recursal/Fanatic-Fandom huggingface dataset:
Benson's Groupie

**"Benson's Groupie"** is the seventh episode of the second season, and thirty-first episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson.*

Directed by John Rich, the episode originally aired on December 19, 1980.

## Synopsis

Benson rejects an obsessive woman, Casey Turner, (played by Beverly Todd) while on vacation, but things take a turn when she stalks him back to The Mansion.

Meanwhile, a clergy is making a visit to the The Mansion for a religious conference.

## Trivia

* This episode marks the last appearance of Jerry Seinfeld as Frankie and is the only episode where his appearances aren't omitted in syndication edits. It also is the only episode where Frankie appears twice.
* Robert Guillaume and Beverly Todd would rejoin forces in the 1989 film, *Lean On Me.*

## Cultural References

* Clayton mentions *Joan of Arc*.
* Rabbi Weiss states that "If we all got what we deserved, Yasser Arafat would be a bus boy at the Fontainebleau", in reference to the, then, Chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization.

## Quotes

* **Marcy:** Here's your coffee.
* **Clayton:** Did you put anything in it?
* **Marcy:** Nothing you can trace.

* **Frankie:** Oh, Benson, why am I the only currier who has to drop his pouch in the kitchen?
* **Benson:** Cause you're the only currier trying to pitch jokes to the Governor.
* **Frankie:** But I got some topical ones. They'll kill the Holy man!
* **Benson:** That's what I'm afraid of.

* **Pete:** Every time I had a fight with my ex-wife I'd send her roses.
* **Marcy:** To makeup?
* **Pete:** No, she's allergic to them.

* **Governor:** I had a fraternity brother once who almost became a minister.
* **Father Patton:** Really? What stopped him?
* **Governor:** Prison.

* **Marcy:** She's waiting in my office.
* **Benson:** How'd she get in?
* **Marcy:** She told the guard she was a Nun.
* **Benson:** And he believed her?
* **Marcy:** Would a Nun lie?
Benson's New Home

"**Benson's New Home**" is the eighth episode of the fourth season, and seventy-sixth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson.*

Directed by Bill Foster, the episode originally aired on December 3rd, 1982.

## Synopsis

Benson buys a condo apartment from a shady salesman based on a model, but the apartment he ends up buying is unfinished. Benson then struggles to get the apartment renovated through broken promises.

## Trivia

* Barney Martin makes his first appearance as Frank Cooper.
* This isn't the first episode to feature Benson's new apartment as the plot is depicted through a flashback. The apartment was previously featured in "Thy Brother's Keeper".
	+ Additionally, this episode was the fourth episode produced, but the eighth episode aired of the Season.

## Quotes

* **Kraus:** Uh, Benson, you numbskull, you made me push the wrong button.
* **Benson:** How soon will you self-destruct?
* **Kraus:** I was just about to multiply.
* **Benson:** Oh good heavens, then I'm in a nick of time.

* **Kraus:** Come on Benson, loosen up with the bucks, you can't take it with you.
* **Benson:** I'mma take it as far as I'm going.

* **Benson:** I'm gonna take Walter to court.
* **Frank:** What and make some lawyer rich?
* **Benson:** You got any better ideas?
* **Frank:** You could kill him.
Pen Pal

**"Pen Pal"** is the eleventh episode of the fourth season, and seventy-ninth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by Bill Foster, the episode originally aired on December 31st, 1982.

## Synopsis

Kraus is nervous when she learns her prison pen-pal, Zeke Webster (played by Julius Carry), is released from prison. She is even more nervous when he reminds her that she promised to help him get a job.

Meanwhile, Clayton wants to invite IRCA (International Restaurant Critic's Association) to the Governor's Mansion in order to increase profit and tourism in the state.

## Trivia

* Zeke Webster is played by Julius Carry. Julius would portray his best known role as "*Sho'Nuff"* in the hit blaxploitation film "*The Last Dragon"* two years following the airing of this episode.
* The tag scene is never shown in syndication edits of the episode.

## Cultural References

* Benson mentions trying to watch *Quincy,* which refers to the NBC medical drama series, *Quincy, M.E.* The series would end five months following this episode's airing.

## Quotes

* **Kraus:** He happens to be a very nice man.
* **Governor:** I'm sure he is, Ms. Kraus, and I think it's admirable that you care enough to give another human being help.
* **Kraus:** Well, you can't give up on people. He's still a member of the human race and-Holy Mackerel they're letting him out!

* **Jack:** I'm Jack Reynolds, Zeke's poral officer. I drove him over. He's waiting in the car.
* **Clayton:** Ah, excellent Idea! We'll wave to him from the window.
* **Benson to Jack:** Ignore him; everyone else does.

* **Clayton:** I respect your ideals, but this is no place to practice them
* **Benson:** There's no point in having ideals if you don't practice them.

* **Governor:** Why don't we just put all the names in a hat and pick ten? \*laughs\*
* **Clayton:** Ha, that may be the silliest idea to come out of this administration.
* **Governor:** Alright that's it! who's the governor here huh? Me, so I'm deciding! Pete; have Dwight what's his name pick the top ten! Clayton; finishing arranging this thing without wasting anymore time! I don't want to hear another word about fancy restaurants or fancy foods or fancy table settings! In fact, I don't even want to hear you speaking French, cause if you do, I'm gonna put this whole thing down the porcelain fixture!

