the definition of politically astute.

* **Governor:** Katie, as soon as Benson's elected, we'll go back to the Lumber Mill. You know there are days up there where nothing ever happens!
* **Katie:** I'll bet.

* **Benson**: What is the 'Tyler Poverty Program?
* **Senator Tyler**: I don't know. It's just a title you know. I want the poor people to think I'm gonna do something for them.

* **Governor:** Theoretically see, I can run again. It's a loophole.
* **Benson:** Theoretically?
* **Governor:** Yeah, but it's in the Constitution. Our forefathers wrote it that way.
* **Benson:** Yeah, but I don't think that's what they intended.
* **Governor:** Of course not, that's why they call it a loophole.

* **Kraus**: I'm putting my money on Benson.
* **Katie**: Yeah, well I'm putting my money on Dad.
* **Mrs. Cassidy**: Well, I'm keeping my money in my pocket.
* **Kraus**: Don't you care who wins?
* **Mrs. Cassidy**: Doesn't matter. I'm civil service, I'll always have a job.

* **Benson**: Are these the notes you took, Ms. Kraus?
* **Kraus**: Yeah they are.
* **Governor**: I don't appreciate your attitude on this either, Ms. Kraus!
* **Kraus**: What? What did I do?
* **Clayton**: I'd stay out of this if I were you.
* **Kraus**: Well, you're not me and you can keep your little opinions to yourself!
Cây Thánh

**Cây Thánh** là một kẻ địch xuất hiện ở Rừng Sương Mù Phía Tây. Nó là một trong những nguồn cung cấp Năng Lượng Sống dồi dào nhất vào đầu trò chơi.

## Thông Tin

*Cây thần đã dõi theo khu Rừng Sương Mù trong hàng ngàn năm. Khi con người bị lạc trong rừng và chạm trán với con quái vật này, linh hồn của họ sẽ bị con quái vật này nuốt chửng. Nó còn được gọi là Kẻ Giữ Cửa Sương Mù.*

 SM
 SMPT
 NN
 PN
 PNPT

## Rơi

* Mảnh Gỗ Cây Thần ×1
* 255–540 Năng Lượng Sống
Sit-In

"**Sit-In**" is the third episode of the third season, and forty-ninth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by John Rich the episode originally aired on November 27th, 1981.

## Synopsis

A conductor (played by Ivor Francis) goes to city hall to request funding for their music program, taking the orchestra with him into budget director, Benson DuBois's office; playing music until they get their funds in protest of the musician's plight.

Meanwhile, It's Marcy's last day working at the Mansion, but she feels that no one notices, and Benson hires a talkative numerate, Denise Stevens (played by Didi Conn) as his new secretary.

## Trivia

* This marks the last appearance of Caroline McWilliams as Marcy Hill and the first appearance of Didi Conn as Denise Stevens.

## Cultural References

* The orchestra plays the songs *Eine kleine Nachtmusik,* and *Teddy Bear's Picnic.*
* Benson and the orchestra perform, *Auld Lang Syne* and *For He's a Jolly Good Fellow* to bid farewell to Marcy.
* The Governor mentions Women's Lib.
* Pete mentions commentator Geraldo Rivera.

## Quotes

* **Benson:** I'll get to it as soon as I can hear myself think.
* **Clayton:** Has it ever occurred to you that perhaps there's nothing to hear?

* **Benson:** I guess that's it unless you have something you want to add?
* **Denise:** Oh, sure I don't mind, just give me the figures.
* **Benson:** No I meant to the conversation.
* **Denise:** Oh, no, I don't think so. I mean, if you feel I'm qualified, why say something that will mess it up?

* **Benson:** Kraus, musicians are like stray dogs. If you feed them, you'll never get rid of them.
* **Kraus:** Well, how can they keep going on an empty stomach?
* **Benson:** The same way you keep going on an empty head.

* **Clayton:** Benson, you're being evasive.
* **Benson:** And you're being evicted.

* **Governor:** Now, don't get sarcastic with me, Benson.
* **Benson:** I'm not getting sarcastic, I'm getting angry.