* **Kraus:** What I don't understand is why he turned down that job offer in Washington D.C.
* **Benson:** Oh that's apart of his parole. He's not allowed to associate with known felons.
Fritzie Kraus

Hilda (Sister) [Deceased]

**Fritzie Kraus** (played by Sudie Bond) is the mother of Gretchen Kraus on the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

## About Fritzie

Fritzie Kraus is the wife to a theatric performing, Mr. Kraus. The two would give birth to a daughter named Gretchen Wilomena Kraus. Fritzie would eventually move away from her husband, taking her daughter with her to America following a conflicting relationship between her and her father. The family would struggle and survive off a limited income.

Fritzie would move back to Bavaria, Germany years later, following her daughter's entrance into adulthood.

## Trivia

* Fritzie has an unusually keen sense of hearing, a trait that would carry on to her daughter.
* Nobody within her family has ever had a divorce.
	+ Additionally, her, as well as her parents, all married on the 19th of the month as a family tradition.
* According to Gretchen, she once fired her mother from a job.

## Quotes

* "We hear you."
* "It's raining cats and jama outside."
Black Tuesday

**"Black Tuesday"** is the twenty-second episode of the third season, and sixty-eighth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson.* The episode serves as the season finale for Season 3 and originally aired on May 14th, 1982.

The episode was directed by John Rich.

## Synopsis

The Governor re-enters the election as an independent party candidate; racing against his opponents, Senator Ernest Chapman and Bud Resnick.

## Trivia

* This would be the final episode directed by John Rich.
* Benson says "To four more years" at the end of the episode. The series would run for exactly four more years, only on coincidence however, as the show was unexpectedly cancelled by ABC.

## Goofs

* Benson states that he doesn't play piano, despite the fact that he's stated previously, on multiple occasions, that he plays piano. Though his dream of opening a jazz club was consistent; being stated more than once.

## Cultural References

* It's stated that Gene's win in the election during the recount was announced during a re-run of the sitcom, *Gilligan's Island.*
* Clayton states that, as a poet, he was compared to John Milton, an English poet. Benson sarcastically states that Clayton was compared to Milton Berle, American comedian.

## Quotes

* **Pete:** Come on Clayton, the makeup man was just making conversation.
* **Clayton:** He insulted me; he said I have a big nose.
* **Pete:** You took it the wrong way.
* **Clayton:** Peter, the man said 'let me powder your beak.'

* **Bud Resnick:** Marty, I don't like question nine, can we drop that?
* **Martin Rad (Debate Monitor)**: Oh sure thing pal, anything for you.
* **Benson:** This guy already knows the questions?

* **Clayton's Poem:** *I ask myself* *If every night begets the dawn, Who is father to this day? But no one answers when I ask; Perhaps they've gone away. I ask myself If every day must die at dusk, Are we to mourn each day? But silent night makes no reply; There's nothing left to say. And yet Who am I to question life, as it winds through light, the dark? And all the birds do sing; The Earth revolves but not around me; The sun is only heating. So take me, Earth, for all I'm worth And teach me day to day to live and laugh and love and work. And now, as then, I'll pray.*
Captain McDermott

**Captain 'Dennis' McDermott** (played by Ed Peck) is a part of the security at the Governor's Mansion and was a recurring character in Seasons 2-3 of the ABC sitcom, *Benson.*

## About McDermott

Dennis McDermott is a veteran who served in the Korean War. He manages the position of policing the security at the mansion in order to ensure the safety of the Governor and his staff.

## Relationships

From being mocked by Katie, being told off by Marcy, and being challenged by Benson, most of the staff at the mansion doesn't see McDermott as a serious voice of reason.

Denise is often offended by his 'little lady' remarks and never wants to see him, while Clayton, is a little more willing to co-operate with McDermott's orders, despite annoyance.

The Governor, however, takes McDermott more seriously than anyone else at the mansion. Due to the fact that he has a daughter, and a state to run, he often considers McDermott's suggestions of protection, even if he does feel silly in the end.

## Trivia

* McDermott is against gun control.
	+ In fact, he once stated that he misses his time in the Korean War.
* McDermott is prone to sleepwalking.
* McDermott is also an avid hunter.
* It was implied that he was a fan of actor, and filmmaker, *John Wayne*.
	+ He also was a fan of actor Charlton Heston.
* He used to work at an orphanage, but was kicked out.
* McDermott lives in a trailer park.
* He believes in the New Age belief of star people. According to McDermott, they aren't violent people.

## Appearances

* "Thick as Thieves"
* "Clayton, Go Home"
* "Handwriting on the Wall"
* "All Shook Up"
* "Once in a Blue Moon"

## Quotes

* "This country has gone to hell since John Wayne died!"
* "What the hell are capers?"
* "Call me Dennis, fella."
* "You're the kind of guy to try to put on a seatbelt in the middle of an accident."
* "You can't change human nature. You got to realize, we all stink."
Take This Job and Love It

**"Take This Job and Love It"** is the fifteenth episode of the sixth season, and one hundred and twenty-seventh episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by Bill Foster, the episode originally aired on January 18th, 1985.

## Synopsis

Benson clashes with the city mayor, Mayor Waring (played by John Hancock), over the legality building a children's arts center.

## Trivia

* This episode was the fourth episode of the season taped, despite being aired as fifteenth installment. The premise is depicted through a flashback due to the airing order.
* This episode marks the official final appearances of Ethan Phillips as Pete and Didi Conn as Denise.
	+ The final canonical appearance of the two would be in the episode, "Hello, We Must Be Going".
* The officer, Ed, was played by David McKnight, who previously played an unnamed officer in the Season 5 episode, "Down the Drain". McKnight would go on to make a guest appearance on the 2000's legal drama series, *Boston Legal*, a show where Rene Auberjonois would play a role on.
* Mayor Waring was played by John Hancock. John would be known for his various roles throughout the 1980's in movies and television. He made an appearance in the 1982 film, *Airplane II,* a film which James Noble made an appearance in. Hancock would also make an appearance in the *Star Trek* franchise as Adm. Haden.
* The clip of Benson carrying the big scissors would be included in the Season 6-7 opening sequence.