* **Marcy:** You think you'll come visit us in Buffalo?
* **Benson:** You want the truth?
* **Marcy:** Lie.
* **Benson:** I'll be there the first chance I get.
Laura

**Laura** (played by Tracey Gold) is the cousin of Katie Gatling, and niece to Governor Gatling, on the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

## About Laura

Laura was a devious teenager. She was actively involved in rebellious schemes deluding authority

### Relationships

Laura would visit her cousin, Katie, in 1980 before visiting her again in 1985.

## Trivia

* Laura was played by Tracey Gold, real life sister of Missy Gold.
	+ Additionally, Tracey Gold originally auditioned for the part of Katie Gatling for the series, but lost the part over her sister.

## Quotes

* "Guests don't get in trouble. It's an unwritten law."
Mary and Her Lambs

**"Mary and Her Lambs"** is the tenth episode of the fourth season, and seventy-eight episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*. The episode marks the first open Christmas special of the series and originally aired on December 17th, 1982.

The episode was directed by Rob Dames.

## Synopsis

As the Governor's Mansion prepares for the Christmas holiday, the new hopeful new cook at the mansion, Mary Colton (played by Barbara Perry), is having trouble keeping custody of her foster children; Vin and Margaret.

## Trivia

* The episode is one of the more popular episodes of the series' seven year run, often noted for the ending singing scene performed by the cast; particularly Robert Guillaume's, and Inga Swenson's, solos at the end of the episode.
* Despite being the first explicitly stated Christmas episode of the series, the Season 3 episode, "Rainbow's End", premiered on Christmas day and featured holiday decorations.
* The beginning scene where Benson kisses Kraus under the mistletoe is cut out of syndication edits, likely due to time constraints. Though nowhere near the first interracial kiss on TV, it is notable, however, for being depicted during a time period where the idea was still highly stigmatized. Ironically, the first interracial kiss is often miscredited to Star Trek; which the sitcom has some connections with.
* The tag scene, with the cast wishing the audience a Merry Christmas, is taken out of syndication edits, likely for time constraints.
* Vin is played by John Louie, who would go on to perform in *Gremlins* two years later. Margaret is portrayed by Cheryl Epps, who's best known for playing Terry on the NBC sitcom, *The Facts of Life*.
* It's revealed the Governor's Mansion is located in Lawrence County. It's also revealed the state has a Jefferson County.
* Benson states that the state's motto is *'If it Ain't Broke Don't Fix It',* with Pete stating that it sounds better in Latin.

## Cultural References

* The episode is based around the Holiday of Christmas.
* Benson mentions the former stock brokerage firm, EF Hutton.
* Katie states that she got her father a Pac-Man T-shirt for Christmas the previous year.
* The carols, *Joy to the World, God Rest You Merry Gentlemen, O Come All Ye Faithful* are all sung in group, while *Silent Night (in German)* is sung in solo by Inga Swenson and *O Holy Night* in solo by Robert Guillaume.

## Quotes

* **Denise:** You know something Slade, I'm usually pretty easy going, but you tick me off!

* **Denise:** Just when you need the Government, they all pack up and go home for the Holidays!
* **Benson:** What makes me mad is that they keep coming back.

* **Governor:** I disagree commissioner, I think they are very much a family! I am upset with you and I'm angry! \*hangs up phone\*
* **Governor:** \*Picks phone back up\* Merry Christmas. \*hangs phone back up\*

* **Benson:** What is wrong with that woman? She thinks the answer is gonna fall right out of the sky. \*book falls from counter\*
* **Benson:** Why do things like this only happen when you're alone?
Olivia Barnett-Gatling

**Olivia Barnett-Gatling** was the mother of Katie Gatling and wife of, soon to be Governor, Gene Gatling, on the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

## About Olivia

### Early Life

Olivia and Gene both grew up in the same town in proximity with each other. Gene would first ask her out when they were kids; to her rejection.

### Adult Life and Marriage

As an adult she eventually got married to a photographer, but the two later separated. While still separated, she began to date her longtime childhood friend, Gene Gatling. Her separated husband would later pass away after getting crushed by an elephant in Africa.

Following her husband's passing, Gene ended up proposing to her. The two got married on a Saturday night and held a small wedding with no pictures.

In 1970, Gene and Olivia had a daughter named Katherine Olivia Gatling, taking the first name of her mother for her middle name.

### Death

At some point prior to Gene's move into office, Olivia and Gene were attending a country club costume party. Olivia dressed up as the Sugar Plum Fairy, but made her costume out of real sugar cubes.

She passed away later that night, after being eaten by a group of horses.

## Mentions

* "Change"
* "Benson In Love"
* "Rivals"
* "No Sad Songs"
* "Making Change"
* "Uncle Jack"

## Trivia

* Gene once said that Olivia was too good for him, but she never found out.
Flight of the Dodo

**"Flight of the Dodo"** is the seventh and eighth episode of the seventh season, and one hundred and forty-third and one hundred and forty-fourth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by Bill Foster, the episodes originally aired on November 29th, 1985, and December 6th, 1985.

## Synopsis

On their way to play golf, Benson, the Governor, Clayton, and a golfer pal, Tommy Young (played by Don Bovingloh) run into danger with Clayton as their helicopter pilot. Following a crash-landing in the desert, the stranded party struggles to survive.

## Trivia

* It's revealed that Clayton learned to fly a helicopter.
* The episode reveals that the state has an Indian Mounds.
* It's revealed that Benson and Clayton took a first aid class together at some point, with Clayton graduating with Honors.
* Benson mentions his dreams of opening a nightclub. The dream was previously mentioned earlier in the series, particularly in the Season 3 finale, "Black Tuesday".

## Cultural References

* The Governor mentions Hogan's Heroes.
* The Governor plays the American folk tune, *"I've Been Working on the Railroad"* on a harmonica.
* The 1964 film, *Cheyenne Autumn*, is mentioned by the Governor.
* Benson sarcastically states that a stray PBS broadcast could come by in the desert to teach the crew how to fix the helicopter.

## Quotes

* **Kraus:** I can't believe you guys are going in a helicopter with this bozo.
* **Clayton:** Now, Gretchen, Gretchen, Gretchen. Do you think I'd be doing this if it were dangerous? Think of all I have to live for.
* **Benson:** I'm coming up empty, Clayton.

* **Clayton:** Benson, we have a problem.
* **Benson:** Oh, what--That just occur to you?
* **Clayton:** No. This is a new problem.
* **Benson:** Good. I was beginning to get bored of the old one.
Don't Quote Me

**"Don't Quote Me"** is the ninth episode of the first season and ninth episode overall of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

The episode was directed by Peter Baldwin and originally aired on November 22nd, 1979.

## Synopsis

When a potentially damaging leak upsets the Governor's Mansion, the staff begins to perform detective work on where the leak came from.

## Trivia

* This was the second episode taped of the show.
* Various clips from this episode are featured in the opening sequence for the first season.

## Cultural References

* Katie's homework mentions Patrick Henry and his "Give me liberty or give me death", speech.
* The Governor mentions the satirical political comic strip, Doonesbury.
* Kraus mentions Albert Einstein and the brand, Volkswagen.

## Quotes

* **Taylor:** Sir, I withheld the paper from you, you're not gonna like it today.
* **Governor:** No Doonesburry?

* **Marcy***:* You were quoted as saying that 'If Senator Englehart's brain were put into a bird, it would fly backwards.'

* **Taylor:** That information could've only come from this house.
* **Governor**: Or someone in it.

* **Benson:** Marcy, in your position how could you go out with a reporter?
* **Marcy:** Because, he has some very nice qualities; He's a man...and he has a job.

* **Kraus:** He was calling me back because I wanted to place an advertisement in the newspaper.
* **Taylor:** Oh, really?
* **Marcy:** What sort of an ad, Ms. Kraus?
* **Kraus:** I was looking for a stud.
* **Benson:** Don't look at me.
* **Kraus:** For the dogs.
* **Taylor:** Do you really expect us to believe that?
* **Benson:** Well, who'd make up something like that?

* **Benson:** Come on, Taylor. Are you telling me you're above leaking something to the press?
* **Taylor:** Of course not. I've been in politics too long. But, look, I'm trying to get Senator Englehart's support for the bill, now why would I leak something damaging like this?
* **Marcy:** That's true.
* **Taylor:** And may I just say, sir, no matter what anyone may think, I would never leak anything, unless it was for personal gain.