## Cultural References

* The episode title is a play on the 1977 country hit, "Take This Job and Shove It" by Johnny Paycheck.
* Benson and Clayton look at a picture of the former LT. Gov with a group of *Playboy Bunnies*.
* A group of breakdancing youths play a part in the episode's plot.
* Clayton says that breakdancing isn't the LT. Gov's business, stating that it's more appropriate for the host of *Soul Train*, Don Cornelius, while imitating the famous falsetto opening to the music program.

## Quotes

* **Governor:** You know, I have a story about every piece of furniture in this office.
* **Benson:** Maybe in that case I should redecorate.

* **Governor:** You never when you're gonna come face to face with the grim reaper.
* **Clayton:** \*walks in\* It's time.
* **Benson:** I always knew he had another job.

* **Mayor Waring:** Do yourself a favor, DuBois, maintain a low profile and this office will lead you on to bigger and better things. But if you step on my toes, believe me, you're gonna be sorry. \*walks out of office\*
* **Benson:** You know what you're problem is, Herman? You're too big for blood to get to your brain!

* **Mayor Waring:** I'm just a local mayor in a town filled with state politicians. Now how much value do you think people give to my opinions?
* **Benson:** About as much as they value the lieutenant governor's.
* **Mayor Waring:** Oh, Well, it's not that bad.
Easy Kid Stuff

**"Easy Kid Stuff"** is the seventeenth episode of the second season, and forty-first episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by John Rich, the episode originally aired on March 20th, 1981.

## Synopsis

When Mike Hopkins wanders into the Governor's Mansion looking to get away from his step mother, Benson endures conflicted feelings about becoming a father figure towards him.

## Trivia

* This episode marks the last appearance of Shavar Ross as Mike Hopkins.

## Cultural References

* Benson says he knew a friend who got grounded for seven years, saying that the kid missed the entirety of *Mary Tyler Moore; a* reference to the hit CBS sitcom, *The Mary Tyler Moore Show,* that ran from 1970 to 1977.
	+ Ironically, *Benson* would also end up running for a total of seven years as well.

* Mike says that he feels like folk tale character, *Cinderella*, when he mentions his relationship with his stepmother; in reference to the cruel stepmother of Cinderella.
* Mike mentions a classmate named Rosemary Henderson. Rosemary Henderson happens to be the name of an Irish actress best known for a recurring role on the British sitcom, *Father Ted*.
* Mike tells Benson to sign his cast as Baseball player, Willie Stargell.

## Quotes

* **Governor**: That's one of the disadvantages of being governor. I don't get to see any of my old Poker buddies.
* **Benson**: Well, why don't you get a game together?
* **Governor**: Nah. Why not? Nah, I haven't talked to those guys in years. Aw heck, that's no excuse. They're friends. Nah, they're probably busy.
* **Benson**: Is this a private conversation you're having?

* **Mike:** It wasn't a fight! We were just goofing off!
* **Benson:** Well, when I drove up you were punching him.
* **Mike:** I was pushing him!
* **Benson:** Pushing him where? He was already on the ground.

* **Pete:** I got a speeding ticket.
* **Marcy:** And you're gonna fight it?
* **Pete:** Of course I'm gonna fight it.
* **Benson:** Well, were you speeding or not?
* **Pete:** What's that got to do with it?

* **Benson:** I should've never got mixed up in this whole business, I'm not cut out to be a parent.
* **Kraus:** That doesn't stop most people.
The Layoff

**"The Layoff"** is the sixth episode of the first season and sixth episode overall of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

The episode was directed by Peter Baldwin and originally aired on October 25th, 1979.

## Synopsis

When The Governor has to layoff 6,000 employees in the state, Benson has to layoff twenty percent of the help at the Mansion. Among the laid off help, however, is a beloved elderly pastry chef, Miss Ellie (played by Meg Wylie).

## Trivia

* This was the third episode taped of the series, despite airing as the sixth
* This episode is one of the only episodes to feature a 40 second edit of the theme song, instead of the 30 second or one minute variation.
* This episode was featured in the *TV Guide Spotlight: Groundbreaking Sitcoms of the 70's* DVD.
* Miss Ellie was played by Meg Wylie, who was known for her various appearances on television throughout a five decade career. She would later re-appear on *Benson* in the Season 3 episode, "Once In a Blue Moon"

## Cultural References

* The electrician refers to Benson as political activist, Ralph Nader.
* When the Governor states that the administration has to "call a spade a spade", Benson replies by stating "And right after you call them that you better run like hell." This is in reference to the common phrase "call a spade a spade", meaning to tell it like it is, and the term 'spade' also being defined as a slur against African Americans.
* Katie asks Benson if he's The Hatchet Man, a reference to the 1932 film.

## Quotes

* **Benson:** What are you doing?
* **Electrician:** Pruning trees. What does it look like I'm doing?
* **Benson:** There's nothing wrong with that bulb and you changed it.
* **Electrician:** It's Wednesday. I change all the bulbs on Wednesday.
* **Benson:** You mean you go around here and change bulbs before they blow?
* **Electrician:** I also eat before I starve to death.

* **Taylor:** You're not selling it sir, sell it!
* **Governor:** How can I sell it, it doesn't make sense?
* **Taylor:** Of course it doesn't I wrote it that way on purpose.