* **Taylor:** Governor, I think we have what we need with the little girl's confession.
* **Governor:** Oh?
* **Taylor:** You deny having said anything about Englehart. It was a gross misrepresentation on her part. Then we'll publicly denounce it as the statement of an insensitive and irresponsible child.
* **Benson:** Why stop there? Let's drag her into the town square and stone her.
Raul

**Raul** (played by René Enríquez) is a chauffer at the Governor's Mansion on the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

## About Raul

Raul would immigrated from Cuba to the US through the city of Miami. He eventually landed a position at the state's Governor's Mansion as a chauffer. Raul, while full of pride and competent at his job, would flirt with the Governor's executive secretary, Marcy Hill, much to her dismay.

Raul would participate in a worker's strike in 1979.

## Quotes

* "How dare you to question my honesty? In Cuba I could have you shot for that!"
David Langston Smyrl

North Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.

**David Langston Smyrl** (September 13, 1935 – March 22, 2016), sometimes credited professionally as **David L. Smyrl**, was an American actor and television writer. He was best known for his role of Mr. Handford, the fictional retired firefighter who ran Hooper's Store on *Sesame Street* from 1990 to 1998.

Smyrl would get his first writing credits on Season 3 of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*, for the episodes, "Katie's Romance" and "Street Gangs".

## Early life

Smyrl was born on September 13, 1935, in North Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and was raised in the neighborhood.[1] He began his career as a coffeehouse poet in Greenwich Village, Manhattan, during the 1960s.[2] Smyrl was hired for his television acting job on a short-lived show, *Express Yourself*, during the 1970s.[2] He appeared in the 1978 Broadway musical, *Working*.[1]

## Career

Smyrl next moved to California, where he was hired as a writer for the ABC television sitcom, *Benson*, for which he won a People's Choice Award. Smyrl then joined *The Cosby Show*, both as a gag writer and actor, playing a general contractor named Sam Lucas for a five-episode recurring role. Smyrl was best known however, for his role on the long running PBS children's show, *Sesame Street*. In 1982, actor Will Lee, who played Mr. Hooper, the original owner of *Sesame Street's* fictional Hooper's Store, died during production. Mr. Hooper's death was included on the show in 1982 episode. Smyrl won eight Emmy Awards for his work on *Sesame Street* during his time on the show, until he left in 1998.

An accomplished voice actor, Smyrl narrated commercials for Canada Dry, Coca-Cola, Delta Air Lines, Levi Strauss & Co. 501 jeans, GMC, McDonald's, Pepsi, and Texaco.[2] His film credits included *The Preacher's Wife*, in 1996, opposite Denzel Washington and Whitney Houston.[2] He also starred as Jesse B. Simple in a documentary on the life of Langston Hughes called *The Dream Keeper*.

## Personal life

Smyrl had lived in Connecticut before moving back to Philadelphia with his wife in 2004. The couple then resided in Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania, located just outside of Philadelphia. He worked as a volunteer performer at regional colleges, schools and prisons.

## Death

David Smyrl died from lung cancer at Lankenau Medical Center in Wynnewood, Pennsylvania, on March 22, 2016, at the age of 80. He was buried in West Laurel Hill Cemetery in Bala Cynwyd on March 28, 2016.

## External Links

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David\_Smyrl
First Lady

**"First Lady"** is the fifth episode of the second season, and twenty-ninth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by John Rich, the episode originally aired on November 28th, 1980.

## Synopsis

The Governor has a female escort, Lily (played by Barbara Babcock), for a special reception, but Katie is jealous when her father gives special attention to the very important hostess; afraid it means he's getting re-married.

Meanwhile, the Guest of Honor for the reception, Leon J. Whitley (played by Warren Munson), owns an air conditioning company, and Benson must deal with the Mansion's broken air conditioning system.

## Trivia

* The clip of Katie in The Governor's office is used in the Season 2-5 opening sequence.

## Quotes

* **Clayton:** Benson, I never perspire. I am hot, and it is all your fault.
* **Marcy:** You two wanna be alone?