* **Governor:** We have to face this layoff problem head-on and not hide behind a lot of empty phrases. We've got to call a spade a spade!
* **Benson:** \*walks in\* And right after you call them that you better run like hell.

* **Governor:** Benson, do you have any idea how I became governor?
* **Benson**: Don't blame it on me, I didn't vote for you.

* **Kraus:** Administrations come, administrations go, Benson, and I stay. Why? Because I am an institution.
* **Benson:** And you belong in one.
Jack Gatling

Libby Gatling (Sister)

Katie Gatling (Niece)

**Jack Gatling** (played By Sandy McPeak) is the younger brother of Governor Gene Gatling on the ABC sitcom, *Benson.*

## About Jack

Jack was born to Gibson Gatling and an unnamed mother in the 'Gatling Lumber Mill'.

In 1965, Jack left town, the lumber mill, and the family, to pursue a profession as a Sailor.
Jerry Seinfeld

Writer

**Jerome Allen Seinfeld** (born April 29, 1954) is an American stand-up comedian, actor, writer, and producer. He is best known for playing a semi-fictionalized version of himself in the sitcom *Seinfeld*, which he created and wrote with Larry David. The show aired on NBC from 1989 until 1998, becoming one of the most acclaimed and popular American sitcoms of all time. As a stand-up comedian, Seinfeld specializes in observational comedy. In 2004, Comedy Central named him as the 12th-greatest stand-up comedian of all time.

Jerry would earn his first acting role as the delivery boy, Frankie, on the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

## Jerry on *Benson*

Jerry Seinfeld once said that he owes his major success to *Benson*, stating that, "They didn't bother to tell me". "Hey, where's my script?" he said and was only then told he was fired. "I was angry," he said, "That doesn't happen in stand-up. Once you get to a certain level, they don't make you go back to the beginning." Seinfeld said it was then that he decided to dedicate himself fully to stand-up because he was able to have more control.

## Further Information

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jerry\_Seinfeld
Winifred Hervey

**Winifred Celeste Hervey** (born May 14, 1955) is an American television producer and screenwriter. She is sometimes credited as **Winifred Hervey Stallworth**.

She is credited for writing and story editing on 48 episodes of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*, between Seasons 5 - 6.

## Biography

### Career

A graduate of Loyola Marymount University, Hervey began her career in the 1970s as a writer for The Garry Marshall Company where she wrote for the sitcoms *Mork & Mindy* and *The New Odd Couple*. During the 1980s, she wrote episodes of *Benson* and *The Cosby Show*. She also penned episodes of *The Golden Girls*, where she also served as co-producer. In 1987, she won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Comedy Series while working on the series.

In the 1990s, she executive produced and wrote for *The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air* and *In the House*.[1] In 1996, she created, executive produced and served as head writer for *The Steve Harvey Show*. The series won three NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Comedy Series in 2001, 2002, and 2003.[2] In 2002, she produced and wrote six episodes of the UPN series *Half & Half* for which she was nominated for a BET Comedy Award. In 2004, she was the first black recipient of the Beverly Hills Older American of the Year award.
Taylor's Bid

**"Taylor's Bid"** is the twelfth episode of the first season, and twelfth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

It was directed by John Bowab and originally aired December 13, 1979.

## Synopsis

Taylor plays all his cards, including the ones up his sleeve, when he quits his position as Chief of Staff, and attempts to run for public office as a Representative.

## Trivia

* Taylor's campaign posters notably say "*Not Since Lincoln."*
* This episode marks the first time Benson attempts to resign.

## Cultural References

* Benson mentions Muhammed Ali.
* Taylor mentions the NAACP.

## Quotes

* **Taylor:** Can we be friends?
* **Benson:** What and ruin a beautiful relationship?

* **Taylor:** Based on your records sir, I know you wouldn't want to stand in the way of women's advancement.
* **Marcy:** How about a women's consent? Taylor, you and I never even discussed my going to work for you.
* **Taylor:** Fine Marcy, you wanna stand on formality? You've got it! Would you like to come and work for me?
* **Marcy:** No.

* **Taylor:** Almost 20% of the district is of the black persuasion.
* **Benson:** Persuasion?
* **Taylor:** Well yes. Well actually what I meant to say was um...
* **Benson:** People?

* **Taylor:** Well, I'm not surprised to see you here, Benson. You here to kick me while I'm down?
* **Benson:** No, I can wait until you're feeling better.

* **Benson:** Sir, I think we oughta get out of here. I think Taylor wants to be left alone.
* **Governor:** Oh, we can't leave him now, Benson. He'll get the idea nobody likes him.
* **Benson:** I think the cat's out of the bag, sir.

* **Taylor:** I have no time to socialize, Benson. I have a meeting with the Governor at 3:00.
* **Benson:** He's not coming. I'm the one who had Marcy call you.
* **Taylor:** You? You have a lot of nerve, Benson. Impersonating a governor is a crime in this state.
* **Benson:** I know, but he's gotten away with it so far.
Russell DuBois

Lois DuBois (Mother)

The Reunion (Mentioned)

Jung at Heart (Mentioned)

**Russell DuBois** (played by Tim Reid) is the younger brother of Benson DuBois on the ABC sitcom, *Benson.*

## About Russell

Russell was the son of Lois DuBois, and was partially raised by his older brother, Benson DuBois.

Russell enrolled and graduated from Dental School and would become a licensed orthodontist; residing in Phoenix, Arizona. He got married to Loretta and had two kids named Lisa and Daniel.
Jung at Heart

**"Jung at Heart"** is the twenty-fourth episode of the sixth season, and one hundred and thirty-sixth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*. The episode serves as the Season finale for Season 6 and was directed by Bob Fraser

The episode originally aired on April 5th, 1985.

## Synopsis

Passed over as Man of the Year in favor of Benson, Clayton, bested too many times, has a mental breakdown and believes he is Benson.

## Trivia

* The title is a play on the phrase "Young at heart".
* The moderator for the *Man of the Year Award* was played by Bob Tzudiker. Bob would make various appearances on TV throughout the 80's, but would likely be best known for writing the screenplay for the 1999 animated film, *Tarzan*.
* Benson's brother, Russell DuBois, is mentioned.

## Cultural References

* Benson states that Clayton is on a detour through *The Twilight Zone*, the absurdist, Sci-fi, horror franchise.
* Clayton refers to Benson as actor, singer, and dancer, Ben Vereen, a running gag in the series starting in Season 2.
	+ He further mentions that he loved Ben Vereen in *Roots*, where he played the role of Chicken George Moore. He also states that he liked Ben in *An Officer and a Gentleman*, with Benson correcting him stating that was Louis Gossett, who also played in *Roots*, in the film.
* Benson refers to Clayton as the toy, *Silly Putty.*
* Dr. Feifer states that he has a client who thinks he's General MacArthur.

## Quotes

* **Clayton:** What do you think I'll be doing in five years?
* **Benson:** Hopefully you'll be done irritating me.

* **Clayton:** Well, ahem, I'm off!
* **Benson:** You'll get no argument from me.

* **Mrs. Cassidy:** Wait just a minute. Ask yourself this. Would you really want Clayton walking around for the rest of his life telling everybody he's Benson DuBois?
* **Benson:** With all the problems he's got, why would he wanna be black too?

* **Dr. Feifer:** I'm afraid we've had a slight setback.
* **Benson:** Slight? Doc, wake up. Smell the coffee. This guy is Silly Putty from the neck up.

* **Benson:** Have any more bright ideas?
* **Dr. Feifer:** Perhaps we should try an encounter in the nude.
Susan Harris

Mount Vernon, New York, U.S.

Paul Junger Witt​​(m. 1983; died 2018)

**Susan Harris** (née **Spivak**; born October 28, 1940) is an American television writer and producer, creator of Emmy Award-winning sitcoms *Soap* (1977–1981) *The Golden Girls* (1985–1992), and *Benson* (1979 - 1986)*.*

Between 1975 and 1998, Harris was one of the most prolific television writers, creating 13 comedy series. In 2011, she was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame.

## Life and career

The first script Harris sold was *Then Came Bronson*. She then wrote for *Love, American Style*, *All in the Family*, *The Partridge Family* and the TV adaptation of Neil Simon's *Barefoot in the Park*. Her abortion episode for the Bea Arthur-starring series *Maude* in the 1970s won Harris the Humanitas Prize. She worked with Arthur again in the 1980s when Arthur took one of the lead roles in *The Golden Girls*.

Harris created many television series: *Fay*, *Soap*, *Loves Me, Loves Me Not*, *Benson*, *It Takes Two*, *The Golden Girls*, *Empty Nest*, *Nurses*, *Good & Evil*, *The Golden Palace* and *The Secret Lives of Men*. Her most financially successful show was *The Golden Girls*.

Harris had the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome, which affected her ability to participate in the production of *The Golden Girls*. In an episode of that show titled "Sick and Tired" (1989), Harris wrote some of her struggles into the storyline where Bea Arthur's character Dorothy Zbornak was diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome. It later turned out Harris had an adrenal issue, but she wrote the episode as "my revenge script for all the people out there who had a disease like that".

Harris formed the production company Witt/Thomas/Harris Productions with Paul Junger Witt and Tony Thomas.

Harris married television producer Paul Junger Witt on September 18, 1983; he co-produced all the shows she created. He died in 2018. Earlier, she was married from 1965 to 1969 to actor Berkeley Harris; the couple's son is author Sam Harris. She lives in suburban Los Angeles. Harris was the step-sister to American film producer, editor and screenwriter Marion Segal Freed.

## Awards and honors

She was honored with the Writers' Guild's Paddy Chayefsky Award in 2005 and inducted into the Television Academy Hall of Fame in 2011.
Ed Peck

**Ed Peck** (March 26, 1917 – September 12, 1992) was an American actor. He is best known as Officer Kirk in *Happy Days* (1975-1983).

Ed Peck played the role of Captain McDermott of security on the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

## Early life

Peck was born in New York City on March 26, 1917.

## Career

Peck played a captain in the Broadway production of *No Time for Sergeants* (1955).[1] He was active in television and in films from 1951 to 1983, specializing in playing either police officers or military officers.

In 1951, Peck replaced Eric Fleming in the title role of *Major Dell Conway of the Flying Tigers* on the DuMont Television Network.[2] In 1969 Peck appeared as the Hotel Manager on the TV Series *The Virginian* in the episode titled "Journey to Scathelock." One of his highest profile parts was among his last, in the television series *Happy Days*, in the recurring role as police officer Kirk[3] from 1975 to 1983. When he left the series in 1983, he retired from acting. He also played a police officer similar to Officer Kirk in at least one episode of the television series *All in the Family* and two episodes of *Barney Miller* as patrolman (later officer) Frank Slater.