* **Ralph Krupnick:** I promised my father, may he rest in peace, that Krupnick Ice would live forever.
* **Benson:** He must've been very proud of you.
* **Ralph:** He was. Would you like to see him?
* **Benson:** What? You have a picture of your father?
* **Ralph:** I have my father!
* **Benson:** You have your father?
* **Ralph:** Well not with me, he's back at the ice house! Frozen!
* **Governor:** Benson- oh, am I interrupting something?
* **Benson:** Fortunately, yes.

* **Lily:** Arriving unexpectedly is one of his quirks; he likes to catch people with his pants down.
* **Governor:** Oh, you'd think with all his money he'd rather play golf.

* **Benson:** Everybody worked very hard to make this a fine reception for you, but all we got from you and your air conditioner was a lot of hot air! Now we can't do much about the air conditioner, but as for you; lighten up!
* **Mr. Whitley:** Well I-I suppose I have been a little bit of a uh...a uh...
* **Benson:** Pick a word, it'll be right.
$1,000,000 an Hour

**"$1,000,000 an Hour"** is the sixth episode of the seventh season, and one hundred and forty-second episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by Gary Brown, the episode originally aired on November 15th, 1985.

## Synopsis

Benson and Clayton must spend an $8-million surplus before the next fiscal year begins—in mere hours.

## Trivia

* The episode was written by Elena Yates & Ken Eulo. Although this episode is marked as the only writing credit for Elena, Ken would later on write an episode for the short-lived Bob Fraser sitcom, *Marblehead Manor,* as well as an episode of the sitcom, *Small Wonder*.
* Mr. Burger was played by Martin E. Brooks, best known as Dr. Rudy Wells on *The Bionic Woman* and *The Six Million Dollar Man*.
* The woman popping out of the cake was played by Hope 'Elizabeth' North, who would not only appear in a few other 80's sitcoms, but was also later elected, *Miss Cowboy USA* of 1987, and *Miss California Beauty* of 1989.
* The tag scene is cut out of syndication edits.

## Cultural References

* The lady popping out of the cake sings a parodied version of *The Gold Diggers' Song (We're in the Money)* from the 1933 film, *Gold Diggers of 1933.*
* Benson states that the sunburned hair blown out Governor resembles boxer Don King if he had "lost his tan".

## Quotes

* **Clayton:** What about these sandwiches. Why do they have crust on them?
* **Mrs. Cassidy:** Because they're on bread.
* **Clayton:** Well the crusts should have been removed. Well, I'll just apologize for your incompetence at the press conference.
* **Mrs. Cassidy:** Well, I'm getting out of here. If you suddenly get murdered I don't want to be a suspect.

* **Mr. Burger:** The federal government is not chintzy! Maybe this will help you understand. If I give you 8 apples, and you don't eat 8 apples, why should I give you 8 more apples? Simple enough?
* **Kraus:** Don't talk down to me, buster! You'll be eating apple strudel through a straw!

* **Benson:** You have a real mean streak, you know that?
* **Kraus:** Yeah, so?
* **Benson:** So, it's your most endearing quality.

* **Benson:** Clayton, will you stop whining? I've got work to do here.
* **Clayton:** Whining is my release.
* **Benson:** Whining is your religion.

* **Benson:** You are good, Clayton. You are extraordinary. This is the first time I've ever seen anyone stabbed in the back right in front of their face.
The Campaign

**"The Campaign"** is the fourth episode of the sixth season, and one hundred and sixteenth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson.*

Directed by Gary Brown, the episode originally aired on October 19th, 1984.

## Synopsis

When Benson decides to throw his hat in the political ring for lieutenant governor following the impeachment of LT. Governor Decker, he faces struggle trying to run the campaign on morality.

## Trivia

* It's revealed that there is a Walnut Grove in the state.
* One of the campaign supporters, Jeff, was played by Rusty Cundieff. Rusty would go on to direct the films, *Fear of a Black Hat* and *Tales From the Hood*. He would also direct 25 episodes of *Chappelle's Show* in the 2000's. He would write and produce episodes of the Adult Swim sitcom, *Black Jesus* in the 2010's.

## Cultural References

* Benson mistakes The Governor's FDR story for the 32nd U.S. President, Federal Roosevelt.

## Quotes

* **Clayton:** Worth Lakewood influences a lot of big contributors. One word from him could put this campaign in the black.
* **Benson:** Yeah, but where will it put the black in the campaign?

* **Kraus:** Hey, don't pick on me. I'm on your side. Why, I'd give you the shirt off my back.
* **Benson:** Please, I'm depressed enough already.

* **Worth Lakewood:** Now look, you. How many chances is a guy like you gonna get?
* **Benson:** I beg your pardon?
* **Worth Lakewood:** You're an unknown, unfinanced black candidate. You don't have many options.
* **Benson:** I have this option. You can take your money, your politics, and your big shot attitude and stuff them in the trash bag because you're talking garbage!
* **Worth Lakewood:** Oh, don't give me that -- that holier-than-thou attitude. You can't win this election without me, buddy.
* **Benson:** Well, let me tell you something, buddy. Until you start putting the emphasis on caring, and forget about winning, you're nothing but a boil on the backside of democracy! Good day!
The Apartment

**"The Apartment"** is the tenth episode of the second season, and thirty-fourth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by John Rich, the episode originally aired on January 23rd, 1981.

## Synopsis

Wanting some privacy, Benson moves into an apartment for a place to live in on the weekends. As Benson is trying to renew a friendship with his attractive neighbor, Rhonda (played by Fay Hauser), he finds that getting away from the staff isn't as easy as he would like.

Meanwhile, Pete is rekindling his relationship with his his ex-wife, Jeanine, and considers moving back in with her. When things go wrong however, he crashes at Benson's apartment for a place to stay.

## Trivia

* This marks the first appearance of Benson's first apartment.
* The set for Benson's apartment was originally the set for Sally's (played by Caroline McWilliams) apartment on *Soap*.
* Rhonda lives with a roommate named Denise and Benson sarcastically suggested that Pete should go and visit her. Pete would ironically end up married to a supposedly different Denise in Season 5.

## Cultural References

* Katie mentions actor John Travolta and Bruce Springsteen.
* Marcy states that she couldn't tell the difference between Frankie Avalon and Fabian Forte.

## Quotes

* **Marcy:** Well where would you look for an apartment?
* **Clayton:** The obituaries.
* **Marcy:** The obituaries?
* **Clayton:** Yes, I find them in valuable when I'm looking for things like rare books, antiques, apartments. Somewhere this very moment some withered old lady with a simply fabulous duplex is about to croak.

* **Marcy:** You call a romantic evening with your wife, 'bingo"?
* **Pete:** Yeah, what would you call it?
* **Marcy:** If it were with you I'd call it off.

* **Rhonda Page:** Nice to meet you, I live next door.
* **Pete:** Nice to meet you, my wife threw me out.

* **Pete:** Benson, let me ask you something, honestly; am I a slovenly ignorant pig with no justifiable reason for living?
* **Benson:** Is that a two part question?
Billie Bird

Pocatello, Idaho, U.S.

**Billie Bird Sellen** (February 28, 1908 – November 27, 2002), better known professionally as **Billie Bird**, was an American actress and comedian.

She would portray Clayton's mother, Mrs. Endicott in the Season 5 episode, "The Endicott Dynasty" and would later portray Mrs. Cassidy in Seasons 6-7 on the ABC sitcom, *Benson.*

## Early life

Born in Pocatello, Idaho, Bird was discovered at the age of eight while living at an orphanage. As a child, she worked in vaudeville, including the act known as the King Sisters, and later in theater/cabaret before moving on to television and films.

## Career

She is credited with an appearance in a 1921 film *Grass Widowers*, but it is not clear if this is accurate. Otherwise, she broke into films in 1950, later making a brief, uncredited appearance in *The Odd Couple* as a chambermaid. Her only line was "Goodnight", which was said to Felix Ungar, who responded, "Goodbye." Bird often was cast by director John Hughes and appeared in many of his 1980 and 1990s films, such as *Sixteen Candles*, *Home Alone*, and *Dennis the Menace*, the latter two of which both paired her with veteran Hughes actor Bill Erwin playing her husband. She also starred as Mrs. Lois Feldman in *Police Academy 4*. Her last film appearance was in 1995's *Jury Duty*, with Pauly Shore.