Peck was an announcer on *The Jack Carson Show*, a variety program on NBC-TV in 1953–1954.[3]: 520 He also was a member of the cast of the summer 1972 television situation comedy *The Super*, portraying Officer Clark, a tenant in a New York City apartment building. He also guest-starred on dozens of television series including *The Untouchables*, *Perry Mason*, *The Fugitive*, *Kentucky Jones*, *Get Smart*, *Star Trek* ("Tomorrow Is Yesterday", 1967), *Cannon*, and *Bonanza*, as well as films such as *Heaven Can Wait*, *Bullitt*, *Cheech and Chong's Next Movie*, and *The Prisoner of Second Avenue*. He played the Governor's director of security, Captain McDermott, on several episodes of *Benson*. He played a rabbi in an episode of *The Dick Van Dyke Show*.

## Personal life

On January 20, 1952, Peck married advertising copywriter Phyllis Houston in New York.

## Death

Peck died of a heart attack on September 12, 1992, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 75. His remains were donated to medical science.

## External links

* Ed Peck at Wikipedia
* Ed Peck at IMDb
* Ed Peck at Memory Alpha (a *Star Trek* wiki)
Katie's Boyfriend

"**Katie's Boyfriend**" is the fourteenth episode of the fourth season, and eighty-second episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

The episode originally aired on January 21st 1983 and was directed by Mark Warren.

## Synopsis

The Pentagon wants to move an air force base to another city causing a loss of state revenue. In order to help prevent the move however, Clayton believes his friend, Charles 'Binky' Binkman (played by Bruce French), can work behind the scenes, but the Governor isn't convinced Binky is impartial.

Meanwhile, Katie has a boyfriend, Buzzy (played by Billy Jayne) and wants to go on her first date, but her father isn't too fond of the idea.

## Trivia

* The episode was directed by Mark Warren, a prominent director in 1970's African American TV who directed the first two episodes of the syndicated music program, *Soul Train*.
* Binky was played by Bruce French, who not only made an appearance on the parent series, *Soap*, but also went on to make a guest appearance on *Star Trek: Voyager* and *Boston Legal*; The former starred Ethan Phillips and the latter Rene Auberjonois.
	+ Additionally, he also played an officer in the film, *Airplane II*, which also featured a guest appearance from James Noble.
* Buzzy was played by Billy Jayne, who would go on later to play Mikey Randall on the 90's teen Fox sitcom, *Parker Lewis Can't Lose.*
* The tag scene with Katie and Buzzy in the kitchen is cut out of syndication edits.

## Cultural References

* When Clayton states that he's godfather to Binky's first child, Benson sarcastically asks if Clayton will make him an offer he can't refuse. This is in reference to the famous line uttered in the 1972 crime film, *The Godfather*.

## Quotes

* **Clayton:** Charles Binkman, top-flight Washington consultant and a dear friend of mine. Not only were we fraternity brothers, I am godfather to his first child.
* **Benson:** So you're gonna make him an offer he can't refuse?

* **Clayton:** Benson, Benson, you are so naive. Politicians work on the principle of one hand washing the other.
* **Benson:** Well they wouldn't have to keep washing their hands if they didn't keep getting them dirty.

* **Clayton:** Benson, Benson, Benson. Always the pessimist.
* **Benson:** Clayton, Clayton, Clayton. Always the pest.

* **Benson:** Governor, I need to talk to you, Binky's here.
* **Governor:** Oh, not Binky, Buzzy, Benson.
* **Benson:** Governor, don't start that.
* **Governor:** I'm not starting anything, you called Buzzy Binky.
* **Benson:** I did not call Buzzy Binky, I called Binky Binky.

* **Clayton:** Governor, Benson, I truly apologize for all this.
* **Governor:** Apology accepted, Clayton.
* **Clayton:** I've been such a fool.
* **Benson:** Ah, don't worry about it, Clayton. It could happened to anybody.
* **Clayton:** No, Benson. I have been a complete idiot. A ridiculous ninny, an arrogant, pompous, posturing fool.
* **Benson:** Well, have it your way.
The Reunion

**"The Reunion"** is the eleventh episode of the sixth season, and one hundred twenty third episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson.*

Directed by Gilbert Moses, the episode originally aired on December 7th, 1984.

## Synopsis

When Benson goes home for a family reunion, his brother, Earl (played by Kene Holiday) wants his help to convince Uncle Buster (played by Julius Harris), the head of the family, to retire, but their Aunt Lil (played by Helen Martin) refuses to let them consider it.

## Trivia

* When Katie tells Benson that he's lucky that he has family he wants to see, Benson asks what's wrong with her family with Katie replying, "Are you kidding? They're weird!" The Governor later admits to this, saying "We do have some weird relatives", with Benson sarcastically replying "You? No." This is most likely in reference to Katie's rather dysfunctional relatives who appear in the parent series, *Soap*.
* This episode marks the second, and last appearance, of Benson's sister, Elaine.
* Actor, Kene Holiday, makes his second appearance on the series. He previously played in the Season 1 episode, "Takin' It to the Streets".
* Benson's brother, Russell, who was previously seen in the Season 4 episode, "Thy Brother's Keeper", is mentioned.

## Cultural References

* Kraus mentions a dream featuring actor, Tom Selleck.
* Benson refers to the crooked senator with a pig mask on as Porky, in reference to the Looney Tunes character, Porky Pig.
* Benson refers to his Aunt as actress, Lena Horne.
* Benson mentions the musical family group, The Osmonds, stating that they don't have any trouble when they have a reunion.
* Saundra's boyfriend, named Barry White, specifies that he's not the bass-baritone singer, Barry White.
* Benson mentions singer, Harry Belafonte

## Quotes

* **Clayton:** You cannot walk out on me like this. You know very well that this is the weekend for my fundraiser for Senator Stratton.
* **Benson:** Clayton, collecting bail money for a crooked senator is not considered fundraising.
* **Clayton:** Alleged crooked senator.
* **Benson:** Alleged? They got the guy on video tape.
* **Clayton:** They can't prove it was him. He was wearing a pig mask.

* **Aunt Lil:** Look who's here, everybody! My nephew, the guest of honor, Lieutenant Governor, Benson DuBois!
* **Benson:** Oh, Aunt Lil. Who cares?
* **Aunt Lil:** Well, I'm just so proud of you, honey. He runs half of the country.
* **Benson:** Sweetheart, It's one state.
* **Aunt Lil:** Oh, They don't know that.

* **Earl:** Benson, it's putting me in a very tough position. Everyone looks at me to keep this company together, and it's a very difficult situation, because everyone looks at me. You know what I mean? It's tough. I mean everyone's looking at me, and then Buster comes in and--Can you understand my position?
* **Benson:** Well, I did when you started out.

* **Elaine:** Nobody listens to me. Might as well be Vice President.

* **Benson:** From "welcome home, Benson" to "hush up, Benson" in 13 minutes. That's got to be some sort of a record.

* **Uncle Buster:** I'm not the man I used to be.
* **Benson:** Well, who is? Except possibly Harry Belafonte.
Close Encounters on the Third Hole

Story By:

Richard A. Vaczy

Don Hart

**"Close Encounters on the Third Hole"** is the thirteenth episode of the fourth season, and eighty-first episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson.*

Directed by Bill Foster, the episode originally aired on January 14th, 1983.

## Synopsis

While away playing golf, The Governor is certain he witnessed a 'giant fudgesicle' capture Benson, claiming it was a UFO. The staff is split however, amongst The Governor's alleged encounter.

## Trivia

* This episode marks the first of several sitcoms from 1983 which involved characters seeing UFOs. Others include "*Alice*" ("Alice Sees the Light", which aired February 28) and "*Newhart*" ("Heaven Knows Mr. Utley", which aired March 20).
* The parent series of *Benson,* *Soap,* notably featured a story arch of aliens capturing the character Burt; both UFO's used the same sound effects as well. Canonically speaking, Burt is the cousin in law of Governor Gatling.
* The beginning scene of Benson and Kraus squabbling in the kitchen is removed from syndication edits due to time constraints.
* The microphone during the conference has an ABC logo sticker on it.

## Cultural References

* The name of the episode is a nod to the 1977 science fiction film, *Close Encounters of the Third Kind.*
* Benson's watch plays the American march, *The Stars and Stripes Forever.*
* Kraus mentions the, then recent film, *E.T.*
* The Governor states that Katie's science teacher gave her a book by scientist, and astronomer, Carl Sagan.

## Quotes

* **Governor:** What time is it?
* **Benson:** \*starts pressing his watch. The watch begins playing Stars and Stripes Forever\* 6:48
* **Governor:** Gee, that's a nifty watch. Does it play any Glenn Miller?
* **Benson:** Governor, do you want to find your golf ball or do you want to dance?

* **Denise:** Did you say it looked like a fudgesicle?
* **Governor**: Yes.
* **Denise:** Hmm, they usually look like cigars.
* **Pete:** What do you know about it?
* **Denise:** I know that a cigar can fly and a fudgesicle can't.
* **Governor:** Yes it can! I saw it!

* **Denise:** Intergalactic travel is a mathematical possibility but I don't think you can do it in a fudgesicle.
* **Benson**: Especially if you fly too close to the sun.
* **Pete:** Maybe that's why they came at night.

* **Benson:** Isn't that the Big Dipper?
* **Governor:** It's so big.
* **Benson:** That's probably why they call it the Big Dipper.
Marcy's Vacation

**"Marcy's Vacation"** is the twenty-fourth episode of the first season, and twenty-fourth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

It serves as the Season finale for the first season and was directed by Don Bonhart. The episode originally aired on May 8th, 1980.

## Synopsis

Marcy decides to take a vacation, but the skills of an efficient temporary secretary, Loraine (played by Murphy Cross), poses a threat to Marcy.

## Cultural References

* Benson mentions the baseball team, Pittsburgh Pirates.
* Benson states that the Governor's driver was playing '*Feelings'* on the car horn. Though he doesn't specify which song, the most recent hit with that title at the time, was the soft rock track by Morris Albert.

## Trivia

* This episode marks the last appearance of Lewis J. Stadlen as Taylor.
* This marks the last usage of the original title card and opening sequence of the series.
* This is the first episode to be written by Kathy Speer and Terry Grossman, who would write various episodes throughout the rest of the series, as well as episodes for other Witt/Thomas produced shows.

## Quotes

* **Kraus talking to her plants:** I know you love the window seal my little ones, but you are getting to much sun. I think you need a drink.
* **Benson:** I think you've had one too many.

* **Benson:** Marcy, how could you think so little of yourself?
* **Marcy:** Practice. Years of it.
No Sad Songs

**"No Sad Songs"** is the fifteenth episode of the second season, and thirty-ninth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by John Rich, the episode originally aired on March 6th, 1981.

## Synopsis

Benson's mother, Lois DuBois (played by Beah Richards), makes an unexpected, but welcome, visit. His life changes however, when her visit is cut short.

## Trivia

* This episode marks the first of two appearances of Benson's mother.
* Benson's brother, Russell, is mentioned in this episode; later being shown in the Season 4 episode, "Thy Brother's Keeper".
* Benson's sister, Elaine, is mentioned in the episode, being later shown in the Season 6 episode, "Taking It to the Max".

## Quotes

* **Benson:** Sorry I'm late!
* **Kraus:** The late Benson; has a nice ring to it!