In addition to films, Bird made numerous appearances on various television series, including roles on *Happy Days*, *Silver Spoons*, *Ironside*, *Eight Is Enough*, *The Facts of Life*, *Who's the Boss?*, and *Knots Landing*. She was also a regular cast member on the sitcoms *It Takes Two* in 1982, *Benson* from 1984 to 1986, and in 1988 *Dear John* starring Judd Hirsch. Her last acting role was a brief appearance in 1997 on an episode of the sitcom *George and Leo*, which starred Bob Newhart and Bird's former co-star, Hirsch.

Bird entertained troops in Vietnam with her own variety act, "Flying High With Billie Bird." For her efforts, she was one of the few women to ever be made an honorary member of the Green Berets.

## Personal life

Bird was married to Edwin Sellen until his death in 1966; they had three children.

## Death

Bird died on November 27, 2002, in Granada Hills, California, at the age of 94 after several years of Alzheimer's disease. She is buried in the Forest Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Glendale, California.

## External links

* Billie Bird at IMDb
* Billie Bird at AllMovie
* Billie Bird at Find a Grave
* Billie Bird at Wikipedia
Cold Storage

**"Cold Storage"** is the nineteenth episode of the first season, and nineteenth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by John Bowab, the episode originally aired on February 28th, 1980.

## Synopsis

Kraus asks Benson to help her get bowls from the cold storage in the basement. The door locks behind them and they are trapped in the basement together.

Meanwhile, the Governor's Mansion is holding a ceremony for the Emperor of Croatia, but the absence of Benson and Kraus's assistance changes the dinner's plans.

## Trivia

* Clips of The Governor and Kraus from this episode are notably featured in the Season 2-5 opening sequence.

## Cultural Reference

* Benson mentions Howard Cosell.
* When Kraus tries to ram the door down, Benson states that even the Incredible Hulk couldn't break the door down.

## Quote

* **Kraus**: Benson, hang up the phone, I am going to kill you.

* **Taylor:** Benson, make sure there are no slip ups tonight. The Emperor's tour has been arranged by Washington, and they are very anxious to build strong ties with Croatia. It's a beautiful country; they have a lot to offer.
* **Benson:** Like 5 percent of the world's oil reserves?
* **Taylor:** Sure, why else would we suck up to these barbarians?
Libby Gatling

Jack Gatling (Brother)

Katie Gatling (Niece)

**Libby Gatling** (played by Dorothy Green) is the younger sister of Governor Gatling, and aunt to Katie Gatling, on the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

## About Libby

Libby Gatling was born to Gibson Gatling and an unnamed mother in the 'Gatling Lumber Mill'. She would attend Breckenridge Academy, a boarding school, when she was 10 years old.

Libby would house Katie Gatling, Gene's daughter, temporarily during her attendance of Breckenridge Academy.

## Trivia

* Gene once stabled Libby's raincoat to her galoshes.
Didi Conn

Brooklyn, New York, U.S.

David Shire

​(m. 1984)

**Edith "Didi" Conn** (née **Bernstein**; born July 13, 1951) is an American actress who portrayed the character, Denise Stevens from Seasons 3-6 on the ABC sitcom, *Benson.*

She's also known for her work as Frenchy in *Grease and* Stacy Jones in *Shining Time Station*.

## Early life

Edith Bernstein was born on July 13, 1951, in Brooklyn, New York. She had a Conservative "holiday Jewish" upbringing, and is the daughter of a clinical psychologist; "Didi" was her childhood nickname. She attended Midwood High School. Her brother is opera singer Richard Bernstein.

## Career

Conn made her debut as an actress in the 1960s. Her notable characters since the 1970s, when she first became prominent, include Laurie Robinson in *You Light Up My Life* (1977; for which Kasey Cisyk provided the character's singing voice), Frenchy in the feature films *Grease* (1978) and *Grease 2* (1982), Helen on *The Practice* (1976–77), Denise Stevens Downey on *Benson* (1981–84), and Stacy Jones on *Shining Time Station* (1989–95).

Conn provided the voice for Raggedy Ann in the animated feature *Raggedy Ann & Andy: A Musical Adventure* (1977) directed by Richard Williams. Her voice is one of her trademarks. She appeared as a celebrity guest on game shows like *Match Game*, *The $20,000, $25,000, $50,000, and $100,000 Pyramids*, *Chain Reaction*, and *Go*.