* **Lois:** Boy with the way you eat you'd think you'd be taller.

* **Lois:** Where'd you ever pick up that smart mouth?
* **Benson:** Couldn't've been you could it?
* **Lois:** Couldn't've been me. Maybe you're adopted?

* **Governor:** You're avoiding the issue, Benson. You can't just put your mother on the plane and let it go at that. You have to admit to yourself that she's not just going back to Baltimore. Benson, this is the woman that brought you into the world, don't you think the least you could do is see her out?
JIMM

Two-Timing Tin Turkey

Over Educated Mailbox

Tin Judas on Wheels

Taco-Head

**JIMM [Jesmin Industries Mobile Microprocessor]** is a robot in the Season 5 episode, Human Element, from the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

## About JIMM

JIMM is a micro mobile processer from Jesmin Industries with an intent to provide services for tedious miniscule tasks. With a 12-octave Vox pack speech synthesizer allowing it to communicate through spoken word, JIMM was described as 'the most sophisticated computerized robot ever produced'.

In 1983, JIMM was sent to the Governor's Mansion under the Gatling administration for temporary usage.

### Relationships

While impressed with its abilities, the staff never had a long term fondness towards JIMM, with Benson DuBois having a notable attitude problem towards JIMM, and Clayton and Kraus plotting physical action towards the robot.

Governor Gatling, however, was particularly amazed with the machine, carrying little resistance towards the powers which JIMM possessed.

## Trivia

* JIMM can speak 16 languages and 14 dialects.
* JIMM can produce music.
* JIMM's creator was a sports enthusiast and fitness expert.
* JIMM wasn't programmed to experience emotion.

## Quotes

* "Warning, warning! Do not touch my input device!"
* "Occasionally, I crack a ball socket."
* "Affirmative."
* "Hop on my platform Denise, we can boogie!"
* "I've repaired your sanitation unit."
What a Revoltin' Development

**"What a Revoltin' Development"** is the third episode of the fourth season, and seventy-first episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson.*

Directed by Bill Foster, the episode originally aired on October 29th, 1982.

## Synopsis

While attending a Pan-American trade conference in Latin America, Benson and Pete are kidnapped by revolutionaries.

Meanwhile, at The Mansion, The Governor and the staff get the news and have to take action.

## Trivia

* This episode marks the first mention of Benson's girlfriend, Jennifer.
* When the revolutionaries found out that Benson isn't Governor, Benson states he might be Governor someday; a possible potential foreshadow of where the series was headed prior cancellation.

## Cultural References

* When Benson states that the President said no deals on hostages, Pete states that the President also said he doesn't dye his hair. This is in reference to the, then, current President, Ronald Reagan.
* Pete mentions the 1963 film, *The Great Escape.*
* The 1947 film, *Road to Hope,* is referenced.
* Benson mentions *Rocky III*
* When Pete states that this experience would make a great movie, Benson says they should Get *Billy Dee Williams* to play him, and *Gumby* to play Pete.

## Quotes

* **Governor:** Want a biscuit?
* **Benson:** No sir, no, no, no, no, I'm not hungry.
* **Governor:** Okay, Benson, I am sending you to the tropics for three days.
* **Benson:** Alright, alright, one biscuit.

* **Pete:** Benson, Benson.
* **Benson:** What?
* **Pete:** Are you tied up?
* **Benson:** Yeah, I'm being kidnapped. Call me later in the week.

* **Denise:** That's it, he's out to lunch.
* **Governor:** In the dark?
* **Clayton:** In the dark?
* **Governor:** Clayton, we're in different time zones.
* **Clayton:** Yes sir, that's always been my contention.

* **Pete:** All the time we've been together, you wait until we're in a jungle to take my advice!
Teacher's Pest

**"Teacher's Pest"** is the sixth episode of the fourth season, and seventy-fourth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson.*

Directed by Bill Foster, the episode originally aired on November 19th, 1982.

## Synopsis

Benson is chosen to fill in as a substitute for an Economics Course and Kraus has been taking the course in order to maintain a state management position. When Benson fails Kraus however, she becomes at risk of losing her livelihood

Meanwhile, Pete attempts to take Clayton's advice on talking to women, but ends up becoming a Clayton caricature in the process.

## Trivia

* It is revealed that Kraus dropped out of high school after being teased by classmates for her accent.
* It's mentioned that Pete has a dog.

## Cultural References

* American automobile brand, Chevrolet, is mentioned as a short-term running gag in the episode.
* Kraus mentions the *Blue Danube Waltz*.
* Kraus sings the British tune *Daisy Bell.*
* Benson and Kraus answer questions in the tune of the German tune, *Schnitzelbank*.

## Quotes

* **Clayton:** Peter, Peter, Peter, when are you going to learn that women appreciate finesse?
* **Pete:** Finesse?
* **Clayton:** Yes, you must dress with a certain panache. You've got to cultivate something profound or witty to say; make the women feel she's the center of your universe.
* **Pete:** Yeah, well I'm not going to go through all that trouble unless there's some sort of guarantee upfront.

* **Kraus:** Benson, please don't make me take this test.
* **Benson:** Kraus, you have to take it, it's the final exam.
* **Kraus:** I'll be your friend for life.
* **Benson:** Threatening me won't help.

* **Kraus:** What is wrong with that answer?
* **Benson:** The question is "explain the Wholesale Price Index".
* **Kraus:** Yeah?
* **Benson:** And your answer is, "The Wholesale Price Index is an index for whole sale prices".

* **Kraus:** Oh, Oberdorfer, don't you know Ich liebe dich, Ich liebe you a lot?
* **Benson:** Can you liebe me alone?