In 2013, she starred as Pearl in the play *A Heap of Livin'* by Elliot Shoenman at the Odyssey Theatre in Los Angeles, California.

In January 2016, she had a cameo as Vi in the *Grease: Live* television special on Fox, thus being the only actress to appear in all three screen adaptations of the franchise. In addition, she has appeared in numerous other roles on television.

In 2019, Conn was a contestant on the eleventh series of the British television series *Dancing on Ice*. At 67, she was the oldest person ever to compete on the show. She, alongside her professional partner Łukasz Różycki, were eliminated in Week 4, after the judges saved Saara Aalto and Hamish Gaman in the skate-off.

## Activism

Conn's adopted son Daniel was diagnosed with autism. On November 13, 2008, she was named national celebrity spokesperson for Autism Speaks. Before that, she was a spokesperson for the National Alliance for Autism Research, now part of Autism Speaks. She has performed at benefits for Foundation for Educating Children with Autism (FECA).

On September 27, 2008, Conn performed with David Shire and Lynne Wintersteller at a benefit performance for Barack Obama in Nyack, New York.

## Personal life

She married her first husband, Frank Conn, in 1975 and they divorced in 1978. She has been married to composer David Shire since 1984. Conn is the stepmother of Matthew Shire, a Los Angeles screenwriter and the son of Talia Shire, David's first wife.

## External links

* Didi Conn at IMDb
* Didi Conn: Wikipedia
Double Date

**"Double Date"** is the ninth episode of the sixth season, and one hundred and twenty-first episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson.*

Directed by Gilbert Moses, the episode originally aired on November 23rd, 1984.

## Synopsis

Benson plans a date with Linda Wilson (played by Annazette Chase), but a friend of hers, Jill Griffith (played by Gail Edwards), is coming to town and needs a date as well. When Benson fixes her up with Clayton however, Jill becomes fed up with Clayton's persistence.

## Trivia

* This was the last role of Annazette Chase, who was best known for her roles in blaxploitation films of the 70's. She would also play the wife of Muhammed Ali in the film *The Greatest.* She retired in 1984.
* Gail Edwards, who guest stars this episode, played a main role in the long running, fellow *Witt/Thomas* sitcom, *It's a Living.* Various other actors/actress on the sitcom would also guest star on *Benson.*
* This is the first episode to air following the leaving of Pete and Denise and is the first episode without the two as main characters since Season 2 and Season 3.
* Rob Birnbach, who's first credit is on this episode, would go on to write for the animated shows, *Rugrats*, and *Recess*, while also assisting in the screenplay for the German socio political film, *The Wave.*

## Cultural References

* Benson says that Clayton could "put the grey back in Reagan's hair"; a reference to the dyed hair of the, then, current President, Ronald Reagan.
* When the gang goes to see the film, *Quiet Screams,* Clayton implies that the Taxi Driver is the villain of the film, a possible reference to the 1976 film, *Taxi Driver.*
* Its stated that Clayton recited American poet, Rod McKuen, while following Jill.

## Quotes

* **Governor:** To tell you the truth, I wish I were half as bright as Katie is.
* **Benson:** Don't worry sir, you are.

* **Clayton:** I can't go out there.
* **Benson:** Why not?
* **Clayton:** Look at her. She's gorgeous!
* **Benson:** What's the problem? Opposites attract.

* **Clayton:** Hello there, I'm Clayton Endicott III, you must be Jill?
* **Jill:** Yes I am.
* **Clayton:** Well, it's obvious that Iowa has a lot more to offer than corn.
* **Benson:** I wish we could say the same thing about you.

* **Linda:** Hollywood has produced some great films, right Benson?
* **Benson:** I just go the movies for fun.

* **Jill:** Your buddy has made my life a living hell!
* **Benson:** Yeah well that's one of his skills.

* **Benson:** You're bothering this woman day and night.
* **Clayton:** So? What's your point?
* **Benson:** You're harassing her.
* **Clayton:** You call it harassment. I call it affection.
* **Benson:** Yeah, well she's gonna call the police.